visit naxos or paros

Paros vs Naxos – Which Island is Right for You?

When whittling down your perfect Greek island hopping itinerary, you are likely to be faced with a choice between several similar islands.

A common dilemma for visitors planning a trip to the Cyclades is whether to visit Naxos or Paros ?

Naxos vs Paros ?

These two islands have a lot in common. Both have domestic airports, fantastic sandy beaches, whitewashed villages , and great ferry connections.

They are located close together in the heart of the Cyclades with good access to surrounding islands and are easily combined with Greece’s two most popular islands – Mykonos and Santorini .

Naxos is the larger of the two islands. The terrain is hillier – it has the highest peak in the Cyclades – and is also slightly greener. Apart from tourism, its main industry is agriculture.

The population on Naxos is concentration in the area around its main town and ferry port, known as Naxos Chora. The most popular beach areas are just south of town. It’s ideal for those who don’t want to rent a car as you can stroll off the ferry and walk right to the beach or your accommodation.

The rest of the island is mountainous, quiet and unspoiled. It’s greener than Paros and has a more rustic feel. Its inland villages are beautiful and traditional, and have a more remote location up the mountains which give them a different feel to other Cycladic villages. The food is generally fantastic and on the cheaper side. 

If you want to discover the traditional side of an island but not give up tourist comforts or sandy beaches then Naxos is ideal. The atmosphere is low-key and very relaxing but with lots to explore, including lots of small historic sites.

Paros has flatter towns, rolling hills and a drier landscape. Apart from tourism, its main industry has been marble mining (this exists on Naxos too but not to the same degree) and fishing.

There are two main settlements on Paris – its capital and main port Parikia , and the attractive harbour town Naoussa . Popular coastal spots are spread out around the island and it’s easy to drive or take the bus between many of them.

You can drive a circular route around the coast on Paros, whereas it’s not really possible on Naxos due to the geography.

Both islands have a large year-round population (relative to most Cycladic islands) and are good to visit in the shoulder season although the beach season on Naxos seems to last a week or two longer than on Paros.

Paros has more expats, and is particularly popular with artists. The Aegean Center for Fine Arts (an American art school) is based here. If you like to eat international cuisine you’re marginally better off on Paros. There are several yoga studios, retreats, and a nascent eco scene.

Where to stay – Naxos Chora vs Parikia vs Naoussa

Naxos Chora is a small atmospheric port town with a lovely old town with a hilltop castle. It has a unique blend of of Venetian architecture as well as the traditional cubic Cycladic buildings and a pleasant waterfront area. The narrow old town streets wind their way up the hill to the Kastro.

It’s a 5 minute walk to the wonderful sandy beach of Agios Georgios beach which is lined with beach bars and has a gentle buzz. It’s a popular area to stay and perfect people-watching territory. If you want a one-stop-shop with a bit of everything within a short distance then Naxos Chora is one of the best places in Greece to stay.

Parikia is a the capital of Paros and its main ferry port. This is where most of the local Parian population live and it’s a lively working town with a tangle of narrow whitewashed streets at its centre. It has plenty of shops and bars aimed at tourists but also has a more Greek feel than Naoussa and a wider range of eateries. There are beaches on either side of town. It has similarities with Naxos Chora but looks very different – it’s flatter and more typically Cycladic, but perhaps not as immediately appealing as Naxos Chora or Naoussa. But there’s lots to discover and is a good choice out of season.

Naoussa (pictured above) is the most famous and photogenic town on Paros. It’s a former fishing village with a beautiful harbour which has recently become known for its nightlife (like a smaller and low-key Mykonos Chora). It attracts a mix of tourists but increasingly a young and cosmopolitan crowd. The small dense old town is packed with designer shopping, modern cuisine, and cocktail bars. 

There are several small beaches but the best ones are a drive or boat trip away. It’s 15-minute drive from from Parikia and connected by regular buses.

If you’re used to getting off the beaten track in Greece then you may find Naoussa feels a bit commercial. It’s more seasonal than Naxos Chora or Parikia.

Naxos vs Paros: Best Hotels

Both islands have a wide variety of accommodation and have seen an explosion of great places to stay over the last decade.

Paros has the edge when it comes to high-end hotels, suites and villas. There’s a growing cluster of high-end accommodation at Livadi, a short drive from Naoussa, including 5-stars hotel Parilio and Astir , although you’ll need wheels to reach the beach.

There are plenty of sleek boutique options in Naoussa itself including the chic Mr and Mrs White . Over near Piso Livadi there’s Summer Senses Luxury Resort  and towards Pounta there’s eco-haven SeeSoo .

Naxos vs Paros: Nightlife

It’s worth noting that nightlife in the island is very seasonal, with the evenings coming alive in July and August when Greeks take their summer holidays. Outside these months you may find nightlife options are more limited.

Paros definitely has a livelier nightlife. It’s still low-key compared to Mykonos and Ios – you won’t find wild beach parties here – but there are many beach clubs and bars in open throughout the night. Most are rocking the cocktail bar-and-deep-house vibe loved by younger Greeks. Internationals tend to head to Naoussa whereas Greeks party in Parikia too.

On Naxos the nightlife is focused in Naxos Chora, although in high summer some of the beach bars in the resorts may stay open longer. There are numerous good-quality cocktail and wine bars in town but it’s not really a clubbing kind of place, with just one or two small clubs catering mainly to locals.

Naxos vs Paros: Getting Around

Both islands have good public transport systems, especially in high season when extra buses are put on between the main towns and beach resorts. 

Getting Around Naxos

Buses leave from the port in Naxos Chora and run out villages along the coast or up in the mountains – see schedules.

Routes and schedules are geared to local use rather than tourist exploration making it difficult to see several places in a day. It’s possible to visit most places on Naxos by bus but you’ll need patience and time.

Handily, there’s also a bus tour company which offers two routes around the island:

• Bus tour around the historic sites
• Bus tour around the island with a swimming stop

At the harbour in Naxos Chora you’ll also find several boats offering excursions around the coast to Rina Caves and the Little Cyclades. These are usually small motor boats, yachts, or catamarans.

There are lots of rental agencies around Naxos Chora and the main resorts if you want to rent wheels. The roads between Naxos Chora and the beaches to its south are ok for scooters and ATVs (if you’re an experienced rider) but if you want to visit the other side of the island it’s better to rent a car for the winding mountain roads.

Getting Around Paros

Paros is easy to explore by bus – see schedules . There are frequent buses between Parikia, Naoussa, and Pounta which is the main point for taking the ferry across to Antiparos. Bus routes cut through the island stopping at villages along the way. As the population on Paros is more spread out, the buses are also more frequent.

There is a bus tour which runs from Parikia several times a week and visits Antiparos, Aliki, Piso Livadi, Lefkes, and Naoussa – see

Overall, Paros has the better bus system however you’re also more likely to use it – it’s possible to stay on Naxos and not need to catch a bus.

Naxos vs Paros: Things to Do

Main things to do on Paros:

• Explore the main towns Parikia and Naoussa
• Water taxis to beaches around the coast
• Island bus tour
• Paros Park nature reserve
• Visit neighbouring satellite island Antiparos
• Cine Rex open air cinema in Parikia
• Whitewashed interior villages of Lefkes , Marpissa , Drios , and Prodromo
• Walking trails between villages
• Archaeology Museum
• Moraitis Winery
• Churches and monasteries
• Sailing trip to the Little Cyclades
• Boat trip to Milos
• Windsurfing

Main things to do on Naxos:

• Explore Naxos Chora and the nearby beach resorts (walking tour is available)
• Venetian castle (Kastro) and its museum (sometimes hosts concerts and other cultural events)
• Cine Naxos open air cinema
• Village hopping in the mountains – Apeiranthos , Halki , Filoti
• Archeological sites – Portara , Kouros , Demeter’s Temple
• Boat trip to Rina Caves
• Boat trip to Koufonisia
• Hike up to the top of Mount Zas , the highest point in the Cyclades
• Food tour with Philema
• Cooking Class at Basiliko

Overall, Naxos has a wider variety of things to do.

Naxos vs Paros: Beaches

Both islands are blessed with an abundance of wonderful sandy beaches. Personally, I slightly prefer Naxos for beaches but I doubt you’ll be disappointed in either.

The main beach resorts on Naxos are Agios Georgios (the town beach), Agios Prokopios , Agia Anna , and Plaka . They lie in a string southwards along the coast from Naxos Chora and all have soft fine sand and ridiculously turquoise waters. They are usually sheltered from the strongest winds and also easily accessible from the airport and port and therefore unsurprisingly quite commercial feeling.

But there’s not much to Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna except sand, beach bars, a few tavernas, and a block or two of hotels and guesthouses. It’s a short bus ride into town from these resorts. Tourism on Naxos is really focused on this small area, the rest of the island is very quiet and traditional. There are a few fishing villages with beaches such as Moutsouna and Apollonas but they feel very remote from the main part of the island. If you rent a car you can find plenty of empty beaches especially on the east coast. 

If you love sandy beaches it’s worth visiting the nearby island of Koufonisia  if you can – it’s home to some the most beautiful sandy beaches in Greece .

Beach tourism on Paros is more equally spread out around the island and its coastal resorts have more of a village feel to them. Naoussa and Parikia both have a handful of small beaches within walking distance as well as water taxis to tucked-away coves. The best long sand beaches are on the east coast.

Paros probably has a wider variety of beaches than Naxos. A highlight is Kolymbithres with its giant boulders – visit by bus or water taxi from Naoussa. It’s also easier to visit the other side of the island when either in search-of or hiding-from strong winds.

If you prefer to stay in smaller coastal villages check out Piso Livadi , Ambelas , and Aliki .

Both islands are popular destinations for windsurfers. The best beaches for windsurfing on Naxos are Agios Georgios , Mikri Vigla and Plaka , and on Paros are Golden Beach and Santa Maria .

Ferry Connections

Ferries Between Naxos and Paros

Naxos and Paros are connected by frequent ferries as they lie on the same main routes. If taking the ferry from Athens, Paros is usually the stop before Naxos and so slightly closer.

It’s easy to take a boat trip from Naxos to Paros or vice versa, although the ferries might not be as frequent as you expect given how close they look on a map – it’s not exactly a short hop on a water taxi. The main connection is the large car ferries like Blue Star which take 45 minutes. These big ferries tend to run through the islands in the morning and then at night, so you might find you’re limited to a long day which isn’t ideal for everyone. There are extra ferries in high season which give you more choice. 

Visiting Other Islands

Both are well connected to Syros and Mykonos to their north, and Ios and Santorini to their south.

However Paros is better connected to the western Cyclades (Sifnos, Milos, Folegandros), and Naxos to the eastern Cyclades (Amorgos, Little Cyclades). In high season you’ll find extra ferries on the main routes plus fast catamarans linking the eastern and the western Cyclades (Naxos – Milos, for example). Times and distances are not always ideal (or possible) up for day trips though.

The closest island to Paros is Antiparos and it’s a popular day trip, with frequent small boats running from Pounta (supported by buses).

From Naxos you can visit the islands of Little Cyclades . It takes 1hr + to reach them however ferry schedules don’t always allow for a full day. Day trips are available with excursion boats though (including yachts and catamarans) if you can’t stay overnight.

Excursion boats from both islands visit Santorini and to Mykonos/Delos, however they don’t necessarily run every day (except in late July and August). At this time of year you may also find additional excursion routes available such as Paros-Milos and Paros-Little Cyclades. Be aware that boats can be cancelled if rough seas are forecast.

Overall, Paros is more of a ferry hub and the better base if you want to visit other islands.

We recommend using Ferryhopper to check routes and book tickets.

See Greek Island Hopping 101 for more information.

Summary: Naxos vs Paros

Long-time Greek island-hoppers seem to be divided into two camps: Paros people and Naxos people. My own theory is that the first one you visit will remain the one you love the most (for me it’s Naxos all the way)! 

If you’re trying to choose between Naxos vs Paros : Naxos is for non-drivers, beach-bums, rustic explorers, ancient history geeks, hill-hikers, and staying in one place to explore. Paros is better for drivers, those who like buzzy towns, boat trips, a variety of beaches, photogenic Cycladic villages, and exploring something different every day.

Naxos – A Quick Island Guide

Naoussa, Paros’ Chic Harbour Village

Where to Stay in the Cyclades: Ultimate Beach Hotel Guide

A-Z of Greek Islands

A Complete Guide to Island Hopping in Greece

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Naxos or Paros: Which Greek Island to Visit?

Last Updated on December 12, 2023

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Despite only being separated by an hour’s ferry ride, many tourists to the Cyclades often feel obliged to pick just one of Naxos or Paros to visit due to the lack of time they have available. While the best solution would be to see them both, there are 227 Greek Islands so tough decisions need to be made!

While Naxos might be your choice if you’re after a very affordable and diverse Greek island holiday , Paros is an excellent choice for couples looking for the ultimate romantic escape. However, there is a lot more to unpack about each destination and which may suit you better than the other.

Table of Contents

Nestled within the South Aegean, Naxos is the largest of all the islands in the Cyclades.

It is a fascinating place to visit and boasts a verdant topography of ancient ruins, rustic mountain villages and magnificent stretches of pristine beach.

Aside from its charming port town capital, the major attraction is Kastro. A historic, 13th-century ‘must-visit’ castle that lords over the island from high upon a hilltop. 

Accessibility

Naxos is an easily accessible island both from Mainland Greece and from other Cycladic isles. Home to its own airport, visitors can opt to hop on a flight from Athens or to take a ferry. There are ferries connecting Naxos with islands like Santorini , Mykonos and even Paros and you can also take a ferry from Athens. You can view ferry schedules here.

Is the ease of travelling around the island a key consideration for you when contemplating Naxos vs Paros? If so, you will be pleased to read that Naxos offers plenty of transportation options for the visitor.

As the largest island in the Cyclades, it has good infrastructure overall. This includes a well-maintained and convenient road network.

If you want to hire a vehicle to go off exploring, you will find several major car-hire companies on the island. The likes of Avis, Alamo, Europcar, Enterprise, Dollar and Thrifty all have offices on Naxos. You can compare prices here.

Those who would rather not drive can always hire a taxi or private transfer. These tend to congregate near the airport, marina and several prominent spots in the capital. You can also book them in advance here.

Taxis are much more expensive than buses. So, you might want to travel around on public transport whilst visiting the island. Aside from being cheaper, they will also take you to most of the island’s harder to get to parts. This includes places like Tripodes, Halki, Koronos, Apollonas, Agios Prokopios and Filoti. All of which you can get to and from Chora.

Other options to get around the island include water taxis from Volakas. A small port nestled within its south-eastern region or even private boat transfers on a luxury vessel.

Failing that, you can always book yourself onto an organised day trip such as this full-day tour or this full-day cruise. This gives you the additional benefit of fascinating commentary on the island by a knowledgeable guide. You may even make a friend or two on the tour as well!

Affordability

As a rule, Naxos is much cheaper than Paros for pretty much everything.

One reason for this is that Paros is renowned for being a destination for couples to visit. Therefore hotels, restaurants and shops tend to set prices lower in Naxos to attract families.

Naxos is also still off the tourist radar. So, a family of four should be able to budget about €150 per day when you are there. This could include accommodation at a private Airbnb, eating out at a restaurant for dinner, enjoying a couple of drinks in the evening and hiring a car.

You can enjoy a more luxurious experience where you can eat out two to three meals a day, go on organised tours and stay at a hotel for around €225 a day.

If you’re trying to choose between Naxos or Paros for families as a holiday destination, it is important to note that the former offers plenty of cost-saving opportunities. This includes excellent street food where you can buy gyros and other street food for only a few euros.

You can also buy excellent wines from the local store for around €5, which is much cheaper than you can purchase in bars.

You should avoid using taxis as they are costly. Public transport is a much better and cheaper option for Naxos. However, you can also hire a car for as little as €20 a day, not including petrol. 

Things To Do In Naxos

Debating between Naxos and Paros as a holiday destination is very hard as both possess a plethora of attractions.

If you are looking to spend much of your time on the beach, then Naxos should score some points as it has several gorgeous, sandy family-friendly places to head to.

The best sandy beach In Naxos is probably Agios Prokopios, a beautiful golden-white 1 km stretch that is regarded as one of Europe’s best. Also, Agia Anna is a terrific place to lie under a beach umbrella, while Plaka is a very good spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing on its sparkling crystal-clear waters.

The capital of Naxos is Chora, a lovely historic centre that sprawls out from its iconic ‘Kastro’ (castle). It features quaint cubed houses, replete with brightly coloured shutters and doors, vibrant bougainvillaea and plenty of arches.

With both Chora and the castle, you will find plenty of historical points of interest. One of the most impressive is the Portara monument which is an ancient, symbolic marble doorway.

Several museums and galleries also showcase much of the island’s history and a good selection of tavernas, cafes, restaurants, bars and a couple of clubs.

Away from the Chora, there are several other places of interest to visit. This includes the stunning old town layout with narrow stone paths and the architecture of the neoclassic buildings of Halki (Chalki). This village is home to the traditional Valindras distillery that makes Kitron, a famous local liquor. It also boasts the wonderful 11th-century Byzantine Saint George Diasoritis church.

Another great place to visit is Apiranthos, a gorgeous mountain village with winding paths and streets and Venetian architecture. The village also boasts a stunning church (Panagia Apeiranthitissa) devoted to the Virgin Mary and cultural attractions like the Geological Museum and Museum of Folk Art

The village of Iria is home to the 14th-century Temple of Dionysus. You can also partake in some of the best scuba diving in the Aegean or enjoy ouzo tasting at one of the many distilleries on the island.

Elsewhere on Naxos, consider seeing the wonderful windmills at Vivlos, checking out the Panagia Drosiani Paleochristian Church and exploring Mount Zas and Zas Cave.

Where to Stay in Naxos

Hotel Grotta – Mid-range travellers to Naxos will love this clean and convenient place on Naxos. Well-located for exploring the island, they have several good rooms available along with amenities like a bar, swimming pool and other perks.

Nissaki Beach Hotel – This 5-star hotel is perfect for those looking for a luxury stay on this gorgeous Greek island. They have wonderful rooms to choose from along with plenty of other fantastic amenities for guests to enjoy.

Sunday Studios – These studios are an excellent choice for those after a self-catering option while on Naxos. They have different flats on offer and all come fully equipped with all you may need during your stay.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Naxos hotels!

Although a small island, Paros has a lot going for it.

For a start, the beaches are fantastic – perfect for sunbathing or walking. Then there is its quaint bayside capital of Parikia, which will captivate you with its charm.

The traditional villages are also endearing. Whilst its iconic Byzantine, 4th-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani church is a real knockout.

Is the ease of getting to and around Paros or Naxos a consideration for where you plan to go on holiday? Much like Naxos, Paros is easily accessed either by flight from Athens or via ferry from a host of destinations.

You can easily reach Paros on ferries from neighbouring islands like Naxos, Ios, Santorini or Mykonos . You can book ferries here.

You should also be aware of the excellent public transport system in Paros. Like with Naxos, this is the cheapest and easiest way to visit the small villages and different beaches located around the island. It is also a convenient way to get to the Pounta to catch the Antiparos ferry.

These buses are arguably a little more modern and comfortable than the ones on Naxos, and they are generally more frequent. They loop around the island’s perimeter and stop at some small inland villages. The price of the bus depends on where you go. But usually, it won’t cost more than three euros.

As the road network is so good, you might prefer to hire a car ( browse Rentalcars.com for options). Most of the major car hire companies have offices around Paros and whilst the prices of renting them out for a day are reasonable, they are not as competitive as Naxos.

Private transfers, taxis and organised tours are other options. But they are even more expensive than in Naxos. However, sea buses are a very good alternative.

They will take you from Parikia to various beaches including Santa Maria, Krios, Monastiri, Langeri, Marchello and Kolympithres. You can also take a small boat to visit the island of Antiparos from Parikia. 

As a destination for a romantic holiday, Paros or Naxos for couples are both excellent options.

Generally, Paros receives more couples as visitors than Naxos, so for this reason, prices tend to be a bit more expensive there. That said, Paros is still much more affordable to visit than places like Mykonos and Santorini.

Although more expensive than Naxos, you can pick up a suite at a deluxe hotel for 50% of the price in Santorini .

While Naxos might be off the tourist radar, Paros is becoming an increasingly popular jet set destination from other parts of Europe. Therefore, couples should budget about €110 a day for those staying in mid-range accommodation, hiring a car, enjoying dinner at a restaurant and a couple of drinks at a bar.

For those wanting a more upscale experience, €200 a day will enable them to enjoy a hotel stay, two to three meals dining out and organised tours.

If hiring a car is a determination when evaluating the differences between Paros and Naxos as a holiday destination, then you should be aware it is more expensive to do that in Paros.

Restaurant meals and drinks tend to be a few euros more expensive too. The cost of hiring sunbeds at the beach and booking a tour is generally higher priced than at Naxos.

Things To Do In Paros

When analysing Paros vs Naxos as a place to go on holiday you should note that Paros offers a wealth of attractions for the visitor.

Oozing Hellenic traditions, authenticity and charm, its main town of Parikia offers a quintessential Greek Island experience.

Prepare to be dazzled by blue-domed and white-walled buildings and a warren of narrow cobblestone walkways. Within this, you will find artisanal produce stores and workshops and a fabulous range of tavernas, bars and restaurants.

A lovely place to stroll around, you’ll see several notable landmarks of rich historical significance. This includes a stunning 4th-century CE Byzantine church known as the Church of 100 Doors (Panagia Ekatontapiliana). You will also see the captivating remains of a 13th-century Frankish castle the Venetians built.

Parikia’s bustling marina showcase exceptional sea views. It is also a wonderful place to people watch, as are the two terrific beaches of Livadia and Parasporos which flank it. Both are excellent destinations to swim, sunbathe, walk or relax.

Further afield Paros has several enchanting villages and seaside asides to visit. Chrissi Akti Beach, for example, is home to Golden Beach which is arguably the best beach in Paros. A haven for water sports and windsurfing, it boasts a wonderful collection of fish tavernas along its waterfront.

Piso Livadi is a quaint fishing village filled with bars and tavernas frequented by locals which provide a chance to make new friends with them. There are also spectacular beaches untouched by tourism or mass commercialisation.

The village of Naoussa is set within a breathtaking natural bay with enchanting pedestrianised laneways full of vibrant bougainvillaea.

There are plenty of historical points of interest including a Mycenaean Acropolis, Zoodochou Pigis Church and Venetian fortress. There’s also a trio of outstanding beaches and a wonderful winery.

Lefkes is a captivating mountain village with expansive views of the Naxos and the Aegean Sea. The Historic centre is known for its wonderful architecture and notable landmarks. Beautiful 3.5 km hiking trail that links to the Prodromos village.

Finally, little Aliki has a relaxed romantic vibe (a good place to propose!). It’s filled with delightful fish tavernas and bars and stunning beaches to relax and sunbathe on.

Where to Stay in Paros

Hotel Dina – Located in the town of Parikia, this hotel is a great option for mid-range visitors to Paros. They have many lovely rooms to choose from, parking available, and a perfect location for exploring the highlights of the island.

Paros Palace – Those looking for luxury while on Paros will love this swoon-worthy hotel in Parikia village. They have luxe and elegant rooms to choose from along with a beautiful pool and other amenities to enjoy.

Nautilus Apartments-Suites – Those looking for a self-catering option on Paros will love this aparthotel. Offering a range of fully-furnished flats, they can cater to different group sizes and all come equipped with all you may need during your visit.

Paros Backpackers – Those visiting Paros on a budget will love this hostel located in the village of Parikia. Offering both dorm beds and some private rooms they also have food common areas – including a swimming pool.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paros hotels!

Naxos vs Paros: Which is Better to Visit

There is minimal difference between Naxos and Paros as a place to visit. In short, both of them will offer you a fantastic Greek Island holiday experience.

Where you should go will depend on what kind of holiday experience you are after. Paros offers delicious food, distinctive beaches and vibrant nightlife. It also has two fabulous villages in which to split your time.

By contrast, Naxos is perfect for those who want to relax or explore. It has a quaint main village, terrific stretches of golden beach and several hiking trails. Its remote mountain communities also provide a fascinating insight into Hellenic island life.

Those travelling on a tight budget in Greece may find Naxos to be a more affordable island to visit, making it a great choice for them. Conversely, though both islands are oozing with romance, Paros can cater more to couples so it may be the better choice for those after a romantic getaway.

Whether you choose to visit Naxos or the island of Paros, you’re sure to fall in love with these beautiful Cycladic islands and come home with memories to last a lifetime.

Are you trying to choose between visiting Naxos and Paros? Have any questions about either island? Let us know in the comments!

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About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Paros or naxos – where to go.

Greece › Naxos or Paros Updated: November 19, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Naxos
• Where to Stay in Paros
• Best Hotels on Naxos
• Best Hotels on Paros

Agios Giorgios 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 . When people ask what island to visit in Greece, my first answer is Santorini and my 2nd is usually Naxos or Paros (with Crete close behind – though Crete requires at least one week to explore). Both Paros and Naxos have better beaches than Santorini. Both Naxos and Paros are a short ferry ride from Santorini and Mykonos . If you’re considering visiting another island after Santorini or Mykonos, then Naxos and Paros should be at the top of your list (along with Milos – another Cycladic island). Paros or Naxos – Summary Naxos is slightly more family-friendly, while Paros is slightly more couples-friendly. Both islands have charming villages by the sea, gorgeous traditional villages in the hills, and smaller beach resorts around the coasts. Both Naxos and Paros have some of the Best Beaches in Greece and both islands are famous for their wonderful sand, great swimming, and sunbathing. Naxos has kilometers-long stretches of golden sand beaches, while Paros has smaller, craggier coves, and more unusual beaches. Both islands have secluded, nude beaches. Both islands are known for windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, and sailing. Both have well-maintained hiking trails, though Naxos has better hiking in general. Both have amazing restaurants that serve fresh, local food – especially seafood. Naxos tends to have more casual tavernas, while Paros has more trendy restaurants, and a handful of fine dining spots. Both islands produce high-quality olives, olive oil, wine, dairy products, and local spirits. Naxos is the agricultural heart of the Cyclades, known for its potatoes, cheeses, and meats. Paros has better nightlife (though not too wild) and feels a little trendier with more shopping and boutique hotels. Naxos has just a little nightlife but more historic churches and archaeological sites. Paros has better public transportation linking its main villages to nearby beaches. Naxos has frequent buses in the high season from Chora (Naxos Town) to the most popular beaches, but you’ll need to rent a car to really explore the mountain villages. Naxos and Paros have good roads for driving. Paros is a flatter island with a ring road around it, making it easy to explore the whole island. Naxos is mountainous with steep roads heading over the mountains rather than going around. Most of the smooth paved roads are on the busier, western side of the island; the less populous eastern side has lots of zigzagging dirt roads and rocky trails. Both islands are well connected to Athens and neighboring islands by ferry. Paros has a better airport than Naxos and offers more frequent flights from Athens and Thessaloniki. Neither island has an international airport.

Where to Go – Paros or Naxos?

Paros is a lively island with two fun and completely different towns to split time between, great food and nightlife, and unique beaches. Naxos is a laid-back island wrapped with long beaches, with a charming main village, traditional villages to explore, and lots of hiking trails.

If you have the time (at least 5 days) visit both; they are only 40 minutes apart by ferry. If you’re splitting time on Paros or Naxos with time on Santorini, either island complements a trip to Santorini well. If you’re splitting time on one of these islands with Mykonos, Naxos (rural, traditional) offers more of a contrast than Paros (busy, cosmopolitan).

Go to Naxos for sandy beaches, traditional mountain villages, local crafts, hearty food, natural beauty, historic churches and ruins, adventurous hiking, sailing, family vacations.

Go to Paros for unusual beaches, gourmet restaurants, buzzy nightlife, charming seaside villages, boutique shopping, beginner hiking, sailing, romantic vacations.

The Weather in Paros and Naxos

Paros and Naxos sit side by side, around 10 km apart. There is no major difference in their weather patterns. The best weather for both islands is from late May to early October. For swimming and watersports, June through September is best. For sightseeing, dining, and nightlife, April, May, and October are wonderful, too.

Visiting Both Paros and Naxos

Naxos and Paros are very close together but different enough that visiting both is worthwhile and easy to do. The islands are only 40 minutes apart by Greek ferry and have small, straightforward ports, so traveling from one to the other is easy. There are about 8 direct ferries a day in summer between Naxos and Paros, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

You can buy ferry tickets for the route between Naxos and Paros, but you will rarely need advance tickets outside of July and August. If you’re already in Greece you can buy tickets from any travel agency a few days in advance of your ferry trip.

Day Trip to Paros or Naxos

Since Paros and Naxos are so close together, day trips are a great way to explore the highlights of both islands. Both islands offer sightseeing bus tours to the main villages and cultural highlights. Naxos offers fantastic boat trips to visit the harder-to-reach beaches and sea caves. Paros has boat tours visiting the nearby islands of Antiparos and Despotiko.

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 in 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.

Alyko 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 beaches accessible by water taxi from Naoussa.

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 accessible by water taxi.

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.

• Naxos Travel Guide
• Paros Travel Guide
• Best Hotels in Naxos
• Best Hotels in Paros

About Santorini 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!

I recommend sticking to two islands. Paros and then either Santorini or Milos (and in that order).

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?

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.

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.

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?

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.

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!

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.

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.

I am going to Naxos in July. I am wondering what the best way is to handle the ferry tickets from Athens to Naxos and back again. I want to take an early ferry to Naxos and then back again to Athens and there are 5 in our party. I am a nervous sort so I’d like to know the surest way to get the tickets with the least stress and bother.

If you want to leave nothing to chance then buy in advance on the Blue Star website then pickup from kiosk at Piraeus ferry port (close to the metro station and easy to find – just get there at least 45 minute before your ferry).

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.)

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!

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”.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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 partner and I will be in Santorini in early June for a wedding. Below is a rough idea of our plans. We plan on catching the fastest ferry between islands. Are there any days the ferry companies don’t operate and are there any luggage restrictions? I went on the Blue Star Ferries website and it seems they haven’t updated their timetable yet. Is there a ferry company you highly recommend based on our itinerary?

Mykonos – 2 nights (flying in from Athens in mid May) Paros – 3 nights Naxos – 3 nights Santorini – 6 nights Athens – 2 nights on the way back. Thanks! Georgina

Lots of ferries running that route so shouldn’t be a problem in early June. No need to book in advance. Buy your tickets when you first arrive in Mykonos. But if you want to be certain then go to Seajets , Hellenic Seaways , and Blue Star to purchase directly (you’ll then pick up tickets on the islands). The only luggage restrictions are what you can carry on board.

Hi. Can I do the Naxos/Delos/Mykonos tour and get off on Mykonos to stay there? Linda

Yes. Not sure what their allowances for luggage are. If you don’t have much you should be fine. The boat gets to Mykonos about 5pm and stops at the Old Port right by Mykonos Town.

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.

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.

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).

This site rocks – thank you! Like a number of folks on here, it seems, we are planning a trip for late May and trying to decide the best itinerary. After doing some initial research, here is my thinking.

Arrive Sunday May 22 and take flight straight to Santorini – arriving around 2PM Greece time Stay in Santorini 3-4 nights Ferry to Naxos and stay there 2-3 night Ferry to Paros and stay there 2-3 nights Ferry to Athens for rest of time (3-5 nights) before flying back on Fri June 3 – travel day.

Your suggestion on the best mix of nights in each? I figure we will at least do a day trip to Mykonos on one of the days we are on Paros or Naxos (I think I saw that option). And I have read good things on Hyrda, which I think could be a day trip from Athens but that might be too much traveling. Any insight is appreciated. Upper 30s, no kids, looking for most relaxing on the islands with some wineries in Santorini and then doing the tourist thing seeing the sites in Athens. Thanks!

Your itinerary looks good. And smart to leave Athens to the end of your trip. You can do a day trip to Mykonos from Paros by taking the Seajet (leaves Paros at 10:50am and returns at 6:15pm giving you about 6 hours on Mykonos). Be sure to take the small Seajet as that will drop you at the Old Port – walking distance from Mykonos Town. The larger ferries use the New Port which then requires taking a bus to town.

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.

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!!

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.

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).

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Naxos Or Paros: The Ultimate Comparison You Need (2024)

Are you planning a trip to the Cyclades and wondering if you should add Naxos or Paros to your itinerary?

I know it is hard to choose which one to visit as these two neighboring islands have as many similarities as differences. 

I spent time on Naxos and Paros when island hopping in the Cyclades. I loved the charming towns and villages of Paros, the authentic beauty of Naxos Chora, and the island’s untouched nature. 

While Paros is one of my favorite Greek islands, I think they are both fantastic and well worth a visit! 

Yet, depending on what kind of trip you want, you might enjoy one more than the other. 

If you’re short on time and can only visit one of these Greek islands, here is everything you need to know to help you decide whether you should visit Paros or Naxos.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Difference between Naxos and Paros

When I was deciding which islands to add to my Cyclades itinerary , I wondered what were the differences between Naxos and Paros. 

I heard people say that each of the Cyclades has a different vibe, and I thought that was highly unlikely. 

However, I was surprised to learn that despite being part of the same island group Naxos and Paros have some noteworthy differences.

Both Islands

• Both Paros and Naxos are significantly cheaper than Mykonos or Santorini in high-season
• You’ll find picturesque corners, white-washed houses, and vibrant pink flower trees on both islands
• If you’re on a summer holiday, you’ll find beautiful beaches on both islands

Paros Overview

• Parikia and Naoussa are two main Paros towns , unlike Naxos which only has one main town
• Paros is a smaller island, and it is easier to explore without a car
• Paros nightlife is superior to Naxos nightlife, which is better suited for a relaxing holiday

Naxos Overview

• Naxos is a large island with mountains in the center and excellent hiking trails
• Beaches in Naxos are considered the most beautiful among the Cyclades, especially popular among families
• There are many places to get away from the crowds in Naxos, but it can also feel too quiet

Paros Or Naxos: Which Is Easier To Reach?

If you’re wondering where is Paros or Naxos, they are neighboring islands!

It is easy to reach both by ferry or plane, as they both have a ferry port and a small domestic airport. 

Taking a ferry to Naxos and Paros

Taking a ferry is the most common way to reach the islands. You can take a ferry from Athens or other Cycladic islands. 

Paros is the closest Cyclade to Athens, and it is the first stop on a ferry route from Athens. If you’re taking a ferry to Naxos, the ferry will make a quick stop in Paros before continuing to Naxos. 

It takes about an hour longer to reach Naxos from Athens compared to Paros.

If you’re island hopping the Cyclades, you can easily reach both islands from the neighboring islands of Santorini , Mykonos, or Ios. 

Ferry ticket prices don’t change as the travel date approaches, but they can sell out in high season, so book in advance to make sure you have your spot reserved!

⛴️ Browse and book ferry tickets here!

Flying to Naxos and Paros

If you want to fly to Naxos or Paros, you can do so from Athens. International flights don’t land at either airport.

It takes about 30 minutes to reach the islands by plane. As these are small planes, you’ll have to pay additionally for luggage, so it’s a good idea to pack in a personal item only you can take on board.

Naxos has several daily flights connecting the island to Athens. 

Paros also has several daily flights to Athens, but you can also fly to the island from Thessaloniki and Heraklion in the summer months.

One of the advantages of backpacking Europe in summer is that the islands are easier to reach, with more daily connections to the mainland and other islands. 

Winner : Paros is slightly easier to reach

Paros vs. Naxos: Sightseeing and cultural attractions

When I’m deciding which place to visit, the variety of things to do is the main deciding factor. Luckily, both Paros and Naxos offer plenty of things to do and interesting places to see!

Best things to do in Paros

Parikia and Naoussa are the main towns of Paros, and they should be on your Paros itinerary . 

As you stroll the cobblestone streets of Parikia, you’ll get to see the 4th-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani , also known as the “Church of 100 doors” and 13th-century Frankish Castle built during the Venetian times.

To learn more about the history of this area, head to the Archeological Museum of Paros .

Naoussa is a charming fishing village, perfect for strolling around and admiring the 

If you like to explore ancient ruins, Mycenaean Acropolis close to Naoussa is an interesting place to visit. 

Lefkes is a picturesque village in the center of the island and a starting point of the ancient Byzantine Road. 

Best things to do in Naxos

The main town of Naxos is Naxos Chora. That is where you’ll see the stunning Temple of Apollo on the tiny island of Palatia.

At the top of the winding cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you’ll find Kastro .

You can visit 4 museums in Naxos Chora and learn more about Antic Greece and the period of Venetian rule over the island. 

A visit to 3 mountain villages is one of the most popular Naxos day trips . These three small villages are Halki , Filoti , and Apiranthos .

The Kouros are one of the most unique things to see in Naxos. These giant unfinished marble statues are free to visit so they should be on your itinerary. 

Things To Do : Both have plenty of things to do

Naxos vs Paros: Beaches

Let me preface this by saying that I’m not the biggest fan of sandy beaches where you can walk forever with water up to your knees. However, I can see the appeal and beauty of long, white-sand beaches. 

That being said, there are only sand beaches on both islands. 

I liked the beaches on both islands equally. The water was clean and surprisingly crystal clear. 

Some say Naxos is worth visiting solely for the beaches, as they are some of the best in Greece. If you want quick access to the beach, the main beach in Naxos is right in the city center. 

For the best beaches in Paros, you can walk, take a car, bus, or a quick boat taxi from both Naoussa and Parikia. 

From both islands, you can also take a boat trip to more remote beaches if you want to escape the crowds. 

Winner Beaches : Both islands have great beaches

Paros Vs. Naxos: Day Trips

Since Naxos and Paros are just 10km apart, it is possible to take the same day trips from both islands. 

Sure, some places will be easier to reach from Paros or Naxos, depending on where they’re located. 

For example, Mykonos and UNESCO site Delos are closer to Naxos, but you can join a tour from Paros as well.

The Small Cyclades are a group of islands close to Naxos, and a sailing trip from Naxos to one of them is a great way to experience sailing the Cyclades without paying the hefty price for one. 

One of the best things about staying on Paros is how easily you can go on an Antiparos boat trip and explore two islands instead of just one.

Taking a ferry from Paros to Antiparos is one of the most popular Paros day trips . 

Winner Day Trips : Both, but Naxos is closer to more islands for day trips

Paros Vs. Naxos: Nature And Hiking

I love hiking, so I always look for interesting trails to discover when traveling! Granted, not in the summer months when the sun is scorching and there’s no shade.

Naxos is home to Mount Zas , the highest peak in the Cyclades at 1003m. The island offers many interesting trails connecting the villages, leading to caves, and offering amazing views.

The most popular hike in Paros is the Byzantine Road connecting Lefkes to Prodromos. It is a 1000-year-old road paved with marble, and it is about a 6km long round trip. 

Winner Hiking : Naxos is a more mountainous island 

Naxos Or Paros: Without A Car

Paros is the better choice if you don’t plan to rent a car but still want to explore the island. 

The bus network in Paros connects virtually every village with the capital of Parikia. Bus tickets are affordable, and you can easily plan your day around the bus schedule. 

I hired a car in Naxos for a day, as I found it complicated to do more day trips in the same day to the center of the island by bus. Also, the price of renting a car in Naxos was quite affordable.

You don’t need a car in Naxos . There are plenty of buses on the island, mostly from Naxos Chora to nearby beaches.

However, buses to mountain villages aren’t very frequent, and it can get quite boring if you’re stuck in a tiny village for 2 hours waiting for the next bus. 

An alternative to renting a car is joining an organized tour, and both islands offer numerous daily tours.

WInner Without A Car : It is easier to get around Paros without a car

Paros Or Naxos: Nightlife

Paros is the clear winner when it comes to nightlife. Even Naxos locals take a ferry over to Paros on Friday and Saturday nights.

Naoussa is the center of nightlife in Paros . Charming cobblestone streets are lined with upscale cocktail bars. As the night progresses many turn into dance clubs. Parikia has plenty of bars to enjoy too, but it is more laid back than Naoussa. 

If you’re solo backpacking the Cyclades, you’ll have more fun backpacking Paros than Naxos. There aren’t any hostels in Naxos, while there is one backpacker hostel in Paros. 

As a solo traveler, making new friends at hostel is a great way to have someone to go out with for drinks or activities. 

While Paros is better known for nightlife, there are many bars in Naxos Town along the seafront and hidden in the winding streets of Naxos Chora.  

WInner Nightlife : Paros has the best nightlife

Paros Vs. Naxos: Vegan Restaurants

As a big foodie, I often make travel decisions based on vegan offers at my travel destinations. If you’re vegan, you know it can often be hard to travel as a vegan. 

The HappyCow App is one of my most used travel apps and one of the first I check as soon as I book a flight (sometimes even before!)

Despite the absence of fully vegan restaurants, I didn’t find it too challenging to be vegan in the Cyclades and Greece in general. Greek cuisine offers plenty of plant-based dishes as they are traditionally eaten during the lent. 

Nearly every restaurant had some vegan options, mainly side dishes, and appetizers. I loved the Fava bean spread that is accidentally vegan and a local specialty. 

As a junk food lover, mushroom gyros were one of my favorite things to see on a menu. The best one in Paros was in Allas Souvlaki , while the best one in Naxos was in Yasouvlaki .

For vegan fine dining, I loved vegan moussaka in Mouragio , Parikia. 

Winner For Vegans : There were more vegan options in Paros

Paros Vs. Naxos: Where To Stay?

There’s no shortage of accommodation on both islands. From budget-friendly apartments to boutique hotels, there’s something for every type of traveler. 

Where to stay in Paros?

Generally, the best place to stay in Paros is Parikia or Naoussa , especially if you don’t rent a car. 

These two towns are well connected to the rest of the islands and offer plenty of things to do.

Paros Backpackers Hostel

Paros Backp ackers Hostel is currently the only hostel on the island, perfect for solo travelers on a budget.

  KOKOON

The best mid-range option in Parikia is KOKOON . It has boutique hotel vibes with beautiful decorations, and a secluded private terrace to enjoy on hot summer nights. 

Madaky Hotel

The best mid-range option in Naoussa is Madaky Hotel where I stayed and absolutely loved it! It is located right next to the beginning of the pedestrian zone, so it is quiet at night and super close for walking home after a night out.

Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel

If you want to treat yourself, look no further than the Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel in the center of Naoussa. 

Where to stay in Naxos?

The best place to stay in Naxos is Naxos Chora, especially if you don’t have a car. It is the most lively city, right next to the beach and many tourist attractions. 

Soula Naxos

I stayed in the Soula Naxos Hotel and absolutely loved it! It was just a few steps away from the beach, affordable, clean, and tastefully decorated. 

Blue Heart Luxury Suites

If you’re looking for something more upscale, look no further than Blue Heart Luxury Suites . These studios are right on the beachfront, beautifully decorated, and offer incredible service!

Is Naxos or Paros cheaper?

Finally, if you’re traveling on a budget or backpacking around the Cyclades , you’ll want to know if is Naxos cheaper than Paros. 

I found prices in Naxos to be slightly cheaper than in Paros. However, you can expect prices to be very comparable for the most part.

The average restaurant and accommodation prices are similar, but you can find better quality accommodation for the same price in Naxos. 

Naoussa is the most expensive area in Paros and increases the average cost of traveling in Paros. That is where you’ll find boutique hotels, fine dining, and upscale cocktail bars. 

However, Paros prices are much lower and similar to those in Naxos if you stay in Parikia.

Winner Prices : Naxos is a slightly cheaper island

Should You Visit Both Naxos And Paros?

Yes! There are just about 10 km and a 40-minute ferry ride between Paros and Naxos, so it is totally possible and worth visiting both.   

These Cycladic islands have pretty much the same weather, so you can enjoy the beaches, activities, and day trips.

At the same time, they have a completely different vibe. 

The difference between Paros and Naxos is that Naxos offers a more authentic Greek island experience, while Paros is more of an idyllic holiday destination.

If you’re short on time, you don’t need to spend a night on both islands. If you decide to stay in Paros, you can easily go on a boat trip from Paros to Naxos and the other way around. 

Both islands are particularly picturesque, but Paros is where you’ll find more Instagram-worthy spots. Naoussa, with its white-washed houses and seafront bars, is one of the most beautiful towns in the Cyclades. Naxos offers a more rugged, 

Naxos has more beautiful beaches, while Paros has more beautiful towns. The wide, sandy beaches of Naxos are perfect for those who like spending time on the beach. Small towns in Paros, like Naoussa and Lefkes, are perfect to stroll around.

Certain areas of Paros can feel more touristy than Naxos. Naoussa in Paros is the most popular and visited town on both islands. It is a small town, so it can quickly feel very busy. Naxos is a larger island with plenty of places to escape the crowds and enjoy the beaches and nature.

Both islands are great for couples. Naxos is a larger island with numerous quiet villages and beaches to spend time with your partner. Naoussa in Paros is a great option for a honeymoon destination, as it is the most elegant and romantic town in Paros.

Don’t Make These Travel Mistakes!

Learn the most common travel mistakes, and what to do instead!

Summary: Naxos Or Paros: Which Is Better?

I loved both Paros and Naxos, and I suggest you visit both islands if you have time. Each island has a different vibe and offers excellent experiences. 

So, which is better Paros or Naxos?

If you can only visit one, as a solo female backpacker, Paros would be my first choice .

Paros is better if you care about nightlife, picturesque villages, and beaches. It is great for day trips, and there are plenty of things to do in Paros . 

Naxos is better if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy hiking and wandering ancient archeological sites. 

Beaches in Naxos are well known as the best among the Cyclades, but if you want to enjoy the nightlife and don’t care about hiking or ancient villages, you won’t miss out if you only visit Paros beaches.

Finally, you can easily visit the other island on a day trip and experience both regardless of where you decide to stay. 

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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PAROS OR NAXOS?

One of the questions I am most frequently asked is from people wanting to visit the Greek islands, often for the first time, and can’t decide between Paros or Naxos.

These islands are right next door to each other and are very similar in many ways. They are both situated in the Cyclades Islands  group and therefore both have the white sugar cube architecture that these islands are famous for.

They have very similar sights and attractions and their way of life and culture is almost identical. There is a lot to see and do on Paros but there is also a lot to see and do on Naxos !

It is always a difficult question to answer and we love them both, a lot! If you have time I recommend you try and spent a bit of time on both.

Our personal favourite is Paros but only by a small margin. It captured our hearts before we had visited Naxos so perhaps things would be different if it was the other way around or if our children were younger.

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Key similarities and differences between Naxos and Paros

1. Paros is smaller and you can explore it by car in less than a day by doing a loop around the island. It takes about 6 hours with various stops along the way.

2. Naxos is much bigger which means road trips have to go either north and back or south and back again from Chora. 

3. From Paros you can catch the car ferry over to Antiparos which takes just 9 minutes.

5. Both have excellent beaches but Naxos has a lot of big, wide ones that have shallow water and are generally safer and better suited to families with small children.

7. Paros has a livelier bar and nightlife scene, especially in Naoussa,so if your kids are older or you yourself like a late night and a fun party scene that suits all ages then you may prefer it there.

9. They both have excellent restaurants and Tavernas and you would be hard picked to find a bad one on either island.

10. Naxos is quite mountainous whilst Paros is more ‘hilly’.

11. Paros often has better ferry connections as it is the first port of call from Athens for many ferries to the Cyclades and connects with both the Western Cyclades islands and those in the East.

12. Paros has a good bus service which services the whole circumference of the island whereas Naxos has no service to the Eastern side.

13. You can do a boat trip to Antiparos and the Small Cyclades from both islands. From Paros you can catch the public vehicular ferry to Antiparos from Pounda or the small public ferry from Parikia. There are sailing tours that you can charter from both islands to sail around the other and it will depend on the weather and the wind on the day as to where you may go. 

How to get from Paros to Naxos or Naxos to Paros

There are several ferries each day between Paros and Naxos. The journey time is between 25 and 35 minutes.

At time of publication there are 4 crossings per day with Blue Stay ferries, 5 a day with the faster Seajets and 14 a week with Golden Star Ferries. Given the frequency and the distance it is quite possible therefore to do a day trip to Paros from Naxos or vice-versa.

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Naxos Vs Paros: Which Island is Best For You?

Naxos and Paros are two neighboring islands in the Cycladic group of Greece. This is the same part of the Aegean Sea where you can find places like Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos. 

We’ve spent a lot of time exploring both islands, and people always ask us: What’s the difference between Naxos and Paros?

This makes sense because most travelers only have limited time to spend island hopping in Greece and want to make sure they are visiting the best islands! 

Both islands have stunning whitewashed villages, fantastic beaches, and local tavernas, and are small enough to explore in just a few days. 

But the two are also very different. Paros has a cosmopolitan vibe, including beach clubs, swanky bars, and water sports. Naxos is much larger, with rugged terrain and more historical sights, and the beaches here are far more beautiful! 

Here’s a full comparison of Naxos Vs Paros, including the most significant similarities and differences and which island is best for your travel style.

What’s the Difference Between Paros and Naxos

How are naxos and paros similar.

While you can find a lot of differences between Naxos and Paros, they have a lot in common. 

The weather is identical, so the best time of year to visit Paros is the same as Naxos (btw it’s April – September). This is great because, if you have time, you can see both islands on the same holiday. 

Both islands also have a central city center surrounded by smaller beach towns and mountain villages outside the city center – e.g., Chora.

Whether you choose to spend a few days in Paros or Naxos, you’ll have excellent coffee shops, local tavernas, and their own local airports, so you can fly if you don’t feel like taking the ferry!

Also, the transportation options are essentially the same. On either island, renting your own transportation is the most convenient and affordable way to get around. It’s a little bit more important to rent a car in Naxos since it’s larger, but we also choose to rent a car in Paros every time we go!

Naxos Or Paros: Which is Best?

This is an extensive breakdown of which Greek Island is better, based on several categories. We’ll go through which has better beaches, historical sites, nightlife, boat trips, and restaurants, and which island is better for families or taking a romantic honeymoon!

Which Island Has Better Beaches?

Both islands have lovely beaches, but Naxos’s beaches are generally more expansive and less crowded, making them ideal for visitors seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The entire West Coast is basically one long sandy beach.

This long coastline has a ton of beach towns, all separated by just a few kilometers, including Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Maragkas, Plaka, Hawaii Beach, and Alyko Beach .

So, not only does it have the largest beaches, but it offers way more variety.

Some beach towns in Naxos are busy with shops, bars, and beach clubs (i.e., Agia Anna), while beaches like Plaka Beach and Alyko Beach feel so far from the beaten path that you may not see another person for hours.

Paros has beautiful beaches, too! They’re just a bit different.

The beaches in Paros are way more organized, with restaurants on the water and numerous beach clubs, and since they are usually relatively small, they often feel busier than the beaches in Naxos. The only place we’ve seen that has avoided this is  Kalogeros Beach.

But we have found that the beaches are more accessible in Naxos. From Naoussa, you can walk to Piperi Beach or Kolymbithres Beach, and there are towns like Piso Livaldi and Santa Maria that are very close to the larger beaches in Paros.

Paros is also better for water sports!

Still, on either island, you’ll be able to rent sunbeds and access basic amenities at most beaches.

Our Pick: Naxos

Which island has more history and archaeological sites.

Naxos also stands out for having a richer history and more archaeological sites to see while visiting.

Sites like the iconic half-finished Portara (Temple of Apollo) and the ancient ruins scattered around the island, like the Temple of Demeter and Temple of Dionysus, invite history enthusiasts to learn more about ancient Greece and offer a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted heritage.

You can also see this in Chalki, the ancient capital of Naxos, or Koronos. These mountain villages have an old-timey feel, buildings with apparent Venetian influence, and Byzantine churches.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t see cool historical sites in Paros. It’s just not really the reason people come to Paros. They come for shopping, dining, and the nightlife. We loved seeing the Ancient Marble Quarries, Panagia Ekatontapiliani, and the Byzantine Road.

Which Island Is Better For Nightlife?

Both islands have bustling ports with a lot going on in the evenings, but Paros easily wins when it comes to nightlife. From chic beach bars to lively nightclubs, Paros offers an energetic ambiance after dark, making it the go-to destination for those looking to dance the night away.

Naoussa , often compared to Mykynos, is the hub of Paros’s nightlife. Here, the streets come alive after dark with sophisticated cocktail bars and swanky nightclubs. But you’ll find just a fraction of the international crowds.

That means it’s still possible to find a table with seaside views for dinner!

In contrast, Naxos feels more laid-back. People are out in town throughout the evening, but it’s primarily cafes near the port and local tavernas. There is only one beach club and a few open-air cocktail bars in Naxos Town, but most places feel more like local pubs.

Our Pick: Paros

Which island is better for a honeymoon.

Okay, this one is a bit tricky, but most people would say that Paros is better for a honeymoon. It’s full of charming villages, and dinner at a seaside restaurant under the stars in Paros can be exceptionally romantic.

Plus, there are far more resorts and spas on the island, more accessible beaches, and nicer restaurants.

If you’re willing to splurge a bit, then you can truly make Paros feel like a luxury island getaway by staying in a boutique hotel on the Aegean Sea.

This is possible in Naxos, but it takes a bit more effort, and fewer options are available.

Still, more adventurous couples who are really into history will have a better time exploring Naxos. It has more hikes and mountain peaks. Also, if you’re willing to put in the effort, then the west coast of Naxos is extremely rugged but has even more secluded beaches to explore.

Naxos also has some romantic places to stay, especially near Agios Prokopios, if you decide that this is where you want to honeymoon!

Our Pick: Tie

Which island is better for families.

Naxos is particularly family-friendly, thanks to its gentle beaches, a wide range of accommodations, and activities suitable for all ages. It has an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere, and the spacious, shallow, sandy beaches make it an ideal choice for families.

Most of the beaches in Paros are a bit rocky and small, so it’s more challenging to find a secluded spot and allow your kids to enjoy freely.

The other thing to note is that it’s less popular for people looking to party, so you won’t have to worry about music late into the evening or find an affordable place to eat for the whole family.

Which Island Has Better Restaurants?

Paros is renowned for its culinary scene, featuring diverse dining options from traditional Greek tavernas to upscale restaurants. But you’ll pay more to dine at the island’s best restaurants.

This is particularly true in touristy areas like Naoussa, Piso Livaldi, and Santa Maria. But even in local areas like Parikia , it was a bit difficult to find cheap food (unless you want gyros). A couple of our favorite restaurants in Paros are SHOSHO and Big Noses .

There are also so many places to dine on the water or have food delivered to your sunbed on the beach!

Naxos had really good restaurants, too, and they were way more affordable. The thing is that there was less ‘Western” food and more Greek taverns and local restaurants. Also, it’s not as easy to find places to dine on the water. The Naxos Chora Port promenade is big, so the outdoor seating is about 40-50 feet (20 meters) from the ocean.

Some of the best taverns we’ve found in Naxos are Maro’s Taverna and Dal Professore Naxos, while the best gyros are at To Spitiko Naxos !

Which Island Is Better For Boat Trips?

With its central location in the Cyclades, Paros is ideally positioned for boat trips to nearby islands.

Antiparos is literally a 10-minute ferry from shore, so you don’t even need a tour to take a boat here and explore the island on your own. Other boat trips available from Paros include Mykonos and lesser-known Cyclades like Delos or Ios.

Naxos also has many of the same islands you can visit on a boat trip, but it’s uncommon to visit Antiparos from Naxos.

Instead, people take boats to explore the smaller islands off Naxos’ southwest coast. Some of the most popular are Iraklia, Koufounisia, and Schinousa. These small islands are known for their untouched beauty and tranquil beaches.

People also take boat tours to the caves and beaches along the east coast of Naxos since it’s so difficult to reach these places on your own (even if you have a car rental).

Planning a Boat Tour in Naxos or Paros?

–> Find out which day trips are still available HERE <–

Which Island Is Easier to Get To?

Paros edges out slightly in accessibility, served by more frequent ferries and flights. Its proximity to other popular destinations in the Cyclades makes it a convenient option for travelers looking to explore multiple islands.

Paros is slightly easier to get to because it is the first ferry stop from Athens. If you are taking the ferry to Naxos, you must make a 30-minute pit stop in Paros and then travel for 30-60 minutes from Paros to Naxos.

This doesn’t apply to flights, though. Both islands have an airport with direct flights from Athens, and the airports are less than 10 minutes by car from the main town unless you stay in Naoussa, which is 20 minutes from the airport.

Our Pick: Paros (By a Hair)

Which island is easier to get around.

Paros is generally considered easier to get around than Naxos due to its smaller size and better-developed public transportation system.

There’s a comprehensive network of buses that connect major towns and beaches, and it’s really easy to understand since there’s essentially one road around the island and one road through the middle that takes you through Lefkes.

This means that you don’t actually NEED a car in Paros, but it helps a lot, and we wouldn’t want to visit without renting a car.

You can also rent scooters on the islands . Paros has pretty mellow roads, so any scooter would do. But if you’re trying to travel around Naxos by scooter , make sure to have something over 125cc!

Naxos is much larger and more rugged, and it’s harder to understand the bus system (at least, that was the car initially for us). Additionally, only a few towns in Naxos have convenient taxis and public transportation. If you’re staying near Plaka Beach or Chalki, taxis will be challenging to find.

Want Your Own Transportation in Paros & Naxos?

—> Check Prices and Availability for a Car Rental HERE <—

Is It Possible to Visit Both Islands in a Week?

Yes, it’s 100% possible to visit Naxos and Paros in one week. You need about 3-4 days on each island to see everything, including the most famous places and a couple of off-the-beaten-path destinations.

However, staying longer allows you to take your time, explore several different areas, and even take a boat trip to one of the smaller islands surrounding Paros and Naxos.

We’ve actually curated a 4-day Itinerary for Naxos that shows you what this could look like! We also always tell people to rent a car on the island and choose to stay near Naxos’ Chora .

Similarly, you should stay in Naoussa if you only have a few days in Paros. It’s close to Kolymbithres Beach and is the best place to stay in Paros for first-time visitors .

But budget-conscious travelers should opt to stay in Parikia, near the Paros Port.

So, Which Island is Better?

Naxos Vs Paros….which is the winner?

As you might have anticipated by now, it’s really up to you, and some people would argue tooth and nail for each island.

We personally love each island but for very different reasons! Paros is where we like to kick back, enjoy good food, and truly feel like we’re on vacation.

We always tell travelers who value convenience, quality beaches, and good food to go to Paros. That’s also our advice to people seeking a honeymoon in Greece.

Naxos, on the other hand, is much better for history buffs, hikers, and adventure travelers. There are super remote beaches here; you can hike to the top of Mount Zas to see Zeus’ Childhood Cave and plenty of other small islands to visit by boat!

Ultimately, if you have time, we’d recommend visiting both islands and deciding for yourself!

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Naxos or Paros? Discover Your Perfect Greek Island Escape!

Are you stuck between Naxos or Paros for your next Greek adventure? You cannot decide which one suits you best? I’m Greek , living permanently in Athens, and I’m obsessed with traveling around Greece to deliver the best travel guides for you and help you decide what’s best for you and your family

Take this fun quiz to find out which island, suits your travel style best, is it Naxos or Paros? Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a budget or luxury trip, this quiz will guide you to your ideal Greek getaway!

*Some of the links below are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at  no additional cost to you.

Quiz: Which Island Suits you Best, Naxos or Paros?

• Which type of beach do you prefer? a) Long, sandy stretches perfect for relaxing with family b) Sandy beaches with a more cosmopolitan vibe

2. What’s more important for your island experience? a) Family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of activities for kids b) Trendy vibes with romantic spots and boutique hotels

3. What’s your dining style? a) Casual tavernas serving up fresh, local food b) Trendy restaurants with some fine dining options for a romantic dinner

4. Which local products are you more excited to try? a) Naxos potatoes, cheeses, and meats—agricultural specialties b) Local olives, seafood, and wines—perfect for a romantic meal

5. What’s your nightlife preference? a) More local experience with small, seafront bars b) A lively scene with trendy bars and clubs to explore

6. What type of hiking experience do you prefer? a) Scenic, well-maintained trails in a mountainous area b) Easier, flatter trails with scenic views of the coast

7. What kind of village exploration do you enjoy? a) Visiting traditional villages on the mountains with a focus on history b) Strolling through seaside villages with a trendy, modern feel

8. Pick Your Dream Resort in Naxos a) A cozy, family-run guesthouse with a local touch b) A stylish boutique hotel with modern amenities

9. How do you feel about archaeological sites and historic churches? a) Love them—I’d spend a lot of time exploring historic sites b) I’m interested, but I’d rather focus on more modern attractions

10. What kind of shopping experience are you looking for? a) Picking up local crafts and souvenirs in quaint shops b) Browsing trendy boutiques and designer stores

11. Which type of local transportation do you prefer? a) Renting a car to explore remote, mountainous areas b) Using frequent buses to easily reach different parts of the island

12. Pick Your Dream Resort in Paros a) A warm, traditional guesthouse offering a true local experience b) A fashionable, boutique accommodation with top-notch amenities

13. What’s your travel style? a) Slow and steady—I like to take my time and enjoy every moment b) On the go—I want to see and do as much as possible

14. How do you feel about crowds? a) I prefer quieter places where I can avoid crowds b) I enjoy the energy of popular spots, even if they’re crowded

15. Would you be interested in visiting both islands? a) Nah, I just want to relax on one large island that has it all! b) Yes, great idea, tell me more about it! (see more information below)

Results: Which one Should you pick?

Mostly A’s: Naxos—A Family-Friendly Paradise with Rich History!

Naxos is perfect for you if you’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, rich history, and endless sandy beaches. The island offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, local crafts, hearty food, lush landscapes, and traditional mountain villages, Naxos is ideal for those who appreciate a blend of culture, nature, and laid-back island life.

Mostly B’s: Paros—The Trendy Escape for Couples and Solo Adventurers!

Paros is your go-to island if you’re after trendy vibes, unusual sandy beaches, and a mix of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re a couple seeking romantic spots or a solo traveler wanting to explore, Paros offers gourmet cuisine, charming seaside villages, and lively nightlife. With its flatter , easy-to-navigate terrain (great for beginner hikers) and excellent public transportation, Paros is perfect for those who want a romantic vacation.

FAQs about Naxos or Paros

• Can I visit both Naxos and Paros? Yes, you can, they are only 40 minutes apart by Greek ferries . If you are located in a nearby island such as Mykonos or Syros you can visit as a day trip. However, spending at least one night in each island is what I highly recommend.
• Can I get there by airplane? Yes, both islands have airports.
• Which island is best if I am interested in windsurfing, and sailing? Both are perfect for any kind of water sport and activity although Paros is more famous for surfing!
• Which island is most affordable? This is definitely Naxos!
• Which island is more authentic and less commercialized? Again, the winner is Naxos island!
• Should I visit Antiparos ? Yes, please do not miss it if you are already on Paros island!

Best Guided Tours in Paros and Naxos

What better way to experience Naxos and Paros than with a guided tour? Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, cooking classes, hidden beaches, or charming villages, these tours offer an insider’s view of the islands, making your trip truly unforgettable.

Naxos Island

• Naxos: Half-day cooking class at Basiliko
• Naxos Highlights Bus Tour with Free Time for Lunch at Apeiranthos
• Catamaran All inclusive-Day Cruise to Naxos or Paros with Lunch

Paros Island

• Full-Day Cruise in Antiparos and Despotiko with Barbecue
• Paros Cooking Class
• Private Tour on Paros Island

No matter which you choose—Naxos or Paros—you’re in for an amazing Greek island experience. Both islands offer stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you prefer Naxos’ laid-back charm or Paros’ trendy vibe, you can’t go wrong with either destination for a memorable vacation!

For more travel to Greece tips and beautiful destinations in the Greek islands please join my FREE Facebook Group or SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube Channel for amazing videos of Greece, I would love to welcome you! Until then happy and safe travels, Evgeni a.

Evgenia Mataragka

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Naxos or Paros? Which Island Is the Best for Your Vacation?

So you have decided to spend your summer vacation in Greece and visit the relatively lesser-known islands of Paros and Naxos.

And here comes the happy dilemma: which one do you choose for your vacation? Paros or Naxos?

They are both at the heart of the Cyclades, relatively similar in size and tourist attraction levels, and they are just as easy to get to. How do you make your choice?

Ideally, you shouldn’t have to! Go to both!

Sometimes, however, that simply can’t be done, and you will have to choose one of the two as the best vacation location for you. And with this guide giving you a rough comparison of the islands and what you can find in each one, you will be able to.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Paros or Naxos? Which one to choose?

Paros overview.

Right at the heart of the Cyclades, you will find Paros, one of the cluster’s biggest islands.

Paros is quite versatile in combining the traditional with the cosmopolitan, relaxing mornings with high octane nightlife, history with modernity, and adventure with luxury.

Known to the locals and many Orthodox Christians as a place of pilgrimage thanks to one of the most remarkable church complexes in Greece, the church of Panayia Ekatontapyliani (i.e. Virgin Mary of A Hundred Gates), Paros is great for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in folklore and heritage.

Paros is also well known for its several gorgeous sandy beaches that go on forever, with crystal clear waters and a lot of amenities available at most. At several of those beaches, you will be able to do a range of water sports, especially windsurfing and kite surfing.

Finally, Paros boasts some of the most picturesque and traditional villages you can find in the iconic style of the Cyclades, coupled with amazing histories and sites.

You might want to check out: The best things to do in Paros.

Naxos Overview

Also at the heart of the Cyclades, you will find Naxos, the cluster’s biggest and most verdant island.

Naxos combines the iconic beauty of the Cycladic architecture against the backdrop of the deep blue waters of the Aegean with the beauty of lush vegetation and the much-needed shade from the relentless sun of the Greek summer.

Naxos is extremely versatile in the vacations it can offer. It can range from traditional and picturesque to adventurous and sporty to pampered and relaxed.

Naxos’ beaches are breathtakingly beautiful, with white sand and great expanses. You can find organized and unorganized beaches to suit your taste. There are also smaller beaches to find after some exploration that give the feeling of being a virgin and free from human interventions.

Finally, Naxos boasts the tallest mountain peak of the Cyclades and has some excellent hiking trails. Its villages are picturesque and full of history from all eras. You can explore the Byzantine castle or one of its many temples. You can discover the giant abandoned statues from the archaic period, or visit some of Naxos’ many important churches and monasteries.

Naxos is bigger than Paros which means it needs more time to be fully explored and experienced compared to Paros.

Check out: The best things to do in Naxos.

Naxos vs. Paros: Which one is easier to get to?

Both Naxos and Paros have airports with flights from Athens or Thessaloniki so they are both equally easy to get to by plane. Neither Naxos nor Paros has any direct flights from abroad, so you need to get to Athens or Thessaloniki first. Alternatively, you can fly to Mykonos, or Santorini which have international airports, and take the ferry from there.

Both islands also have good ferry connections with Athens as well as several of the other Cycladic islands and Crete.

Therefore, access to Naxos and Paros is exactly the same in terms of ease and comfort!

Click below to check the ferry timetable and book your tickets.

Click below to check out the flights available:

Naxos vs. Paros: Which has the best beaches?

Objectively both islands have gorgeous beaches. To give you an idea of how compatible both islands are in this, Paros is famous for its beaches as a whole, while Naxos is known for having some of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean. So it is really a matter of personal taste to prefer one island’s beaches over the other’s.

Being slightly smaller, Paros’ beaches tend to be a bit more manageable in terms of accessibility. You can reach most of them by car. Several of them are huge, but there are also a lot of smaller ones, tucked away in coves that give them a sense of purity and privacy thanks to the island’s jaggy coastline.

If you are a fan of organized beaches with many amenities you are likely to like Paros’ beaches a little more than Naxos’. Paros boasts a lot of very organized beaches where you can learn or enjoy water sports and get all the services you want, such as Golden Beach or Parasporos Beach.

Check out: The best beaches in Paros.

Naxos’ beaches are also extremely beautiful, with some combining the sandy white and sapphire or turquoise blue with the rolling green from its many hills. You are more likely to find a range of semi-organized or unorganized beaches in Naxos compared to Paros. You also can get to explore more to discover them so perhaps you will need to have more vacation time to fully enjoy them compared to Paros.

Naxos is also known for its warm shallow waters which are perfect for families on beaches such as Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka. Those are also well-organized so there will be amenities to enjoy.

Check out: The best beaches in Naxos.

Naxos vs. Paros: Which is the most family-friendly?

Naxos is very versatile when it comes to things to see when you have children. There is a Byzantine castle to explore, abandoned statues to find, trails to walk in, and the stunning “ Portara ” the renowned “Naxos Window” to explore. Children of various ages will be entertained with all of these experiences.

As far as beaches go, Naxos has the warm shallow ones that go on forever, with a lot of amenities that will make going to the beach with a family enjoyable and safe. When it comes to food, nearly every restaurant in Naxos has a kid’s menu and several options to satisfy particular tastes or wants.

Paros on the other hand also has several things to see, but the beaches may need a bit more caution. Still, there are family-friendly, organized beaches to enjoy in Parikia and Naoussa villages. In Paros, your kids can also enjoy the Venetian Castle and the unique Valley of the Butterflies.

Paros also has a loud and vibrant nightlife which may make it slightly less family-friendly than Naxos.

Score: Naxos is slightly more family-friendly

Naxos or Paros: Which has the best nightlife?

Naxos has a decent nightlife. Being the biggest island of the Cyclades, it is fairly popular and features quite a few cocktail bars and pubs along its various promenades.

However, the island that by far has the best nightlife and the most partying occasions is by far Paros.

Though smaller, Paros has a lot more nightlife hubs to choose from. Locals go to Naoussa , tourists enjoy Parikia , and everywhere in between, you will find chic bars, cocktails, all-day bars, all-day cafés, beach bars, and more. Live music, loud music, and traditional lively tavernas are Paros’ specialties.

Score: Paros has the best nightlife

You might like: The best Greek islands for nightlife.

Naxos or Paros: Which has the better sights and cultural attractions?

Both islands are very similar in the wealth of cultural sites and heritage you can immerse yourself in. They were both known since antiquity for their marble (Naxian and Parian marbles were thought to be top quality) and the ancient quarries are still there to see.

However, Naxos tends to have a bit more versatility and variety in the things to see: there is the Byzantine castle, several temples from antiquity, huge statues lying about to be discovered, several villages that seem to be preserved in time, amazing churches and of course, the great Window of Naxos (Portara). There are also monasteries to see and the 17 th century school of Ursulines, towers, and even an ancient aqueduct.

Paros, too, has a lot to show in terms of culture and heritage: it too has a castle from the Venetian times, the Panayia Ekantotapyliani church and monastery complex, gorgeous villages, and interesting museums with remarkable collections.

The truth is that you will have your fill of culture and heritage no matter which island you choose. It’s just that by comparison, Naxos has more to see.

Score: Naxos has the better sights

Naxos vs. Paros: Which has the better nature?

Naxos is the most verdant of the Cycladic islands, and Paros, too, is high up there. That means that if you are a nature-lover neither island will disappoint.

Upon comparison, however, Naxos is the one who has the bigger versatility in habitats and natural sights to see. With stunning waterfalls, sea caves, and lush vegetation, it is already a gorgeous island to be in. But there is also an ancient cedar forest, the tallest mountain of the Cyclades with great trekking trails, a sand dune landscape, and a beautiful spring.

If you love to explore nature, Naxos is definitely where you need to be.

Paros gives good competition with its unique Valley of the Butterflies and Paros Park where you can do bicycling and horseback riding. There are also great seaside spots to enjoy as well as the gorgeous island of Antiparos where many of the rich and famous have chosen to have their summer homes. However, it doesn’t have Naxos’ great variety.

Score: Naxos has the better nature

Naxos vs. Paros: Which is the best for water sports?

The Cyclades as a whole are known for their fierce winds! It is that very wind that will offer you some cool as you are exploring the islands under the scorching summer sun (though no protection, so sunscreen is a must!). That same wind makes the Cyclades perfect for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing. Paros and Naxos are no exceptions.

Water sports are extremely popular so both islands feature the entire range of water sports, from the family-friendly banana rides or canoeing or parasailing to the more precarious and extreme ones like kitesurfing.

On several of Paros and Naxos’ amazing beaches, there will be equipment and teachers for you to enjoy these sea sports and sea games. For the more advanced, there are even competitions and other sporting events.

The varied coastline with the many coves also makes for great snorkeling and diving experiences in both islands.

Naxos vs. Paros: All in all which is the best?

Having seen the various qualitative and quantitative differences between the two islands, the tough moment has come to pick which island is the best for vacationing.

The answer is …both.

Both are going to give you wonderful experiences. It is really up to you and what type of vacation you are going for that will determine which island is the better fit. If you are looking for nightlife, then Paros will be best. If you are looking for naturalist experiences, then Naxos is ideal. But that doesn’t mean that if you pick the other island you will find it lacking in these experiences. It’s really a competition between the best, so there is no negative, just slight differences!

And if you feel the dilemma is too hard to answer but you still can’t do both, don’t worry! A day trip from Naxos to Paros or from Paros to Naxos is always available so you can get a taste of the island you don’t pick for the bulk of your vacations.

In fact, that could be the beginning of a wonderful island-hopping trip at the nearby gorgeous little islands of Antiparos, Donoussa, Irakleia, Schinoussa, and Keros!

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PAROS OR NAXOS – Which Greek Island should you visit?

Wondering whether or not you should visit Paros or Naxos? Planning a trip to the Greek Islands is so overwhelming! There are so many islands to choose from, all of which sound (and I’m sure are) incredible. Mykonos and Santorini may be at the top of everyone’s list but there are a number of lesser known islands that are becoming more popular.

Paros Greece and Naxos Greece are both located in the Cyclades Islands about 4 hours from Piraeus (closest port to Athens) by ferry . The islands are directly across from one another but are vastly different from each other. Both are relatively large islands however, Naxos being the largest island in the Cyclades is larger than Paros.

Since the islands are so close in proximity, I’ve put together a guide to help you choose which island is right for you!

And don’t forget to pin this for later :)

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. Meaning that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below. See full disclosure here .

I would say you need at least 3 days to fully explore each island. If you’re on a time crunch, I recommend heading to Paros Island. Since the island is smaller, it’s easier to explore in a shorter time. While there’s a ton to do on the island, it’s easy to see within a few days. If you have more time, head to Naxos Island! You can do a lot in 3 days but I think 4 days in Naxos would be ideal. The island is bigger so it takes a little longer to travel around the island. There are a handful of beaches, towns, and hikes to do.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, make sure to grab the travel planners I’ve created for Greece. There are a total of 10 templates. Eight of the templates list suggestions and travel tips for the most popular cities (or islands) in Greece. There is also a place for you to add your travel information as well as blank templates. I’ve linked them below!

TRANSPORTATION

The islands are both easily accessible via ferry. You can travel Paros to Naxos ferry and vice versa. Most people utilize the Greek ferries to reach the island from Athens which is about 4 hours. You can also take a quick flight to either island from Athens.

From the port town, both islands are filled to the brim with day trips on the island. The most popular way to venture outside the city is by renting a car or ATV/ Scooter. Since we didn’t have an international drivers license, we had to rely on public transportation. Both islands have a bus system that’s inexpensive and fairly easy to use. We found the bus system in Paros to be much easier than Naxos. The buses seem to be more frequent in Paros probably due to the fact that the island is smaller. The buses in Paros also run pretty late. Naxos on the other hand, runs frequent buses to some of the popular beaches on the island but the other towns are infrequent.

Honestly, both islands have great beaches scattered throughout the island. So if you’re comparing the beaches on Paros vs. Naxos you can’t go wrong! However, the Island of Naxos is supposed to have slightly better beaches. After spending some time at the Naxos beaches, I can see why! One of the most popular beaches in Naxos is called Agios Prokopios and it’s spectacular. It’s an easy 10 minute bus ride from the main town of Chora and buses leave consistently. Some of the best Paros beaches are Santa Maria and Kolymbithres which are a quick trip from Naousa, one of the main towns on the island. While I’ve only listed a few beaches on each island, there are dozens of incredible beaches!

If you prefer being on the water, both Naxos and Paros have excellent boat tours! There are a variety of tours you can choose both islands. My top recommendation is one of the all day tours from either Paros or Naxos as they’re typically incredible!

Booking: From Naxos: Sailing Tour from Naxos From Paros: Koufonisia by traditional Kaiki from Paros (transportation to Piso Livadi for 10 euros) From Paros: Full-Day Cruise in Antiparos & Despotiko with BBQ

SMALL TOWNS

Both islands have a number of small towns, but, in my opinion, the towns in Paros are hard to beat. The little seaside villages are one of a kind which made me fall in love with Paros. Parikia is the biggest town on Paros; It’s a port town filled with a ton of cute alleys and charming restaurants. Some of my favorite towns in Paros include Parikia, Naousa, Lefkes, and Piso Livadi. This is only a few of the many charming towns on the island of Paros!

Naxos has some cute villages as well as Chora which is the port and main town. Chora is pretty big in comparison to Parika but, Chora does have an adorable Old Town. If you wander through the alleys of Chora, you’ll reach narrow streets of Old Town lined with shops and restaurants. Naxos also has a ton of small villages in the mountains. It’s fairly quick to explore these towns so I suggest grabbing a bite to eat at a local family tavern.

Naxos Hotels: We based ourselves in Chora and loved our stay at Nastasia Village Hotel!

If you’re looking for the typical white washed towns, head to Paros because Naousa is exactly what you’re looking for!

Obviously the food is incredible on both islands however, Naxos is more recognized as a foodie island! I honestly loved the food on both islands so it’s hard to choose between the two. I found the food in Naxos to be slightly cheaper than Paros. Since Naxos is larger than Paros, there are a lot more options food wise. Naxos is also known for the “Naxos Cheese” so if you’re a cheese lover, this is the island for you. Since the island is known for their cheese and their potatoes, you’ll see a number of dishes with “Naxos Cheese” or “Naxos Potatoes” on the menu. There are also a lot of vineyards on the island producing some local wines. With that being said, if you’re a wine lover, Paros is home to one of the cutest little winery’s called, Moraitis. Pricing at the winery is so reasonable and it’s a great spot to relax for bit. The winery is located just outside of Naousa making it an easy stop on a trip to Paros. Paros is also known for their cheese and dishes with chickpeas.

Naxos is an island known for their hiking! The island is filled with some seriously awesome trails. One of the most popular hikes to do in Naxos is Mount Zas. According to Greek Mythology, this is where Zeus grew up. It’s also the highest peak throughout the cyclades islands making it quite the workout! Another great hike in Naxos is the hike through the villages. You can walk between villages on Naxos for some really unique viewpoints. The hike begins and ends in Melanes. Hiking between the villages was one of my favorite activities while in Naxos. Paros on the other hand is hilly rather than mountainous. Paros still has trails it just doesn’t have the mountains Naxos does. Lefkes is a small mountainous village on Paros and there are a few great hiking trails in this area!

OVERALL VIBE

Honestly, I love both Paros and Naxos! As I mentioned, they’re both incredible but vastly different from one another. Personally, I think I preferred Paros whereas my husband preferred Naxos. In my opinion, the overall vibe on Paros is hard to beat. The quaint little seaside villages are so charming. They’re exactly what you picture when you think of the Greek Islands! The beaches and food are amazing. With that said, the island feels a little more trendy and touristy than Naxos. Many of the locals have started working in tourism. The active side of me prefers Naxos since I loved hiking on the island.

I hope this article helps you to decide between visiting Naxos or Paros. I absolutely loved visiting both islands and hope this can help you chose between the two if need be. If you have time to visit both islands – do it! You won’t regret it :)

If you want to learn more about these two beautiful islands, read more here:

• BASIC GUIDE TO PAROS, GREECE
• NAXOS ISLAND IN 3 DAYS

Safe Travels,

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I would love to see the picture locations referenced in the blog! Great info, thanks for sharing!

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Paros Vs Naxos: Your Complete Guide To The Islands

So, it’s come down to Paros vs Naxos. Fantastic! It’s not often that you have a win-win, but this really is one of them. These are two of the most tempting islands in the Aegean Sea, offering a taste of raw Cycladic culture, cuisine, and architecture, plus all the sun-kissed beaches you could ask for.

In one corner is Paros , a ferry hub that also hides whitewashed fishing villages and boulder-dotted snorkeling inlets around its shores. Then there’s Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, where 1,000-meter-high peaks keep watch over white-sand beaches like Plaka.

This guide will help you weigh up the both of them, but we’d still say that the overall best option would be to do the two in the same trip. That’s totally doable, since ferries connect Naxos and Paros everyday throughout the main travel season. If that’s not possible, read on…

Table of Contents

Paros vs Naxos for ease of travel

Paros has a tiny, pint-sized airport that’s not really large enough to host anything other than prop plane links to Athens. So, skip that. What it does offer is one of the largest ferry ports in the whole Cyclades region. It’s not for nothing that this island is now considered the main transport interchange in the central Aegean. Basically, you won’t be short on boats to Paros. They come in daily from Athens, from Crete , and from a whole clutch of surrounding, smaller islands, including Mykonos and even Naxos itself.

It’s a similar story over on Naxos, where a tiny airport is often trumped by boat options. Yep, 99% of people who arrive here do so by sea. There’s a good range of service options, thanks to a mix of high-speed catamarans that come in from Santorini and Mykonos, but also longer-distance boats from Piraeus, the main port in Athens. That said, there isn’t quite the range as over in Paros, so this one just loses out on the travel front.

Winner: Paros.

Paros vs Naxos for beaches

Here we go – the big one. There’s good news: Neither Paros nor Naxos is likely to disappoint when it comes to beaches. Let’s start with the larger of the two isles, Naxos. The western coast here is blessed with Plaka, a multi-kilometer stretch of some of the purest white sand in the Aegean. That’s a doozy for sure, but you can also find gems like Orkos, Mikri Vigla, and Pyrgaki beach if you’re willing to venture further south. The opposite west coast has more orangey sands but is usually way less busy. Be ready to navigate some winding roads to reach it, though!

Paros strikes a great balance between rocky beaches with crystal-clear snorkeling waters and more traditional bays with sunbeds and soft sand. It’s smaller than Naxos, so you should find it easier to go from one to the other and fill your holiday with a range of beaches. The best places in our humble opinion are at gorgeous Kolymbithres, where you can spot fish schools beneath rugged boulders, and Monastiri, which is watched over by a rock-ribbed headland. Golden Beach is the traditional family option, with sunbeds up for rent in the main season.

Winner: Probably Naxos, for the white-sand bays. But Paros has some gorgeous options too.

Paros vs Naxos for nightlife

Paros can be a surprisingly hedonistic destination during the peak summer months. It’s no Ios, no Mykonos . But it does have two main towns that positively pump with energy when the sun goes down. The first is Paros Town, also known as Parikia. It’s the big port on the west coast and it has a single strip that’s packed with pirate-themed drinkeries and pubs. The second option – and the livelier of the two – is Naousa. It’s a gorgeous village of whitewashed cottages on the north shore that will come alive after sunset. Everything from seaside tavernas to mid-sized EDM clubs is on offer there.

The nightlife on Naxos is probably a notch down from Paros, and several notches down from Greece’s major nightlife hubs. It’s not dead in the nights, though. Stick around the quaysides and harbors of the capital in Chora and you’ll be able to find everything from moody jazz bars to cocktail lounges overlooking the Aegean. Things tend to start at the Temple of Apollo on the shoreline, where a huge, ancient gateway offers the perfect place for ushering in the sunset with a cold beer in hand.

Paros vs Naxos for food

Not all that much is different in the cuisines of Paros and Naxos. But that’s probably to be expected since they are both smack dab in the heart of the Cyclades chain, less than five miles apart at their narrowest point. Visit a local taverna in these parts and you’re likely to get the usual Greek menu of treats: Fresh tomato salads topped with feta, sizzled saganaki cheese, spanakopita pies, and meaty gyros kebabs.

That said, there is a general feeling that Naxos is one of the hubs of regional cooking in the Aegean. The people here make a famous cheese that’s now got its own geographic protection. It’s produced using a sweet but hard mix of sheep milk and cow milk. They also do a traditional stew that’s packed with grilled eggplant and various meats. Where Paros wins out is on the wine front. In fact, it’s one of the most wine-rich of the Cyclades. Check out the Moraitis Vinothéque in Naousa to sample your way through the crisp and minerally whites made possible by the unique terrior here.

Winner: Draw – it’s Paros for wine, Naxos for food.

Paros vs Naxos for price

There is almost nothing in it when it comes to the cost of holidays in either Paros or Naxos. Both are midrange island options. Thankfully, they aren’t up there with the ridiculously pricy likes of Santorini or Mykonos. But vacations to each are likely to cost more than they would in cheaper mainland places like the Peloponnese or Halkidiki. A good ballpark figure for a daily spend is around the $95-105 mark, which includes food, accommodation, and activities on both islands.

The average cost of hotels in both Paros and Naxos is something close to $40-80 per night for a midrange stay, of which there are plenty. You can expect to spend between $3-5 for a cold beer, less if it’s from a supermarket. Dining is usually around the $15-25 a head mark in local tavernas, and perhaps a touch more if you want wine with your meal. Naturally, rates will increase in the peak season, which runs from June to August. Consider coming in September or May to hit the shoulder seasons to chase good bargains but still get decent weather.

Winner: Draw. Both islands should cost you roughly the same.

Paros vs Naxos for outdoors adventure

Naxos is probably the better choice for those looking to head off the beaten track and explore the Greek wilds. There’s one simple reason for that: It’s larger. In fact, Naxos is the largest island in the whole Cyclades chain. Its center is dominated by peaks that rise to just over 1,000 meters above sea level. Cue Oros Fanari, Mount Oros. It’s the centerpiece of a nature park that has wonderful trails through olive groves and eucalyptus thickets. Backing that up are intrepid coast walks on the eastern shoreline and waterfall trails at Routsouna.

Paros is still decent if you want to go hiking. Its highest point is found at Agioi Pantes, some 770 meters above sea level. However, the better hiking tends to be along the coastal Detis Peninsula and amid the bucolic Lefkes Valley. In the first, you’ll spot the wave-splattered Cape Korakas and even some old Mycenean ruins . In the latter, you can visit ruined windmills built by the Byzantines and stop in time-stood-still villages.

Winner: Naxos

Paros vs Naxos for families

We actually think these are two of the very best options for family travelers who are looking to explore the famous Cyclades islands of the Aegean. The vibe is just about right. Yes, there are bustling bars in the main harbor towns of Naousa and Chora on Paros and Naxos respectively, but you also won’t have to go far to get yourself a chilled resort area with hotels and swimming pools just steps from the beach.

If we had to pick out one of the two islands in this category, it would be Naxos. The area of Plaka and the string of towns down from the main arrival point on the west coast has really helped to turn this one into a bit of a hub for family travelers. There aren’t big, gaudy waterparks a la Crete. There are soft-sanded beaches with calm waters and snorkeling aplenty.

Winner: Naxos, but only just.

Paros vs Naxos – our conclusion

Both Paros and Naxos are solid choices for travelers who want to experience the more authentic side of the Cyclades chain away from the bustling isles of Ios, Santorini, and Mykonos. They are large enough to disperse the crowds around plenty of beaches. And said beaches are pretty special, too. Overall, we’d say Paros has slightly livelier nightlife and better wineries and towns. However, Naxos is perfect for families, has stunning beaches, and superior hiking options.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Home > Paros Or Naxos: Which Greek Island Is Better, Naxos Or Paros?

Paros Or Naxos: Which Greek Island Is Better, Naxos Or Paros?

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Here is your guide to choosing between Paros and Naxos. Which would suit your Greek vacation better? Let us locals help you decide with ease.

Are you in a rush and want to know how to choose between Paros or Naxos? Here is what we think you should know:

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Naxos Or Paros

You’re seriously spoiled for choice when deciding which Greek island to visit . Most people go to the big islands, such as Rhodes , Santorini , Crete , or Mykonos . These are all great options, but they’re highly touristic, swamped, and, consequently, more expensive.

Keep reading below for our in-depth analysis on weighing up Paros vs. Naxos.

If you want to enjoy all the tourist fun this summer but don’t want  to go to the main islands , there are two options you should consider: Paros or Naxos.

Both of these Cyclades islands are beautiful and have amazing beaches to kick back and relax on. They’re packed with natural beauty, so they’re perfect for a relaxing break away from the noise.

These are close-by islands (40 minutes apart) that are not far away from Mykonos and Santorini . They can be reached pretty easily by ferries from either island .

But which should you visit? You could go to both, but what if you wanted to base yourself in one spot for a week or two ?

We recommend you book your ferries with Ferryhopper in advance here.

Paros vs naxos.

Paros is just 40 minutes away from Naxos by ferry, and it’s a fantastic spot for beach time and chilled-out vibes. Parikia is the capital and links to many other islands in the Cyclades. Compared to Naxos, Paros is slightly livelier, but don’t expect it to be anywhere near some of the more vibrant islands, such as Zante and Santorini!

Paros is the ideal spot for foodies, those who enjoy medium-level nightlife, and those who want a little romance . It’s definitely a more romantic island than Naxos.

Beaches on Paros tend to be a little smaller, and some are a little rougher around the edges than Naxos, but you can find opportunities to go waterskiing and sailing.

Naxos Is Best For You If…

Naxos is perfect for you if you’re seeking a family-friendly atmosphere, rich history, and endless sandy beaches. The island offers a wonderful mix of adventure and relaxation with plenty of activities suitable for children, making it an ideal destination for families. You will find charming traditional villages, lush landscapes, and casual tavernas serving up fresh, local food. Moreover, Naxos is less commercialized, allowing for an authentic experience that combines culture and nature. Whether you love exploring archaeological sites or enjoying quiet, scenic beaches, Naxos provides a laid-back island life that you will surely appreciate.

Paros Is Best For You If…

Paros is your go-to island if you’re after trendy vibes, unique sandy beaches, and a blend of relaxation and excitement. Whether you’re a couple looking for romantic spots or a solo traveler eager to explore, Paros offers gourmet cuisine, charming seaside villages, and a lively nightlife scene. The island is known for its trendy restaurants, boutique hotels, and vibrant social atmosphere. With easy-to-navigate terrain and excellent public transportation, it’s perfect for travelers who prefer a mix of leisurely exploration and energetic experiences. If you enjoy shopping in fashionable boutiques or experiencing trendy bars and clubs, Paros is the ideal choice for your Greek island getaway.

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Pros and cons of visiting paros, greece.

• Paros is a more lively island, and it has two main towns to explore.
• You’ll have fantastic food and plenty of nightlife in Paros , although it’s it’s not wild.
• There are also countless beaches, some of which are very secluded
• History lovers will love Panagia Ekatonapiliani, a church dating back to the 4th century and Byzantine times
• Paros is better than Naxos for shopping, fine dining, and boutique stores, and it’s also an excellent spot for honeymoons
• You will find many upmarket hotels on Paros
• The public transport in Paros is better than in Naxos’—the island has a road that goes all the way around it, so you can easily hire a car and explore more. The streets are also smooth and flat, as the island is less mountainous than Naxos
• Paros has more flights from Athens and other islands. You can also visit several other islands via the port
• Paros has no international airport, so you will have to travel indirectly
• If you want a low-cost holiday, Paros probably isn’t you, as it’s geared more toward fine dining and sophistication
• Nightlife is still not at a high level, so if that’s what you want, you should probably check out larger islands

Best Tours In Paros:

• 🚢 Take to the sea on your Paros vacation, and spend a day visiting the islands of Antiparos and Despotiko with traditional boat & BBQ
• 🍲 Learn more about Parian cuisine than you ever could by simply dipping into restaurants or recipes in this small-group cooking class in Paros
• 🚌 Enjoy the highlights of Paros and Antiparos without the hassle on this full-day bus tour

Naxos Vs. Paros, Greece

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands, located in the southern Aegean region. It has kilometers of sandy beaches and amazing mountain villages to explore. Chora is also a great place to spend time, being a port village with plenty of eateries, shopping opportunities, and historic spots to check out.

Naxos is ideal for chilled-out beach time, enjoying romantic meals or chilled-out evenings, and shopping for souvenirs at local craft markets. The scenery is truly magnificent, and there is lots of nature to explore, as well as ruins and old churches. You can also try outdoor sports, such as waterskiing, windsurfing, or sailing.

The only major downside of visiting Naxos, and indeed Paros, is that there isn’t an international airport on either island. That means you’ll have to fly to Athens or another Greek island and then get a domestic flight. Of course, you could also connect from another island via ferry. But is it worth the extra hassle to check out the island(s)? Yes!

Pros And Cons To Visiting Naxos

• In comparison to Paros, Naxos is much more laid-back and authentic
• It has long, sweeping beaches and a charming feel in the air
• You can go hiking and enjoy authentic life in the small, traditional villages, which allow you to see the real culture of the island
• Naxos is a family-friendly island, ideal for those who want to enjoy the sun and beauty without the noise
• Naxos has far better golden sand beaches than Paros!
• Compared to Paros, Naxos is better for sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and water skiing
• Naxos is ideal for people who don’t want an uptight eating experience; it’s more about chilled-out sunset tavernas without having to get too dressed up
• Chora is the best spot for shopping and exploring, with plenty of cobbled, winding streets to check out and buy souvenirs to take back home
• If you want to enjoy some vibrant nightlife, you won’t ever find it on Naxos. It’s about chilled-out evenings, beach time, and history/archaeology more than anything else.
• If you want to visit anywhere other than Chora, you’ll need to rent a car as the buses don’t go to the mountainous/inland areas.
• Flights from Athens and other Greek airports are less frequent in Naxos than in Paros  as Paros has a larger airport
• Naxos doesn’t have an international airport (neither does Paros).

Best Tours In Naxos:

• 🚶Discover the real Naxos with a local guide on this half-day tour that covers all the bases: an ancient ruin, a mountain village, a pottery, a distillery, and an olive oil factory
• 🏛️ Step back to ancient times and learn about Greek mythology as you walk around Naxos Town during the golden hour on this tour
• 🚢 Spend a day on this catamaran yacht sailing around Naxos with freshly prepared Greek lunch and wine

Can You Visit Both The Greek Islands Of Paros And Naxos

Yes, you can!

Choosing between Naxos and Paros is quite challenging because they are similar but have some significant differences. If both call out to you, and that’s very possible, then you can visit both during the space of one holiday.

The islands are very close , have the same weather patterns, and have direct ferry connections to the main islands around them and each other. You can also fly to Naxos or Paros from Athens via domestic flight. However, Paros does have more flights than Naxos.

Day Trip To Paros

You will find ferries between Naxos and Paros very regularly between the summer months, usually around 8 per day. They start at around 9.30 am and run until about 10.30 pm, although check schedules ahead of time as they can change. Tickets for the Naxos to Paros ferry can be brought online or at the port.

Naxos And Paros Beach Choices

• Kolymbithres Beach – Famous for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters
• Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) – Ideal for windsurfing, known for its golden sand and clear waters
• Santa Maria Beach – Popular for water sports and has a lively atmosphere
• Punda Beach – Known for its vibrant beach club and party scene
• Fargas Beach – A quieter beach with fine sand and beautiful waters
• Monastiri Beach – Located near a monastery, this beach is quiet and serene
• Livadia Beach – Close to Parikia, with plenty of amenities and shallow waters
• Parasporos Beach – Popular with young crowds, known for its beach bars and sunset views
• Aliki Beach – A more traditional beach with a family-friendly atmosphere
• Agios Prokopios Beach – One of the most popular beaches, known for its fine sand and clear water
• Agia Anna Beach – Adjacent to Agios Prokopios, with shallow waters and plenty of amenities
• Plaka Beach – A long stretch of sandy beach, less crowded with a more relaxed vibe
• Mikri Vigla Beach – Popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to strong winds
• Alyko Beach – Surrounded by cedar trees, offering a more secluded experience
• Pyrgaki Beach – A quiet and less developed beach, ideal for relaxation.
• Apollonas Beach – Located in a picturesque fishing village known for its pebbly shore
• Orkos Beach – Great for water sports, with a more rugged landscape
• Moutsouna Beach – A remote beach on the eastern side, ideal for those seeking tranquility
• Soros Beach – The most famous beach on the island, with golden sand and clear waters
• Psaraliki Beaches (I & II) – Two adjacent beaches with shallow waters, ideal for families
• Agios Georgios Beach – Located near a small village, offering stunning views and a quiet atmosphere
• Glyfa Beach – A small and peaceful beach, perfect for those seeking a quiet spot
• Faneromeni Beach – A secluded beach accessible by boat, known for its crystal-clear waters
• Apantima Beach – A small beach with calm waters, great for a relaxing swim

Other Greek Islands To Visit

From Paros and Naxos, you can visit several other Greek islands, especially those in the Cyclades group. Here are islands you can easily reach by ferry:

From Paros:

• Antiparos – A small island just a short ferry ride away from Paros, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches
• Mykonos – Famous for its nightlife, luxury resorts, and picturesque towns
• Santorini – Renowned for its stunning caldera views, white-washed buildings, and romantic sunsets
• Syros – The capital of the Cyclades, known for its elegant architecture and vibrant cultural scene
• Tinos – Known for its traditional villages, religious sites, and beautiful landscapes
• Ios – Popular for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches
• Sifnos – Famous for its excellent cuisine, pottery, and charming villages
• Milos – Known for its stunning beaches, unique rock formations, and volcanic landscapes
• Amorgos – Famous for its dramatic landscapes and the Monastery of Hozoviotissa
• Folegandros – A lesser-known gem with a beautiful, unspoiled charm and scenic views

From Naxos:

• Mykonos – Easily accessible and offers a mix of beaches, nightlife, and culture
• Santorini – Just like Paros, it’s it’s to reach and offers a unique experience with its volcanic landscape
• Amorgos – Known for its rugged beauty and rich history, reachable by a short ferry ride
• Koufonisia – A small group of islands known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for a day trip
• Iraklia – A quiet, small island perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape
• Schinoussa – Another quiet island with beautiful beaches, ideal for relaxation
• Donoussa – A tiny island with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning, secluded beaches
• Sifnos – Accessible via ferry, known for its beautiful villages and culinary traditions
• Milos – Reachable by ferry, offering a variety of unique landscapes and beaches
• Folegandros – A peaceful island with dramatic cliffs and a charming main town

Both Paros and Naxos serve as excellent bases for island hopping within the Cyclades. Frequent ferry connections to a variety of islands allow for easy exploration of the surrounding area.

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Paros Or Naxos FAQs

What are the main differences between naxos and paros.

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with diverse landscapes, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches. Paros, on the other hand, offers a mix of traditional charm, vibrant nightlife, and lovely beaches.

Which island is more suitable for families?

Naxos is often considered more family-friendly due to its calm atmosphere, long sandy beaches, and a wide range of activities suitable for children.

Is Paros or Naxos better for water sports enthusiasts?

Paros is known for being a hub for water sports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts.

Which island has better nightlife options?

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene, Paros offers more options with its numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties than Naxos.

Can I visit both Naxos and Paros during one trip?

Yes, it’s possible to visit both Naxos and Paros during one trip as they are relatively close to each other and well-connected by ferries.

What types of accommodations are available on both islands?

Both Naxos and Paros offer a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, villas, apartments, and charming guesthouses.

Which island is more suitable for a relaxing holiday?

If you prefer a more laid-back and tranquil experience, Naxos, with its vast landscapes and quieter beaches, maybe the better choice.

Wrap Up On The Naxos Or Paros Debate

Both Naxos and Paros are ideal choices for those who want to enjoy nature and kick back and relax. If you’re looking for a romantic break, choose Paros. If you’re looking for a chilled-out family spot, choose Naxos.

However, you could also side-step the decision and forget about deciding if Paros Naxos is better, and that is to visit both Greek islands!

So, tell us, has our Naxos vs. Paros travel guide helped you? Which island, Paros or Naxos, will you choose?

• Best Beach Clubs In Paros
• Your Guide To Paros Island
• Mykonos To Paros Ferry
• Best Beaches In Naxos
• Your Guide To Naxos Island
• Mykonos To Naxos Ferry
• Naxos Vs. Crete – How To Choose?

Comments (2)

Thankyou for sharing very interesting content.

Hello, such great information!

Which beach on Naxos is that first photo from? It looks really small and secluded and beautiful.

Thank you :)

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Greek Island Showdown: Naxos or Paros – Which one is BEST for You?

Naxos or Paros? Choosing between these two amazing Greek islands is no easy feat. Here’s how to decide which dreamy island is best for you.

Ahh, the Greek islands…a sun-kissed paradise of golden beaches, ancient ruins, turquoise lagoons, and mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine.

Obviously, you should go! I mean, right now. Seriously. (Unless you’re reading this in the winter, then wait until spring when the islands re-open for the season.)

But when it comes to choosing the perfect Greek island for your next vacation, the options are beyond overwhelming.

There are, of course, the most famous destinations like  Santorini ,  Mykonos , and  Crete . And then there are low-key stunners like Symi and Milos .

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

But wait, there’s more. A LOT more.

In fact, the Greek archipelago has nearly 2,000 islands of varying sizes and accessibility.

So how do you choose?

After more than a dozen visits to these magical islands over the years, I can certainly understand the dilemma. They’re all fabulous!

Read More: The 7 Best Greek Islands to Visit This Summer (2024)

And while this post won’t help you choose among ALL of them, I can help you with one common island decision – the question of Naxos or Paros.

Naxos vs Paros

Two of the most popular Greek islands to visit are Naxos and Paros.

The two islands are so close together and similar in size that many people find themselves trying to decide between these two island gems.

Both islands are situated in the heart of the most famous island group in the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades. Made up of 33 sparkling islands and islets, the Cycladic group is Greece, straight out of central casting.

These idyllic isles spoil visitors annually with lovely beaches, whitewashed towns, charming fishing villages, and indigo church domes. Not to mention dazzling sunsets for days!

So which is better, Naxos or Paros?

The answer, of course, depends on what you’re looking for in an island getaway. And perhaps who you’re traveling with.

For example, one island is better for nightlife. And the other has the edge for historic sites.

If you’re torn between the enchanting island of Naxos and the posh island of Paros for your perfect Greek escape, not to worry. I’m here to help!

First, let’s cover the basics of both islands. And then I’ll weigh in on the pros and cons of each.

First, let’s talk about Naxos

While Naxos Greece is best known for its abundant beaches and beautiful scenery, the island is also home to plenty of fascinating ancient sites to explore. Not to mention fantastic food – much of it grown locally right there on the island.

Ready for adventure? Naxos has lots of options including scuba diving, windsurfing, cycling to different villages, or just finding a hidden beach to enjoy all to yourself.

Of course, if you prefer a less adventurous holiday, Naxos is one of the best Greek islands to visit for pure relaxation at a gorgeous spa resort.

Read the Full Naxos Post Here:

7 Reasons Naxos Greece is the Best Greek Island (for Everything)

Now, let’s talk about Paros

In ancient Greece, Paros was famed for its marble quarries. Known as Parian marble, it was one of the world’s finest varieties and brought wealth to the island through trading.

Today, tourism is the primary source of income for the island. And in recent years, Paros has become one of the most popular Greek islands to visit, known mainly for unique beaches and a sophisticated dining and nightlife scene.

And then there’s also smaller, sister-island, Antiparos. It’s a fabulous destination on its own.

Read the Full Paros Post Here:

5 Reasons to Fall in Love with Paros Greece in 2024

Now that you have a quick overview of each island, let’s break down the specifics.

Naxos vs Paros: A Comparison

Ease of access, my pick: naxos.

Which island is easier to get to, Naxos or Paros?

Getting to both Naxos and Paros is relatively straightforward, as both islands boast airports with frequent direct flights from Athens.

But before you depart Athens…

If this is your first trip to Greece, you absolutely must spend at least a few days exploring the city’s incredible historic sights. I know, I know, the Greek Islands are enticing. But Athens is literally the birthplace of Western civilization. And that’s pretty darn impressive. If time is short, here’s a foolproof one-day itinerary:

How to Spend 24 Hours in Athens

However, Naxos gets the nod here, as it’s the largest and most central island in the Cyclades archipelago. This means more frequent and reliable ferry connections from Athens and other nearby islands.

Both Naxos and Paros are well-connected to the rest of the Cyclades by ferry. If you plan to visit several islands, you’ll find frequent connections from either island to Santorini , Milos , Ios, and Mykonos .

Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is  FerryHopper.com.

Best Hotel Options

When it comes to hotels, both Naxos and Paros offer a range of choices, from luxury resorts to charming boutique hotels.

However, Naxos has the upper hand in terms of affordability with superb budget-friendly hotels like the  Amodari Studios on the Beach and the  Liana Beach Hotel & Spa . So it’s an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers as well.

It’s also a larger island with more hotel options overall.

Of course, with that in mind, my favorite hotel on either island is on Paros (more on that shortly).

Most delicious Dining Options

Foodies, rejoice! Both islands boast a delightful array of restaurants and tavernas serving traditional Greek dishes.

But Naxos gets the win in the culinary arena, too.

The island is well known for its delicious food. Mouth-watering meats, vegetables (especially potatoes), and cheeses are some of the island’s best homegrown products. Naxos boasts a fertile interior and lush valleys making it the agricultural capital of the Greek Islands.

To sample all those locally produced delicacies, there are tons of restaurants to choose from.

But if you’re looking for a true Naxian experience, head to one of the many family-run tavernas like  To Elliniko  in Naxos Town.

A Lively Nightlife Scene

My pick: paros.

When it comes to nightlife, Paros takes the spotlight. Picture vibrant beach parties, lively bars lining the picturesque streets, and seaside cocktails under the stars.

Sure, Naxos has a number of bars, clubs, and cafes in bustling Naxos Town. And if you’re staying in that area you’ll find plenty to do in the evenings.

But Paros’s nightlife scene is legendary. It’s a magnet for partygoers and young travelers seeking to dance the night away under the starlit skies.

Energetic Parikia and trendy Naoussa are the island’s nightlife hubs.

Fabulous Beaches

This one is tougher. Both islands have some pretty spectacular beaches.

Naxos flaunts endless stretches of sandy shores, perfect for beachcombers and water sports enthusiasts. Plaka Beach, in particular, with its azure waters and golden sand, is a must.

Other notable must-visit beaches on Naxos include Agios Prokopios, Mikri Vigla, and Aliko Beach.

On the other hand, the beaches of Paros are no slouch either. Stunning Kolymbithres is one of the most unique beaches I’ve ever seen, with its extraordinary rock formations and secluded coves.

Santa Maria Beach and Marchello Beach are also beautiful places to relax for the day. Overall, Paros beaches offer a lovely blend of sandy coves and rugged bays.

But in my opinion, it’s nearly impossible to top Naxos in this particular category.

Read More: The 5 Best Naxos Beaches for Pure Greece Perfection

While both islands have charming little shops lining their cobblestone streets, Paros offers a more diverse shopping experience compared to Naxos.

The charming main town of Parikia is a shopper’s haven. It’s a delightful blend of quaint local shops and boutiques selling a wide array of items, from handmade crafts and souvenirs to trendy clothing and accessories. The shops on Paros cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, so it’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and mementos to take home.

Naxos, while still offering plenty of charming local shops, doesn’t quite match the shopping experience found in Paros. I admit that I’m not much of a shopper when I travel. But my favorite thing to buy on Naxos is the famous local Kitron liqueur (it’s not available anywhere else!).

Tip: Don’t miss a stop by the Vallindra Kitron Distillery in the heart of Chalki village.

But overall, for avid shoppers looking to indulge in some retail therapy, island-style, Paros takes the win.

History & Cultural Attractions

For history buffs, Naxos takes the crown.

If you arrive in Naxos by ferry, you can’t miss the island’s most iconic historic site, the Portara, it literally greets you in the harbor. Constructed in 530 BC, the Portara is a giant doorway to the never-finished Temple of Apollo.

Additionally, the Venetian Castle (Naxos Kastro) and Old Town are captivating reminders of Naxos’ rich history and past grandeur. Perched above the whitewashed houses of Naxos Town, the “Kastro” was the seat of power in the Cyclades for 300 years.

The Statues of Kouros and the 6th century BC Temple of Demeter are two more of the worthy ancient attractions on Naxos.

Read More: 7 Best Naxos Tours for the Ultimate Greek Experience (2024)

Meanwhile, Paros offers its own historic charm in the traditional village of Lefkes, the island’s original capital during the Middle Ages.

Built on a verdant hilltop covered with pine trees, Lefkes is one of the loveliest villages in Paros. Its narrow, shaded streets are lined with neoclassical homes and Venetian architecture.

The village’s main church, the Church of Agia Triada, is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture crafted in white marble. If you’re up for a good walk, follow the island’s oldest trail, the  Byzantine Road . The 3.5 km footpath dates back to the Byzantine era and is paved with Parian marble.

Read More: The 5 Best Paros Tours You Don’t Want to Miss (2024)

Now that we’ve compared the basics, let’s talk about which island is best for various types of travelers.

Naxos or Paros – which is best for…

Both islands are great for family holidays. However, if you’re looking for the perfect Greek island for a family vacation, I’d give Naxos the edge.

Naxos has an exceptionally family-friendly atmosphere and a range of activities that cater to travelers of all ages. The island’s long stretches of soft sandy beaches and shallow crystal-clear water create a safe and enjoyable playground for a day at the beach with the kids.

Additionally, Naxos has numerous family-oriented accommodations, from spacious villas to cozy beachfront hotels with plenty of space for the whole family.

For example, just a short walk from Plaka Beach, the Seaside Naxos Holiday Villas  is a complex of 4 holiday villas with 3 or 4 bedrooms each. Two have their own private pools and are perfect for a large family or two families traveling together.

Exploring the rich history of Naxos is also a fun educational adventure for kids, with ancient ruins like the impressive Portara. It’s easy to explore the site via a manmade walkway from Naxos Town and free to visit 24 hours a day.

It’s also one of the island’s most popular spots to watch the sunset.

Naxos’ laid-back ambiance and genuine hospitality cultivate a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect Greek island for families to spend quality time together.

Couples looking for romance

I might be slightly biased on this one because I personally found Paros more romantic on our last visit. However, part of that might have been due to our fabulously romantic hotel, the  Anna Platanou Suites .

With its captivating blend of stunning landscapes, intimate ambiance, and romantic settings, Paros is the perfect choice for couples. For romance, skip the main town of Parikia, and head straight for Naoussa, a cosmopolitan fishing village perched directly on the sea.

Naoussa is home to the island’s poshest seafood restaurants, elegant cocktail bars, and trendy shops. And with plenty of romantic hotel options, like the enchanting Parilio Hotel Paros , it makes a great home base to explore Paros.

In the evenings, Naoussa’s sophisticated dining and nightlife options are perhaps second only to Santorini.

Dazzling beaches, like Kolymbithres, offer secluded coves and mesmerizing rock formations, perfect for couples in search of tranquility and seclusion. Not to mention all those stunning Paros sunsets!

Tip: Sunset from your own private hot tub is a Bucket List must (see above!).

From candlelit dinners at charming seafront tavernas to romantic hotels and plenty of dreamy scenery, Paros is a winner for travelers seeking romance and relaxation.

Solo Travelers or Friends Traveling Together

If you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends, you’re probably more interested in nightlife than the average traveler.

And when it comes to nightlife, Paros vs Naxos is a slightly easier decision. Paros definitely has the edge here.

Solo travelers can embrace the island’s bustling nightlife scene and make new friends at the numerous beach bars and clubs in Parikia and Naoussa.

Adrenaline junkie? You’ll love the island’s energetic water sports scene, including windsurfing and kiteboarding. And there are plenty of opportunities for group activities.

Whether you’re seeking new connections or bonding with old ones, Paros is a terrific Greek island destination to visit solo or bring the whole squad for a fun-filled holiday.

The Bottom Line?

Both Naxos and Paros are incredible Greek islands to visit, each with a unique charm and allure.

Naxos shines with affordability, superb beaches, and rich culinary experiences. It’s an excellent choice for families and couples seeking relaxation and local culture.

If you’re traveling with the whole family, I’d recommend Naxos.

Paros, on the other hand, has a spirited nightlife scene, diverse shopping, and chic seaside villages. It’s a great choice for couples, singles, and travelers looking for an energetic social atmosphere.

So if you’re looking for nightlife or romance, I lean toward Paros.

Ultimately, your choice should be guided by how you like to travel and who you’re traveling with. But don’t worry, whichever island you choose, you really can’t go wrong.

So, which is better, Paros or Naxos?

I love them both. And you probably will, too. So only you can decide which island is better.

But luckily, you don’t have to.

I mean, hey, they’re only 40 minutes apart by ferry, so why not visit both! Three or four days on each island is the perfect recipe for a heavenly trip to the Greek Islands.

So don’t choose, I say.

Visit BOTH Naxos and Paros. It’s okay to love them both.

Planning a trip to Greece in 2024?

From the most spectacular beaches to the tastiest treats to try, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Greek Islands!

Looking for more terrific Greek Islands to Visit? Start Here:

5 Best Things to Do on Marvelous Milos Greece (2024)

Things to Do in Crete Greece (Plus the Perfect 5-day Crete Itinerary)

How to Make the Most of 24 Hours on the Greek Island of Rhodes

Sparkling Symi is the Best Greek Island You’ve Never Heard Of

The Meaning of Mykonos: The Island that Inspired a Lifetime of Wanderlust

Paros vs Naxos: Which Island Is Better?

Planning a summer vacation to the Greek islands and choosing between visiting Paros or Naxos? Well, welcome to the ultimate Paros vs. Naxos guide!

I visited Paros before heading to Naxos for the first time. While so close, the two islands had their unique beauty and activities.

First thing: The great thing about visiting Greece is that going to a “bad island” or city is almost impossible. All Greece destinations are stunningly beautiful in their own ways.

However, with over 200 inhabited islands on top of the incredible mainland destinations, we might not have time to visit it all (and if you do, tell me your secrets!). Therefore, decisions must be made on where to best spend vacation time based on budget and personal preferences. 

This blog will specifically focus on comparing and contrasting the islands of Paros and Naxos. From food and nightlife culture to beaches , day trips , and public transportation , read below to find out which Greek islands will make your perfect Greek vacation.

Going On A Trip To Greece? Check Out These Resources!

🛌  Accommodations:  I always use  Booking.com for my lodging. 🚘  Car Rentals:  To find the best prices,  I use Discover Cars! ✈️  Flights:  To find great flight prices, I check on  Expedia. 📍 Tours:  I use  Viator to find memorable experiences.

Paros vs. Naxos: Which Greek Island is Better?

A simple “yes” or “no” answer is pretty impossible. Both of these islands are their own slice of paradise. The more appropriate answer to this question is “it depends”!

If you’re able to, I highly encourage you to visit both! It’s a short ferry ride between both islands. Even though a 5-mile-long channel separates the two islands, they have different experiences and vibes .

For example, if you love smaller but livelier towns with luxury boutiques and a great nightlife culture , then Paros might be for you.

Paros may be smaller overall, but it packs a punch with better shopping, more beaches, and a more romantic vibe. Plus, it’s home to the iconic blue-domed St. Nikolas Chapel.

If you like larger, quieter towns with a broader selection of activities, Naxos will make the perfect vacation spot . The beaches in Naxos are longer , the vibe is more laid back , and towns and villages have a more rustic versus romantic feel . 

Still undecided? Continue reading below!

Best Things To Do in Paros

✅wander around naoussa.

The charming fishing village of Naoussa is a must-visit when in Paros. As the island’s second largest town, it’s bursting with idyllic Greek charm. Naoussa is also where the Venetian Fortress was built to protect Paros against pirates.

The quaint alleyways of Naoussa look like something out of a movie, with whitewashed houses , Aegean-blue shutters , and cobblestone walkways . The cobblestone streets also greatly mimic the ones in Mykonos Town that you can easily see on a day trip by ferry .

Stroll through the town and stop into a few elegant shops that find their home here before heading to the harbor.

✅Antiparos Day Trip

If you’re staying on Paros for more than a couple of days, taking a day trip to its sister island, Antiparos, is a great idea. Luckily, many boat tours visit Antiparos and even Despotiko as a bonus!

The only other way to get to Antiparos from Paros is via ferry from Pounta. Given that point, taking one of the first boats out in the morning is best to maximize your time.

Once there, walk around Chora, the island’s main village. Explore Antiparos Castle, visit one of the island’s many beach caves, and watch a sunset at Sifneiko Beach.

➡️ Book this incredible Antiparos and Despotiko Cruise !

✅Relax at One of the Beach Clubs

One of the most popular activities while on Paros is visiting one of its many beach clubs.

The best part is there are beach clubs for every budget , ranging from luxury to family and budget-friendly clubs. This provides an excellent alternative to the high prices in Mykonos .

Regardless of budget, one thing is sure: each beach boasts impressive food and stunningly clear waters! Some of the most famous Paros beach clubs include Cabana Beach Bar Restaurant , Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant , and Santa Maria Beach Bar .

✅Visit Lefkes

Once the capital of Paros during medieval times, Lefkes now stands as an architectural wonder. Here, you can explore several beautiful medieval churches , stroll the completely pedestrianized alleyways , or grab breakfast at one of the many cute cafes and restaurants .

Be sure to sit at the Byzantine Square and take it all in – and don’t forget your camera! You’ll need it.

✅Take a Cruise Around Paros and Other Islands

Many tour companies offer cruises around Paros and nearby islands if you prefer to take to the water. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to explore the island and its surroundings!

Secluded beaches, sea caves, remote towns, and nearby islands are all reachable by boat. Additionally, Paros offers some of the best snorkeling waters in Greece. You’ll enjoy plentiful marine life in warm, clear waters.

➡️ Book this Semi-Private Full Day Paros Cruise!

Best Things To Do in Naxos

✅naxos town and the venetian castle.

The charming capital of Naxos Town (Chora) presents visitors with a great mix of history , picture cobblestone streets , and plenty of restaurants and cafes . You have it all in a single location between the views, authentic Greek food, and beaches.

This ancient fortification of the Venetian Castle was once the shield of Naxos Town. It played a huge role in local politics, education, and religion. Today, it stands in beautiful ruins.

The pentagonal-shaped fortress has four levels and is the only castle in Naxos with a round shape. A few towers surrounding the fortress still stand, one accessible by elevator.  There, the Avaton Cafe offers amazing views of Naxos.

✅Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise

One of the best ways to explore the most secluded beaches of Naxos is on a full-day catamaran cruise . These cruises typically include a traditional Greek lunch , snorkel gear , and complimentary drinks .

The beaches on these sails are great places to swim or enjoy water activities like snorkeling . Additionally, the boats can take you to hard-to-reach and remote beaches you may not have considered going to! Catamaran cruises are one of my favorite excursions in Greece.

➡️ Take this scenic Naxos Catamaran Tour!

✅Explore the Many, Beautiful Beaches

As the largest of the Cyclades islands, the beaches in Naxos are longer and more varied. Naxos has some of the best beaches in Greece and the Mediterranean. Most beaches have soft, fine sand lined with striking blue waters.

With views of nearby islands and captivating sunsets, you can easily spend all day at the beach. In addition, you’ll find beach clubs, chic restaurants, water sports centers, and sunbeds at most beaches.

Given these points, if you’re looking for a beach getaway between Paros vs. Naxos, then Naxos promises more in that category.

Some popular beaches include Agios Prokopios , Adia Anna , Agios Georgios , and Plaka Beach . Even better, the most popular beaches are accessible by the public bus system.

✅Watch the Sunset at the Temple of Apollo

Located on the islet of Palatia is the Temple of Apollo, or The Portara of Naxos.

This striking marble doorway is one of the most important landmarks of Naxos. In standing since 530 BC, this site is a must when visiting Naxos.

Once a short strip of land, a causeway connects the islet to the island’s northern region. Encased by rich Greek mythology, this location is also a great spot to catch a classic Greek sunset .

Ensure that you arrive early for a good spot as it is one of the most, if not the most, popular places to watch the sunset.

✅Do a Delicious Food Tour

A fun and interactive way to learn the basics of traditional Naxian cuisine is to take a food tour with a local! Many tours allow participants to try traditional Greek dishes, wines, and snacks while also getting a history lesson about Naxos.

What better way to enjoy your time in Naxis than a local showing you the best foods?! If you’re a cheese fan, Naxos is the perfect place, as there are many local cheeses to try. The tours last about 4-5 hours and will leave you satisfied.

➡️ Check out this delicious Naxos Old Town Food Tour!

Paros or Naxos: Beaches

Both Paros and Naxos are known as two of the most beautiful Greek islands, so there is no clear winner. However, there are some slight differences between the beaches on both islands, so read on to learn more!

Paros Beaches

While the beaches in Paros are typically smaller, they are certainly more varied. Since the island is known for being more lively, most beaches attract a younger crowd looking for a good time.

Many beaches offer beach clubs, restaurants, cocktail bars, and water sports centers open until the early morning. You’ll be in the ultimate paradise soaking up the sun and enjoying pristine views.

Some popular beaches include Golden Beach, Santa Maria Beach, and Kolymbithres Beach , for their unique rock formations. 

Naxos Beaches

Naxos is home to some of the best beaches that you can find in Greece. As a larger island, there are sandy and rocky beaches, which also means more activities.

The waters off the shorelines also tend to be more shallow in Naxos, which is great for water activities and swimming.

Unlike Paros, many of the best beaches in Naxos are within proximity of each other. The public buses even visit popular beaches to make things even easier.

Overall, the beaches here boast a more laid-back vibe and are better for families with young children. A few of the most popular beaches in Naxos include Plaka Beach , Agios Prokopios , and Agios Georgios Beach . 

🏖️ Paros vs. Naxos for beaches? Naxos!

Paros or Naxos: Costs

Vacations to the Cycladic islands typically aren’t regarded as the least expensive. However, when comparing the two islands, Naxos generally offers lower prices . There are also several ways to minimize costs when visiting Paros and Naxos.

Read below to learn which destination would be better for your wallet. 

Accommodations in Paros

Travelers may refer to Paros as a “mini Mykonos,” but the prices of hotels and resorts are lower there. If you’re on a tight budget, many hostels and hotels in Pariki and Naoussa can cost $60 or lower.

Some of the best budget option accommodations include Paros Backpacker, Cheap Rooms, and Ayeri Hotel. 

A typical nightly rate of a mid-range hotel in Paros can cost between $100 and $ 250, sometimes more. If it’s a more upscale experience you’re looking for, you can make Paros as luxurious as you want.

Popular upscale accommodations include Summer Senses Luxury Resort, Avant Mar, and Cosme. The latter property costs upwards of $1500 a night!

👉 TRAVEL TIP: One of the simplest ways to save when visiting these islands is to visit outside peak season. In addition, booking in advance can save you money.

Where to Stay in Paros

📍 Avant Mar ($$$) – This 5-star hotel needs to be at the top of your list for luxurious stays in Paros. Featuring a pool, certain rooms with private pools, and a delicious breakfast, this place is hard to beat. Other amenities include room service, free parking, and a free airport shuttle.

📍 Archipelagos Studios ($$) – This is where I personally stayed . In addition to the helpful staff, this accommodation has a great location in Naoussa, offers a (paid) shuttle service, and cozy rooms, with some even having sea views.

📍 Ayeri Hotel ($) – A hotel that won’t break the budget and is located in Parikia. Hotel guests can enjoy easy access to the beach, a prime location, and housekeeping.

Accommodations in Naxos

Overall, accommodations in Naxos are generally less expensive than in Paros . As a larger island with more options, prices are driven down.

Many of the hotels on Naxos also boast a more traditional and rustic vibe than Paros, which couples and those with younger children prefer.

If you’re minding your wallet, a handful of hostels on the island offer shared and private rooms. The most popular budget hostel on the island is Soula Hotel Naxos. 

Mid-range hotels are plentiful, cost an average of $64 per night, and can be as much as $150. More upscale beachfront properties and resorts can cost upwards of $600 per night for a luxury villa but are usually between $150 and $300.

Where to Stay in Naxos

📍 Milestones Naxos ($$$) – If a luxurious stay is your priority, then Milestones Naxos is the perfect option. This 5-star hotel provides amazing service, rooms with outdoor jacuzzis, and a continental breakfast.

📍 Ampelos Suites ($$) – This is where I stayed . Just a 10-minute walk from the center of Naxos Town, this accommodation offers a great location. Guests can enjoy the helpful staff, reasonably priced shuttle service, and tasty breakfast (for a fee).

📍 Fikas Hotel ($) – Offering incredible rates, this hotel has a swimming pool, stylish rooms, and breakfast. Additional amenities included are free parking and a bar.

💰 Paros vs. Naxos for costs? Naxos!

Paros or Naxos: Getting Around 

If you’re considering visiting Paros or Naxos, you must know how to get around one or the other (or both if you still can’t decide!) 

The good news is that traveling between the islands is easy due to their proximity to one another. Each island also has multiple modes of transportation.

This not only makes traveling inter-island easier but also makes connecting to the greater Greek island system easier. 

Getting Around Paros

Paros is home to its domestic airport, Paros Airport (PAS). The airport offers 45-minute flights to and from the mainland cities of Athens and Thessaloniki. You can also get to Paros via ferry from Athens, Tinos, or Ios.

Once there, Paros has a public bus system (KTEL) that is cheap and efficient. To view the bus schedule, click here .

One of the most flexible options for getting around Paros is renting a car through Discover Cars . This gives you the flexibility to visit several picturesque villages like Lefkes and Marpissa. In addition, ATVs and scooters are available to rent at various shops.

➡️ Book your Paros rental car through Discover Cars here!

Taxis are also available but usually become the most expensive transportation option. Unlike transportation in islands like Mykonos , there is no Uber service available in Paros.

Getting Around Naxos

Naxos also has a domestic airport, Naxos Airport Apollon (JNX). It only receives smaller planes from Athens airport, but it’s a quick 45-minute, convenient flight. 

You can also reach Naxos by ferry from Athens, Santorini, or Mykonos. However, the sail time may vary, so checking schedules and itineraries is important when planning.

Naxos also offers rental cars, a KTEL bus system from the Old Town, and taxi stands near the ferry port. The bus system is inexpensive and efficient and visits many popular beaches.

Like Paros, the Uber app does not operate in Naxos, as the app currently only works in a few destinations like Santorini .

Not only will you get more flexibility by renting a car, but you can visit the more remote destinations in Naxos. Discover Cars is my go-to resource because it provides the best rates from both local and international companies.

➡️ Book your Naxos rental car through Discover Cars here!

🚗 Paros vs. Naxos for getting around? Both! Both of the islands offer the same transportation options.

Paros or Naxos: Nightlife

If you aim to stay out partying until the early morning hours, there’s a clear-cut answer for comparing the nightlife. Between the two islands, Paros is undoubtedly the winner in this category.

This isn’t to say Naxos doesn’t have its fair share of bars and clubs to have a good time. Simply put, Paros has a much different vibe. Let’s dive into this more below:

Paros Nightlife 

They don’t call Paros a “Mini Mykonos” for nothing. The small island’s lively cocktail bars and clubs live up to the hype. Some of the most popular party spots can be found in Parikia and Naoussa.

A few of the best places to go out in Parikia include The Dubliner Irish Bar , Pirate Bar , and BeBop .

On the other hand, if you’re in Naoussa, don’t miss out on Sante Cocktail Bar , Linardo , and Kosmos Cocktail Bar , where the drinks flow steadily, and the dancing never stops. Still, keep in mind that certain establishments may only be open seasonally. 

Naxos Nightlife

If you’re looking for a true party scene, you won’t find it in Naxos. It would be best to head to places like Paros, Mykonos, or Santorini for lively nightlife .

The options for clubs and cocktail bars are minimal, and the liveliness can’t compare to Paros.

However, some bars and clubs in Chora serve great drinks and even better vibes. A few popular spots include Toro Cocktail Bar , The Swing Bar , and The Ocean Club . 

🍾Paros vs. Naxos for Nightlife? Paros!

FAQs: Paros vs. Naxos

So, is Paros worth visiting? Is Naxos worth visiting? If you’re still on the fence about visiting Paros or Naxos on your Greece vacation, read the common FAQs below for more answers!

How to Get from Paros to Naxos

The only way to get from Paros to Naxos is by boat . The ferry from Paros to Naxos sails up to 9 times daily during the summer and takes less than an hour.

Four ferry companies offer services to the islands: Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines, Golden Star Ferries, and Sea Jets. Ferry ticket prices range from €15 ($17) to €33 ($37) per person. 

🛥️ Book Your Ferry Tickets Here!

How Far is Paros from Naxos?

Paros and Naxos are very close in the distance as they are neighbors. The distance from Paros to Naxos is only 12 miles (20 kilometers), although the sailing distance from Paros Port to Naxos Port is 24 miles (39 kilometers).

This short distance makes it very convenient to visit both islands during the same trip!

Is Paros More Touristy than Naxos?

Both islands see their fair share of tourists each year. However, the different vibes of each island can make Paros seem more touristy than Naxos.

Naxos has more of a rustic and traditional “classic Greek” feel than Paros’s lively cosmopolitan feel. In return, Naxos attracts a more family-friendly crowd than Paros.

Should I Spend Longer in Naxos or Paros?

Deciding on which island to spend a longer time on with Paros vs. Naxos can be challenging. However, it will ultimately depend on your preferences.

If you truly want to relax on some of the best picturesque beaches on your trip , then you should spend more time in Naxos. However, if you want a bigger party and shopping scene , then Paros is the best choice to spend a longer time in.

Which Island Has Better Day Trips? 

This decision is tough as both islands offer day trips to epic landmarks and towns. On both islands, sightseeing tours take visitors to destinations via boat and bus. In Naxos, these destinations, like secluded beaches and coves , are otherwise difficult to reach.

➡️ Book this Naxos Day Trip to incredible beaches!

➡️ Book this Paros Day Trip to Antiparos!

On Paros, the most popular day trip is to the island of Antiparos , less than a mile away. You can also take day trips to other Greek islands from Paros and Naxos, including Santorini, Mykonos, and Delos. The choice is yours!

Which Island is Better for Honeymoons?

The answer to this is difficult since both islands offer great food, authentic Greek island vibes, and stunning beaches. The ultimate answer to this depends on the activities you and your partner like and the overall experience you wish to have.

For example, Paros is considered the more romantic of the two , with soft beaches, charming restaurants, and picturesque villages. On the other hand, Naxos has a more traditional, rustic feel with classic tavernas, rocky caves and coastlines, and ancient architecture.

Which Island is Better for Families? 

Due to its laid-back and relaxed vibe, the clear answer is Naxos. To clarify, this doesn’t mean Paros doesn’t offer any family-friendly activities. To put it short, Naxos has a larger variety of them.

This paired with Paros’s “party until the sun comes up” vibe, and it’s an easy choice. On Naxos, families can enjoy historic tours, chill beach days, hiking trails, boat tours, and more without the turn-up. Agios Georgios is one of the best, if not most popular, beaches for families.

Which Island is Better for Solo Travelers? 

From personal experience as a solo traveler to both islands, it again depends on your preferences. The main difference lies in how lively you want the trip to be.

If you’re searching for a better island to make friends and more of a cosmopolitan feel , it’ll be Paros. The livelier scene makes it easier to mingle with others. Naxos is also full of many families.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quieter vacation in your own space, then Naxos is the better choice. However, there is still a nightlife scene and plenty of friendly locals and tourists to meet.

To Sum Up: Paros vs. Naxos

If you’re still weighing the pros and cons of a Paros vs. Naxos vacation in your mind, I get it. Both islands are known as two of the most beautiful islands in Greece, and for good reason. It’s generally hard to decide which islands are worth visiting in Greece .

If you have the time and the budget, I recommend visiting both. But that’s not possible; maybe the below overview of each island will make a decision easier:

If you’re on a bit more budget and want to experience a calmer, more laid-back Greek vacation, choose Naxos . Naxos boasts larger and longer beaches, more activities, classic Greek tavernas, and a more rustic and traditional Greek vibe.

Choose Paros if you want to party until the sun rises, sleep less, and experience a more cosmopolitan vibe. Paros is brimming with a diverse culinary scene, lively beach clubs, cocktail bars, and great shopping.

Regardless of your choice, there’s one thing certain: you won’t have a bad time or meal. Safe travels! While you’re in the Cyclades, you can also easily visit Syros Island !

Tamara is the owner and author of My Elated Odyssey. Her blog helps travelers with tips, tricks, and travel info for various destinations. Travelers will discover hidden gems and unique destinations from her posts. When she isn't writing blog posts, Tamara enjoys working out and photography. You can find her on Instagram @myelatedodyssey

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Naxos or Paros: Which Island To Choose In 2024

When we were planning our recent family holiday, we only had a short amount of time for a Greek island getaway before we needed to be in the United Kingdom . With fairly young children, we quickly worked out that basing ourselves on one island would be best – and that we should choose an island that was fairly close to Athens . We narrowed it down to two: Naxos and Paros.

That meant we had a choice to make: which Greek island – Paros or Naxos – would be best for us? And it seems many others have to make the same choice!

While only a very short (45 minute) ferry ride away from each other, Paros and Naxos offer very different experiences. So if you’re wondering which Greek island to choose between Naxos and Paros, here’s what you need to know to decide.

Holiday with Young Children

Both Naxos and Paros offer family-friendly getaways, but Naxos takes the top spot for this. First of all, Naxos seems to be slightly cheaper so you’ll get more for your money, especially if you’re travelling as a large family with several children. 

This island also offers more of a laid-back vibe, and there are various activities available for the little ones (as well as the adults). You can take them on an educational trip to Portara, or there’s Aqua Fun Water Park is a great option for a day with smaller children, while Laguna Beach Park is fantastic for family windsurfing lessons.

Not to mention, you’ll have the choice of affordable guesthouses, spacious apartments, and large hotels, so there’s no shortage of accommodation options.

Although Paros is suitable for families too, it offers more of a lively atmosphere and excellent nightlife which isn’t so great for families trying to get their young children to sleep (this won’t be as much of an issue if you have older children).

We’ll talk more about the beaches later, but Naxos also offers more child-friendly beaches, as the waters are relatively calm and shallow. This makes it the perfect destination for enjoying a relaxing beach day (or several) as a family! 

Verdict: Naxos

Luxury Holidays

Paros is the more developed of the two islands and boasts more of an ‘up-scale’ vibe. As such, you’ll find more luxurious hotels here, compared to Naxos.

Summer Senses Luxury Resort is one of my top picks for luxury getaways on Paros. This hotel offers beautiful suites, various swimming pools, and plenty of amenities, such as an on-site spa, bars, restaurants, and a fitness centre. 

Those who don’t mind splashing the cash can even stay in one of the resort’s private pool suites, many of which offer spectacular sea views. 

Paros Agnanti Resort & Spa is another top-rated option. The highlight of staying at this hotel has to be the gorgeous suites, some of which offer a private pool or outdoor hot tub. This way, you can relax on your terrace, while admiring the sea views.

Both islands have fantastic dining options too, but Paros is known for its selection of fine-dining restaurants. Those after a luxury getaway can indulge in delicious cuisine and sample wines in a sea-view establishment. What’s not to like?

Naxos does have a few luxury hotel options such as Nissaki Beach Hotel , but Paros is the easy winner for this one! 

Verdict: Paros

Romantic Getaways + Honeymoons

Naxos is certainly the best option for families, whereas Paros is perfect for couples who are looking to spend some quality time together, whether that be on a holiday or honeymoon.

If you’re after a romantic getaway, Mythic Paros is a fabulous option as it’s an adults-only hotel. This luxurious resort offers beautiful suites, some of which feature a private pool or jacuzzi with sea views. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that! 

Mythic Paros also boasts fantastic wellness facilities that you can enjoy as a couple, as well as a relaxing infinity pool, fitness centre, and sea-view restaurant. 

It’s important to note that both Naxos and Paros offer a variety of activities that are perfect for a romantic getaway. This includes catamaran cruises, horse riding on the beach, and gastronomy tours, so in that regard, it doesn’t matter which island you choose.

However, Paros takes the overall top spot because of its variety of luxury hotels, elegant cocktail bars, and fabulous restaurants. Naoussa is one of the most popular spots on the island for couples, thanks to its picturesque setting and various hotel options.

History and Culture 

Those interested in history and culture should prioritise visiting Naxos. This island was the Cyclades’s most important centre of civilisation during the ancient period (between 4000-1000 BC).

Throughout history, the Thracians, Carians, Ionians, Athenians, and Spartans have all lived here, and the island later fell under various authorities, so as you can imagine, there are plenty of historical sites to visit. 

Portara (the Temple of Apollo) is one of the most popular sites. It dates back to the 6th century BC and would have been one of Greece’s most spectacular temples. Unfortunately, it was never finished due to war but it’s certainly still worth the visit.

Other impressive historical attractions on Naxos include the Temple of Demeter, the Kouros of Apollonas, and the Yria Sanctuary of Dionysus. (Click through to read more on Naxos historical sites .)

This half-day guided sightseeing tour is a fantastic option for those who want to learn more about the island. The tour lasts for 4 hours and you’ll have an experienced guide (Greek/English-speaking), who will detail the history of Naxos.

Paros does have a few historical attractions worth visiting, including Paros Park , the Ancient Cemetery of Parikia, and Panagia Ekatontapiliani. However, Naxos undeniably outshines Paros when it comes to history and culture. 

Nightlife 

If you’re looking for a lively nightlife scene then Paros is the place to be! Along with Ios and Mykonos, this island is one of the best locations in the Cyclades for partying. 

The capital of Parikia is one of the top destinations on Paros for nightlife. Here, you’ll find various bars and clubs. Many of these are located along the promenade and offer a variety of music and sea views. Popular bars include The Dubliner, Evinos , and Secret Cafe Bar . Of course, there are some more upbeat options on offer too!

Naoussa (sometimes spelt Naousa) is another popular spot on the island. Although this village seems more quaint and charming, it boasts a fantastic party scene. Many of the bars here offer DJs, where you can enjoy various mainstream music.

Popular venues in Naoussa include Sante Cocktail Bar , Fotis All Day Bar , and Agosta Bar .

Naxos offers more laid-back evening entertainment, which is why it’s such a popular destination with families. You’ll find no shortage of cocktail bars, restaurants, and local tavernas open late into the evenings, some of which offer live music. However, there aren’t many clubs on the island.

Foodie Experiences

Both Paros and Naxos offer a variety of fantastic dining options, ranging from affordable tavernas to more upscale eateries. 

Paros is more well-known for its trendy restaurants and fine-dining eateries, while Naxos offers a variety of dining options (including an excellent selection of Greek tavernas). Therefore, those looking to sample the local cuisine should prioritise visiting Naxos! 

Some of the most popular restaurants on the island include To Elliniko Restaurant , Maro’s Taverna, Yasouvlaki!, and Meze Meze .

Not only does Naxos offer some excellent restaurants but there are some fantastic foodie experiences available too.

This half-day cooking class takes place at Basiliko Family Tavern. You’ll learn all about the island’s traditional cuisine and how to make local dishes. In this cooking class, you’ll collect the ingredients from the garden and then enjoy the meal you’ve made with wine.

There’s also this Naxos town food tour , which includes wine and food tastings. You’ll head through a local market with a guide, who will teach you all about the island’s cuisine, culture, and history. 

Paros does have some excellent restaurants and foodie experiences too, but there’s just so much choice on the island of Naxos.

When it comes to the best beaches, it’s a close call between Paros and Naxos. Both islands are famous for their pristine shorelines and crystal-clear waters, and there’s no shortage of beaches to relax on.

Kolymbithres Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Paros, thanks to its golden sandy coves, watersports opportunities, and unique rocky formations. Chrissi Akti Beach (also known as Golden Beach) is another top spot. As well as having a Blue Flag certificate, it’s one of the island’s most popular windsurfing destinations.

Nevertheless, Naxos wins the beach aspect in our opinion, even if it is a close win. This island has some spectacular beaches, which offer various tourist amenities. Many of these are popular with families thanks to their clear and calm shallow waters too!

Agios Prokopios Beach is one of the island’s most famous beaches. Not only is it beautiful, but it offers plenty of amenities, including lots of dining options. Agia Anna Beach is another fantastic option and is favoured by young travellers and couples, due to its cosmopolitan vibe.

Other popular beaches on Naxos include Plaka Beach, Mikri Vigla Beach, and Aliko Beach.

Public Transport 

Finally, it’s time to evaluate how easy it is to get around the islands on public transport. Both Paros and Naxos offer car rentals and that’s typically the easiest and most convenient way to get around. But, what about those who aren’t confident drivers?

Luckily, both islands offer a public transport system. However, Paros offers one of the most extensive bus systems in the Cyclades, making it the perfect destination for those who don’t wish to hire a car. 

The island’s KTEL bus service operates a variety of routes, meaning all villages are linked to each other and the two largest towns of Naxos; Parikia and Naoussa. Public transport is available all year round, with services being more frequent during the summer.

Although you can still travel around Naxos by bus, the island is larger, and there are many places that public transport just can’t reach. This is a real shame for those who wish to explore the less-touristy areas of Naxos as bus tickets are very affordable.

Of course, this won’t matter for travellers who do wish to hire their own vehicle. Just make sure you book this in advance if you’re visiting during the peak season.

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Amelia is a health researcher and mother of two who loves inspiring other families to add more adventure to their lives. She spent ten years in the travel industry before changing careers, and A Winter Escape is her way of still helping people plan the best possible holidays around the world.

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Naxos or Paros? Which Island to Visit.

This post is also available in: French

If you’re researching the Greek isles and are trying to decide where to go, you might have come across the stumbling block of Paros or Naxos? These two islands located in the heart of the Cyclades are fairly similar in terms of size, both have great connections to Athens and both offer a wonderful range of sights, attractions, beaches and cuisine. So, how do you decide which one to visit?

Read on to find out the similarities and differences between Naxos and Paros as well as which one is best for families vs. which is best for nightlife. You can then weigh up the factors that are most important for you so you can choose the island that fits the bill best!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

Paros vs Naxos: Which One Is for You?

Naxos overview.

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago with a wealth of history, an excellent selection of beaches and some classically beautiful white-washed Greek villages. The island is known for Naxian marble (the stone that many Ancient Greek statues and temples were made from) as well as its long swathes of sandy shore.

Naxos is a popular island in terms of tourism and as such the port town (Chora) features a number of family-friendly restaurants, shops and accommodation.

Check here: The best things to do in Naxos.

Paros Overview

Naxos’ neighbour, Paros, is a slightly smaller island but one that still boasts an airport, port and two main towns. Again, the island features spectacular beaches, quintessentially-Greek architecture and some interesting historical sites. It is also widely regarded as having some pretty decent nightlife so if often favoured among the younger crowd who are looking for cocktail bars and dancing ‘til dawn.

As Paros is more compact, it does mean you can explore more of the island in less time so it’s a great choice for those who only have a long weekend available as opposed to a week or two’s vacation.

Check here: The best things to do in Paros.

Which island is easier to get to – Naxos or Paros?

While both Naxos and Paros have airports, neither of these offer direct routes across Europe and the UK, so travellers arriving by air will have to transfer in Athens or Thessaloniki. It’s therefore not any easier to reach one or other island by air.

Apart from the Athens or Thessaloniki airport you can arrive at Mykonos or Santorini international airport and take a ferry to Naxos or Paros.

Alternatively, you can arrive into Naxos and Paros by boat, with ferries leaving from Athens and other islands around the Cyclades daily throughout the summer season. Most ferries travelling from Piraeus serve both Naxos and Paros on the same route, so it’s as easy to get to one as it is the other.

In an ideal world you’d have time to visit both Naxos and Paros which is also relatively easy to do as daily ferries run between the neighbouring islands throughout the spring and summer.

Click here to check the ferry connections and timetable and to book your ticket.

Which is best for beaches – Naxos or Paros?

Being Greek islands in the heart of the Aegean, both Naxos and Paros boast some pretty great beaches.

Naxos is known for having particularly long, sandy beaches with warm shallow waters such as Agios Prokopios, Agios Giorgos, Plaka and Agia Anna, which are favourites among families.

Many of these are also really easily accessible from the main tourist hubs on the island or by bus, which means they offer full tourism amenities including sunbeds, parasols, restaurants and water sports.

The island does have some smaller, secluded beaches and as Naxos is quite large it does take some exploring in a car to seek them out. But when you get to the more remote beaches, chances are, you’ll have the place to yourselves!

Check here: The best beaches in Naxos

Paros, on the other hand, is smaller, and therefore more of the beaches are accessible by car or moped if you have a little bit of time.

However, thanks to the more rugged landscape of Paros there are many more coves to discover (as opposed to long, sprawling beaches) so you still might find you have a hidden gem of a beach to yourself.

Paros does also have organised beaches with decent amenities including Golden Beach, Parasporos and Faragas Beach.

Check here: The best beaches on Paros.

Verdict: Both

Which is best for families – Naxos or Paros?

As mentioned above, Naxos’ beaches lend themselves well to family holidays as they feature shallow waters, soft sand and plenty of amenities to keep everyone well-fed and entertained.

Naxos’ restaurants also cater well to families as pretty much everywhere offers a children’s menu as well as flavours to suit every palette.

Naxos also boasts a castle, ancient Kouros statues and the impressive ‘Portara’ (Naxos Window) which are all exciting sites for slightly older children to enjoy.

That’s not to say that Paros isn’t a good option for families, though. Many of Paros’ beaches are also family-friendly, particularly those located near to the towns of Naoussa and Parikia and there are some fascinating attractions such as the Venetian Castle and the Valley of Butterflies too.

One thing that does set Paros apart from Naxos in terms of being family-friendly though it its nightlife which we’ll come to next.

Verdict: Naxos is more family frendly

Which has the best nightlife – Naxos or Paros?

As you would expect from the largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos has a fairly lively nightlife scene during the summer, with a number of cocktail bars, tavernas with live music and nightclubs dotted around the main town. 

However, when it comes to partying, Paros wins hands down with many more nightlife spots to choose from. As Paros has two main towns (Naoussa and Parikia) there are two different scenes available meaning a variety of options to suit everyone.

In general, tourists tend to enjoy the bars and clubs of Parikia better, while the locals flock to Naoussa to get their nightlife fix. Whether you’re looking for late-night coffee shops, chic beach bars, lively local tavernas or all-out night clubs, Paros in high season has you covered.

Verdict: Paros has better nightlife.

Which has the most cultural attractions – Naxos or Paros?

Being the larger of the two islands you would expect Naxos to have a huge range of cultural attractions, and you’d be right! The island features a well-preserved Venetian castle in the heart of Chora, the grand, ancient Door/Window of Naxos at the edge of the main port, the Demeter temple and the Kouros of Melanes and Apollonas to name but a few!

There are also a whole host of churches and monasteries across the island and some beautiful traditional villages like Apiranthos and Halki Village.

Paros also features some stunning villages Lefkes, Prodromos and Kostos, and churches, such as The Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Virgin Mary of the Hundred Doors), The Monastery of Logovarda and The Church of Agia Triada.

In addition, the island has a number of museums and ancient archaeological sites including the Byzantine Museum, Sculpture Museum, Folklore Art Museum and Wine Museum as well as the Sanctuary of Asklepios and the Mycenaean Acropolis.

Therefore, neither island is short on cultural attractions!

Verdict: Naxos has amazing cultural sights.

Which is best for nature-lovers – Naxos or Paros?

Of course, the beaches are one of the main draws of Naxos and Paros so nature-lovers who adore azure waters and quiet coves will be in heaven. Naxos also features a protected cedar forest and sand dune landscape out at Alyko, as well as the Cave of Zas, the Routsouna Waterfall and the Garinou Spring which are wonderful spots to explore if you love the great outdoors.

There are a number of hiking and biking trails too so whether you want to get out there on your own or take a guided tour, Naxos has you covered.

As mentioned earlier, Paros has the Valley of Butterflies which is an exciting draw for nature enthusiasts and there are cycling and horseback riding trails to keep you busy too at Paros Park. There are also easy day-trip options to the smaller neighbouring island of Antiparos as well which is the perfect choice for those wanting to get off the beaten track.

Verdict: Naxos

Which is best for water sports – Naxos or Paros?

As both Naxos and Paros are renowned for having some quite windy shores, they are favourites among water sports adventurers who love to enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing here.

Both islands are equally well-equipped for water sports with everything from family-friendly banana boat rides and para-sailing to more advanced-level windsurfing and kitesurfing competitions that take place on the islands annually. You can book lessons and hire gear on a number of beaches around both Naxos and Paros or opt for snorkelling or scuba diving instead.

Hopefully, by now you know a little more about Naxos and Paros and which one might be best for you. Naxos is a larger island with welcoming locals, fantastic restaurants, a wealth of cultural attractions and some amazing family-friendly beaches and Paros is a slightly smaller chic island with some bustling nightlife, quiet coves and incredible churches and castles.

There’s really not much in it when it comes to which is best. To be honest, whichever Greek island you visit your bound to have a great time!

Personally, having visited both a couple of times I prefer Naxos. It has a stunning Chora, picturesque villages, amazing archaeological sites and great nature. On the other hand, the smaller beaches in Paros are more to my taste.

As the islands are so close to each other you could easily take a day trip from one to the other, and if you have plenty of time you can visit the nearby islands of Antiparos, Donoussa, Iraklia, Schinoussa and Keros too!

If you have the chance, why not visit both and see for yourself which is your favourite?

You might also like: How to get from Athens to Paros How to get from Athens to Naxos The best Airbnb’s in Naxos The best Airbnb’s in Paros Where to stay in Naxos Where to stay in Paros

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Naxos or Paros – Which Greek Island to Visit in 2024?

• Jul 1, 2024

So you’re planning a trip to the Greek isles, and you want to know … should I go to Naxos or Paros? Both are great spots to visit in Greece, but how to decide? Luckily for you we’ve been to both, and are here to help you pick which one is right for you. 💟

💡 Want to know right away how to choose between Naxos or Paros? Here’s what we think you should know.

In this blog post you will find an in-depth comparison of the two Greek islands. Keep reading to decide which is better for you. ⬇️

Table of Contents

Naxos or Paros? Which Greek Island to Visit?

Let’s compare these islands in the categories that we think are most important: Beaches , Hiking , Food , Authentic Greek Culture , History , and Transportation . Go back to our Table of Contents above if you want to skip to any of the sections.

🚗 We recommend to rent a car for Greece through Discover Cars . Book your rental car here!

Beaches – Naxos or Paros?

If all you care about are beautiful beaches, then you should go to Paros. Paros has some beautiful, crystal-clear blue water beaches that Naxos simply does not have. Paros Park , our top thing to do in Paros , is absolutely stunning. You’ll find small, calm coves to swim in that are out-of-this world beautiful. Plus, a few beaches with massive rocks to lay out on. (girls love Kolympethres Beach in Paros for pictures)

🛌 Here are all your hotel options in Paros

While Naxos does have beaches of course, some of them are quite rocky, and Naxos is also known to be quite windy, which makes a beach experience a bit less enjoyable.

Let’s put it this way – we believe you shouldn’t come to Naxos for the beaches. That being said, there is still so much more that this island has to offer in some of the other categories. At the end of the day, Paros beats Naxos for the beaches.

If you’re looking for out-of-this-world beaches, we would actually recommend the island of Milos . We spent over a month visiting six different Greek islands, and Milos had by far the most amazing beaches that we encountered in Greece. Checkout The Best 7 Beaches in Milos for more!

➡️ Read : Top 7 Things to Do in Paros ✨

Naxos is a HUGE island, and has the highest point in the Cyclades. (Mt Zeus) You can hike up to the top in less than 2 hours, and this is actually our top thing to do in Naxos . Because of the mountainous nature of Naxos, the island is known for great hiking.

While Paros does have some decent hikes as well, they are no where near as impressive as Naxos. The island simply isn’t as hilly or large as Naxos. If you’re looking for some good hiking, you should come to Naxos .

🏨 In Naxos, we stayed at the amazing 🇬🇷 Elaiolithos Luxury Villa Suites . To this day, this is probably the best hotel experience we’ve ever had! Here are all your hotel options in Naxos.

Food – Naxos or Paros?

Naxos is actually our favorite Greek island that we visited, and one of the main reasons for this is the food. Almost all the food that we ate on Naxos was grown and produced on Naxos, which means it was super fresh. As you’re driving through the center of Naxos it’s very common to see large herds of goats walking up and down the mountain. We stayed at Elaiolithos Hotel in Naxos and were treated every day to fresh olives, goat cheese, yogurt, lamb, honey, etc. You won’t get this on Paros. Because Naxos is so famous for its food, its very common to take a cooking class and learn how to do some Greek cooking with freshly grown, local ingredients!

🧑‍🍳 Book the best cooking classes on Naxos HERE ⬅️

Since Paros is a very touristy Greek island, you will of course find a ton of fabulous restaurants in the Chora, as well as the touristy village of Naoussa. However, it’s just not the same as the food in Naxos. Nothing will ever compare to the amazing food on Naxos!

➡️ Read : Parikia or Naoussa – Which is Better to Stay in Paros?? ✨

Mountain Villages / Authentic Greek Culture

This one isn’t even close – Naxos by a mile. There are multiple mountain villages that you have to visit if you go to Naxos – Apeiranthos, Chalki, Filoti, … Greeks actually still live in these villages and you can find authentic restaurants, eat locally grown food, and walk around in the wonderful narrow streets.

On Paros, there is the “authentic” village of Lefkes to visit up in the mountains, however the reality is Lefkes is not very authentic. It is designed for tourists and not many people actually live in Lefkes. Because it is the only mountain village to visit on Paros you will find that the streets are mobbed with tourists, and the prices at the restaurants are sky-high.

We highly recommend Naxos for its mountain villages and an authentic look into local Greek culture.

➡️ Read : The Best Greece Island Hopping Itinerary (Cyclades) ✨🇬🇷

Naxos plays a HUGE role in Greek mythology. Mt Zeus is known as the mountain where Zeus was raised, and you can even visit the infamous cave. Legend has it that Dionysus, the God of Wine, loved Naxos so much that he made its land fertile and full of vineyards. The famous Portara near the port of Naxos was part of a temple to be dedicated to the God Apollo but was never completed. Now-a-days you might recognize the famous Portara from National Geographic!

Paros, like every Greek island, has some history to it of course, but nothing as famous as that of Naxos. Most who come to Paros do not come for the history.

➡️ Read: Day Trip to Antiparos – The Famous Greek Island where Tom Hanks owns a house!

Transportation – How to Get Around on Naxos and Paros

For Naxos, you’re going to want to rent a car. 🚗 We paid 24 euros per day for our automatic car booked through Discover Cars . We used Discover to book our cars for our trips through Greece and Turkey and would highly recommend them.

🚗 We recommend to rent a car in Greece through Discover Cars . Book your rental car here! 🇬🇷

On Paros, you have more options. Since the island isn’t that big, many choose to rent an ATV or a motorbike. 🛵 Keep in mind if you are an American with just a standard American drivers license you are not going to be able to rent a motorbike in Greece. You need an international driver’s license to do this. (To rent a car, your standard American license is just fine)

💡 See our Top 13 Tips for Traveling to Greece for more.

Summary – Naxos or Paros?

As you can probably tell, we enjoyed Naxos much more than Paros. We stayed at an amazing hotel in the mountains of Naxos ( Elaiolithos Hotel , can’t recommend enough!), ate fresh, locally-grown food, hiked through olive groves to Chalki and up to Mt Zeus, and visited authentic Greek mountain villages with few tourists. You can’t get this on Paros.

However, if you’re looking for beautiful blue-water beaches and easy hikes by the sea on a smaller Greek island, then Paros could be the island for you. There were much more American tourists on the island of Paros. Paros is much smaller than Naxos, and probably more manageable for a family vacation.

If you’re looking for a small Greek island with the most impressive beaches that we’ve ever seen, we would actually recommend Milos . The top sights in Milos are easily the most picturesque and impressive of all the Greek islands that we visited on our trip. (6 islands in total)

🇬🇷 Other Greece Posts You May Like 👇

• Top 8 Things to Do in Milos 🌅
• The Perfect Greece Road Trip 🚙
• Hiking Vikos Gorge – The “Grand Canyon of Greece ” 🥾

We hope this guide helped you decide which Greek island to visit on your upcoming trip, and are more than happy to answer any questions you have in the comments!

Thanks for reading.

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Parikia or Naoussa – Where to Stay in Paros (2024 Travel Guide)

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Paros or Naxos: Which Island to Choose?

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

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If you are trying to decide Paros or Naxos, this article should help guide you to the best island for you.

I spent more than a week on each island and I fell in love with both. I think there are a few distinct differences that may sway you towards one over the other, but to be totally honest, you can easily spend time on both.

There are ferries between the two islands several times a day and it only takes about 30 minutes to get from Naxos to Paros. So you can spend a few days on each island and then you can decide whether it’s all about Naxos or Paros for yourself!

If you don’t have a week to explore them both and you are splitting time between a few days in Athens ( check out our full guide to that amazing city here !) and then you have time to choose only one island, well then you don’t want to get it wrong! 

Please keep in mind that these are simply my opinions after spending time on both islands. I will include plenty of photos and videos to help you make the decision for yourself.

Naxos or Paros at a Glance

A few pieces of general information about the island to help you see them at a glance.

Naxos, Greece.

• There are a lot of families here and therefore a lot of hotels that cater to families. This guide to where to stay in Naxos is packed with recommendations!
• There are also a lot of couples on Naxos.
• It is slightly cheaper than Paros for almost everything, but particularly hotels and restaurants.
• The beaches are exceptional.
• In general, it feels slightly less touristy around the island than Paros (although it still receives plenty of tourists). But if you get away from the main port town, you can easily find small villages all over the place.
• You can easily get between the main towns by bus, but anywhere past Plaka requires your own transportation. Away from the main roads, driving in Naxos is somewhat confusing (the roads are very windy and Google Maps doesn’t always know the right way).

Paros, Greece.

• Paros is one of the best Greek islands for couples more so than families traveling. That makes it feel like it has a little bit more of a romantic vibe when compared to Naxos. It’s also a popular spot for groups of friends.
• Paros has tons of boutique hotels and high-end hotels which may explain why in general, prices are higher here than in Naxos. This guide is packed with tips for where to stay in Paros.
• It is particularly popular amongst French tourists which means you can find some really fantastic bakeries around the island for great bread.
• The island is well-serviced by bus, but the bus timetable isn’t as regular as Naxos. Having a car or quad bike makes getting around a lot easier and quicker. It’s very easy to drive in Paros.

Paros or Naxos in Video

If you would like to view a video of what these two beautiful Greek islands look like, you can see them here.

Paros Vs Naxos: Beaches

Beaches are hotly debated in any country in the world. Do you want waves or calm bays with shallow water? Do you want fine sand or pebbles that won’t blow into your sandwich? Warm water or cool refreshing seas?

There’s no denying both Paros and Naxos have some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean. However, one island does trump the other in terms of cleanliness, ease of reaching the best beaches, and overall amenities at each of the beaches.

I personally prefer the beaches in Naxos. 

From the main town of Naxos, you can hop on the bus or in your rental car, and in 10 minutes, you’re at the most spectacular beach on the island, Agios Prokopios.

Agios Prokopios is full of fantastic beach clubs as well as having plenty of space to lay on the sand completely free of charge. The water is refreshing, the sand is a little bit pebbly, but still relatively fine and nice and soft to walk on. 

Just another few minutes down the road you have the quiet Agia Anna and then another 10 minutes down the road, the island’s most famous (and incredibly beautiful) Plaka Beach.

Plaka is an enormous beach and a fantastic spot for wind or kite surfing as well as relaxing away from the crowds of the other beach towns. 

There are several more small and stunning beaches to discover in Naxos, you can find the full list of the best beaches on the island here .

Beaches in Naxos, Greece.

Paros has nice beaches as well, with some of the best located in the north near Naoussa as well as the stunning Santa Maria Beach.

I also love everything around Piso Livadi and Golden Beach is popular and beautiful, but the beaches just weren’t quite as fabulous as the beaches in Naxos. Check out all of the Paros beaches not to miss in this article .

Naxos Vs Paros: Restaurants

Naxos wins on the restaurant front for a few reasons.

The number one reason is that you don’t have to travel far to find the best restaurants in Naxos. They are almost all located in the main town next to the port. You can head behind the main street in Naxos and almost every restaurant you stop into is serving incredible food.

Some that need to be visited include Maro’s Taverna (the lamb!), Metaxi Mas, Doukato Restaurant, and Meze 2.

There are also fantastic restaurants in the smaller villages, especially around Agios Prokopios. And despite the fact that the food is fresh and delicious and close to the tourist areas, the prices remain very reasonable. 

While Paros also has some spectacular restaurants ( check out our list of all of the best here ), it felt so much harder to find a good meal in Paros than it did in Naxos. There are few if any really spectacular restaurants in the main town of Parikia. 

Naoussa has some very highly-rated restaurants and we sampled some of them, but the prices there are absolutely insane compared to pretty much anywhere else I ate during my entire three and a half weeks in Greece.

There are also some great restaurants in Paros on the east side of the island around Lefkes and Piso Livadi as well as to the northeast along the coast. 

Great restaurants exist on both islands, but it’s easier and more affordable to eat well on Naxos.

Lefkes village restaurants in Paros, Greece.

Paros or Naxos: Things to Do

This is a tough call. Both islands have so much to see and do.

Although Paros is significantly smaller than Naxos, I found that there is a little bit more to see and do on the island during the hot summer months.

Paros has tons of bays to explore, mountain towns to wander, hiking trails, and ancient ruins galore. There are beaches with special healing mud and old marble quarries that were used by the ancient Greeks.

Naxos has many of these things as well, but they are a little bit harder to get to, especially if you don’t rent a vehicle for your time on the island. With the exception of the Temple of Apollo, which is located right at the port when you arrive and is completely free to visit.

Naxos has some wonderful places to go hiking, including some incredible mountains to explore. But if you are visiting in July or August, it is simply too hot to head out into the mountains, and getting to these places is slightly difficult unless you go with a tour.

Paros is also very close (5 minutes on a ferry) to the beautiful island of Antiparos . On this island, you’ll find an incredible cave, stunning beaches, more ancient ruins, and some seriously great restaurants.

Whichever island you choose, both have enough to keep you busy for a few days, but if you are looking for a bit more of an action-packed trip, Paros just wins out for me.

Driving into the mountains in Naxos with ancient ruins (squint to see them beneath the mountains!).

Temple of Apollo in downtown Naxos town.

Naxos or Paros: Nightlife

If you are looking for places to party, you’d be better off on Mykonos or Ios. They have much bigger nightlife than you’ll find on either of these islands.

That being said, if you want to find cute rooftop or garden bars, you want to be able to get souvlaki after midnight, and you want to enjoy some dancing or great music, I would say the nightlife in Paros is quite a bit better than it is in Naxos.

Paros, especially the main towns of Parikia and Naoussa, are open late. You can sit down at a restaurant at 11pm and order dinner. You can enjoy drinks by the water for hours.

You’ll find craft beer, cute cocktail bars, and hidden restaurants along the backstreets of the different towns where you can listen to jazz or a live DJ in the evenings.

The sunsets in Naxos are pretty special.

Paros or Naxos: Which to Choose?

If you are visiting with friends and want a place that’s easy to get around with by quad bike, with great nightlife and cute boutique hotels, then I would choose Paros.

If you are a family and looking for a safe and beautiful beach spot to spend a few days, I would recommend Naxos. In particular, staying around Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna. 

If you are a couple, both islands are fantastic. I visited both of these islands with my boyfriend and we had a great time on both Naxos and Paros.

They both have plenty of activities to keep you busy, nice beaches to relax on, plenty of options for self-catering including affordable grocery stores, and lots of nice restaurants.

Both have a bit of a romantic vibe if you look for it with Paros perhaps edging Naxos when it comes to romantic restaurants and hotels on offer. 

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either island. They both have plenty of things to love about them and that make them worth your vacation time.

Tons of boutiques in Paros for great (but sometimes expensive) shopping.

Paros has plenty of beautiful hills to get views over the Aegean.

Shopping in Naxos is excellent.

Views of Naxos town from the Temple of Apollo

Friday 30th of August 2024

which car rental agency do you recommend in Naxos?

Paros or Naxos, which island to choose for your holidays?

📌 Read in / Lire en : Français ( French )

Which island should you choose for your holidays, Paros or Naxos? You are not the only one asking this question. Many have asked themselves this before you, including us. The main reason for this dilemma is that the two islands are only a few kilometres apart – it takes almost the same time to get to them from Athens – and they are both rather large (Naxos is even the largest island in the Cyclades). So, Paros or Naxos, which island should you visit? We take stock in this article.

🏝️  The island of your dreams . Paros and Naxos are just two jewels among many others in Greece. If you are unsure of where to go on your next holiday, here are, in our opinion,  the most beautiful Greek islands .

🚸 Family trip: Naxos, the peaceful

Naxos : With its sandy beaches and shallow waters, Naxos (📖  read our guide ) is an ideal destination for families with young children. The Agios Prokopios beach, for example, is renowned for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The island also offers several activities suitable for the little ones, such as the  Aqua Fun Water  Park located near Mikri Vigla beach and pottery workshops organized in Chora (Naxos’ town). For families, accommodation such as  Naxos Island Escape  offer spacious apartments and a play area for children.

Paros : Although Paros also has child-friendly beaches, such as Livadia, this island is best known for its lively nightlife, especially in the bars and clubs of Naoussa and Parikia. This may not be suitable for families looking for quiet.

✅  Verdict : Naxos seems to be a more suitable option for families thanks to its infrastructure and peaceful atmosphere.

🌹 Romantic trip: succumb to the charm of Paros

Naxos : Naxos offers its visitors numerous romantic panoramas, such as a beautiful sunset from the Portara, the gate of the Temple of Apollo, or the view of the sea from the mountain village of Apeiranthos. Couples can also enjoy a walk hand-in-hand through the picturesque lanes of Chora, the capital, or a candlelit dinner at  Nissaki Restaurant, established in 1971 .

Paros : Paros (📖  read our guide ) stands out with its traditional villages and romantic atmosphere. The village of Naoussa, with its charming port and flowery alleys, is particularly conducive to romantic getaways. The island also offers unique experiences, like a sunset cruise in Parikia Bay or a couples’ dinner at  Soso Restaurant , known for its Mediterranean dishes and panoramic views.

✅  Verdict : Both islands have attractions for couples, but Paros, with its magical charm, seems slightly more suited to romantic getaways.

🍃 Nature lovers: Naxos, a land to discover

Naxos : The largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos offers a great diversity of landscapes to explore, such as Mount Zas (Zeus), the highest peak in the archipelago, where hikers can follow a path leading to the cave of Zeus and the summit, offering breath-taking views of the region. The many green valleys dotted with traditional villages, such as Halki with its olive groves and Byzantine churches, are also a treat for nature lovers.

Paros : Paros also has beautiful landscapes, including the Paros Environmental Park, located near Monastiri beach, which offers hiking trails and natural swimming pools. Several paths that cross the island, such as the Byzantine, allow you to discover picturesque chapels, windmills, and monasteries. The island is also home to the Valley of Butterflies, a natural site where you can observe many species during the summer.

✅  Verdict : For nature lovers, Naxos is the destination of choice due to its diversity and natural wealth.

🥂 Lovers of luxury and idleness: Paros will be your cocoon

Naxos : Naxos obviously offers plenty of luxury accommodation, such as the  Naxian Collection  Hotel, located on a hill with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, and gourmet restaurants serving fine local cuisine, including the  Barozzi Restaurant & Cocktail Bar . However, the island is generally more authentic and less geared towards high-end tourism.

Paros : Paros is renowned for its luxurious resorts and spas, such as the  Yria Island Boutique Hotel & Spa , offering stylish bungalows, an outdoor swimming pool, and a wellness centre. The island also offers an upscale dining experience, with restaurants like Levantis  ,  which is housed in a 15th-century Venetian mansion in Parikia, offering creative Mediterranean dishes based on local produce. Shopping enthusiasts can also take advantage of Naoussa’s chic boutiques, offering designer clothes, jewellery, and art.

✅  Verdict : For tourists looking for luxury, Paros is undoubtedly the preferred destination, with its high-end accommodation, gourmet restaurants, and elegant shops.

In conclusion, choosing between Naxos and Paros can be difficult, as they are two Greek islands which each offer unique experiences, suitable for different types of travellers. In our opinion, Naxos is ideal for families and nature lovers, while Paros shines with a romantic atmosphere and endless options for luxurious stays. Whatever your preference, these two well-known destinations in the Cyclades will enchant you with their beauty and hospitality.

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Paros vs. Naxos for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, Paros or Naxos? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Paros or Naxos?

Should you visit paros or naxos, which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paros and Naxos. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Paros or Naxos?

A popular vacation destination for visitors to the Greek islands, Paros is the second largest island of the Cyclades group. It is characterized by beautiful Mediterranean beaches and charming seaside villages.

Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, is a gem waiting to be discovered. Its blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for all types of travelers. Naxos offers long and flat beaches with clear, turquoise water along with inland mountains full of agriculture and ancient ruins. It has a reputation of being one of the more family-friendly islands for all of these qualities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens , The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens , and The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens .

Which place is cheaper, Naxos or Paros?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Paros Prices Greece Prices Naxos Prices Greece Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Paros € 122 Naxos € 176

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €122, while the average daily cost in Naxos is €176. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paros and Naxos in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Paros € 53 Naxos € 75
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Paros € 106 Naxos € 150

Compare Hotels in Paros and Naxos

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Naxos? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Paros

Hotels in Naxos

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Paros € 37 Naxos € 52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naxos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Naxos:

• Private Transfer in Naxos: $63
• Private Transfer from Naxos Port: $72
• Private Transfer From Naxos Port-Airport To All Destinations: $56
• Naxos private transfer port-airport to all destinations: $61
• Naxos Private VIP Van tours and transfers: $610

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Naxos?

Prices for flights to both Naxos and Paros change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Paros € 45 Naxos € 62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

For Paros, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $65
• Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $100
• Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $118
• Paros Cooking Class: $119
• Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $665

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naxos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Naxos.

• Naxos Town Food Tour with Included Tastings and Wine: $93
• Naxos Town Food Tour : $95
• Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $107
• Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern: $108
• Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $109
• Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class with Meal & Drinks: $116
• Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $118
• Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $159
• Local Villages Cultural Food Tour: $164
• Naxos Villages Food Tour : $167
• Naxos Town: Walking Food Tour with Wine Tasting: $327
• Wood-fire Cooking Class at a Farm with Meal & Drinks: $333

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Paros € 22 Naxos € 40

Tours and Activities in Paros

For Paros, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• Self Guided Sifnos North Side History Driving Tour: $9.99
• Hiking tour on Kythnos: $51
• Sunset Semi-Private Sea Tour from Alyki Port: $59
• Paros Bay Sunset Boat Tour with Snorkeling: $61
• Full Day Bus Tour in Paros and Antiparos Islands from Paros : $63
• Sea Sunset Tour with traditional boat in Parikia Bay - Paros: $65
• Half Day Wooden Boat Sea Tours in Parikia Bay: $66
• Half Day Boat Tour from Naoussa port and Bay . : $73
• Sea Sunset Tour in the Bay of Naousa - Paros: $74
• Paros Sunset Cruise: $77
• From Paros Island Bus Tour and Boat Trip to Antiparos: $78
• Paros Bus Island Tour: $79

Tours and Activities in Naxos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Naxos are as follows:

• 7 Hours Naxos Sailing Experience: $147
• All inclusive day sailing tour from Naxos to the small cyclades: $158
• All-Inclusive Catamaran Day Cruise: $169
• Apollo Full Day Naxos Tour: $34
• Catamaran All inclusive-Day Cruise to Naxos or Paros with Lunch: $158
• Cruise from Naxos to Santorini: $85
• Cruises to Delos-Mykonos, Santorini and Koufonisi by Alexander : $51
• Daily Cruise - Koufonissia & Rina Cave: $90
• Delos and Mykonos One Day Cruise from Naxos: $72
• Delos and Mykonos One Day Cruise from Naxos: $73
• Experience Marble Carving: $90
• Explore Rina's Cave and Koufonisia Cruise From Naxos: $79
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Paros € 25 Naxos € 30

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

Also in Paros, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Wine tasting at Local Winery: $33
• 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $169
• Paros wine tour and tasting: $172

Sample the Local Flavors in Naxos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Naxos:

• Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos: $62
• Private E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting Inland Methexis: $261
• Private Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting with an Expert: $606

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paros and Naxos, we can see that Naxos is more expensive. And not only is Paros much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paros would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paros and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Naxos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naxos than you might in Paros.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paros Expensive? and Is Naxos Expensive? .

Naxos has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Naxos, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

Related Articles for Paros

Related articles for naxos.

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The Best Things to Do on Paros—the Greek Island Best Savored in Shoulder Season

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If you think that Labor Day marks the end of summer vacations and seaside revelry, think again. On the Greek island of Paros, September is the best time to visit. Thanks to its rising popularity, Paros in July and August has recently become enormously busy. Roughly the size of the city of Stockholm at 75 square miles, Paros can feel insufferably crowded in the peak of summer. But in September—and for a few weeks beyond—a lot of that pressure is released, making the island feel more expansive and easier to enjoy.

Shoulder season is when residents get their Paros back. “After the hustle and bustle of [summer], the island starts to breathe again,” says Christiane Smit, who has lived here for 16 years as a ceramic artist and is now owner of the newly opened villa Moonhouse Paros . “The sea is still warm and inviting, but the beaches are no longer crowded. The narrow streets of Naoussa, Parikia, and the villages regain their charm, gently humming with actual life.”

Paros' white stucco homes overlook the Aegean Sea.

But the lack of traffic and tourist hordes are not the only reasons why visitors and locals alike named September the best time on the island: According to Paros native, tour guide, and author Konstantinos Statheros, the month also brings great weather following the hot, windy days of August. “September is definitely one more month of warm weather, but without the scorching temperatures of the main summer months,” he says. “The Cyclades experience severe winds and rough seas in August, but these stop in September, and the sea calms down.”

If an end-of-summer jaunt to a tranquil, crowd-free island is what you’re craving, Paros in September impresses with a medley of warm beaches, rugged hiking trails, lively restaurants, and atmospheric villages. Just be mindful that this is when a slower pace of life starts to take over the region—so pull up a beach chair, pour yourself a glass of Parian wine , and take it easy.

Getting around Paros

During high season, traffic on Paros and many other Greek islands can be patience-defying—but it eases up in September, so springing for a car means you’ll be able to explore more of Paros instead of overpaying for taxis. (You may hear about visitors vrooming on an ATV; don’t bother—they’re regularly getting into accidents.)

Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant is a popular destination for travelers, especially in September.

The restaurant serves fresh-caught seafood classics and decadent desserts.

What to do on Paros: beaches, farms, and hiking trails

Since you’re in Greece , the best beaches will be high on your list: Agioi Anargyri is a popular family-friendly option on a tranquil bay near Noussa. Half the beach has hotel sunbeds and umbrellas, which anyone can rent, and the other half is free for the taking. Not far is Santa Maria, one of the longer stretches of sand on Paros at about a mile and a half. There is a more organized beach club and watersports concession, but you can also just lay your own towel on the outskirts of their operations and enjoy the sun, sea, and views of the adjacent island of Naxos.

Monastiri, just beneath the blue dome of Agios Ioannis Detis church, is an atmospheric spot where you can post up on a rock to watch boats sail by. If you’re craving provisions, Monastiri Paros , one of the island’s more popular beach bars, is right here. Sandy Krios near Parikia is beautifully organized with bars and beach clubs. Crios , which opened for the 2024 season, gives mini Mykonos vibes with its minimalist aesthetic, customized bottles of Miraval rosé, and rotating selection of European DJs.

Among the many natural, untouched beaches (no bar, no sun loungers), the most popular might be clothing-optional Lageri, surrounded by rolling sand dunes. It’s a 15-minute drive from Naoussa, and by no means a secret (nothing on this island seems to be anymore)—but it’s still a fantastic spot for a seaside sunset. For something totally quiet: In the southwest between the fishing village of Aliki and the airport, Voutakos is a small sandy beach that very few travelers go to.

To get outdoors off-beach, explore Paros’ fertile farmlands just south of Monastiri at Petra Farm , where you can tour the grounds, meet goats, and then taste the fruits of their labor—juicy tomatoes, tasty figs, sweet-and-spicy chili jam. Just north of Drios, there’s also Domaine Myrsini , a new winery from husband-and-wife team Nicolas and Marie Astrid Bourget, who moved to Paros from France a few years ago: Their low-intervention production of Cycladic varieties (roditis, assyrtiko) yields four different bottlings—all of which can be enjoyed during a wine-tasting on the sweet hilltop patio. Early fall is also prime hiking season, perfect to do the four-ish-mile Byzantine Road from Lefkes to the village of Prodromos.

Entirely less strenuous (or maybe not) is the island’s shopping scene. Homegrown fashion brand Leto has boutiques in both Naoussa and Parikia to mine colorful linen pieces of symmetrical dresses and classic button-down shirts. Athens -based jewelry label Neso has a Naoussa boutique full of whimsically shaped rings, earrings, and necklaces festooned with rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. For architectural ceramics, make an appointment with Todd Marshard , who started his career at Donna Karan’s Urban Zen and is now living and working on Paros. His Lefkes studio is full of unusually shaped vases and decorative sculptures.

There are also plenty of local events happening on the island in September. Moonhouse’s Smit recommends getting acquainted with a traditional harvest: “While it’s not a formal festival, harvest is a communal activity that many locals partake in, and sometimes visitors are invited to join,” she says, adding that beyond wine there’s also kazani , a type of distilled grape and one of the more unique spirits produced on Paros.

Tour guide Statheros says you can’t miss Kapetaneika, a celebration of the region’s seafaring heritage. This usually takes place mid-month and features some of Greece’s most magnificent wooden sailing vessels. And, of course, “it wouldn’t be complete without a feast and plenty of drinking that starts at noon and ends very late at night,” he says.

Naoussa harbor is lined with outdoor seating so diners can soak in the balmy Mediterranean weather.

Where to eat and drink on Paros

Visiting a popular island like Paros during the dying days of the season makes it easy to dine well without a reservation—which is near impossible in peak months. Mario , a nearly 20-year-old culinary icon in Parikia (it recently relocated from its bustling main square address in Naoussa) is a sea-facing perch with some of the best sunset views on Paros. As for chef Markoulis Giannis’ esteemed kitchen, the ceviche is famous—but the fava bean puree, fried squid, and the seafood orzo with saffron are well worthwhile. The wine list is heavy on Greek labels, including a few local to Paros; Moraitis, Seiradi P.F.C., and Moraitico.

Siparos , an easy-breezy open-air restaurant overlooking a small beach, has its own jetty to arrive in style via boat. Either way, Siparos is a particularly lovely pick for lunch, after spending the morning hiking or sunbathing. (The clothing-optional Lageri beach is only a few minutes away.) If you don’t mind indulging in fried stuff, get the fried feta donuts and the sea bream nuggets—addictive and pair wonderfully with a bottle of rosé (take it from me).

A favorite in Ampelas, Blue Oyster is right on the water so they offer beach service if you choose to come during the day. The order here is the fish pie, wrapped in a flaky, fried phyllo dough. Barbarossa back in Naoussa is the people-watching choice, especially for a pre-dinner cocktail. Outside, at the port, under strings of twinkling Christmas lights: the vibes are always right, and the later it gets, the more boisterous the ambience becomes. If you want a gentler dining experience in Naoussa, walk through its meandering alleys for Statheros , which is owned by a Parian family and serves mostly traditional Greek fare. There might already be a chill in the air so tuck in the kakavia , a fish soup loaded with onions, parsley, tomato, and olive oil.

Crowning a hill in the village of Kostos is Santa Pacou , a relative newcomer to the local dining scene when it opened in 2023. The outdoor terrace overlooking the Aegean is where you’ll want to be for a lingering dinner. Yes, there’s seafood, but there’s also a lot of hearty meat, such as juicy oven-cooked goat, tender pork shoulder, and classic moussaka. Do breakfast-for-dinner and end the night with a plate of sweet-cream bougatsa for dessert.

Guestrooms at MoonHouse Paros are flooded with sun from their sea-view windows.

Where to stay

September hotel rates are also more forgiving on Paros, where the hotel scene is becoming luxurious enough to compete with Santorini and Mykonos. Double down on serenity at Cove , a minimalist 40-room hotel in the outskirts of Naoussa village. The 12-years-and-up guest policy means clientele are mostly couples or small families with older children; breakfast, pool time, and afternoons by the sea have a restful energy. There aren’t too many on-property amenities beyond the restaurant Rada, but there is a shop, spa, and fitness room. Staff can book guests a boat for a day trip to the tiny island of Antiparos, or sign you up for a ceramics-making class pronto.

Smit’s design-forward Moonhouse is among the newest villas on the island. On a secluded hilltop in Kotsos, this sleek, low-lying rental is the perfect small-group hideaway. Think: poured concrete walls, massive windows, a marble-framed fireplace, a gorgeous chef’s kitchen, and plenty of outdoor spaces. You’re not within direct access to a beach, but that’s what the 40-foot-long saltwater pool is for. The three-bedroom main house usually sleeps six, but two additional guest houses can easily double that capacity count to 12.

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