Naxos vs Paros vs Milos: Which Greek Island to Visit in 2024
Are you debating between visiting Naxos, Paros, and Milos?
Each Greek Island has its own charm and beauty. The Cyclades grouping of islands has over 200 islands (only 33 of which are inhabited), and there are plenty worth visiting. Naxos, Paros, and Milos are all growing in popularity as alternatives to the overrun Santorini and Mykonos.
When I was planning my trip to the Greek Islands, I wanted to explore beyond Santorini and Mykonos. Being the most popular of the islands, they are also the most expensive and crowded. I did visit Santorini and while it was beautiful, I enjoyed my time on the other Cycladic islands more.
Deciding between Paros, Naxos, or Milos can be challenging, but this guide will help you discover what makes each island unique, the best things to do, and which one might be the perfect fit for your next Greek vacation.
Naxos: The Enchanting All-Rounder
Naxos is my personal favorite Greek Island. It’s less commercial but still has plenty to do and see, with lively restaurants to enjoy. Plus, the beaches were incredibly beautiful.
Anyone can enjoy Naxos due the variety of things to do. But it’s especially great for families, nature lover and history buffs.
What Makes Naxos Unique?
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades. It offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, mountain villages, ancient ruins, hiking trails, and nightlife, making it an all-rounder that appeals to various types of travelers.
If you’re interested in Ancient Greece, Naxos has ruins to explore (while Milos and Paros are lacking in that department). It’s also the best option if you are into hiking because there is large open nature areas in the middle of the big island. Note: if you are planning on hiking I recommend going in the spring or fall because the heat in the summer is too intense to enjoy a hike.
Personally, I found the sandy beaches on Naxos to be the best of anywhere I’ve been in Greece.
Best Things to Do on Naxos
Naxos has a enough to do that you could easily spend a week there, but I recommend at least 2-3 full days. I stayed for four nights and wasn’t ready to leave.
Explore Naxos Town
Wander through the charming narrow streets of the capital, visit the Venetian Castle, and enjoy the restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife. If you want to go out, Naxos Town is your best bet on the island.
Visit the Temple of Apollo (Portara)
This iconic marble gate stands on the islet of Palatia, offering stunning sunset views.
Relax on Agios Prokopios Beach
One of the best beaches in Greece, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
Pro traveler tip: if you have a car, I’d recommend heading further down the coast to nearby beaches that get less crowded, like Plaka Beach.
We enjoyed Maragkas Beach so much that we went two days in a row to stay cool in the calm clear water. Check out the beach club at Sundunes. Guests of the hotel get free loungers, or you can pay a day rate.
Watch the wind surfers at Mikri Vigla
If you have your own car, scooter, or ATV, you should venture even further down the coast to Mikri Vigla. It’s not only a beautiful beach but you can watch all the kite surfing action.
It’s also worth exploring some more secluded beaches like Kastraki, Glyfada, Aliko, and Agiassos.
Discover Traditional Villages
Explore the picturesque villages of Apiranthos, Chalki, and Filoti to experience authentic island life and architecture.
Don’t miss dinner at Rotunda in Apiranthos. Make a reservation ahead of time because tables fill up fast with this amazing view.
Hike Mount Zeus
For adventurous souls, a hike up the highest peak in the Cyclades offers panoramic views of the island. There are two main trails:
- Aria Spring Trail: This is the more popular route, starting from the Aria Spring. The trailhead is located near the village of Filoti, at about 450 meters above sea level. This route is well-marked, relatively steep, and takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit.
- Agia Marina Trail: This route starts from the church of Agia Marina, located on the southwestern slope of the mountain. It is a bit longer and less steep than the Aria Spring trail, offering a more gradual ascent. It also takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit.
Both trails offer breathtaking views, but the Aria Spring route is generally recommended for its clear markings and scenic vistas. Remember to bring lots of water and sun protection. I do NOT recommend doing this hike in the peak of summer. Save it for the spring or fall.
Visit Ancient Sites
Discover the Temple of Demeter and the Kouros statues scattered around the island.
Why Visit Naxos?
Naxos is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of everything – beautiful beaches, historical sites, outdoor activities, and good food and drinks. It’s also family-friendly, offering activities and attractions for all ages.
Do you need to rent a car on Naxos?
Naxos is a larger island and I recommend renting a car if you plan on being here for more than a couple days. If you’re just staying for a couple nights in Naxos town or near Plaka, you don’t have to rent a car to explore those areas.
We rented a car and found it fun to drive around and explore less crowded areas of the island. There are three towns up in the mountains that are worth exploring, Chalki, Filoti, and Apeiranthos. A local told us Filoti has the best Greek food.
We also took a day to drive down the west coast to see all the beaches, stopping at Plaka Beach, Cape Mikri Vigla, Aliko, and more.
Where to Eat on Naxos
Despite supposedly being less commercial than Paros, there’s no shortage of good restaurants and fun bars.
Where to Eat in Chora (Naxos Town)
Naxos Town has a mix of traditional tavernas, chic cafes, and upscale dining options.
🔹BACO: We enjoyed a lovely sunset meal here right on the water. It’s an all-day sea front cafe and bar. We were on Naxos at the end of the trip and we appreciated the food here as a nice change up from the Greek food we’d had for most meals the previous couple weeks.
🔹 Honey & Cinnamon: A charming cafe offering homemade desserts, including their famous honey and cinnamon-laced treats. It’s a perfect spot for a sweet break.
🔹 Hurmas All Day Cafe Bar: All day cafe and bar. Good for coffee, quick eats, and local wines.
🔹Sto Ladoxarto: A hidden gem, this taverna specializes in traditional Naxian dishes. A favorite among locals and tourists alike.
🔹 Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant: Offering panoramic views of Naxos Town, Oniro is the perfect place for a romantic dinner. The extensive wine list complements the Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Where to Eat in Plaka
Plaka Beach is known for its long stretch of sand and laid-back vibe. The area offers a variety of dining options, from casual beach bars to fine dining.
🔹Picasso on the beach: We enjoyed a lovely dinner here. They serve Mexican food and are open for brunch, lunch, and dinner daily.
🔹Tortuga: Located in the Naxian on the Beach Hotel, Tortuga offers a luxurious dining experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, and seafood.
🔹3 Brothers: A family-run taverna. The menu features a range of traditional Greek dishes, including grilled meats and fresh seafood.
🔹Caya Beach Naxos: A beachside cafe offering a menu full of light, fresh dishes. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or sunset drinks.
Where to Eat in Filoti
Filoti is a picturesque village in the mountains known for its traditional tavernas and stunning views.
🔹 Platanos: Located in the heart of Filoti, Platanos is a historic taverna known for its authentic Naxian dishes. The slow-cooked lamb and Naxian cheese dishes are must-tries.
🔹 Vasilis Taverna: A popular spot among locals, serves hearty portions of traditional Greek dishes and has outdoor seating available.
🔹 O Giorgis: A small, family-run taverna offering simple, home-cooked meals. The focus here is on quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
Where to eat in Chalki
Chalki is known for its beautiful architecture and artisanal shops.
🔹Caffe Greco: A traditional cafe located in the center of Chalki, Caffe Greco offers a menu full of Greek classics. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely meal or coffee break.
🔹Paravas: A local favorite, Paravas is known for its traditional Naxian dishes and warm hospitality. The homemade desserts are particularly popular.
🔹To Spitiko Galaktomoureko: This small eatery specializes in galaktoboureko, a traditional Greek dessert made with custard and phyllo pastry. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.
🔹Duetto Cafe: A cozy spot offering a mix of Greek and international dishes. The outdoor seating provides a lovely view of the village, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a meal.
🔹Yorgis Taverna: Known for its traditional Greek dishes and friendly service, Yorgis Taverna is a great place to sample local specialties like moussaka and grilled meats.
Where to Stay in Naxos
Naxos Town, also known as Chora, is the main port of the island. It offers a bled of history, vibrant nightlife, and modern amenities. The town has charming small streets and a lively waterfront with lots of restaurants, bars, and shops.
📍Nissaki Beach Hotel: Luxury boutique hotel located right on the beach, providing easy access to both the town and the sea.
📍Hotel Grotta: With panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a great location close to the town center.
Agios Prokopios is renowned for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the best beaches in Naxos. The area is perfect for beach lovers and families, offering water sports, beachfront tavernas, and shops.
📍Liana Beach Hotel & Spa: Beachfront hotel with a spa and sea views
📍Naxos Island Hotel: Luxury hotel with a rooftop pool and panoramic views
Plaka is famous for its long, sandy shoreline and pristine waters. The area is a bit quieter than Agios Prokopios, making it perfect for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience.
📍Sundunes: New modern boutique hotel. I went to their beach club two days in a row, and highly recommend it!
📍Medusa Resort & Suites: Resort with gardens and direct access to Plaka Beach.
Paros: The Chic and Charming Gem
If you’re looking for some party vibes but don’t want the hassle that comes along with the Santorini and Mykonos, consider Paros. I stayed here for five nights and enjoyed a mix of relaxing at our beachfront hotel and exploring the island and the main town, Naoussa.
What Makes Paros Unique?
Paros is known for its charming villages, lively beach bars, and beautiful beaches. It has a more cosmopolitan vibe compared to Naxos, making it a favorite among trendy travelers and those looking for a lively yet relaxed island atmosphere.
Best Things to Do on Paros
Here are some top things to do on Paros you should consider fitting into your itinerary.
Visit Naoussa
This picturesque fishing village is known for its vibrant nightlife, chic boutiques, and waterfront tavernas.
Explore Lefkes Village
A traditional village nestled in the mountains, offering beautiful views and a taste of authentic Greek culture.
Go for a Boat Ride
Going for a boat ride was the highlight of our time on Paros. Most boats take you to multiple snorkeling sites and around Antiparos.
Relax on Kolymbithres Beach
Famous for its unique rock formations and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Enjoy Water Sports in Golden Beach
A haven for windsurfing and kiteboarding enthusiasts.
Take a Day Trip to Antiparos
A short ferry ride away, Antiparos is known for its stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere. If you have a rental car, you can take it over on the ferry.
Stroll Through Parikia
The capital of Paros, Parikia, is home to the stunning Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani and charming whitewashed houses.
Who Should Visit Paros?
Paros is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of charming villages, beautiful beaches, and a lively social scene. If you want to enjoy a late night of partying – pick Paros over Naxos and Milos.
Anyone can find their sweet spot on Paros. It’s good for couples, groups of friends, and even solo travelers.
Do you need to rent a car on Paros?
Whether you need to rent a car on Paros depends on your travel style and plans. If you prefer convenience, comfort, and the ability to explore at your own pace, renting a car is a great option.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or enjoy the adventure of using public transport and other alternatives, you can certainly get around the island without a car.
Paros is relatively small, with a land area of about 196 square kilometers. The island’s main towns include:
🔹Parikia: the capital and primary port
🔹Naoussa: was once a charming fishing village now the main town and hotspot for chic bars, restaurants, and shopping
🔹Lefkes: a traditional mountain village.
The island is dotted with numerous beaches, each with its unique charm, and several smaller villages and attractions worth exploring.
Where to Stay in Paros
If you’re staying in Naoussa, check out:
📍Saint Andrea Seaside Resort: This luxurious resort offers stunning sea views, elegant rooms, and top-notch amenities. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway.
📍Senia Hotel: With its breathtaking views of Naoussa Bay, Senia Hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort and luxury, complete with an infinity pool.
If you have your own transportation (car, scooter, or ATV rental), then there so many great options around the island for places to stay, including:
📍St. George Beachfront Hotel: Located on New Golden Beach, in a more secluded and quiet stretch of the island. I stayed here on my honeymoon and loved it. We had a balcony with a sea view, enjoyed breakfast by the pool in the mornings and afternoons on the beach. It is a bit removed from the main areas so I recommend a car if you are staying here and also planning for a day or two of just staying on site and enjoying the hotel pool and beach loungers.
Aliki: Aliki is a tranquil fishing village on the southern coast of Paros, perfect for a peaceful escape.
📍Parosland Hotel: More budget friendly boutique hotel.
Piso Livadi: Piso Livadi is a small laid back coastal village, offering seafood tavernas and easy access to nearby beaches.
📍Aloni Hotel: Located close to the beach and the village center.
Milos: The Romantic and Scenic Marvel
This is the least commercial of the three islands covered in this guide. So if you prefer more chill vacation spots, check out Milos. Also, if you’re looking for something a bit different than your typical beach destination, Milos is a special island.
What Makes Milos Unique?
Milos, often referred to as the “island of colors,” is known for its stunning landscapes, dramatic coastline, and romantic ambiance. Its unique geological formations and crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
It’s known for it’s moonscape-like beaches surrounded by rock formations and coves. If you are looking for a typical sandy beach, don’t head to Milos. But if you want to explore more unique beaches and like to cliff jump, then you should for sure visit Milos.
If you seek out unique landscapes, after your visit to Milos, consider taking a drive up to Meteora in mainland Greece.
Best Things to Do on Milos
Visit Sarakiniko Beach
Famous for its moon-like landscape with white volcanic rocks and turquoise waters. You can’t miss a visit to this beach during your stay on Milos.
While it’s a must-visit for its beauty, be prepared for crowds, especially in peak season. There are no amenities directly on the beach, so bring water and snacks.
Go on a Boat Tour
See the best of Milos dramatic landscapes on a boat tour.
➡️ Adamas: Milos & Polyaigos Full-Day Sailboat Tour with Lunch: This full day sailing cruise takes you around Milos and the blue waters of Polyaigos Island. Snorkel in the caves of Kleftiko and swim in spots only accessible by boat.
➡️ From Milos: Guided Day Cruise to Kleftiko With Lunch: Another amazing option for a full day cruise around the island with swimming stops and lunch included.
Explore Kleftiko Caves
Accessible by boat, these sea caves are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. If you take one of the boat tours above, you’ll stop at this special spot.
Discover Plaka Village
The island’s capital offers narrow streets, beautiful views, and a charming atmosphere.
Relax on the Beach
Here are the best beaches worth visiting on Milos:
🔹Firiplaka Beach: Firiplaka has a beach bar with snacks, drinks, and sunbeds for rent. The combination of the colorful cliffs, clear waters, and convenient amenities makes it a popular choice.
🔹Paleochori: Known for its colorful, mineral-rich cliffs, Paleochori is one of the most developed beaches on Milos. It’s lined with beach bars and restaurants. The hot springs that bubble up in the sea here add a unique touch. This beach tends to get busy, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a spot with plenty of amenities and activities.
🔹Provatas: A family-friendly beach with golden sands and calm, shallow waters, Provatas is easily accessible and has several tavernas and cafes nearby. It’s a great spot for a relaxed day by the sea, though it can get busy during peak hours.
🔹Tsigrado: This small, hidden beach is an adventure to reach. You’ll need to navigate a steep path and climb down a rope ladder, but the effort is worth it. Tsigrado is a stunning cove with clear turquoise waters, surrounded by high cliffs. It’s best to visit early in the day as the beach is small and fills up quickly.
🔹Papafragas: While more of a dramatic coastal feature than a traditional beach, Papafragas is a narrow, cave-like inlet with crystal-clear waters. There’s a small beach bar nearby, making it a great spot to check out before or after grabbing a drink.
Visit the Ancient Theater of Milos
An impressive archaeological site offering a glimpse into the island’s ancient past.
Explore the Catacombs of Milos
One of the most important early Christian monuments in Greece.
Who Should Visit Milos?
Milos is perfect for couples, honeymooners, and nature lovers looking for a romantic and scenic island escape. Its unique landscapes and serene atmosphere make it a great choice for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation.
Do you need to rent a car on Milos?
Milos is relatively small, with a land area of about 160 square kilometers. The island’s main port and largest village is Adamas, while other notable towns include Plaka, the island’s capital, Pollonia, and Tripiti. But I still recommend renting your own car to properly explore everything.
Milos has a decent public transportation system, especially during the high tourist season. Here’s what you need to know:
- Buses: The island has a network of buses that connect the main towns and some of the popular beaches. Buses are relatively cheap and run frequently during the summer months, but their schedules can be limited during the off-season. Key routes include Adamas to Plaka, Pollonia, and several popular beaches.
- Taxis: Taxis are available but can be expensive compared to buses. They are useful for short trips or if you need to reach a destination not covered by the bus routes. However, during peak season, taxis can be in high demand, making them less reliable.
Scooters and ATVs are popular alternatives to renting a car on Milos.
Where to Stay in Milos
Adamas is the main port town of Milos with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Staying in Adamas provides easy access to the island’s transportation, making it a convenient base for exploring Milos.
📍Santa Maria Village: Charming hotel with a beautiful pool area. Located within walking distance of the port and town center.
📍Portiani Hotel: This hotel has a prime location with cozy rooms and stunning views of the port.
📍Hotel Meltemi: Budget-friendly option located near the port and main attractions.
Plaka is the picturesque capital of Milos, on a hill with narrow streets and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It’s known for its traditional Cycladic architecture, historical sites, and sunset views. Staying in Plaka allows you to experience the island’s authentic charm.
📍Archondoula Studios: Located in in the heart of Plaka, close to shops and restaurants.
📍Plaka Suites: With its stylish design and panoramic views, Plaka Suites provides a luxurious stay.
📍Vivere A Plakes: A boutique hotel for those seeking a tranquil and romantic getaway.
Which Greek Island Should You Choose?
- For a Balanced Experience: If you want sandy beaches, history, hiking, and a happening social scene Naxos is your best bet.
- For Chic Charm and Nightlife: If you’re looking for charming villages, vibrant nightlife, and beaches, Paros will be perfect for you.
- For Romance and Scenic Beauty: If you’re after dramatic landscapes, unique beaches, romantic settings, and picturesque natural attractions, Milos is the ideal choice.
Whichever island you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable Greek island experience filled with stunning scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality. Happy travels!
TL;DR: Naxos vs Paros vs Milos: Which Greek Island to Visit
I highly recommend visiting all three islands, Naxos, Paros, and Milos, if you have the time. But if not, find the one that fits your travel style the best and enjoy! The good news is, you can’t go wrong; they are all amazing!
Naxos, Paros, and Milos are also great options to pair with a visit to Santorini or Mykonos, if you don’t want to skip the most popular islands altogether. Spend a couple days in the hot spots and then visit another Cyclades island for a more relaxing time.