As you know I fell in love with Naxos, one of the most beautiful and popular islands in the Cyclades, Greece, that attracts many visitors every year. It is famous for its stunning beaches, its rich history and culture, and its delicious cuisine. If you are planning to visit Naxos from Athens, you might be wondering what are the best ways to get there. In this article, we will show you the different options you have, and help you choose the one that suits you best.
I took the quickest option, by plane which also means landing at one of the super cute tinty airports.
By Ferry
One of the most common and convenient ways to get to Naxos from Athens is by ferry. There are several ferries per day that depart from the main ports of Athens: Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio. Depending on which port and ferry you choose, the journey can take from 3.5 hours to 5.5 hours. The ferries are comfortable and spacious, and offer various amenities such as cabins, restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Aegean Sea and the other islands along the way.
The advantage of taking a ferry is that you can avoid the hassle of checking in at the airport, and you can also bring your car or motorcycle with you if you want to explore the island more easily. The disadvantage is that the ferry schedule may be affected by weather conditions or strikes, and that you may need to book your tickets in advance, especially during the high season (May-October).
To find the best ferry deals and timetables, you can use Ferryhopper1, a reliable and user-friendly website that allows you to compare and book your ferry tickets online. You can also use it to check the availability and prices of other Greek islands as well.
By Plane
Another way to get to Naxos from Athens is by plane. There are direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Naxos Island National Airport (JNX) that take about 43 minutes. The flights are operated by Olympic Air and Sky Express, and they usually run several times a day. The planes are small and have limited capacity, so they may fill up quickly.
The advantage of taking a plane is that you can save time and enjoy a faster and more comfortable journey. The disadvantage is that the flights are more expensive than the ferries, and that you may need to pay extra fees for your luggage or transportation to and from the airports.
To find the best flight deals and timetables, you can use Expedia, a popular and trustworthy website that allows you to search and book your flight tickets online. You can also use it to find hotels, car rentals, or vacation packages for your trip.
By Car
A third way to get to Naxos from Athens is by car. This option is only possible if you have your own car or rent one in Athens. You can drive from Athens to one of the ports (Piraeus, Rafina, or Lavrio) where you can take a car ferry to Naxos. The driving time can vary depending on the traffic and the route you take, but it usually takes around 1 hour to 2 hours.
The advantage of taking a car is that you can have more flexibility and independence in your travel plans, and that you can explore Naxos at your own pace. The disadvantage is that driving in Greece can be challenging and stressful, especially in Athens where the traffic is heavy and chaotic. You also need to pay for gas, tolls, parking, and ferry tickets for your car.
To find the best car rental deals and options in Athens, you can use Rentalcars.com, a comprehensive and easy-to-use website that allows you to compare and book your car rental online. You can also use it to find car rentals in other destinations around the world.
I loved the flight even though on the return leg I had a 10 hour wait at Athens for a connecting flight to the UK followed by a cancellation, a story for another time!
