Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Corfu and Paxos Intimate Refuges of the Ionian Sea
Greece – Ionian Islands – Corfu – Paxos
The Ionian Islands
Stroll through the ages in Corfu’s Old Town, where diverse architectural layers pay homage to centuries of Venetian, French and British rule. Here, a quick dip at the beach or a plate of meze at a local taverna is never too far away. Next, set sail for Paxos, a dream destination for nature lovers, beach bums and seekers of slow-pace living. Follow tree-lined trails down to a series of secluded bays and beaches (some sandy, some shingle), before a leisurely lunch caught fresh from the sea. Spend your last day aboard a private yacht touring the coastline of tiny Antipaxos: the smaller sibling of Paxos that’s just as pretty. As your journey ends, leave the Ionian Sea behind with a new appreciation of just how heavenly the Greek islands can be.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Your journey to discover two idyllic Ionian islands begins today with a flight to Corfu, which takes a little over three hours. After touching down on sunny shores, a private transfer will whisk you away to your hotel, your home for the next two nights.
Stay in Corfu’s characterful Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site where winding streets lead to splendid Venetian fortresses, a pretty promenade, and charming cafes where you can pause for a few plates of tasty Greek meze. If you’d prefer a pool and perhaps a sea view, opt for a hotel a little way out of town, close to one of the nearby beaches. Wherever you’re staying, toast the first night of your trip over a delicious dinner, before getting a good night’s sleep ahead of tomorrow’s exploration.
Make the most of your only full day in Corfu with a guided tour of the Old Town. Across the ages, Corfu’s coordinates have attracted the attention of various occupiers, leading to a tapestry of Venetian, French and British influences. The town is dominated by two fortresses: the Old (built in 1545) and the New (completed in 1728). If you only see one, visit the Old Fortress, which offers spectacular views across the sea to Albania.
After visiting this vestige of Venetian rule, head to Liston Promenade – a Parisian-style arcade built by the French. Stop at a café along this elegant esplanade and you could be in the French capital. Next door is the Spianada, Greece’s largest square where palm trees sway above lush lawns and the British-gifted cricket pitch still sees the occasional match. Fancy a refreshing swim after your tour? Stroll to bathing-friendly Faliraki Beach, which boasts lovely views of the Old Fortress.
Today, tick off your second Ionian idyll as you make your way to Paxos. After a private transfer to the port, join a boat crossing between the two islands, which takes between an hour and an hour and a half. Disembarking in Gaios, pick up a hire car and head to your hotel to unpack and settle in for the next five nights. Petite and perfectly picturesque, pocket-sized Paxos is just seven miles long and three miles wide, so there’s ample time to get acquainted with its landscapes and lifestyle over the next few days.
This evening, celebrate your arrival with some delicious Greek fare. This Mediterranean gem is fabulous for foodies, especially if you love seafood. Expect octopus, lobster and mussels fresh from the sea, along with comforting plates of pastitsada (a rich beef stew that originated across the water in Corfu).
Once a refuge for Poseidon and his lover Amphitrite, Paxos remains a relatively hidden hideaway for those seeking authentic island life. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, the island is dotted with ancient olive groves and charming fishing villages where life moves at a pleasant pace. This is the land of leisurely lunches, scenic seaside hikes and swimming and snorkelling around a string of beautiful beaches, where watersports like windsurfing are also on the agenda. Whatever a heavenly holiday looks for you, Paxos will provide an unforgettable trip.
On one of the days, set sail to neighbouring Antipaxos on a private yacht. Lying to the south of Paxos, this smaller island sibling shares the same gorgeous genes. Admire the family resemblance as you explore this untouched stretch of coastline, sailing to the soundtrack of the waves before taking a dip in the sea. Snorkels are also provided for a glimpse beneath the shimmering surface...
After a special spell on the shores of Paxos, today it’s sadly time to leave the island behind and head back home. Return to the port of Gaios to drop off your hire car and catch the ferry crossing back to Corfu. Soak up those last moments of Ionian sunshine and scenery, before heading to the airport for your flight to the UK. Land in a little over three hours, ready to relive your holiday by recreating your favourite Greek recipes at home (or toasting your trip with a souvenir sip of ouzo).
Suggestions
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
A PRIVATE TOUR OF CORFU
Located off the coasts of Greece and Albania, Corfu has a long and rich history. Discover the island’s story with a private tour of some of its highlights, like the Kanoni Peninsula (one of Corfu’s most photogenic spots) and the Mon Repos Archaeological Park, where the remains of an ancient city lie in the shade of centuries-old trees. Accompanied by a private guide, your tour will be tailored to your interests, from ancient marvels to the island’s loveliest views.EXTEND YOUR TRIP IN EPIRUS
Between monumental peaks, dizzying gorges and charming villages, Epirus has plenty to offer if you choose to extend your trip. The pace of life here is slow, from Ioannina, where traces of the Ottoman Empire still linger, to the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora and the sloping streets of Metsovo. Above the majestic Vikos Gorge (the world’s deepest canyon in proportion to its width) and the crystal-clear waters of the Voidomatis River, the hustle and bustle of the coast is a distant memory. Meanwhile, the villages scattered across hills and among forests seem frozen in time, giving you a taste of island life in days gone by.
Why visit Greece with Original Travel ?
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
Enquire nowA few of the benefits of travelling with us to Greece
- Our local Concierges
- The Original Travel app
- Destination Dossier
- 24-hour helpline
- Expert guides
- 100% carbon absorption
