Naxos -vs- Paros -vs- Santorini -vs- Mykonos
Many often wonder whether they should be going to Naxos or one of the many other islands nearby. Though there is no easy answer, the following table is attempting to provide a quick overview of similarities and differences.
Please note that all the comments below are somewhat relative and also dependent on the mont. For example, when we say that Naxos beaches are uncrowder....of course Naxos beaches can be crowded at times, but overall it depends on which beach, what time of the day, and naturally, in relation to other islands. So it is all relative.
Feature / Experience |
🏝️ Naxos |
🏝️ Paros |
💃 Mykonos |
🏖️ Santorini |
Vibe |
Authentic, laid-back, family-friendly |
Trendy, balanced, younger crowd |
Glamorous, party-heavy, luxury |
Romantic, iconic, dramatic |
Best For |
Families, nature lovers, Greek culture fans, both mountains and beaches |
Couples, beachgoers, photographers |
Nightlife seekers, luxury travelers |
Honeymooners, photographers, history lovers |
Main Town |
Chora (Naxos Town) – quaint, Venetian touch |
Parikia & Naoussa – pretty, vibrant |
Mykonos Town – chic, cosmopolitan |
Fira & Oia – postcard perfect |
Beaches |
Long, sandy, uncrowded |
Nice, good variety, bus-accessible |
Beautiful but often crowded |
Mostly pebbled or cliffside, fewer swimmable |
Nightlife |
Low-key, a few bars and beach parties |
Moderate – good beach bars & Naoussa nightlife |
World-famous clubs and DJs |
Quiet, romantic evenings with a view |
Cost |
💰 Budget-friendly |
💰💰 Moderate |
💰💰💰 Expensive |
💰💰💰 Very expensive |
Activities |
Hiking, windsurfing, history, local life |
Windsurfing, beach hopping, quaint villages |
Clubbing, shopping, celebrity spotting |
Caldera views, wineries, sunset cruises |
Accessibility |
Ferry from Athens, small airport (domestic) |
Easy ferry access, small airport (domestic) |
Excellent – major airport + ferry |
Excellent – major airport + ferry |
Local Food Scene |
Traditional, farm-to-table, local cheeses |
Great seafood, elegant dining in Naoussa |
Trendy & upscale restaurants |
Sunset dining, wine tasting, upscale cuisine |
Crowds (peak season) |
Less crowded than others |
Moderate, busier each year |
Very crowded |
Extremely crowded in hotspots |
Cultural Sites |
Ancient temples, Venetian castle, mountain villages |
Byzantine churches, Lefkes village |
Windmills, Little Venice, not much beyond |
Ancient Thera, Akrotiri, churches, caldera |
Public Transport |
Solid bus network, car recommended |
Good bus service to major spots |
Decent, many rely on taxis or ATVs |
Buses between towns, walking common |
Family-Friendly? |
✅✅✅ Yes – beaches, safety, space |
✅✅ Yes – but a bit trendier |
❌ Not ideal – party-centric |
✅ Yes – but not very child-focused |
Pet-Friendly? |
✅ Many open areas & accommodations |
✅ Similar to Naxos |
❌ Strict luxury policies in many hotels |
✅ Mostly, but terrain is rough for walks |
Unique Selling Point |
Best mix of beaches + authentic villages |
Naoussa nightlife + great food |
Glitz & nightlife |
Volcano views + romantic vibes |