Greece › Naxos or Paros
Updated: June 26, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
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Agios Georgios Beach in Naxos is calm and protected and one of the most family-friendly beaches in Greece.
Naxos and Paros are two of the best Greek islands, and they are often the hardest two islands to choose between. They are close together, easy to combine by ferry, and both have good beaches, pretty villages, and excellent food. But they feel very different once you are there.
Naxos is bigger, more traditional, better value, and better for families, beaches, hiking, and inland exploring. Paros is prettier, trendier, easier without a car, and better for couples, boutique hotels, dining, shopping, and nightlife. If beaches and a relaxed Greek-island feel matter most, choose Naxos. If atmosphere, restaurants, and walkable towns matter most, choose Paros.
Paros or Naxos – Quick Answers
- Choose Naxos for long sandy beaches, family trips, better value, mountain villages, hiking, local food, and a more traditional Greek feel.
- Choose Paros for prettier main towns, boutique hotels, better restaurants, livelier nightlife, easier buses, and a more romantic atmosphere.
- Naxos has the better beaches overall. Paros has good beaches too, but Naxos wins for long, soft, swimmable sand.
- Paros has the prettier towns. Naoussa and Parikia give Paros more evening variety than Naxos.
- Naxos is better for families. Beaches are calmer, longer, and easier with kids, especially Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka.
- Paros is better for couples. Naoussa is more romantic, stylish, and fun at night than anything on Naxos.
- Paros is easier without a car. Buses are good by Cycladic standards, and the island is smaller and simpler to navigate.
- Naxos is more rewarding with a car. The best parts of Naxos are the beaches, farms, villages, churches, ruins, and mountain roads away from the port.
- If you have 5 or more nights, visit both. The ferry between Paros and Naxos is short, frequent in summer, and easy.
Where to Go – Paros or Naxos?
My wife and I on the short ferry ride from Paros to Naxos.
If you have enough time, the best answer is easy: visit both. Paros and Naxos are close, well connected, and different enough that they make a great pairing. With 5 to 7 nights, a split stay works well. With only 3 or 4 nights, choose one and avoid losing time to packing, port transfers, and ferry schedules.
Paros is the more polished and social island. It has two excellent main towns: Parikia, the practical port town with sunsets, buses, value, and history; and Naoussa, the pretty fishing village with the best restaurants, bars, boutiques, and boutique hotels. Paros feels more fashionable than Naxos and is better if you like dining out, evening strolls, and a little nightlife.
Naxos is the bigger, more traditional, more outdoorsy island. Naxos Town is charming and lively, but the real strength of the island is the combination of great beaches, mountain villages, farms, hiking trails, archaeological sites, and local food. Naxos feels less polished than Paros, but it is more varied and usually better value.
If you are pairing one of these islands with Santorini, either works well. Paros gives you pretty towns and a livelier Cycladic scene. Naxos gives you better beaches and a more local contrast. If you are pairing with Mykonos, I prefer Naxos because it feels more different. Paros can overlap a little with Mykonos if you focus only on Naoussa, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
Go to Naxos for sandy beaches, family vacations, swimming, hiking, mountain villages, local food, historic churches, ruins, farms, and a slower trip.
Go to Paros for charming towns, boutique hotels, restaurants, nightlife, shopping, beach clubs, easy buses, romantic stays, and Antiparos day trips.
Which Island Is Better for You?
- Best for Families: Naxos. Longer sandy beaches, more space, calmer water, better value, and easier beach days with kids.
- Best for Couples: Paros. Naoussa gives Paros the edge for romance, boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, and evening atmosphere.
- Best Beaches: Naxos. Paros has some excellent and unusual beaches, but Naxos wins for long, soft, swimmable sand.
- Best Main Towns: Paros. Parikia and Naoussa give Paros two very different town bases. Naxos Town is great, but it is the only real town of that scale on Naxos.
- Best Without a Car: Paros. Buses are useful, distances are shorter, and it is easier to combine towns and beaches without driving.
- Best With a Car: Naxos. Naxos gets better the more you explore inland, especially Chalki, Filoti, Apeiranthos, the Temple of Demeter, and the hiking areas.
- Best Nightlife: Paros. Naoussa is livelier and more stylish at night. Parikia also has good bars. Naxos nightlife is more low-key and centered in Chora.
- Best Hiking: Naxos. Better mountain trails, better inland scenery, and more varied walking routes.
- Best Value: Naxos. Hotels, food, and beach stays are generally better value, especially for families and longer trips.
- Best for Boutique Hotels: Paros. Paros has more stylish small hotels and luxury boutique resorts, especially around Naoussa.
- Best for a Traditional Feel: Naxos. Bigger, greener, more agricultural, and more grounded beyond tourism.
- Best for a Short Stay: Paros. Easier ferries, smaller scale, better buses, and two towns that are simple to enjoy in 2 or 3 nights.
Paros vs Naxos: The Big Difference
The biggest difference is not beaches or ferries. It is how the islands feel day to day.
Paros is easier to consume. You can arrive in Parikia, take a bus or taxi to Naoussa, walk to dinner, shop, go to bars, visit a beach by water taxi, and feel like you have done Paros in a few days. It is compact, pretty, social, and relatively easy to plan.
Naxos is more rewarding if you put in effort. You can have a simple Naxos trip by staying in Naxos Town or Agios Georgios and going to the west-coast beaches. But the island really opens up with a car: mountain villages, farms, churches, ruins, quiet beaches, inland tavernas, and hiking trails. Naxos is less polished than Paros, but it has more depth.
So I tell people: choose Paros if you want the easier, prettier, more stylish trip. Choose Naxos if you want the bigger, beachier, more traditional trip.
The Weather in Paros and Naxos
Paros and Naxos sit very close together, separated by a narrow channel, so there is almost no meaningful difference in weather. Both have hot, dry summers, mild spring and fall conditions, and strong meltemi winds in July and August.
The best beach weather on both islands is from June through September. For swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, that is the main season. For sightseeing, hiking, village visits, and dining without peak summer crowds, late May, June, September, and early October are the best months.
Wind matters on both islands. Naxos’ west-coast beaches are often more protected and family-friendly. Paros has several exposed beaches, especially Golden Beach and New Golden Beach, which are great for windsurfing but not always the calmest swimming spots in July and August.
If you are deciding based on weather alone, do not. Choose based on beaches, towns, logistics, hotels, and the style of trip you want.
Getting There: Paros or Naxos?
Both Paros and Naxos are easy to reach from Athens by ferry, and both connect well with Santorini, Mykonos, and other Cycladic islands. Paros has a slight edge for logistics, but not enough to choose it only for that reason.
- Paros is a little easier to reach: Ferries from Athens to Paros are often slightly faster and more frequent, and Paros also has a small airport with flights from Athens.
- Naxos takes a little longer but is still easy: Ferries from Athens to Naxos are frequent in season, and Naxos also has a small airport with flights from Athens. Ferry times are usually a little longer than to Paros.
- Both are easy for island-hopping: Paros and Naxos are linked by short, frequent ferries in summer, making them one of the easiest two-island combinations in Greece.
- Both work with Santorini and Mykonos: If you are island-hopping, either island fits well between Athens and Santorini, or between Mykonos and Santorini.
- My take: If logistics are your only concern, Paros has a small advantage. If you are choosing based on the actual vacation experience, the ferry difference should not decide it.
For full ferry details, schedules, and tips, see my guides to the Athens to Paros ferry and the Athens to Naxos ferry.
Visiting Both Paros and Naxos
Visiting both Paros and Naxos is easy and often the best plan. The ferry between the two islands is short, the ports are simple, and the islands are different enough that it does not feel repetitive.
In summer, there are several direct ferries per day between Paros and Naxos. Fast ferries can take around 25 to 30 minutes. Larger conventional ferries are often closer to 40 to 60 minutes. Some routings can take longer depending on the vessel and schedule.
My general advice:
- If you have only 3 or 4 nights, choose one island.
- If you have 5 to 7 nights, splitting time between both islands works well.
- If you have 8 or more island nights, combining Paros, Naxos, and Santorini or Mykonos can work well. Aim for at least 2 nights on the third island and 3 nights each on Paros and Naxos.
- If you have fewer than 7 island nights and are already visiting Santorini or Mykonos, choose one of Paros or Naxos. Three islands in under a week is too much.
You can often buy ferry tickets a few days ahead if you are already in Greece, but for July and August I would book ahead, especially for the most convenient morning and evening departures.
Naxos vs Paros for Families and Couples
For families, I recommend Naxos. The beaches are longer and sandier, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and the island generally offers better value for larger rooms and longer stays. Agios Georgios is especially good for younger kids because it is shallow, protected, and walkable from Naxos Town. Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka are better for a classic beach holiday.
For couples, I recommend Paros. Naoussa in particular has the romantic setting people are often looking for: small hotels, restaurants by the harbor, cocktail bars, boutiques, and a lively evening scene that still feels more relaxed than Mykonos. Parikia is less polished but fun, practical, and good value.
That said, both islands work for both types of travelers. The difference is emphasis: Naxos feels more spacious and traditional, while Paros feels more polished and romantic.
Naxos vs Paros Without a Car
If you do not want to rent a car, Paros is the easier island.
Paros has useful buses linking Parikia, Naoussa, Lefkes, Piso Livadi, Golden Beach, Aliki, Pounta for Antiparos, and several beach areas. It is still not a city-style transit system, and taxis are limited in peak season, but Paros is one of the easier Cycladic islands to do without a car.
Naxos is still doable without a car, especially if you stay in Naxos Town, Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, or Plaka. Buses connect the main west-coast beaches well in summer. But to really appreciate Naxos, especially the mountain villages and inland sights, a rental car makes a big difference.
- Without a car: Paros wins.
- With a car: Naxos becomes much more rewarding.
- With kids and beach gear: A car helps on both islands, but especially on Naxos if staying outside Naxos Town.
Naxos vs Paros Beaches
Both islands have some of the best beaches in Greece, but the beach experience is different.
Naxos has the better beaches overall for most travelers. The west coast is lined with long stretches of soft golden sand and shallow, swimmable water. Agios Georgios is calm and easy for families. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are classic organized beach areas. Plaka is long, beautiful, and spacious. Farther south, beaches get quieter and more natural.
Paros has more variety and more unusual beach settings. Kolymbithres is famous for its sculpted rocks and small coves. Santa Maria is good for organized beach days. Golden Beach is excellent for windsurfing and space. Aliki is good for families. Piso Livadi and Logaras make a nice relaxed beach-village base. Antiparos adds even more easy beach options if you are staying on or near Paros.
If beaches are your top priority, choose Naxos. If you want beaches plus prettier towns, boutique hotels, and livelier evenings, choose Paros.
Paros vs Naxos for Hotels
Paros has the better boutique and luxury hotel scene. Naoussa has stylish small hotels, beach-adjacent luxury stays, adults-only options, and more polished design hotels. Parikia has better value and ferry convenience. Beach resorts are scattered around Golden Beach, Parasporos, Ambelas, and the Naoussa area.
Naxos has better-value hotels and easier family stays. Naxos Town and Agios Georgios are ideal for short stays and no-car trips. Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka are better for classic beach holidays. Luxury exists on Naxos, but the island is not as hotel-driven or scene-driven as Paros.
For hotels, my quick take is simple:
- Best luxury and boutique hotels: Paros.
- Best family hotel value: Naxos.
- Best beach hotel areas: Naxos for swimming, Paros for style and variety.
- Best no-car hotel base: Parikia on Paros or Naxos Town/Agios Georgios on Naxos.
Paros vs Naxos for Food and Nightlife
Naxos has the better local food culture. The island is agricultural, and you feel it in the food: potatoes, cheeses, meat, olive oil, vegetables, kitron, and traditional tavernas in the villages. Naxos Town has plenty of good restaurants, but the best meals are often simple and local.
Paros has the better restaurant and nightlife scene. Naoussa has more stylish restaurants, cocktail bars, and dinner energy than anywhere on Naxos. Parikia also has good restaurants and sunset bars, with a more local feel and better value than Naoussa.
Choose Naxos if you want hearty traditional food and village tavernas. Choose Paros if you want a more polished dining scene, better cocktails, and livelier nights.
Day Trip to Paros or Naxos
Because Paros and Naxos are so close together, a day trip between them is easy. But I would not choose either island only as a day trip if you have time to stay overnight. Both reward slowing down.
If you are based on Paros, a day trip to Naxos works well for seeing Naxos Town, the Portara, the Old Market, and one west-coast beach such as Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, or Agia Anna. With a rental car or guided tour, you can add an inland village, but do not overpack the day.
If you are based on Naxos, a day trip to Paros works well for Parikia, Naoussa, lunch by the harbor, and maybe Kolymbithres or Antiparos if schedules line up. But Paros is at its best in the evening, so a day trip misses some of the Naoussa magic.
For most travelers, the better question is not “Which island is better for a day trip?” but “Which island is better for my style of trip?” If you want a single easy base, choose Paros. If you want a fuller, beachier, more immersive island stay, choose Naxos.
My Bottom Line
Choose Naxos if you want the better beaches, easier family trip, better value, more traditional villages, hiking, and a bigger island to explore.
Choose Paros if you want prettier towns, better restaurants, boutique hotels, nightlife, shopping, easier buses, and a more romantic feel.
Visit both if you have at least 5 nights and do not mind one ferry transfer. They are close, easy to combine, and different enough to make the split worthwhile.
Paros vs Naxos in Photos
Naxos has one main village, Naxos Town aka Chora, which is where the bulk of the island’s hotels, restaurants, and bars are. The ruins of Apollo Temple are connected to Chora by a raised path through the sea.
Paros has 2 main villages. The capital Parikia, seen here, has the main ferry port, casual dining, and lively bars throughout its narrow lanes…
…while fashionable Naoussa boasts the charming Old Port, trendy bars and clubs, gourmet dining, and boutique shopping. These are the Venetian castle ruins at the Naoussa port.
Naxos has long, wide, golden beaches with excellent swimming and plenty of room to spread out on the sand. Plaka Beach, seen here, is the longest on the island, stretching out for 4 km along the west coast.
Paros has smaller, more unusual beaches, like the oft photographed Kolymbithres Beach with its weird rock formations.
Naxos is the breadbasket of the Cyclades with farms, olive groves, vineyards, and dairies in its interior and traditional villages in the mountains.
Paros has fewer villages, though they are no less impressive. This is Lefkes with its stunning church.
Most bars in Naxos are located in a little cluster of Chora, many with sunset views over the port.
Paros has better nightlife with several wonderful cocktail bars in Parikia and Naoussa.
Naxos has better hiking. This is the trail leading up to Zas Cave, Zeus’ childhood home, according to myth.
Paros has better shopping, with more local products and crafts in Parikia and more high-style boutiques in Naoussa.
The local spirit of Naxos is Kitron, a citrus liqueur. This is the distillery in Chalki village, operating since 1896.
Paros has a wonderful, little winery in Naoussa.
Naxos: A Photo Guide
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades. Its main village is Naxos Town (aka Chora), where you’ll find the ferry port and the bulk of the island’s restaurants, bars, and hotels. This is the view of Chora from ruins of Apollo Temple.
These are the temple ruins, commonly called the Portara. Apollo Temple is open to visitors 24-hours a day, but it is most beautiful at sunset.
Naxos Town is made of a tangle of narrow, pedestrian lanes leading uphill toward the 13th century Venetian Castle. This part of the castle is the Tower of Glezos.
The castle walls and steps.
A small archaeological museum is at the top of the hill.
Chora is densely packed with restaurants and boutique shops tucked under archways, in tunnels, and stacked over multiple levels. This area is called the Old Market.
Almost all of Naxos bars are in a little cluster in Chora, many with views over the sea. 520 Cocktail Bar and Like Home are the two most popular bars on the island.
Among the best restaurants in Naxos Town is Doukato, serving traditional Greek fare in the tree-shaded courtyard of a former monastery.
Naxos’ main port is west of the castle and faces toward the sunset.
Several tavernas line up alongside the port serving freshly caught seafood with wonderful views, though restaurants in this area (generally) aren’t as good as the restaurants inside the village.
The best restaurant at Naxos Port is Boulamatsis (written on the sign as Μπουλαμάτσης), located on the second-floor balcony above the red sign. The entrance is on the back side of the building.
Heading south from the Old Port and Chora leads to Agios Georgios (St. George) Beach, the closest beach to Naxos Town. This family-friendly beach offers tons of restaurants, beach clubs, and a water sports center at the south end.
Farther inland from the beach is CineNaxos, an open-air movie theater.
Beaches in Naxos tend to get better the farther south you go. Agios Prokopios is a fantastic beach with plenty of beach clubs, restaurants, and hotels. This is the easiest beach to reach by bus from Chora.
Agia Anna Beach is just south of Agios Prokopios Beach and a little quieter, though still with plenty of food and hotel options. Agia Anna is also well-connected to Naxos Town by bus.
Plaka Beach is the longest beach on Naxos and the most beautiful. Most of the beach clubs and restaurant are at the northern end, while the southern end has long stretches of seemingly endless sand and sea.
Aliko Beach is one of the more interesting spots on the island, located in a cedar forest.
At the north end of Alyko Beach, you’ll find the ruins of an unfinished, abandoned hotel, which is now filled with amazing graffiti murals.
Beaches and dining are great in Naxos, but what makes the island so different from others in the Cyclades is its heartland, filled with farms, mountain villages, and Byzantine Churches, like the 6th-century Panagia Drosiani, seen here, near the village Moni.
Near Sangri village are the ruins of the Temple of Demeter, goddess of agriculture. There is a small archaeological museum on site, too.
Naxos has several traditional villages in the mountains. Chalki, seen here, is the most charming of these.
In Chalki there are a handful of workshops selling artisanal cheeses, local products, and crafts all made in the traditional way.
The interior of Naxos has several amazing hiking trails, passing by farms, olive grove, and about 200 Byzantine churches.
A Byzantine church on the hiking trail between Moni and Chalki.
Drymalia Valley has over 400,000 olive trees.
A view from inside Zeus’ Cave on Zas Mountain.
Paros: A Photo Guide
Paros has two main villages, Parikia and Naoussa. The ferry port, seen here behind the marina, is in the capital Parikia.
Parikia is the historic center of the island and home to the Panagia Ekatontapiliana, aka the Church of 100 Doors.
This Byzantine church dates to the 4th century A.D., and is believed to have been founded by Saint Helene, mother of Emperor Constantine.
There is a small archaeological museum just steps away from the church, and at only €2 a ticket, it’s well worth a visit.
Wandering through the pedestrian warren of Parikia, you’ll find the ruins of the Frankish Castle, a fort built by the Venetians in the 12th century A.D. out of the ruins of a 6th century B.C. temple and various elements of later residences.
Parikia is a pleasure to get lost in, made of cobblestone paths, old stairways, and ancient churches.
There are even a few pedestrian tunnels, like this one that passes under the charming Symposium Café.
The best restaurant in Parikia is Stou Fred, run by renowned French chef Fred Chesneau and hidden in a narrow lane. Make reservations in advance.
Parikia has excellent nightlife. Bebop, seen here, is the best spot for a sunset cocktail.
Shopping is great in Parikia, with several souvenir shops, clothing boutiques, a perfumery, and a few artisan workshops, like Yria Ceramics, seen here.
The other major village in Paros in Naoussa, situated in a natural bay at the north end of the island with a charming old port. This is the view from the pedestrian bridge.
The bridge at night.
From the old port, you can catch a water taxi to three of Paros’ best beaches: Kolimbithres, Monastiri, and Laggeri.
Naoussa is a more modern village than Parikia and has a wider footpath fronting the port and heading into the village.
A more modern style Orthodox church sits in one of Naoussa’s large squares.
Naoussa offers a more cosmopolitan shopping experience than Parikia with several boutiques selling fashion and accessories by Greek and international designers.
Naoussa is filled with stylish cocktail bars and a few dance clubs. This is the view over the marina toward the Venetian Castle ruins and the Old Port as seen from the balcony of Sommaripa Consolato cocktail bar.
Though the area near the port offers excellent views and drinks, the restaurants here can get over crowded for dinner service. This photo was taken during the shoulder season; it’s even busier in summer.
For a more romantic dining experience with seafront views, head west of the old port to Taverna Glafkos. Definitely make reservations in advance; this is one of Paros very best restaurants.
Yemeni is another amazing restaurant. Its tables sit along the footpath inside the village. You’ll want reservations for this spot, too.
The best, authentic seafood tavernas in Paros are on the east side of the island in Piso Livadi. This little fishing village has several restaurants owned by fishermen, who cook the fish they’ve just caught themselves that morning. Literally, every restaurant in the strip seen here is amazing. There are also 3 small beaches here, making Piso Livadi a wonderful place to spend a day.
Paros is best known for its unique beaches, especially Kolymbithres with its lunar landscape. This is one of the most famous beaches accessible by water taxi from Naoussa. Expect it to be very crowded in July and August.
Kalogeros Beach is another fantastic beach, known for its natural clay, which visitors use to make a full-body mud mask. You’ll need a car to get here.
Laggeri Beach is a popular, clothing-optional beach. While water taxis from Naoussa stop nearby, it requires a short walk through shallow water or sand to reach the main beach area.
Monastiri is the third beach accessible by the Naoussa water taxi. This family-friendly beach is part of the amazing Paros Park.
Paros Park is a large environmental and cultural park with a museum, café, historic monastery, open-air cinema, live music and events, and 7 km of hiking trails. The lighthouse here is at the end of Walking Path 1.
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi Dave. Great website! Your information about Naxos and Paros is excellent! My problem is I like about 1/2 of each.
Which would you recommend for a couple of young 70+ year olds who backpack, easy hiking and ride bikes? We are big history buffs and love ruins, churches, archeological sites and natural formations, nature, animals, caves, good local food, wine and laid back bars to enjoy the sunset. Give me a good taverna any day!
Paros looks beautiful, convenient and is more couple friendly but we don’t care for loud bars or trendy restaurants. I like the look of Parikia. Naxos is bigger and has lots of the villages and sites but it’s also an extra ferry stop, has lots of families and sounds like it is mostly for beach combers? Naxos town looks wonderful and I want to try Kitron.
We will rent a car and will spend 4 nights but I don’t like splitting each island into two nights in order to visit both.
What do you recommend?
Thanks!
Katherine Malson
Hi Katherine. Based on your description – especially the emphasis on history, ruins, hiking, local food, and avoiding the “trendy” scene – this is an easy one for me. You are describing Naxos.
While your hesitation is understandable (Naxos does have great beaches and plenty of families), the notion that it is primarily for “beachcombers” is a misconception. Naxos is the agricultural heart of the Cyclades. It has the most impressive inland villages, the best hiking, and a depth of history that Paros generally lacks.
Here is why I think Naxos is the perfect fit for you two:
1. History & Ruins:
• If you love ruins and archeological sites, Naxos wins hands down.
• The Portara: You can’t miss the massive marble gate of the unfinished Temple of Apollo right at the port.
• The Kouros Statues: These are giant, unfinished ancient statues still lying in the quarries where they were carved. You can walk right up to them. They are in the countryside, surrounded by nature. Very cool.
• Temple of Demeter: A partially restored ancient temple sitting in the middle of quiet farmland. It feels sorta spiritual and connects you to the island’s agricultural past.
2. The Villages & Hiking:
• Paros has cute villages (Lefkes is lovely), but Naxos has living mountain villages.
• Since you are renting a car, driving up to Apeiranthos (the marble village) or Halki (the old capital) is easy and a joy.
• Halki is particularly special for you because it’s home to the Vallindras Kitron Distillery. You mentioned wanting to try Kitron – this is the place to do it. It’s an old-school, atmospheric experience, not a tourist trap.
• For hiking: You can hike Mount Zas (the highest peak in the Cyclades). There are also easier, beautiful trails connecting the villages that pass by old Byzantine churches and olive groves.
3. The Vibe: “Real” vs. “Trendy”
• Paros has become incredibly popular recently, and while Parikia (the main port) is more laid back than the glitzy Naoussa, the island overall is leaning much harder into “trendy luxury,” high-end boutiques, and crowded cocktail bars.
• Naxos still feels like a working island. The food is incredible because they grow everything there (the Naxian potatoes and cheeses are famous across Greece). The tavernas in the villages feel authentic – plastic chairs, paper tablecloths, excellent local wine, and grandmothers in the kitchen. That sounds exactly like what you’re looking for.
4. The Ferry Concern: Don’t worry about the extra stop. Naxos is usually the very next stop after Paros on the main ferry lines (Blue Star). It adds maybe 45 minutes to the trip. It is negligible in the grand scheme of a 4-night stay.
My Recommendation: Paros is beautiful and convenient, but it is polished. Naxos is rugged, historic, and delightful. Given that you are active and want to hike, explore ruins, and eat well without the pretense of a trendy scene, Naxos is the superior choice.
Spend your 4 nights in Naxos Town (Chora). St. George Beach area is great if you want to be close to town but near the water. You can walk to the Portara for sunset, drive the interior during the day, and drink your Kitron in the mountains. Good luck.
Hi Dave,
My husband and I are going to Greece from September 17 to October 4. Here is our itinerary:
Athens -2 nights
Mykonos 2 nights
Paros 2 nights
Naxos 3 nights
Milos 3 nights
Santorini 3 nights
Fly back to Athens, stay overnight, then fly out the next morning.
Zanthynos is an island I am fascinated with, and I thought about cutting one night out of Athens and skipping Mykonos to see it, back and forth by plane, then ferry from Athens to Paros, but I’m not sure if I should just stay with my current itinerary.
I just wanted to get your thoughts as I have used your website for other trips and they have worked out great!
Debbie
Do not add Zakynthos.
You already seem to understand the details but just to emphasize: Zakynthos is in the Ionian Sea (west of the mainland), while all your other islands are in the Cyclades (east of the mainland). There are no ferries connecting them. To make that work, you have to fly Athens -> Zakynthos, spend your time, fly Zakynthos -> Athens, and then take a ferry to Paros. You would burn an entire day of your vacation just sitting in airports and transit lounges.
Furthermore, the famous Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) currently has restricted access due to landslide risks, meaning you might travel all that way and only be able to see it from a distant cliff-top viewpoint. It’s simply not worth wrecking the flow of a smooth trip for one photo op.
Critique of Your Current Itinerary
• Even without Zakynthos, your current plan is too fast. You have 5 island stops in 13 days (excluding Athens).
• 2 nights = 1 day: When you factor in checking out, getting to the port, the ferry ride, getting to the new hotel, and checking in, a “travel day” is largely a lost day.
• The Blur: With 2 nights in Mykonos and 2 nights in Paros, you will barely unpack before you have to pack again. You won’t see the islands; you will just see the inside of ferries and hotel lobbies.
My Recommendation
• If you are willing to cut Mykonos (which is a smart move if you aren’t there specifically for the expensive nightlife or luxury shopping), do not replace it with Zakynthos. Replace it with time.
• Use those saved days to slow down and actually enjoy the other islands. Naxos and Paros are right next to each other, but moving between them still eats up a morning.
The Optimized Itinerary (Sept 17 – Oct 4) This route minimizes travel time and maximizes beach/hiking time.
• Athens: 2 Nights (Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, and Plaka)
• Milos: 3 Nights (Ferry or fly from Athens)
• Naxos: 3 Nights (Ferry from Milos)
• Paros: 3 Nights (Ferry from Naxos – only 45 mins)
• Santorini: 3 Nights (Ferry from Paros)
• Athens: 1 Night (Fly back from Santorini)
Why this works better:
• Better Pacing: You get 3 on each island. This allows you to rent a car and explore the remote beaches of Milos or the mountain villages of Naxos without watching the clock.
• Mykonos Drop: Mykonos is the most expensive and crowded stop. By late September, the party scene is winding down. Unless it is a specific “must-do,” you won’t miss it compared to the authenticity of Naxos or the beaches of Milos.
I hope that helps. Good luck.
Wow! You’re an AMAZING resource. Thanks for this. Important question. I’m taking my almost 18 year old daughter on a brief trip to Greece. She’s been to Europe before and we live in Florida so she’s no stranger to beautiful beaches. The current plan has us flying into Santorini on a Sunday afternoon and flying out of Athens on Thursday night. (I did say it was quick.)
I’m thinking of staying in Santorini until Wednesday morning. Grabbing an early morning ferry to Paros, spending the day there, and taking an overnight ferry to Athens. Finally, spending the day in Athens (mainly for the Acropolis) before flying out at night. FYI, my daughter is NOT a big fan of historical sites or museums. She’s pretty much into enjoying scenic views, watersports, dressing up, and heading out for a night on the town, taking scenic pictures, and appreciating beautiful views and crystal-clear beach water.
With all this in mind, I have a big question that I hope you can answer: Is Paros the more intelligent choice over Naxos?
Yes, between the two islands, Paros is absolutely the more intelligent choice for your daughter’s specific tastes. The decision comes down to one key location: the village of Naoussa. It is an incredibly beautiful and photogenic fishing port, and its whitewashed, labyrinthine alleys are filled with the exact atmosphere your daughter is looking for: chic boutiques, trendy cocktail bars, and excellent restaurants packed with a stylish crowd. Naoussa is the perfect place to dress up and have a memorable night on the town, while also providing endless opportunities for scenic photos. While Naxos is a fantastic island with superior beaches, its towns have a more traditional, relaxed, and family-focused vibe that does not align as well with a teenager’s interests.
However, there is a much more significant issue with your proposed itinerary than the choice of island. The plan to spend a single day in Paros before taking an overnight ferry to Athens is logistically flawed and will likely lead to an exhausting and unpleasant experience. It is important to know that direct overnight ferries between Paros and Athens are not as common as you might think (before any next steps, check the schedule for your specific travel dates) and are not a reliable service to build a tight itinerary around. They often involve very late-night departures, sometimes after midnight, as the ship is arriving from further islands. This leaves you in a difficult situation with no hotel room to rest or shower before boarding. You would arrive in Athens at dawn, probably sleep-deprived, with a full day to kill before your late-night flight home. This is not a practical or enjoyable way to travel.
I would strongly recommend a revised itinerary. Enjoy your time in Santorini from Sunday until Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning. It delivers on all the scenic views and unique atmosphere you could want. From there, instead of a ferry, book a cheap and quick 45-minute flight from Santorini directly to Athens. This flight saves you an entire day of stressful and tiring travel. You can then check into an Athens hotel on Wednesday, giving you a comfortable base to drop your luggage, relax, and freshen up. A hotel with a rooftop pool and an Acropolis view would be a fantastic touch.
This revised plan allows you to have a far better final two days. On Wednesday evening, your daughter can have her night on the town in Athens at one of the city’s incredible rooftop bars in Plaka or Monastiraki, enjoying the urban vibe and amazing views of the floodlit Parthenon. You can visit the Acropolis in the morning while your daughter sleeps in or enjoys the hotel pool. Then a Greek lunch and some shopping before heading to the airport. I hope this helps.
My husband & I are visiting Greece 1st time from Asia in Oct for 18 days. We are active people in our 50s who enjoy easy hiking, swimming, exploring, wine and food, and beautiful scenery (not so much into partying, art and history). This is our draft itinerary and I cannot decide between Naxos or Paros
Oct 1 – Arrive Athens 8am, ferry to Naxos or Paros, stay 4 nights
Oct 5 – Milos, 2 nights
Oct 7 – Santorini, 5 nights
Oct 12 – Santorini to Meteora (by flight) 2 nights
Oct15 – Meteora to Athens
Oct 19 – Athens morning & then Fly home
For your active interests, choose Naxos. It is the best Greek island for hiking, with ancient trails connecting mountain villages, and its farm-to-table food scene is superior to Paros. While Paros is wonderful and a bit more polished, Naxos offers more dramatic scenery and a more authentic, rugged experience that aligns perfectly with your preferences. Your itinerary is fast-paced, particularly the two nights in Milos, but it covers an excellent range of spectacular Greek destinations.
Your website has been super helpful on two previous trips to Greece!
Now I am looking for advice on another upcoming trip for our 30th wedding anniversary. We will be coming from the US in the 3rd/4th week of June & will have 9-10 days on the ground in Greece. We are considering starting our trip with a stay at Skinopi Lodge on Milos (hoping the days work out) & then possibly moving to stay on Paros or Antiparos but we are finding it a bit tricky to book the hotels we were hoping to book on Paros & Antiparos so now we are thinking about either Naxos or Sifnos instead for the last part of the trip. We considered Folegandros but are concerned it will be more challenging given the distance.
We do not want it to feel like a super hectic trip with moving around too much due to ferry transfers, so we are thinking about keeping it to 2 islands (unless you suggest some other islands as options where the ferry transfers are not as long as what we expect). We love to hike, excursions on the water – boat trip, windsurfing or paddle boarding, we love to explore local culture/restaurants. We do not care about a party scene. Any feedback, thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Milos, Naxos, and Sifnos are all on my short list of favorite islands. Starting at Milos (Skinopi Lodge is lovely) in late June is a good plan, offering unique beauty and great boat excursions that fit your interests perfectly. Given the booking challenges on Paros/Antiparos and your preference for easier travel, switching to either Naxos or Sifnos for your second island is an excellent idea. Naxos provides remarkable diversity with its stunning beaches (ideal for windsurfing/paddleboarding), mountain hiking, and traditional villages. At the same time, Sifnos shines with its renowned gastronomy, charming pottery villages, and extensive, well-marked hiking trails. It has an easy and short ferry connection from Milos. Both Naxos and Sifnos offer rich local culture and avoid the party scene, making either Milos-Sifnos (for easiest logistics) or Milos-Naxos (for beach/windsurfing) a superb and relaxed two-island combination for your 9-10 day celebration.
Hi Dave,
We are a couple who are traveling to Greece for 16 days. We will fly in and out from Athens, start with 2 days in Athens – and then want to visit 3 islands.
But we are a bit in doubt which to choose, as there a lot to choose from. We like to do a bit of hiking, snorkeling, relax at the beach and a bit of life (but not to party) We have considered:
– Mykonos, Santorini, Milos
– Mykonos, Naxos, Paros
– Naxos/Paros, Santorini, Milos
Do you have recommendations what will fit best to us – maybe other Islands?
Thanks a lot for your time.
Br Lone
All are great choices but for you, I would recommend Naxos, Milos, and Santorini.
Huge fan of your guide. I’m traveling solo to Greece for the first time. I have about 12 days in Greece how would you recommend spending them? I’m 31, female, not huge into partying, and I love beaches, architecture, history, museums, food, etc.
I would do a few days in Athens for the history and then split time between Naxos and Paros (two of my favorite islands) – both have amazing beaches, food, and some historical sites.
Hi Dave! What would be your itinerary advice? We arrive Saturday morning in Athens, fly out the next Sunday morning. I was thinking first night in Athens, spending the first day seeing all the major sights, then Paros, Santorini and Milos then back to Athens. Is that one too many islands? What order and how many nights on each island would you recommend? Thank you so much!
Diane
I recommend sticking to two islands. Paros and then either Santorini or Milos (and in that order).
Hi Dave,
Fantastic website. You have so much complete and thorough information that no one else really compares.
We are going to Greece for 2 weeks. I’m taking three teenagers (15,18,18) and we are flying into Athens. From there we will fly into Paros two days later. We will have 3-4 days before going to Santorini, where we will spend 5 days. Do you recommend Naxos or Mykonos as the second island for us to visit?
Thanks!
Scott
I find Naxos is much more convenient to get to and from Paros (and also onwards to Santorini) than Mykonos. Naxos is much quieter than Mykonos and has fantastic beaches, interesting inland villages, and great local food. As long as you’re ok missing the Mykonos nightlife (Naxos doesn’t have much nightlife) then I’d go with Naxos.
Hi, we are planning to spend the last two weeks of august in Greece, flying in and out of Athens. We will be travelling with our two kids, ages 6 and 8. We definitely want to spend a week on Naxos to enjoy the beaches and walking, and are thinking of staying at Agios Georgios area (maybe Galaxy hotel). We also want a day or two in Athens to show the kids the sights and then would like to add one more island for the remaining 5 days or so. Would Paros be a good combination, or too similar? Or would a smaller island like Koufonisia or Antiparos be a better contrast, or would we get bored too quickly? We like walking, exploring, swimming and nature as well as good food. We have been to Santorini, Sifnos and Milos before on a previous trip (pre kids). Thanks for your advice and for the great info on this site.
Paros is a wonderful choice. Milos would also be great – and you could do a boat tour around the island which kids tend to love. Both islands have great swimming spots.
Dave
I’m traveling to Greece in mid May. Starting in Santorini and heading to Milos. I’m torn between Naxos and Paros but would like to stay on one of those islands for three nights before heading to Mykonos. I’m going solo on this trip and do not want to rent a car, and would much rather walk or take public transportation or taxi. I’m interested to experience the culture, tour villages/town/historical sites, hike, sunsets, beaches, etc. I really want to soak up the beauty of the islands! I’m a foodie too! Can you please tell me which island you would recommend? What hotel on the island would you recommend?
Naxos, Sifnos, and Folegandros would be my recommendations.
Personally, I find Naxos more attractive due to the family-friendly atmosphere you mentioned. We visited it three times with my family and enjoyed it so much, that we decided to buy a house in Naxos just to have some constant place to go to. Now we go there at least three times a year. The main reason for loving this place for me is the best beaches even in comparison to Paros, whose beaches are also good.
I agree! Good luck with your new house.
Hi Dave,
Love your site. I have been following this for planning my vacation But need a suggestion.
We are visiting Greece in the first week of April. We are confused whether to visit Mykonos or Paros or any other place (for two days). We initially planned to visit Mykonos for the party scene but later learned that Mykonos will be quiet in April. So can you please give us recommendations for places to visit. Is it ok to visit Mykonos in April or Paros will be a better option? We would like a place which is not too quiet. Parties will be better in Mykonos or Paros in April?
We will be immediately visiting Santorini after this so any place closer to Santorini will be good.
I recommend Crete and Santorini for off-season Greek islands to visit. The first ferry of the year between the two islands runs in early April. Mykonos will be very quiet in April. (So will Naxos and Paros but both have a bit more of a local vibe that’s interesting.) Mykonos is wonderfully green in April which is great. The first ferry between Mykonos and Santorini runs March 19, so you’re fine in that regard. None of the islands will have any parties in April though the clubs in Fira will come closest to having a bit of nightlife.
Hi Dave,
Need your suggestion. Going to Greece July 20 – August 4. My husband and myself, 58 yr & 62 yr olds.
Here is what I have till now, 3 nights Crete, 3 nights Santorini at the beginning. At the end 3 nights Mykonos and 1 night Athens. Then this is what I’m confused about: would like to do 2 nights Milos and the other 2 nights on either Naxos or Paros. I’m leaning towards Naxos since I hear it has better beaches, what is your opinion? We are beach people for sure, nice diners at night, not looking for nightlife. Am I doing too much in 2 weeks? I just want to get the most in for the time we have, this is a lifelong dream of mine, don’t know if I will be able to go back. But I also don’t want to be hopping around and not really see anything. What is your honest opinion, really appreciate it.
Paros is a little trendier with good nightlife. Both have great beaches but I prefer the beaches on Naxos. So Naxos sounds like a better fit for you. You do have a busy two weeks. Doable, but busy. If you were to cut any island I’d make it Crete. It’s a great island but a difficult to experience in 3 days as it’s quite a bit bigger than the others.
Hi Dave,
Thank you for this fabulous site, so much invaluable information. My husband and I are flying into Santorini from Rome mid September for 3 nights then we have 14 more nights to island hop before needing to be in Athens October 2 for an October 3 flight. We’re thinking of splitting our time equally between Naxos and Paros with day trips to Mykonos and Antiparos. We were thinking of flying from Paros back to Athens the day before our international flight home but I read in one of your posts that you think it’s better to catch the ferry? Do you think there’s another island we should consider as well. Additionally what weather should we expect mid to late September and do we need to pre-book accommodation and ferries? This is the tale end of a six week trip that will have been full on so we were not wanting to arrive home totally exhausted!
Thanks so much for all your great advice.
Sounds almost perfect. Weather should be good to great. You could have some coolish non-beach days as you get into October but beautiful sunny weather is more likely. Only change I’d recommend is to add a night or two for Mykonos at the end of your island itinerary. A day trip to Mykonos is not worth the time or effort and it probably wouldn’t workout with ferry times anyways. Better to make an overnight trip and it’s on the route back to Athens so will shorten your final ferry leg as well. (Day trip to Antiparos is well worth it though.) And yes, I’d rather ferry than experience the hassle of another flight. And it’s quicker/easier to get from the ferry port to central Athens than from the airport to central Athens.
Hi Dave! I am really enjoying your website. I am writing for your advice. My husband and I are two active people who enjoy hiking, swimming, boating, wine and food, and beautiful scenery, and art and history. As far as Athens, my husband really just wants to see some of the archaeological sights. I want to take a photography tour on Santorini. I have been dreaming of going there for a long time. We tend to seek out the local restaurants when we travel to see what the people really eat in a location. We are arriving in Athens on May 7 and flying back out early May 20th. We are coming from Texas, so it will be a considerable travel distance. This is what I am considering:
May 7: continue travel with flight Athens to Santorini, arrive around 5pm local time
May 7-May 14: Santorini (7 days, 8 nights)
May 15: Leave in the morning and travel to Naxos (ferry or flight?)
May 15-17 Naxos (3 days, 3 nights)
May 18 Fly from Naxos to Athens in the morning
May 18, and 19 Athens (2 days, 2 nights)
May 20 fly out for home
My concern is with jamming too much into a trip. We don’t want to have a tight schedule and be super tired when we get home. We are considering just staying on Santorini and really exploring and spending one more day in Athens and cutting out the Naxos portion. Any advice you could provide would be greatly appreciated.
Kind Regards,
Alyse
That sounds like a great itinerary. The good news is that either way you do it (with Naxos or without) it will feel like the perfect decision. “Oh, I’m so glad we got to see Naxos – it was so different than Santorini,” or “I’m so glad we spent those extra days on Santorini – I wouldn’t have wanted an hour less.” That’s not much help, I know, but there’s no right answer. Naxos has some great beaches (better than Santorini) and amazing inland villages and hikes. You won’t be sorry if you go. Also, some really incredible local restaurants. One thing I would do if it were my trip is to ferry from Naxos to Athens instead of fly. It does cost you a few extra hours (depending on whether you go Blue Star or the smaller/faster/rougher Sea Jet) but to fly you have to taxi to the airport, lineup for baggage ticketing, lineup for security, wait some more, fly, taxi into the city when you get to Athens. Whereas if you’re staying in Naxos Town you can walk to the ferry port 10 minutes before your ferry is set to arrive. I find it much more relaxing.
Hi Dave, fabulous website! Do you have any restaurant recommendations in Naoussa, Paros?
Orso
Taverna Glafkos.
Hi, thank you for this very useful piece. We just came back from a week in Santorini and I’m planning to go again in October for school break, just two moms and a couple of kids. We’ll have a car. Which would be better in October, Naxos or Paros? I’m leaning towards Naxos but open to both. You mentioned that both islands are year-round ones. Thanks, Andrea
Perhaps a slight recommendation for Naxos but both would be great in October. (Early October should still have beach weather, late October will likely be too chilly to swim but fine for hikes and sightseeing.)
Hi Dave
Great guide to both islands. I’m staying in Naxos with family in late August. Our plan is to catch an early ferry from Rafina and get into Naxos by noon. It’s a fast ferry (Sea Jet), and I’m wondering if we’re better off taking a Blue Star ferry from Pireaus instead. I’ve read varying opinions about the ferries, with some saying the fast ferries are terrible, you can’t see anything, etc. I’d prefer to spend the night in Rafina and catch an early ferry as opposed to staying in Athens and rushing to get to Pireaus in the am. Any advice for a newcomer to Greece?
Thanks
Peter
The (SeaJet) Champion Jet1 that does the Rafina to Naxos route in August is a good ferry (better than the smaller SeaJet). Staying in Athens is far more interesting than staying in Rafina but the ferry itself from Rafina is a fine choice.
Hi Dave,
My husband and I have 3.5 days in Greece, quick getaway. We have never been and want to go on an island with the best sand beaches. We will be spending the day on the beach and night eating out. What is your suggestion? Thanks!
Galina
Both Paros and Naxos have great beaches. In Naxos the beaches are close to little beach towns with tavernas and restaurants. In Paros beaches are away from the towns. Both are wonderful islands.
Hi Dave
Very helpful thank you.
Many years ago we frequented Myconos and stayed on Ornos beach in the small studios which we loved.
My family of 4 and my mum who is well but elderly are travelling from afar back to Greece after many years.
I tried to book the same studios on Ornos but no luck and can’t seem to find anything close by that’s affordable.
I am thinking of going to Paros and I hope you can help us with which beach will be our Ornos. We need an organised family beach with preferably BnB studio or hotel on the beach or at least close easy access. I loved the bus from Ornos to town and the vibe after a day in the sun. Where would you recommend we will find something similar on Paros or any other close island? I’m struggling to work out the sandy organised less windy easy access beach and close accommodation. Also on a budget due to our sadly week currency. Thanks a mill spent hours searching!
Dimitra
The days when you could lodge economically are long gone, let alone sleep for free on a beach for two weeks as many who are old enough to remember Mykonos in the 70s did! With upwards of $300 for a night of sleep on what is undoubtedly an attractive island, a trip to Mykonos these days requires a sturdy and well-filled wallet. That said, Ornos Beach is still – in theory – offering reasonably priced lodgings but as you seem to have done the homework and calculations, it may be time to move on. That may be a good move as it can be hard to capture the memories of the past by coming back to try to relive them.
Paros is a good option and it shares with Mykonos that Cycladic style and look – rocks, sandy beaches, white walled houses and cosy tavernas that beckon you in invitingly. It is a larger island; it has an airport and a busy boat port so getting there is easy. So far so good. Now taking into account your age logistics – young and old and somewhere in between, it sounds as though you need a modicum of facilities, and you won’t want that dastardly Meltemi (northern) wind that can play havoc on many of the Cycladic islands.
Paros’ main tourism infrastructure is focussed in and around its two main towns: the port of Parikia and the former fishing village (and now traveller magnet) of Naoussa. They are both perceptibly bigger than Mykonos’s Ornos, so you may still be looking for that touch of coziness that you remembered from Ornos. A little smaller, but a village no less is Piso Livadi on Paros east coast you can rent a place literally on the beach if you desire. It’s compact yet cosy and has that ‘just for me’ atmosphere.
A little more out on a ledge but on a better (and more sheltered) beach is the rather scattered community of Chrysi Akti or Golden Beach. This is really patchwork of agricultural roads all leading to a beach that really does sparkle like gold on a sunny day with an equally scattered community of rooms, villas and apartments. This place comes into its own when the north wind blows with barely a ripple flecking its crystalline waters. The Golden Beach Hotel at the west end is more of family place with a restaurant attached from which you can literally step out and onto the sand. Louridis Golden Beach Hotel is a little more organised and has nice sea-facing studios for up to five persons.
Hi there,
Have read your site avidly – so much more helpful than anything I can find on the net or in guidebooks. My family of 4 are staying on Mykonos from 19th July to 2nd August. I’ve already booked us a ferry trip and short stay on Santorini as wanted to make sure we don’t miss out on tickets, but would really appreciate your advice on a day trip from Mykonos to Paros (would particularly like to see Naoussa if possible). Are there any boat excursions we can book from Mykonos (haven’t found any yet) or is doing it ourselves the best option? If the latter, 1) what ferry company is best, 2) is there any preferred day of the week to go on? 3) is it necessary to book ferry tickets this far in advance as I have for Santorini? Would really appreciate your expert advice as I want to make the most of the time we have on these beautiful islands. Thanks so much!!
It’s easy to take the regular ferries to get to Paros (and any day trip excursion that you bough would use the same ferries). On most days there are a couple boats that will get you to Paros by 10:30. The last ferry from Paros back to Mykonos leaves at 6pm – so that will give you 6+ hours on Paros. Plenty enough to wander around Parikia and then get to Naoussa for a look around and late lunch/early dinner. The bus from Parikia to Naoussa leaves from the “bus station” directly beside the ferry port, so it’s very convenient. No need to book these tickets in advance. Wait until after you arrive and retain your flexibility to change your dates or mind.
Thanks so much for the article! My sister and I are planning on visiting Greece in early October of this year. We are trying to figure out the cheapest options since we are traveling on a budget. Is there a big price difference between Paros and Naxos? Would we still be able to take a day trip to Santorini in October? Or would we need to plan an overnight in Santorini because it is off season? Thanks so much for your help!
Bonnie Smith
Paros and Naxos are both good for budget travelers – plenty of nice, family run hotels with small clean rooms. Many include some sort of free breakfast, though nothing elaborate. I’d definitely recommend staying overnight in Santorini for at least one night. In October you should be able to find some fairly inexpensive accommodations. A day trip to Santorini is hard to make work even in high season. (One reason for this is that the port at Santorini is a good distance from the main towns so just getting to and from the port can eat up one hour each way – and the bus returns to the ferry port well in advance of departing ferries so that’s more like 90 minutes.)
Hi Dave,
Thank you for this very helpful guide. I was hoping to get your advice on what you think of this following itinerary: we’re arriving in Greece on May 31st and will leave in mid-June. We are planning 5 nights in Santorini, 4 nights in Sifnos, 4 nights in Naxos, and 2 nights in Athens. Do you think 4 nights in Sifnos is too long? What do you think of the island? If we were to reduce it to 3 nights in Sifnos, we would extend our # of nights in Athens to 3 instead of 2. Thanks so much for your help!
Carolyn
Sifnos has great beaches and a slower pace than both Santorini and Naxos. With that much island time, yeah, I’d probably trade another island day for a day in Athens but I wouldn’t say 4 nights on Sifnos was “too much”.
Hi Dave,
Really useful post, thanks a mill. My wife and I have done a good bit of travelling around the Greek Isles back in our ‘youth’, working in Paros as university students for a few summers, travelling latter years when gainfully employed around Paros, Naxos, Santorini, Serifos, Sifnos, Milos and Amorgos (over the course of a few trips/years). We got engaged in 2007 in Santorini! We are looking this year for first two weeks in May to introduce our two kids (5 & 3) to the delights of the Greek Isles.
Paros feels like our spiritual home, I always loved Naxos too. I know both will be pretty quiet in early May. Just wondering if you have any thoughts on what might be a better fit for us/the kids? I presume weather wise, there is little to choose; it seems, given its bigger population that Naxos might have a bit more ‘buzz’ about it at that time. I’m all for a quiet holiday, but don’t want a ghost town/beach feel.. Santorini feels like a bridge too far as regards ferry times from Pireaus for the small ones and (as we are on a tight budget) beach time is our option, rather than somewhere swanky with a pool.
Any insight on this would be gratefully received!
ευχαριστώ!
Niall Manley
I think Naxos has a little more to see and explore, and a little more history and culture – so it makes a better fit for the quieter months. Since it is shoulder season you’ll want to stay in one of the larger towns so it’s not completely dead and Naxos Town has a better beach than either Parikia or Naoussa. But be prepared for weather that is not completely beach-friendly. And the sea is chilly (even with nice weather) until mid-June.
Hi Dave,
Thank you so much for providing all of this information. My husband and I are planning a trip arriving to Athens at 9 am 8/26. I was thinking to take a flight straight to Santorini stay for 3 nights in Oia then ferry to Naxos for 3 nights then ferry to Paros for 2 nights. From Paros we would go to Mykonos for 2 nights then ferry to Athens for 2 nights. Do you believe this possible. My husband and I love beaches and exploring towns do you believe this is a good mix? Should I cut an island out? Thanks so much!
Maria
Sounds busy but very doable and a great mix of islands. There always a trade off between days in one place and how many islands you see. Invariably, they’ll be something that in hindsight you’d tweak – I wish we stayed longer there and skipped that place – but you don’t know until after you’ve been there.
They’re all great islands.
Hi! My boyfriend and I are planning on visiting the start of Sept so far the plan is Santorini > Milos or Naxos by ferry > Mykonos by ferry > Athens by plane. I need help picking between Milos or Naxos? Or is there another island you would suggest? How many nights would you recommend on each island? We only have 10 days so don’t want to spend too much time travelling! Thanks!
Terri Smith
Both Milos and Naxos are great islands but Naxos has much better ferry connections with Mykonos. From Milos to Mykonos there are 6 ferries per week in early September and they take 5 to 6 hours. From Naxos to Mykonos there are several ferries per day and they take about 40 minutes. If you’re on a limited time frame the choice is clear.
Hi Dave!
I am planning a trip in mid-August with my boyfriend to Paros and we are staying on Golden Beach. I was wondering if you could tell me if this is a good location to stay and what are some fun activities to do in this area? We are in our mid-20’s so we are looking to do more than just bum at the beach!
Angie
Great beach and a good spot for learning how to windsurf. But there’s not much around here beyond a few hotels and restaurants. Certainly no nightlife. If you wanted shopping and a restaurant scene then stay closer to Parikia or Naoussa – or at the very least, rent a car.
Hi Dave.
My wife, my daughter and I are thinking of spending 7 nights in Paros in late June visiting Naxos on a day trip. Is this ok or should I spend 3 nights in Naxos and 4 in Paros? I have already visited Santorini and Mykonos.
Robert Raniti
It’s much better to spend some time on Naxos than to do a day trip. When you do a day trip you don’t get to enjoy the towns in the early morning or evening – the two times when the island is at its best.
Hey Dave,
Great site! Love all the info. QQ for you, I’m heading to the Greek islands next May 19-30th. My initial itinerary looks like this, get into Athens morning of the 19th, head straight to Mykonos for 4 nights, then onto Santorini for 5 nights, then Athens for 2 nights and back to the States on the 30th. I’m going with my gf and we’re both in our late 20s. I’d really love to check out Naxos, but wasn’t sure if I had enough time. Do you think that I should cut out a day from both Mykonos and Santorini and do Naxos for a couple nights in between? Or stick to the original itinerary?
Thanks in advance!
Mike
It’s a tough call but yes I would probably make time for Naxos. You can even do Naxos for just one night. There’s an early morning ferry from Mykonos to Naxos which gets you there at 10:30. Then a late afternoon the next day at 15:25 or an evening ferry (but not on Fridays or Sundays) at 7:55pm so you could almost have 2 full days and only lose one night on Mykonos. (It’s nice to break up the trip from Mykonos to Santorini too as the only direct Myk-Santo ferry is a small high speed ferry that can be choppy.)
Awesome! Thanks so much for the reply. Yeah, after some more research I think 4 nights in Mykonos is more than needed anyway. We definitely want to check out the party scene for one night, but that’s really it. I’m going to look into going to Naxos for two nights.
Such a helpful comparison! I’m heading to the greek islands next August for my Honeymoon and thought id decided on Paros, Santorini than Milos before heading back to Athens, however now im thinking both Paros and Naxos then Santorini? Or do you think I should skip one to include Milos? We just really want to relax and swim. Not big drinkers but like good food.
Candice
All are great islands so you can’t go wrong. Naxos and Paros are somewhat similar so if you wanted something different then Milos is a good candidate. To do Milos right you need to do a boat tour around the coast of the island – not sure if that’s appealing to you. Naxos and Paros are easier to explore on your own (either by bus or rented car) and they’re also easier to get to and from Santorini. Milos is a little out of the way (though in August there are so many ferries it should still be pretty easy to do Naxos – Milos – Santorini).
HI Dave,
Thanks for doing this site! I have booked an 18 day stay in Greece mid – January. I am 40-something solo woman traveling and this is the time off I had! It is my dream to travel to Greece and so I thought to do it right away. I am thinking of sailing with BLUE STAR to Santorini, Paros, Naxos and wish to walk the trails, eat in local taverns and stay in small family run places, perhaps AirBNB. Looking forward to a 3/4 nights in Athens as well and tour the street art and local food and wine scene. I really welcome any of your suggestions as I am a bit nervous about traveling off season. Thanks alot Dave!
Terra
I’m sure you know this but have a warm winter jacket. With the wind and rain it can be cold on the islands. That said, I’m sure you’ll have a great trip. The islands are great in the off season – especially if you get lucky with the weather. You’d be fine not booking accommodation in advance and waiting to find something on each island. If there’s no one at the boat to greet you ask around at the restaurants near the ferry port and they’ll invariably know someone who rents out there place.
Hi Dave,
Your site is great! I had no idea where to even start when thinking about visiting the islands but this is great!
My husband and I are looking to travel to Greece late May/Early June. We are looking for a mainly relaxing trip with some exploring (we love hiking) and of course a lot of eating, we also Won’t say no to a few nights of partying. Here is what we are thinking:
Saturday – Arrive Athens
Sunday – Ferry to Naxos, stay 4 nights
Thursday – Milos, 2 nights
Saturday – Ios, 2 nights
Monday – Santorini, 5 nights
Saturday – Santorini to Athens
Sunday – Fly home
I’m not too bothered with essentially spending no time in Athens as I am more interested in the Islands. It has always been a dream of mine to visit Santorini – but is 5 nights too many? I know the beaches aren’t the best there, but our first week will be mostly beaches so I’m not bothered about that. More so looking to end the trip with a lot of romance and relaxation in Santorini.
How does this itinerary look? Any advice is great! Thank you so much!!
Alison
This sounds great. Santorini is wonderful and deserves 5 nights. 4 nights in Naxos is good too – lots to see and great beaches. Ios and Milos are both deserving of visits. I’d get an early morning flight from Santorini to Athens which will give you almost a full day in the city. Athens has lots to see but most of it is fairly close together and many of the top sights are open until 8pm, so if you got there mid-morning you could see a fair bit.
Hi Dave,
Just looking for your advice please if possible.
We are a family of 6, looking at taking our 4 children aged between 2 and 6 to Naxos and Paros next August for 16 nights. We have found accommodation in Parikia and Agios Prokopios and flights via Athens both ways. Would you suggest we spend longer on one island than the other with us having young children? We just need a nice beach, possibly a local playground, a couple of excursions during our stay. We won’t be renting a car so will be relying on public transport/taxis.
Thanks so much, any advice you can give would be great, I haven’t been to Paros and Naxos in years!
Lindsay Cregan
Those are 2 great places and a nice mix. Agios Prokopios has a great beach and is a fun beach town. Parikia is much larger with more places to eat and shop, lanes and streets to wander about, but lacks a really good beach – for that you’ll have to take a bus or one of the small boats that depart from the port every 30 minutes or so (it makes a fun outing). And from Parikia it’s also easy to take the boat to Antiparos which has wonderful beaches. As I say, I think it’s a good mix of beach (where after a week you’ll probably want a little more to do) and town (where after a week you’ll probably want to be steps from a beach instead of a bus or boat ride away).