Practical Travel Guide: Paxos, Greece

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Paxos - practical tips
Planning a trip to Paxos? Unlike larger Greek islands, this small Ionian gem requires specific knowledge to navigate successfully. Here's everything you need to know to make your stay smooth and enjoyable.

Getting Around Paxos

Arriving on the Island

As detailed in our guide to reaching Paxos, the island has no airport, which helps keep crowds away but requires extra planning. To reach the island, you’ll need to:

  • Take a ferry from Corfu (1 hour by hydrofoil, €24)
  • Take a ferry from Igoumenitsa (1.5 hours, €11)
  • Book a sea taxi for late arrivals (available until late evening)

Local Transportation

The island offers several ways to get around:

Public Bus Service:

  • Connects main villages (Gaios, Loggos, Lakka)
  • Limited schedule – check timetables at bus stops
  • Affordable option at a few euros per trip

Taxi Services

Five official taxis operate on the island:

  • Christos: +30 6977 472747
  • Tasos: +30 6976 648486
  • Haris: +30 6974 135660
  • Nikos: +30 6984220011
  • Kostas: +30 6974 002236

Car and Scooter Rental:

For detailed information, see our car hire guide.

  • Available mainly in Gaios
  • Book ahead in high season
  • Helpful for reaching remote beaches
  • Limited parking in villages during peak season

Essential Services & Infrastructure

Medical Services

The main health center is located on the Gaios-Lakka road:

  • Located 350m before the football pitch
  • Three doctors plus trained medical staff
  • Includes pediatrician and dentist
  • Emergency number: +30 26620 31466

Pharmacies

  • Lakka: +30 26620 33018
  • Magazia: +30 26620 31509
  • Extended hours during tourist season
  • Stock up on prescriptions before arrival

Banking & Communication

Money Matters:

  • ATMs available in Gaios
  • Piraeus Bank main branch: +30 26620 32213
  • Many businesses prefer cash
  • Cards accepted at larger establishments

Phone & Internet:

  • Good coverage in main towns
  • Signal gaps on western cliffs
  • Main providers: Vodafone, Cosmote, Wind
  • WiFi available in most cafes and restaurants
  • Limited coverage on Antipaxos

Power & Utilities

  • Standard voltage: 230V
  • Socket types: C and F (European standard)
  • Bring adapters if coming from UK/US
  • Power cuts rare but possible in storms

Daily Life Practicalities

Shopping

Supermarkets:

  • Largest selection in Gaios
  • Fresh bread available daily
  • Morning hours best for fresh produce
  • Many close during afternoon siesta

Opening Hours:

  • Shops: 9:00-14:00 and 17:30-21:00
  • Banks: 8:00-14:00 (Monday-Friday)
  • Post Office: 9:00-13:30 (Monday-Friday)

Seasonal Considerations

Best Times to Visit:

See our seasonal guide for detailed information:

  • April-June: Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists
  • July-August: Hottest, busiest, advance booking essential
  • September-October: Warm sea, quieter atmosphere
  • Winter: Many businesses close

Important Events:

For more details, see our cultural activities guide:

  • Festival of the Holy Virgin (August 15)
  • Paxos Music Festival (late August/early September)
  • Neroladia Festival (July/early August)

Local Navigation Tips

Getting Between Villages

Beach Access

For detailed information, see our beaches guide:

  • Many beaches accessible only by boat
  • Organized beaches: Harami, Monodendri, Levrehio
  • Bring water and supplies to remote beaches
  • Check wind conditions for west coast beaches

Emergency Information

  • Medical Emergency: +30 26620 31466
  • Police: +30 26620 32222
  • Coast Guard: +30 26620 32533
  • Fire Department: +30 26620 31199

Paxos offers a unique Greek island experience, but it requires more planning than larger destinations. By keeping these practical tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything this beautiful island has to offer. For more information about exploring the island, check out our complete guide to Paxos.

Remember: This isn’t a typical tourist destination – services are limited but sufficient, and the laid-back atmosphere is part of the charm. Embrace the slower pace and plan accordingly.