You’re probably comparing Paros vs Naxos, two of our favourite Greek islands. They’re neighbouring islands in the Cycladic group. Similarly, this region has other popular places like Santorini, Mykonos, and Milos.
We’ve spent tons of time exploring both islands. Consequently, people always ask about the differences between Naxos and Paros. Undoubtedly, this makes sense. Most travellers only have limited time for island hopping in Greece. Thus, they want to visit the best islands.
You can find stunning white towns, fantastic beach areas, and tasty local eating places on both Naxos and Paros islands. Moreover, these islands are small enough for you to see in just a few days. However, the two islands are very different from each other.
Naxos is much larger with rough landscapes and more old historical places for you to visit. On the other hand, Paros has a trendy and sophisticated feel including beach clubs, fancy drinking spots, and water sports fun. As someone who has travelled a lot on both islands, you will certainly find the comparison between Naxos and Paros fascinating.
Paros vs Naxos: The Similarities
You’ll find lots of similarities between Naxos and Paros too. First, the weather is identical. So the best time to visit Paros is the same as Naxos – April through September. Furthermore, this is great because you can see both islands on the same holiday if you have time.
Both islands also have a central city centre surrounded by smaller beach towns and mountain villages outside the centre – for example, Chora. Whether you spend a few days in Paros or Naxos, you’ll find excellent coffee shops, local tavernas, and their own local airports. Having visited both islands multiple times, I always recommend flying if you don’t want to take the ferry.
You can get around using similar transportation options on each island. Hiring your own vehicle is the best and cheapest way to get around. Although on larger Naxos hiring a car is a bit more necessary, you will still most likely want a car to see all of Paros.
Paros vs Naxos: The Differences
Despite the similarities, you’ll notice major differences between Paros and Naxos too. First, Paros is smaller at 75 square kilometres. Conversely, Naxos is larger at 165 square kilometres.
Also, the general feel of Paros is generally more affluent, while rugged mountainous Naxos, is ideal for hiking. In our experience, Naxos has some of the best hiking in the Cyclades islands. However, Paros has more boat trips around nearby islands.
Furthermore, Paros is known for beach clubs and nightlife. Conversely, Naxos has long sandy beaches that are more family-friendly. Although you can find beach clubs in Naxos too, they are fewer.
It’s easier to get around Paros since it’s smaller. Nevertheless, Paros gets more crowded during summer. Unlike on Paros, you can’t get a direct ferry from Athens to Naxos.
Paros or Naxos:
The Best Beach
Both have really nice beaches, but on Naxos they are generally wider and less crowded. Therefore, they are perfect if you are seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The entire west coast is basically one long sandy beach area.
This long coastline has tons of beach towns, all separated by just a few kilometres. For example, Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Galini, Maragkas, Plaka, Hawaii Beach, and Alyko Beach. Not only does Naxos have the largest beaches, but it offers way more variety too.
Some beach towns like Agia Galini are busy with shops, bars, and beach clubs. However, beaches like Plaka and Alyko feel so remote that you may not see another soul off-peak season.
Paros’s beaches are different though. They are more organized, with restaurants on the water and numerous beach clubs. Since they are usually relatively small, they often feel busier than Naxos beaches.
However, the beaches are more accessible in Naxos. You can walk to beaches like Piperi or Kolymbithres from Naxos Town. Similarly, towns like Piso Livadi and Santa Maria are very close to the larger Paros beaches.
Paros is also better for water sports. Nevertheless, on either island you can rent sunbeds and access basic amenities at most beaches.
Our Choice: Naxos (From my travels, the beaches in Naxos felt more expansive and relaxing)
Paros or Naxos:
Which Is Easiest to Get To?
Paros edges out slightly in accessibility. It’s served by more frequent ferries and flights. Its proximity to other popular Cycladic destinations makes it convenient for exploring multiple islands.
Specifically, Paros is the first ferry stop from Athens. If taking the ferry to Naxos, you must wait 30 minutes in Paros first. Then it’s another 30 to 60 minute journey from Paros to Naxos after that. However, this doesn’t apply to flights.
Both islands have airports with direct flights from Athens. The airports are less than 10 minutes by car from the main towns, unless you stay in Naoussa (20 minutes from the Paros airport).
Our Choice: Paros (In my opinion, the accessibility of Paros gives it an edge for island hopping.)
Which Is Easier to Get Around?
Paros is generally considered easier to get around than Naxos. It has a comprehensive bus network connecting major towns and beaches. There’s essentially one road around the island and one through the middle.
Accordingly, you don’t actually need a car in Paros. However, a rental car helps a lot and we recommend it. You can also rent scooters on the islands. Paros has mellow roads, so any scooter works. But for Naxos, make sure it’s over 125cc.
Conversely, Naxos is much larger and rugged. Understanding the bus system is harder initially. Only a few Naxos towns have convenient taxis and public transportation. If staying near remote areas like Plaka Beach or Chalki, taxis will be challenging.
Our Choice: Paros (I found getting around Paros to be more convenient during my stays.)
Paros or Naxos:
Best for Outdoor Activities
Naxos is definitely the better choice if you enjoy outdoor adventures. Its rugged, mountainous terrain offers excellent hiking opportunities. One major highlight is hiking to the top of Mount Zas to see Zeus’s Childhood Cave.
Additionally, Naxos has plenty of other small islands just off its south-west coast that you can explore by boat. Popular destinations include Iraklia, Koufonissia, and Schinoussa. These tiny natural islands are well known for being untouched, beautiful and having serene beaches.
You can also take boat tours along the east coast of Naxos to see caves and hard-to-reach beaches you can’t get to without a tour.
In contrast, Paros is less suited for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. Although you can do some hiking, especially to the village of Lefkes, the terrain is not as rugged as Naxos. Likewise, Paros has fewer remote islands nearby to explore.
However, one of the main benefits of visiting Paros is the popularity of its water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing along its lovely beaches.
Our Choice: We found Naxos was better suited for rugged hiking while Paros catered more for water sports enthusiasts.
Paros vs Naxos:
Best for Nightlife
Both islands have lively ports with nightlife, but Paros easily wins for partying and entertainment. From chic beach bars to bumping nightclubs, Paros offers an energetic vibe after dark – the go-to for dancing the night away.
Specifically, Naoussa is the hub of Paros’s nightlife scene. Often compared to Mykonos, the streets here come alive with sophisticated cocktail bars and swanky clubs after sunset. However, you’ll find just a fraction of the international crowds in Naoussa compared to Mykonos.
In contrast, Naxos feels more relaxed at night. While people are out in town, it’s mainly at casual cafes near the port and local restaurants. Naxos Town only has one beach club and a few open-air drink spots – most places feel like neighbourhood pubs.
If enjoying nightlife is important to you, Paros is certainly the better choice between these two islands. The vibe in Paros is much more geared towards staying out late into the night.
Our Choice: Paros (The lively nightlife scene in Paros left a lasting impression on me.)
Paros or Naxos:
Which One Has the Best Restaurants?
Paros is well-known for its diverse food scene, featuring everything from traditional Greek restaurants to fancy upscale places. However, you’ll pay more to eat at the best restaurants.
This is especially true in touristy areas like Naoussa, Piso Livadi, and Santa Maria. Even in Parikia, finding cheap eats (besides gyros) is difficult. A couple standout restaurants in Paros are Ververas and Anezina. You’ll also find lots of places for beachside dining or getting food delivered to your sunbed.
Naxos had really good restaurants too, but they were way more affordable. The difference is there was less “Western” food and more Greek taverns and local eateries. It’s also not as easy to find waterfront dining in Naxos Town, though the promenade is still nice.
To Spitiko Naxos obviously has the best gyros in town. And if you are looking for the best Naxos tavernas try seeking out Rotonda or Sarris Tavern.
If you prioritize an upscale dining experience and cuisine variety, Paros is the better choice. But if sticking to a budget is important, Naxos has great affordable food.
Our Choice: From my dining experiences, Paros had incredible upscale restaurants while Naxos offered amazing value.
Paros vs Naxos:
Best for Families
Naxos is particularly family-friendly, thanks to its calm beaches, many different places to stay, and activities good for all ages. It has an exceptionally welcoming feel.
The spacious, shallow, sandy beaches in Naxos make it ideal for families with kids. Most Paros beaches are a bit rocky and small, so it’s more challenging to find a secluded spot to let children enjoy freely.
Another perk of Naxos for families is that it’s less popular for hard-partying crowds. You won’t have to worry about late-night music or finding affordable family-friendly restaurants.
In contrast, while Paros has plenty of kid-friendly resorts and beaches, the island’s cosmopolitan vibe and nightlife scene make it less ideally suited for families compared to laid-back Naxos.
However, Paros can still be a good family destination if you base yourself in calmer areas like Piso Livadi or Santa Maria away from the party towns.
Overall, Naxos is the easier choice for a hassle-free family vacation thanks to its mellow environment and amenities.
Our Choice: Naxos ( Personally I preferred the family friendly atmosphere in Naxos.)
Paros vs Naxos:
Better For A Honeymoon
Most people think Paros is better for a romantic honeymoon. It’s full of charming villages, and eating dinner at a restaurant by the sea under the stars can be very romantic.
Additionally, Paros has way more luxury resorts, spas, and fancy amenities compared to Naxos. If you’re willing to spend more, Paros can truly feel like a luxurious island getaway at a boutique hotel on the Aegean Sea.
This is possible in Naxos too, but it takes more effort to find romantic honeymoon spots, with fewer high-end options available.
However, more adventurous couples really into history and exploring may prefer Naxos. It has more rugged hikes, mountain peaks like Mount Zas, and archaeological sites. The west coast also has extremely secluded beaches if you put in the effort.
Naxos does have some romantic places to stay, especially near Agios Prokopios beach, if you decide to honeymoon there instead of Paros.
Overall, Paros is the easier choice for a romantic, upscale honeymoon. But Naxos appeals more to active, adventurous honeymooners.
Our Choice: Tie (For a honeymoon, I would likely choose Paros for the romantic ambiance, but Naxos has its own rustic charm).
Can You Visit Both Islands in a Week?
You can definitely visit both Naxos and Paros in one week. You need around 3-4 days on each island to see the major sights and a couple less popular spots.
However, staying longer allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace. With extra time, you can also take a boat trip to one of the smaller surrounding islands. We always recommend renting a car and staying near Naxos Town for first-time visitors.
Similarly, you should base yourself in Naoussa if you only have a few days in Paros. It’s close to Kolimbithres Beach and the best area for first-timers. Budget travellers can stay in Parikia near the port instead.
If splitting one week between the islands, perhaps spend 3 nights in Naxos and 4 nights in Paros. This gives you slightly more time in Paros to experience the lively atmosphere.
Ultimately, visiting both islands in one trip is totally doable if you plan accordingly. You’ll get a taste of the contrasting vibes they offer.
Conclusion
So, which island is the winner of Paros vs Naxos? As you’ve probably realized, it really depends on your travel style and priorities. Some people strongly prefer one over the other.
Personally, we absolutely adore each island but for quite different reasons. We go to Paros to truly relax, enjoy amazing food, and feel like we’re on a luxurious vacation. We recommend Paros to travellers who value convenience, quality beaches, upscale dining, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. It’s also our top pick for a romantic honeymoon in Greece.
On the other hand, Naxos is better for history buffs, hikers, and adventurous travellers. It has incredibly remote beaches, hiking to places like Mount Zas and Zeus’s Childhood Cave, plus easy access to explore tiny surrounding islands by boat.
Ultimately, if you have enough time, we suggest visiting both Naxos and Paros. This allows you to experience their different vibes and decide which one you like better. But if you don’t have much time, choose based on whether you want outdoor adventures or a lively resort vacation.
Either way, you really can’t go wrong. In my opinion, the Paros vs Naxos debate is one that we should all be lucky enough to resolve. But they simply offer amazing but different Greek island experiences for different travel preferences!
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