If you have found this article, you are no doubt having the same dilemma I did: Should I stay on Paros or Naxos? Two amazing neighboring islands, but only time to stay on one and visit the other for a day. Which do you choose?
Deciding between Paros and Naxos was a tough choice for me. I wish I had stayed on both in hindsight but the idea of packing and unpacking on an already busy trip was too much. After much deliberation, I settled on Paros and it turned out to be the perfect decision for me (phew!). Of course, what worked for me may not be the same for you and your needs. I’ve listed the reasons I was happy with my choice, which might help you decide, even if that is differently to me.
- Paros has two main towns – Parikia and Naoussa whereas Naxos only has one.
2. Paros is smaller and flatter to drive round whereas Naxos is more mountainous.
3. Paros has better shopping due to the two towns however Naxos had some great boutique shops too.
4. Naxos nearly won purely because it has more rooftop bars, especially since many didn’t open until after the ferry back to Paros! However, the rooftop bars in Paros offered a better variety of views, whereas those in Naxos were mainly on the harbour.
5. You can visit the stunning island of Antiparos island in just 7 minutes from Paros, compared to 45 minutes from Naxos.
6. Paros has a great bus system around the island, even though I ended up hiring a car. Naxos buses aren’t as reliable for seeing the whole island. I had wanted to head inland on our day trip there, but it was just too unpredictable by bus. Plus standing waiting in a heatwave, no thank you. We should have taken our hire car over to Naxos (though that would have hiked up the insurance) or hired one upon arrival, which you can do at the port.
7. If you love hiking, holiday activities like wind surfing then Naxos wins and why I didn’t choose it! HA! Boujee beach clubs, rooftop and exploring are my holiday go to’s.
8. Port towns can feel quite transient, and I wanted to feel at home for the week. Naoussa offered that.
9. I was obsessed with Paros before I went. Even though both islands have beautiful bougainvillea flowers popping along the stone walkways, beautiful beaches and ravishing rooftops there was just something about Paros. And I was right; I just connected better there. Obviously, this is hugely personal and more of a spiritual reason, but I’m sharing in case it helps.
10 Paros has a reputation for great nightlife, especially in Naoussa, which I can confirm is true! I would have liked to stay and party one night in Naxos, not least for the rooftops that opened later! I guess I’ll be going back…
A few other points I researched before going are worth addressing. While the beaches in Naxos are considered better with shallower waters (great for families or nervous swimmers), I found both islands’ beaches amazing.
Naxos has a reputation for being better for young families, whereas Paros is popular with teens, girls’ trips, and solo travelers. I felt very safe on both islands and can see the appeal of both for different types of visitors, but that’s a good generalization.
Both islands have good ports and flights to Athens (neither have international flights), so my recommendation is to stay on Paros and spend at least one night on Naxos, then fly or sail on from there! Hope that helps. Happy holidays! xx