A day trip to Paxos and Antipaxos is the highlight of many visitors' Corfu holiday. Just south of Corfu, these two small islands offer some of the most stunning scenery in the Mediterranean - towering sea caves, water so blue it looks artificially coloured, idyllic fishing villages, and beaches that regularly appear on "best in Europe" lists. Here is everything you need to plan the perfect trip.
About Paxos & Antipaxos
Paxos - The Olive Island
Paxos (Paxi) is the smallest of the main Ionian Islands, measuring just 10 km long and 4 km wide. Despite its tiny size, it packs in three charming harbour villages (Gaios, Lakka, and Longos), thousands of ancient olive trees, and a dramatic west coast of towering white cliffs pierced by enormous sea caves. The population is only about 2,500 permanent residents.
The island has a peaceful, unspoiled character. There is no airport and no large hotel developments - just small family-run accommodation, traditional tavernas, and a pace of life that seems to move to the rhythm of the tide. The Venetian architecture in Gaios, the fishing boats in Lakka, and the sunset views from Longos are all postcard-perfect.
Antipaxos - The Caribbean of Greece
Tiny Antipaxos sits just 3 km south of Paxos and has a permanent population of fewer than 20 people. What it lacks in size, it makes up for with two beaches that are considered among the most beautiful in Greece. Voutoumi and Vrika have been compared to Caribbean beaches for their fine white sand and impossibly turquoise water.
Antipaxos is also known for its wine - the island's south-facing slopes produce excellent red and white wines that have been cultivated since Venetian times. There are a couple of simple beach tavernas but no hotels or shops. The island feels like a perfectly preserved fragment of old Greece.
What to Expect on a Day Trip
Typical Day Trip Itinerary
Highlights Not to Miss
The Blue Caves (Paxos West Coast)
The sea caves along Paxos's west coast are genuinely spectacular. The Ipapanti Cave is the largest - a vast cathedral-like space carved into the cliff where the water glows an electric blue from sunlight filtering through underwater openings. The Ortholithos rock (a 20-metre sea stack) and the Tripitos Arch (a natural rock arch) are equally dramatic features along this coast.
Most tour boats slow down or stop at each cave, giving passengers time to photograph and sometimes swim. The water inside the caves is noticeably cooler due to underwater springs, creating a refreshing contrast with the warm open sea. Arrive early in the season (June) for the most intense blue colours.
Voutoumi Beach (Antipaxos)
Voutoumi is regularly voted one of the top 10 beaches in Greece. The combination of fine white sand, turquoise water that seems lit from below, and a backdrop of green hills creates a scene that many visitors describe as the most beautiful they have ever seen. The water is remarkably clear - you can see fish swimming several metres down.
There is a small taverna on the beach serving drinks, salads, and simple dishes. Prices are higher than on Corfu (island isolation premium), but the setting makes it worthwhile. Bring snorkeling gear - the rocky edges of the bay have excellent underwater scenery.
Gaios Village (Paxos)
The main harbour of Paxos is a picture-perfect Venetian-influenced village with pastel-coloured houses, a tree-lined waterfront square, and narrow lanes lined with boutiques and traditional shops. The harbour is sheltered by two small islands (Agios Nikolaos and Panagia), creating a scenic natural harbour.
Use your free time to explore the village, visit the small museum, browse the olive oil and honey shops, and most importantly, have a long, leisurely lunch at one of the waterfront tavernas. Fresh fish, local Paxos wine, and the view across the harbour make for a memorable meal.
How to Choose Your Trip
Large Tour Boats
The most popular option, carrying 100-300 passengers. These boats offer the lowest prices (25-35 euros), have onboard bars and toilets, and follow a fixed itinerary. The downside is that popular spots can feel crowded when multiple boats arrive simultaneously. Good for budget travellers and families.
Small Group Tours
Smaller boats carrying 15-30 passengers offer a more intimate experience. Prices are higher (40-60 euros) but you get more flexibility with stops, smaller beaches, and personalised attention from the crew. Some include lunch and drinks in the price. Ideal for couples and those wanting a more exclusive experience.
Private Boat Hire
For the ultimate experience, hire a private speedboat with skipper. Prices range from 200-500 euros for a full day depending on boat size and season. You set your own itinerary, visit caves at quieter times, anchor at secluded beaches, and enjoy complete freedom. Groups of 4-8 people can make this surprisingly affordable per person.
Regular Ferry
The cheapest option is the regular ferry from Corfu to Gaios (approximately 12-18 euros one way). This gives you maximum flexibility - stay as long as you want, explore independently, and return on a later ferry. However, you miss the west coast caves and Antipaxos stop that tour boats include. Best for travellers planning to stay overnight on Paxos.
Essential Tips for Your Paxos Trip
Booking: Book at least 2-3 days in advance during July-August. In June and September, same-day booking is usually fine. Hotels and tour agencies in Corfu Town can arrange everything.
Seasickness: The open sea crossing can be choppy when the wind blows. Take seasickness medication 30 minutes before departure if you are prone to motion sickness. Sitting at the back of the boat (near the waterline) helps. The crossing is cancelled in very rough seas.
What to bring: Swimwear (worn under clothes), towel, sunscreen, hat, water, cash (some Paxos shops do not accept cards), comfortable shoes for exploring Gaios, snorkeling gear if you have it.
Sun protection: You will be in the sun all day with limited shade on the boat. High-factor sunscreen is essential, and reapply after swimming. A long-sleeved shirt provides backup protection.
Camera: Bring a waterproof camera or phone case. The cave light effects and Antipaxos water colours are incredibly photogenic. The best photos are taken in the morning when light enters the caves.
Budget: Allow 15-25 euros per person for lunch in Gaios, plus 5-10 euros for drinks. Souvenir olive oil and honey make excellent (and affordable) gifts.
Base Your Corfu Holiday at Ef Zin Villa
Our villa in Skripero is just 20 minutes from Corfu Town, making it easy to catch the morning boat to Paxos. Come home to your private pool and quiet countryside after a day of island hopping.
View Villa & Book Your StayFrequently Asked Questions
The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by ferry or tour boat. High-speed ferries can make the crossing in about 45-60 minutes. Most day trips depart from Corfu's New Port or from Lefkimmi.
Day trip tours cost 25-45 euros per adult and 12-20 euros per child. This includes boat journey, caves, Antipaxos beach stop, and free time in Gaios. Food and drinks are extra. Ferry-only tickets cost 12-18 euros one way.
Yes, children enjoy the caves, swimming stops, and exploring villages. The boats are large and stable. However, the crossing can be rough on windy days, so seasickness tablets are advisable for those prone to motion sickness.
June and September offer the best balance of warm weather, calm seas, and manageable crowds. July and August are busiest but have the most tour options. Most tours run May to mid-October.
Yes, most day trips include both islands. A typical itinerary covers the Paxos blue caves, a swim at Antipaxos, and 2-3 hours in Gaios on Paxos. It's a full day (usually 8 AM to 5-6 PM) but very manageable.