Best Areas to Stay in Paxos
Choosing where to stay in Paxos largely depends on your preferred vacation style. The island has three main settlements, each with its own distinct character and appeal. Let’s explore each area in detail to help you make the best choice for your stay.
Gaios
The island’s capital and main port, Gaios provides the most extensive selection of accommodations and amenities. This picturesque harbor town is arguably the most convenient base for first-time visitors to Paxos. The town center buzzes with life but never feels overcrowded, and the harbor views are particularly enchanting at sunset.
Key features of staying in Gaios include:
- Waterfront restaurants and cafes lining the picturesque harbor
- Easy access to shops, supermarkets, and essential services
- Most extensive choice of hotels and apartments
- Convenient location for ferry connections
- Walking distance to several beaches
Some of the most popular accommodations in Gaios include the elegant Agali Hotel Paxos, which offers stunning sea views and excellent amenities, and the charming Paxos Fairytales, perfect for those seeking a more intimate setting.
Perfect for: First-time visitors, those wanting more amenities, and travelers without vehicles.
Lakka
Located at the northern tip of the island, Lakka is a postcard-perfect fishing village that has maintained its traditional character while offering excellent tourist facilities. The horseshoe-shaped bay creates a natural harbor that’s both beautiful and practical, offering protection for boats and creating calm waters perfect for swimming.
What makes Lakka special:
- A horseshoe-shaped harbor with stunning views
- Family-friendly atmosphere with safe swimming areas
- Access to the island’s only sandy beach
- Quieter setting than Gaios
- Beautiful walking paths along the coast
For accommodation in Lakka, consider the sophisticated Torri e Merli Boutique Hotel, which offers an elegant blend of traditional architecture and modern comfort. For families, Amfitriti Hotel & Studios provides excellent value and a prime location.
Loggos
The smallest of the three main settlements, Loggos captures the heart of many returning visitors with its intimate scale and authentic atmosphere. Despite its size, this enchanting village offers some of the island’s best dining experiences and most picturesque swimming spots.
What makes Loggos special:
- Traditional village atmosphere
- Excellent waterfront tavernas
- Close proximity to several beaches
- Romantic setting
- Authentic Greek island experience
For a memorable stay in Loggos, consider the charming Glyfada Beach Villas, offering beautiful ocean views, or stay at one of the traditional stone houses in the village that have been lovingly converted into comfortable accommodations.
Types of Accommodation
Paxos offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury boutique hotels to traditional stone houses, you’ll find something to match your ideal island experience.
Luxury Hotels
The island’s luxury hotels focus on personalized service and stunning locations rather than opulent facilities. These properties typically occupy historic buildings or prime seaside positions, offering an authentic yet upscale experience.
What to expect from luxury accommodations:
- Sea views from most rooms
- Private pools or premium beach access
- High-end amenities and furnishings
- Concierge services
- Prices ranging from €200-500 per night
Leading luxury options include the sophisticated Torri e Merli Boutique Hotel and the exclusive Paxos Club Resort & SPA, both offering exceptional service and amenities.
Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels in Paxos excel at combining local character with modern comfort. These smaller properties often occupy restored traditional buildings and offer a more intimate experience than larger hotels.
Distinctive features include:
- Personalized service from hands-on owners
- Unique design elements blending traditional and contemporary styles
- Local character and authentic atmosphere
- Intimate atmosphere with typically 8-15 rooms
- Prices ranging from €150-300 per night
Notable boutique properties include the stylish Purple Apricot Hotel and the elegantly appointed Bay View, both offering distinctive experiences that capture the essence of Paxos.
Apartments and Studios
Self-catering accommodations are particularly popular in Paxos, offering both value and flexibility. These properties range from simple studios to luxuriously appointed apartments, often family-run and providing a more authentic local experience.
Benefits of apartment stays include:
- Well-equipped kitchen facilities
- More space than typical hotel rooms
- Greater independence and flexibility
- Better value for longer stays
- Prices ranging from €70-150 per night
Excellent apartment options include Paxos Fairytales in Gaios and Studios Leandros in Lakka, both offering comfortable accommodations with great locations.
Private Villas
For those seeking ultimate privacy or traveling with family and friends, Paxos offers an exceptional selection of private villas. Many occupy prime positions with spectacular sea views and are surrounded by ancient olive groves.
Villa advantages include:
- Complete privacy and independence
- Private pools (in most cases)
- Multiple bedrooms and living spaces
- Outdoor dining and entertainment areas
- Prices ranging from €200-1000+ per night
Many of the island’s finest villas are found in the olive groves around Magazia and in the hills above Loggos, where they combine privacy with spectacular views.
Seasonal Considerations
The time of year you visit Paxos significantly impacts both your experience and your accommodation options. Understanding the seasonal variations helps in planning the perfect stay. For detailed information about visiting during different seasons, check our seasonal guide to Paxos.
High Season (July-August)
The peak summer months bring the liveliest atmosphere but also the highest prices and biggest crowds. During this period, the island operates at full capacity.
- Highest accommodation prices of the year
- Need to book 6-12 months ahead for best options
- All facilities and services operating
- Warmest weather with minimal rain
- Busiest period with a festive atmosphere
Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October)
Many consider the shoulder season the ideal time to visit Paxos, offering a perfect balance of good weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
- Better value on accommodations
- Pleasant temperatures ideal for activities
- Less crowded beaches and restaurants
- Most facilities still open
- Ideal for hiking and exploring
Low Season (November-April)
Winter in Paxos offers a completely different experience, with the island returning to its quiet, authentic character. However, services are limited during this period.
- Limited accommodation options but lowest prices
- Many restaurants and facilities closed
- Few tourists and authentic local atmosphere
- Possible ferry disruptions due to weather
- Perfect for experiencing local life
Transportation Planning
Understanding transportation options is crucial when choosing your accommodation in Paxos, as location and accessibility can significantly impact your stay.
Getting to Paxos involves:
- Flying to Corfu International Airport
- Taking a ferry to Paxos (1-2 hours)
- Pre-booking ferry tickets, especially in high season
Once on the island, your options for getting around include:
- Regular bus service connecting main villages
- Limited taxi service (only 5 taxis on the island)
- Rental cars/scooters (recommended for villa stays)
- Walking paths connecting nearby areas
Practical Tips
Make your stay more enjoyable with these essential planning considerations:
Booking Recommendations
Secure your ideal accommodation by following these booking strategies:
- Book 6-12 months ahead for July-August stays
- Consider shoulder season for better value
- Use reputable booking platforms
- Check cancellation policies carefully
- Request sea views where possible
Essential Amenities to Consider
When choosing your accommodation, pay particular attention to:
- Air conditioning (essential for summer comfort)
- Wifi reliability (varies across the island)
- Distance to beaches and amenities
- Parking availability if renting a vehicle
- Accessibility and number of steps
Length of Stay
To fully appreciate Paxos and its laid-back atmosphere, consider these factors:
- Minimum recommended stay: 5 days
- Ideal duration: 7-10 days
- Allow time to explore the island thoroughly
- Consider ferry schedule limitations
- Factor in arrival and departure days
Whether you choose a luxury hotel in Gaios, a boutique property in Lakka, or a private villa in the hills, Paxos offers accommodation options to suit every preference. The key to finding your perfect stay lies in matching your chosen location and property type with your travel style and requirements. For more details about different areas of the island, explore our complete guide to Paxos villages.