Which Greek island is right for you - Paros or Naxos? (2024)

FAQs

Which Greek island is right for you - Paros or Naxos? ›

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 is one of the best Greek islands to visit, especially for first time visitors to Greece. With some of the prettiest traditional village in the Cyclades, dozens of beautiful beaches and a handful of ancient ruins and historic sites, it's a miracle that Paros isn't as overcrowded as nearby Mykonos and Santorini.

The peak season is over the summer months which are the hottest and sunniest as this is the European holiday season. However, it can get a bit more crowded and very hot during the months of July and August. As Paros isn't that touristy, it is not that big of a problem compared to Mykonos and Santorini.

Naxos has the same lovely Cycladic feel but is remarkably more affordable and far less crowded. There are so many fantastic islands in Greece, of course, and people could come to fisticuffs defending their favorite, but you'd be hard-pressed to find one that ticks all the boxes that Naxos does.

The journey from the central Cycladic island of Paros to the neighboring Naxos is 25 miles (39 km) across a small stretch of the Aegean Sea. Traveling between the two destinations is incredibly easy, and the fastest and most practical way to hop from Paros to Naxos is by ferry.

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.

Both have a number of protected coves and beaches ( often south-facing) which are protected from the wind. 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.

Because of its many plains and valleys, Naxos is famous since ancient times for being fertile and producing various agricultural products like olives, and high-quality wine. Furthermore, meat and cheese are exquisite! One thing is for sure: vacation there will be full of tastes and delicious meals.

Naxos is a large island with many sights, villages, and beaches. We recommend 3 to 5 days in Naxos to visit as many places as possible. Naxos is a multifaceted island, so you need days to understand it. You can also pay a visit to the musts that will last no more than 24 hours.

Naxos is the only island of the Cyclades that could be autonomous. Thanks to its fertile land, both agricultural and animal high-quality products are locally produced. The island is well-known for its potatoes, cheese, and kitron - a Naxian liqueur made of citron.

Can I do a day trip from Paros to Naxos? ›

Yes, you can easily take a day trip from Paros to Naxos by ferry. Take the ferry at 08:00 and arrive in Naxos at around 08:40.

Paros is more cosmopolitan and fancy, and Naxos feels a bit more rural and authentic. During August Paros tends to be busy as it is one of the favorite islands of the Greek holidaymakers, while on Naxos you will never feel crowded. Both islands are family-friendly, while Paros is a better option for couples.

Located almost in the center of the Cyclades, Paros has true Cycladic architecture and an active lifestyle. In brief, staying 3 to 5 days is recommended in order to explore the island as much as possible.

Páros has been famous since the sixth century B.C. for its flawless marble — Parian marble, it's called — used to make the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

They both offer unique experiences and are two beautiful islands in the Cyclades. If you want the ultimate party experience and a luxurious vacation, Mykonos will be perfect! On the other hand, if you're looking for an island with charming villages and beaches, and hiking opportunities, then Paros is ideal.

That has led to the development of the tourism industry, with the island now boasting excellent hotels and restaurants, bars and clubs. Paros is mainly famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and its Cycladic architecture.