How to Get to Naxos: Ferries, Flights and Airport Transfers
Naxos is superbly connected in summer, sitting right in the middle of the Cyclades with ferry links in every direction and its own small airport. Whether you arrive by fast ferry from Athens or a short hop by plane, getting here is straightforward once you know your options. This guide covers every route to the island, the trade-offs between ferry and air, and how we meet you at the port or airport with your car so you can start exploring the moment you arrive, free of charge.
By ferry from Athens (Piraeus)
The most popular way to reach Naxos is the ferry from Piraeus, the port of Athens. High speed ferries make the crossing in around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours, while conventional ferries take about 5 hours but cost less and ride more steadily, which matters if the meltemi wind is up. Both types run daily through the season, with extra sailings in July and August.
Book ferry tickets in advance for peak dates, especially if you are bringing a vehicle or want reserved seats. We meet every ferry at Naxos Port with your car, so you can drive off within minutes of stepping onto the island rather than queueing at a counter.
The main summer operators run modern, comfortable vessels with cafes, air conditioning and outdoor decks, so the crossing is part of the holiday rather than a chore. If you are prone to seasickness, book a conventional ferry on windy days and choose a seat in the middle of the ship. Arrive at Piraeus in good time, as the port is large and finding your gate can take longer than you expect in high season.
Island hopping: Mykonos, Santorini and Paros
Naxos is a natural hub for island hopping. Fast ferries connect it with Mykonos in about 45 minutes, with Paros in roughly 30 to 45 minutes, and with Santorini in around 2 hours. The Small Cyclades, Koufonisia, Iraklia, Schinoussa and Donousa, are a short hop away and make wonderful day trips.
Many travellers fly into Santorini or Mykonos, which have larger international airports, then continue to Naxos by ferry. Whichever route you take, your car will be waiting when you land. A relaxed island hopping trip pairs beautifully with a few days of driving, as described in our road trip itinerary.
By air to Naxos (JNX)
Naxos National Airport (airport code JNX) receives domestic flights from Athens, with a flight time of around 45 minutes. It is a small airport served by turboprop aircraft, so seats are limited and fill quickly in high season. Booking early is essential if you want to fly directly.
As an alternative, flying into Santorini (JTR) or Mykonos (JMK) and taking a ferry onward often gives you more flight choices and better prices. Airport delivery and collection at Naxos are always free with Naxos Auto Rent, so a car will be ready the moment you clear the tiny arrivals hall.
Bereit, Naxos zu entdecken?
Buchen Sie Ihr Auto in wenigen Minuten. Kostenlose Lieferung, unbegrenzte Kilometer, keine versteckten Gebühren.
Free meet and greet delivery
Wherever you land, port, airport or your hotel, tell us the location and time and your car will be there. No queues, no counters and no surprise fees. Our team hands over the keys, walks you through the car and points you toward your first beach or village.
This free delivery covers the whole southwest of the island, including Naxos Town, Galanado, Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna. See the four official pick-up points on our contact page, and browse the fleet to choose the right car before you travel.
If your ferry or flight is delayed, there is no need to worry: we track arrivals and simply wait, at no extra charge. Send us your travel details when you book and we will confirm exactly where to meet. Many guests tell us that stepping off the boat to find their car ready and waiting is the moment their holiday truly begins.
When to arrive and what to plan
Ferries and flights are busiest on weekends and around public holidays, so mid week arrivals are calmer and often cheaper. The season runs from late April to late October. For a full breakdown of weather, crowds and prices by month, read our guide to the best time to visit Naxos.
Once you have your dates, reserve your car at the same time as your ferry or flight. Summer demand is high and the most popular models sell out first. You can book online in a couple of minutes, and every rental includes free delivery, unlimited mileage and a free additional driver.
Arriving with children or lots of luggage
Families and larger groups should think about space before they travel. A roomy family car or a seven seater makes the transfer from port to hotel effortless, with room for suitcases, beach gear and a couple of extra passengers. Child seats can be arranged in advance at no stress.
If you are travelling with the whole family, our dedicated family holiday guide covers everything from car choice to the easiest beaches, so the logistics take care of themselves.
Häufige Fragen
How long is the ferry from Athens to Naxos?+
High speed ferries take around 3 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours from Piraeus, while conventional ferries take about 5 hours but cost less and ride more steadily in windy weather.
Does Naxos have an airport?+
Yes. Naxos National Airport (JNX) receives domestic flights from Athens in about 45 minutes. Seats are limited, so book early. Many visitors also fly into Santorini or Mykonos and continue by ferry.
Will you deliver a car to the port or airport?+
Yes, delivery and collection at Naxos Port, Naxos Airport and accommodations in the southwest of the island are always free. We meet you on arrival and hand over the keys with no counters or queues.
Fiat Panda
The legendary island runabout that slips through every alley.
“Alquilamos durante 3 días un Fiat panda. La comunicación con Sakis fue estupenda…”Elena Arroyo
Dacia Lodgy
Spacious, thrifty diesel for families and luggage.
Opel Combo Tour 7-Seater
Seven seats for the whole crew, and all the bags.
“Sakis was amazing for our large NJ family. We were able to secure a 6 passenger automatic car with him at very last minute.”The Sanctuary at OBX