Naxos, a stunning island nestled in the Cyclades, Greece, offers a unique mix of history, culture, nature, and serenity. It’s a place where you can explore ancient ruins, bask on beautiful beaches, wander through quaint villages, or savor the exquisite local cuisine. But, what’s the best way to journey to this idyllic destination from the UK?
In our comprehensive 2024 travel guide, we’ll unveil the optimal routes to Naxos from the UK, tailored to fit your budget, schedule, and preferences. You’ll discover the various travel methods, whether you prefer to fly directly, combine flights and ferries, or embark on a thrilling island-hopping adventure. Additionally, we’ll share invaluable tips and tricks to streamline your travel and enhance your experience.
If you’re eager to embark on a memorable voyage to Naxos, continue reading to learn the best ways to reach this paradise from the UK.
Flying Direct to Naxos: Routes and Tips
Travelling to Naxos from the UK couldn’t be simpler with direct flights to the island’s airport (JNX), albeit with a catch. Direct flights aren’t always an option year-round, necessitating a bit of research and planning to snag the best route and deal for your journey.
Finding Direct Flights from the UK
A quick look at Skyscanner reveals a disappointing reality: no airlines currently operate direct flights from London to Naxos Airport. Most travel plans include one or more layovers, typically in Athens, Santorini, or Mykonos, stretching the flight time to anywhere between 5 to 10 hours depending on stopover durations.
For those seeking a blend of affordability and speed, Wizz Air UK proposes a promising route from London Gatwick to Athens, followed by a connecting flight to Naxos with Olympic Air or SKY express. In April 2024, this itinerary could set you back as little as £141 for a round trip, totaling around 6 hours and 30 minutes – though this is only available on select days, so ensure you check the schedule closely.
Alternatively, SKY express offers flights from London Gatwick to Santorini or Mykonos, from where a ferry ride can get you to Naxos. This option, priced from £158 for a return trip in March 2024, takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes altogether. It’s worth noting the added flexibility of this route; you can pick from various ferry companies and departure times. However, remember to account for the additional cost and time involved in the ferry transfer, as well as potential weather-related delays.
Travel Tips for Flying to Naxos
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Naxos, consider the following tips:
- Book your flights well in advance, especially during the peak season from June to September when demand and prices typically surge.
- Utilize online platforms like Skyscanner or Greeka to compare different flight options and deals. Signing up for email alerts can also keep you informed of any price drops or special offers.
- Pay attention to each airline’s baggage allowance and fees; these can vary depending on your chosen route and carrier, potentially adding unexpected costs.
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure to navigate the often extended security and check-in procedures during busy times.
- Keep your passport, boarding pass, and other necessary documents or information close at hand for a smooth check-in and boarding process.
- Don’t forget to pack some snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the flight, particularly if facing long or multiple layovers. This is also an excellent opportunity to relax, catch up on reading, or plan your Naxos visit.
Combining Flight and Ferry: A Scenic Route
For those aiming to soak in the essence of the sea and the idyllic island vibe en route to Naxos, a combination of flight and ferry presents itself as a savvy choice. This method is not just a means to save on both time and expenses, but it also opens up avenues to embark on a voyage across the stunning Aegean Sea.
Flying to Athens or Nearby Islands
Initiating this journey requires flying into Athens or selecting one of the neighboring islands that offer ferry services to Naxos. Depending on what suits your budget and schedule, you have a variety of airlines and airports to pick from. Here are some of the most favored options:
- Taking off from London’s Heathrow (LHR), Gatwick (LGW), or Stansted (STN) to Athens International Airport (ATH) with prestigious carriers like British Airways, Aegean Airlines, easyJet, Ryanair, or Wizz Air UK. The flight is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, with fares ranging from £50 to £200.
- Heading to Santorini Airport (JTR) from London Gatwick (LGW) or London Luton (LTN) via easyJet, Jet2, or TUI Airways. This journey spans about 4 hours, with ticket prices oscillating between £100 to £300.
- Embarking to Mykonos Airport (JMK) from London Gatwick (LGW) or London Luton (LTN) with easyJet, Jet2, or Wizz Air UK. Similar to Santorini, the flight takes about 4 hours, and tickets are priced from £100 to £300.
Selecting the Right Ferry from Athens or Other Islands
Upon arrival, the next leg of your adventure to Naxos is by ferry. There are numerous ferry options and timetables available on platforms like Ferryhopper or FerrisInGreece, offering variety and flexibility. Some of the most popular routes include:
- Sailing from Piraeus, Athens’ principal port, to Naxos with services such as Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Minoan Lines, or Cyclades Fast Ferries. Expect the ferry ride to last from 3 hours and 25 minutes to 5 hours and 45 minutes, with fares ranging from €30 to €100.
- Departing from Rafina, the port nearest to Athens Airport, to Naxos via SeaJets or Golden Star Ferries. The journey duration spans from 3 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours and 15 minutes, with ticket prices between €30 to €80.
- Setting off from Lavrio, another convenient port near Athens, to Naxos with Hellenic Seaways. This trip takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, and the fare hovers around €40.
- Leaving from Santorini to Naxos with Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Minoan Lines, or Golden Star Ferries. This sail ranges between 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes, with ticket prices from €20 to €60.
- Heading out from Mykonos to Naxos with the likes of Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, Minoan Lines, or Golden Star Ferries. The ferry duration varies from 35 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, with fares between €15 to €50.
Island Hopping to Naxos: Enhance Your Greek Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Naxos and enrich your Greek odyssey by exploring the mesmerizing islands nearby. Island hopping offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the diversity and beauty of the Greek islands while uncovering their distinct cultures, rich history, and delectable cuisine.
Planning Your Island-Hopping Itinerary
From Naxos, the possibilities for your island-hopping adventure are vast, tailored to your desires, budget, and timeframe. Whether you wish to visit well-known destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Ios, or discover the hidden gems such as Koufonisia, Schinoussa, Iraklia, or Donoussa, there’s a perfect mix for everyone. Craft your very own custom itinerary by blending different islands to match your travel ethos.
Key considerations for your island-hopping plan include:
- The travel distance and duration of ferry connections between islands. Utilize platforms like Ferryscanner or Ferryhopper to check schedules, compare prices, and book your tickets in advance.
- Lodging availability and pricing on each island—ranging from hotels and apartments to villas and hostels—can be found on Booking.com. Early reservations are recommended, particularly from June to September, the peak travel season.
- Each island’s attractions and activities can offer a plethora of inspiration and opportunities. Websites like SecretGreece or Greeka, along with experience bookings through GetYourGuide, provide valuable insights.
- Your personal interests and travel preferences should dictate your choices. Whether it’s the nightlife and glamour of Mykonos or Ios, the romantic vistas of Santorini or Folegandros, or the serene authenticity of Koufonisia or Schinoussa, there’s an island to suit every taste.
Best Time to Go Island Hopping to Naxos
Island hopping in Naxos is best experienced from May to October, benefitting from warm, sunny weather, calm, clear seas, and vibrant island life. However, each season comes with its own charm:
- Spring (May to June) offers the beauty of nature in bloom and cooler, less crowded conditions, though the sea may be too cool for swimming and some amenities reduced.
- Summer (July to August) is prime time, with perfect beach weather, a plethora of events, and a lively atmosphere. Be prepared for higher prices, increased ferry traffic, and larger crowds.
- Autumn (September to October) allows for a more leisurely exploration, with still-pleasant weather, warm seas, and fewer tourists, albeit with the possibility of fewer ferries and closing services.
Conclusion
Naxos is an incredible destination for your 2024 holiday, offering a treasure trove of attractions, activities, and experiences suitable for every taste and budget. However, traveling there from the UK presents a bit of a puzzle, as direct flights to this enchanting island aren’t available throughout the year. A bit of research and careful planning will be essential to discover the best travel options for your journey.
In this guide, we’ve explored three distinct routes from the UK to Naxos: taking a direct flight to the island, a combination of flight and ferry, or embarking on an island-hopping adventure. Each method has its own set of pros and cons, influenced by your personal preferences, available time, and budget. Factors like availability, cost, and travel duration, as well as the season and weather conditions, are crucial considerations in your decision-making process.
We hope this guide has clarified the options for reaching Naxos from the UK, preparing you to book your travel and accommodation. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich historical tapestry, exquisite cuisine, and welcoming locals, Naxos is eagerly awaiting your arrival. Don’t let this opportunity for an unforgettable Greek adventure slip by. It’s time to explore the wonders of Naxos and create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQ
How long is the ferry from Santorini to Naxos?
The duration of the ferry journey from Santorini to Naxos varies, ranging from 1 hour and 10 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on the ferry type and operator. On average, the trip takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.
Can you fly direct UK to Naxos?
No direct flights are available from the UK to Naxos. Travellers must opt for a connecting flight through Athens or another close-by island, like Santorini or Mykonos.
How long is high speed ferry from Athens to Naxos?
The journey by high-speed ferry from Athens to Naxos is approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. Remember that travel times can vary based on the ferry type and weather conditions.
Is it better to fly or ferry from Athens to Naxos?
The choice between flying and taking the ferry from Athens to Naxos hinges on your personal preferences and budget. Flying is quicker and more dependable, but it’s also costlier and offers less of a local experience. On the other hand, traveling by ferry is more budget-friendly and provides stunning views, but it’s slower and more susceptible to cancellations.
