Struggling to decide between Naxos and Paros for your next Greek island holiday? Here’s your comprehensive guide to making the perfect choice. From bustling towns and serene beaches to vibrant nightlife, day trips, and top places to eat and stay, this detailed breakdown will help you pick the ideal destination for your dream vacation.
Paros and Naxos: What You Should Know Before You Go
Paros and Naxos, two of the largest Greek islands, serve as regional hubs with frequent ferry connections to nearby islands and Athens’ Piraeus and Rafina ports. You can also fly directly to both islands from Athens or Thessaloniki via Aegean Airlines or other carriers.
These islands are just a short 40-minute ferry ride apart, making them perfect for island hopping.
Positioned near Mykonos and Santorini, Naxos and Paros offer an authentic Greek island experience at a fraction of the cost of their more famous neighbors.
Both islands boast some of the best beaches in Greece, with options for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring, but if you’re traveling without one, Paros has a more reliable bus system and easier road networks, ideal for novice drivers.
Naxos’ mountainous terrain and winding roads can be more challenging but lead to breathtaking views. I love driving in Naxos and choose a small car with some grunt for narrow mountain roads.
For a truly immersive experience, spend at least three nights on each island. A week is even better, allowing time to soak up the laid-back atmosphere, explore beaches, visit tavernas, and attend local festivals.
Naxos or Paros: A Quick Comparison
Both islands are quintessentially Cycladic, with sugar-cube architecture, charming villages, azure waters, and sandy beaches. However, they offer distinct vibes:
- Paros: Cosmopolitan and upscale, Paros has a lively nightlife scene, chic beach clubs, and a vibrant shopping culture. It’s especially popular with couples and those seeking a more stylish island experience.
- Naxos: Rural and authentic, Naxos feels less touristy, even in high season. Its expansive, unspoiled beaches and traditional mountain villages offer a tranquil retreat. Families and those looking for a relaxed pace will feel at home here.
Both islands are family-friendly, but Paros’ nightlife and shopping appeal slightly more to teenagers, while Naxos’ shallow beaches are ideal for young children.
Towns and Villages
Paros’ lively towns, such as Naoussa and Parikia, are bustling hubs with waterfront promenades, boutique shopping, and a mix of casual and fine dining.
Evening strolls through Naoussa’s narrow streets offer a cosmopolitan atmosphere perfect for nightlife lovers.
I always enjoy sipping a pre-dinner cocktail while people-watching in Parikia, surrounded by vibrant energy (and lots of bougainvillea!)
Naxos’ charm lies beyond its port town. The inland villages, like Halki, Apiranthos, and Filoti, are steeped in tradition.
These picturesque settlements, with cobblestone alleys and whitewashed houses adorned with bougainvillea, showcase the island’s authentic soul.
Walking among the wildflowers and along the rivers and coastline is just magical.
On my visits, I’ve explored landmarks like the Distillery Vallindras in Halki, where the art of citrus liqueur making is a family tradition, and Vasilis’ historic café in Kinidaros, open since 1931—both offering authentic glimpses into island life.
Strolling through Apiranthos, I discovered a small art gallery displaying works inspired by Naxos’ stunning landscapes, a sculptor workshop, and a pottery workshop!
There’s certainly enough to explore for a week on Naxos!
Beaches
Both islands have stunning beaches, but their character differs:
Paros
Known for variety, Paros offers golden sands at Chrisi Akti, lunar-like rock formations at Kolymbithres, and secluded coves near Santa Maria.
You can even swim off the pier in charming villages like Piso Livadi and Aliki. (I love Aliki – it’s close to Parikia but sooo relaxed).
One of my favorite memories is diving into the crystal-clear waters near Kolymbithres, surrounded by unique rock formations that feel like another world. it’s a little bit of Milos, on Paros!
Naxos
Famous for its long stretches of pristine sand, Naxos’ west coast is home to family-friendly beaches like Plaka, Agios Prokopios, and Agia Anna.
The beaches here remain uncrowded, even during peak season.
My go-to spots are Petrino and Plaka beaches, where I’ve spent many afternoons soaking up the sun and enjoying the vibe.
East coast beaches, like Psili Ammos, offer a wilder, less-developed feeling—I once stumbled upon a secluded cove there, with only the sound of waves and the sight of distant fishing boats.
Ancient and Historical Sites
Both Naxos and Paros boast rich histories, evident in their ancient landmarks and historical sites:
Paros
Visit the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani in Parikia, one of the oldest churches in Greece, dating back to the 4th century.
The adjacent Byzantine Museum houses a collection of religious artifacts that offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
In Naoussa, you’ll find remnants of a Venetian castle, offering a picturesque backdrop for sunset strolls and selfies.
Naxos
The island’s most iconic historical site is the Portara, the monumental marble gateway of an unfinished Temple of Apollo that greets visitors as they approach the port.
The Temple of Demeter, located in Sangri, is a stunning example of ancient architecture and a serene nature sanctuary where you can hear bees buzzing among the wildflowers.
Don’t miss the Kouros statues in Melanes and Apollonas, massive unfinished sculptures dating back to the 7th century BCE.
Each historical site tells a unique story of the island’s ancient civilizations and cultural evolution, but Naxos has more historical sights than Paros.
Nightlife
Paros
A haven for nightlife enthusiasts, Paros offers a buzzing scene with beach clubs, cocktail bars, and gourmet restaurants.
Naoussa is the epicenter of evening entertainment, combining upscale dining with vibrant nightlife.
Naxos
The nightlife here is more subdued, centering around traditional tavernas and laid-back bars. While there are fewer options for partying, the focus on authentic experiences makes it no less enjoyable.
Activities and Adventures
Paros
Renowned for windsurfing and kitesurfing, particularly at Chrisi Akti and Pounta. Explore the Paros Park—a natural reserve with trails, cliffs, and a lighthouse.
Visit the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani, one of Greece’s oldest churches.
And take a half-day trip to Lefkes Village, one of Paros’ most interesting and beautiful mountain villages.
I’ve also taken a cooking class in Parikia, where I learned to make traditional Greek pastries – you can’t go wrong learning how to work with Greek cheeses and pastries!
Naxos
Hike Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, the mythological home of Zeus. Discover ancient landmarks like the Portara (Temple of Apollo), the Temple of Demeter, and the Kouros statues.
I love wandering the tiny alleyways of ancient Kastro. Just start walking uphill from anywhere in Naxos Chora!
Other highlights include the Routsouna waterfalls, the Cedar Forest of Alyko, and the marble quarries around Kinidaros.
Food and Gastronomy
Paros
Offers a mix of traditional tavernas and upscale dining, catering to foodies seeking variety. Fine dining establishments frequently add innovative twists to classic Greek cuisine.
My personal favorite is dining at a seaside restaurant in Naoussa, savoring fresh seafood with a glass of local white wine. Siparos is a romantic spot for a couples’ night out.
Naxos
An agricultural powerhouse, that boasts exceptional fresh produce. From its famous potatoes to local cheeses and meats, the island’s gastronomy is best enjoyed in its laid-back tavernas, where every dish bursts with authentic flavors.
I know Paros has more sophisticated dining experiences, but the lamb, potatoes, and cheese in Naxos keep me coming back.
Make sure to time a visit to Halki (Chalki) village for lunchtime and eat the outdoor barbeque that happens in the main square every day.
Where to Stay
- Paros: Stay in Parikia or Naoussa for bustling charm. Fishing villages like Piso Livadi and Aliki offer quieter options. My go-to recommendation is a boutique hotel in Naoussa, where the blend of luxury and Cycladic charm creates a perfect retreat.
- Naxos: Choose boutique hotels in Naxos Chora or beachfront accommodations near Plaka and Agios Georgios. For a traditional vibe, stay in mountain villages like Halki or Apiranthos. Most families and groups of young people stay on the beaches south of Naxos Chora.
Day Trips
Island hopping is a highlight of the Cycladic experience. Both Paros and Naxos offer day trips to nearby gems like Antiparos, Delos, Mykonos, and the Small Cyclades (Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia, and Donoussa).
From Naxos, I’ve taken a boat tour to the sea caves of Rina, and a ferry to Amorgos. It’s also possible to do a day trip from Naxos to nearby Tinos Island. Next to the port you can rent a car for the day, and then in the late afternoon, take another ferry to Rafina port in Athens.
From both islands, you can quickly get to the beautiful Chora of Mykonos and to the archaeological wonders of Delos.
Last summer I took myself off to Pounta in Paros to get the little ferry to Antiparos. I explored its famous caves and enjoyed a leisurely seafood lunch by the sea before hopping on a boat to see the ruins being excavated on nearby Depotiko Island.
Final Thoughts
Both Naxos and Paros deliver unforgettable Greek island experiences, but the choice depends on your preferences:
- Pick Paros for its cosmopolitan buzz, vibrant nightlife, and diverse beaches.
- Opt for Naxos if you seek authenticity, tranquility, and unspoiled natural beauty.
Better yet, why choose? Spend time on both islands for the ultimate Cycladic adventure. Ferries between Naxos and Paros make it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. if you can spare the time, 4-6 full days on each island would be a heavenly summer vacation.
Is Paris all of inclusive?
Paros Island has some all-inclusive offerings. Do you need help with them?