The Ionian island of Paxos, Greece is a remote paradise that’s removed from the hordes of tourists that flock to other Greek islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete every year. And while staying in Paxos feels like staying in a hidden tropical paradise, the island is actually still fairly accessible from Corfu, the site of a major airport. With that being said, a boat ride from Corfu to Paxos can still take an entire day, which weeds out many of the tourists who aren’t willing to make such a long journey.
Once you arrive on Paxos, though, you’ll surely be happy with your decision to go. The waters are crystal-clear, the coasts are lined with picturesque houses of all colors, and the beaches are quiet and perfectly clean. And while the island of Paxos seems like a fictional place, it actually has a long history that dates back to the Phoenicians. The island was also home to the famous Battle of Paxos, which was fought between the ancient Greeks and the Illyrians during the First Illyrian War. Today, however, Paxos is anything but violent. The island’s overall aura is both calming and captivating. And with new beauty to be discovered around every corner, the best way to explore Paxos is by hiring a motor scooter and winding your way through the backroads.
Here is everything you need to know about hiring a scooter in Paxos. Most things here can also be applied if you are renting a motorcycle. This guide includes:
- Whether you need an international driving permit to hire a scooter in Greece
- The best places to find a rental scooter in Paxos
- The cost of scooter hire in Paxos
- Road conditions in Paxos
- The best things to do in Paxos by scooter
Do You Need an International Driving Permit To Hire a Scooter in Greece?
All foreign drivers are required by Greek law to carry an international driving permit as well as a valid copy of their passport with them at all times while operating a motor vehicle in the country, including a motor scooter. Failure to present law enforcement with either of these two documents can result in large fines.
If you want to apply for an international driving permit, you can do so here. There is a $20 application fee and you should apply at least two weeks before you depart for Greece, as that’s how long it typically takes for the permit to come in the mail. Once you have your permit, it’s valid for up to one full year.
Where Can You Find Scooter Rental in Paxos?
There is no airport on Paxos, so you will have to take a boat from Corfu or one of the other Ionian islands to access Paxos. Luckily, once you get off the boat, you should have no trouble quickly finding a rental scooter. Nearly every boat coming into Paxos docks at a port just north of the town of Gaios. You can easily walk or take a taxi from the port to Gaios, and once you’re there, you’ll see plenty of scooter hire shops.
You can also find scooter rental in the towns of Lakka and Longos; however, they’re less frequent than in Gaios. Still, if you ask an employee at you accommodation, you should easily be able to find a rental shop in Lakka or Longos.
What Is the Price of Motor Scooter Hire in Paxos?
Scooter hire in Paxos is typically very affordable. If you want to hire a basic 125cc scooter, you can expect to pay around €22 per day. Most rental shops also have more powerful scooters available for slightly higher rates as well.
If you plan on staying in Paxos for a long period of time, you should ask your rental shops if they have any discounts for weekly or monthly rentals. Also, regardless of how long you plan on renting a motor scooter for, you should check to see that insurance is included in the stated rental price.
Is Driving a Scooter in Paxos Safe for Foreigners?
Unlike some of the other Ionian islands where there are large towns and congested areas, driving in Paxos is almost always very relaxed. Most of the roads on the island are in very good condition, and traffic is almost nonexistent.
You should be aware, however, that some of the streets in Paxos have big bends and sharp turns. It’s easy to be distracted by the natural beauty of the island while you’re driving. But if you keep your eyes on the road, you should have a stress-free experience with driving in Paxos.
What Are the Best Things To Do in Paxos by Scooter?
Now that you have all the information you need to rent a scooter in Paxos, here are some of the best things to do while you’re driving around the island:
Tripitos Arch
A short drive south from the town of Gaios will bring you to the most famous natural landmark on Paxos, the Tripitos Arch. The short drive takes you down gravel roads through beautiful olive groves. Once you’re there, you can park your motor scooter and make the short trek on foot down to the arch.
The arch is the remnant of a collapsed sea cave, and the striking natural formation sits over some of the clearest waters you’ll see in your life. You can also access the Tripitos Arch if you take a boat tour around the Blue Caves, which is an amazing system of caves that lies on the same part of the coastline.
Erimitis Beach
Located on the west side of the island, Erimitis Beach is one of the most awe-inspiring beaches on all of the Ionian islands. The white sands are surrounded on all sides by massive limestone cliffs. At certain times of the day, the cliffs cast a shadow over the entire beach, providing some well-needed respite from the hot sun.
Ermitis Beach is a relatively new formation. It was born as recently as 2007 when a chunk of the surrounding cliffs collapsed and left a small beach in its stead. Getting down to the beach requires a bit of hiking, but once you get down there, you’ll realize that the journey was well worth it.
Paxos Music Festival
The busiest time on Paxos is in the summer, when the island hosts the Paxos Music festival, a cultural event unlike any other in the world. The festival, which has been running for over 30 years now, includes musical performances in all of the major towns on the island. Attendees can travel all around the island and see jazz, classical, and folk music being played in front of some of the most beautiful backdrops imaginable.
The festival is a platform for upcoming musicians from Greece and abroad to showcase their talents. If you go in the right year, you see the next big star in the world of jazz or folk music. Either way, the Paxos Music Festival is guaranteed to be a great experience.
Hit the Backroads of Paxos by Scooter
There are plenty of beautiful beaches and cultural sites to experience in Paxos, but the very best way to enjoy your time there is by renting a motor scooter and exploring the island’s coastline. Rev up the motor, glide down the coast, and feel the cool breeze coming off the water. It will be an experience you remember for the rest of your life.
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