How to Get from Paros to Naxos

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.

Both fast and conventional ferries make this journey up to eight times per day during the high season and around three times per day in the fall and winter season. These ferries will get you to Naxos in 45 minutes or less.

If you'd rather not take a ferry, it is possible to fly from New Paros Airport (PAR), up to Athens International Airport (ATH), and then back down to Naxos Airport (JNX) in approximately three and a half hours, depending on your layovers.

It's also possible to charter your own yacht and sail between Paros and Naxos, but this is only recommended if you're interested in a luxury vacation.

Make sure you check out our ultimate guide to Naxos before you head over. For a hassle-free way to see the best of Paros and Naxos, including plenty of beach hopping and tours of must-see archeological sites, check out this 8-day itinerary that covers both islands. 

By Fast Ferry

Duration: 30 minutes

Golden Star Ferries, SeaJets, and Blue Star Ferries offer fast ferries that depart from the Paros Port in Parakia around six times each day during the high season and around once or twice during the low season. Each fast ferry will arrive at the Naxos Port in 30 minutes. Most ferries accommodate vehicles and all allow for pets.

Each ferry company will offer economy seats, business-class seats, and VIP seats. On-board bathrooms and cafés will make your trek across the Aegean comfortable.

You should purchase your ticket ahead of time if you're traveling during the high season as ferries fill quickly. If you can’t print your ferry ticket prior to departure, you must arrive to the port approximately 30 to 45 minutes before your trip to pick up your ticket from the ferry office.

By Slow Ferry

Duration: 45 minutes

Slower, larger ferries from Blue Star Ferries depart from the Paros Port twice per day in the high season and once per day in the low season, and all ferries will arrive in Naxos in 45 minutes.

All slower ferries accommodate vehicles and pets, and they also have onboard cafés and bathrooms. Seat options include economy, business class, and VIP.

By Plane

Duration: 3.5 hours, more depending on layover

The New Paros Airport is located about 6 miles (10 km) from the port of Parakia, near the village of Aliki. To reach the airport, you can take a KTEL bus or a taxi. 

The flight from Paros to Athens takes only 40 minutes. Although you'll have an average layover of about an hour, the Athens International Airport offers an extensive array of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you entertained.

Your last flight from Athens International Airport to Naxos Airport takes an additional 40 minutes. The Naxos Airport is located just 2 miles (3 km) from Naxos City, with buses and taxis making the quick trek to the city center frequently.

By Private Yacht

Duration: Multiple days or more

For a ritzier vacation, you can charter your own private yacht, and there are options that will suit between eight and 12 guests. A professional crew of two or three people will ensure your group's safety as you cross the Aegean. For more information about chartering your own yacht, read over our article on yacht trips in Greece.