From Naxos: Round day trip to Mykonos Island

If you’re dreaming of ticking off Mykonos, one of Greece’s most iconic islands, this day trip from Naxos might just be worth considering. It’s a popular option for travelers who want a taste of the Cyclades without staying overnight on the island. We’ve checked out what this tour offers—understanding the good, the not-so-good, and what you can really expect—so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it runs, leaving plenty of time to explore at your own pace, and the chance to see some classic Mykonos sights, from windmills to the charming streets of Little Venice. On the flip side, a quick 6 hours on the island, plus the ferry ride, means you won’t get to see everything, and the boat ride can sometimes be choppy, so pack accordingly. If you enjoy a straightforward, well-organized day with plenty of free time to wander, this trip might be a good match.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a convenient, budget-friendly way to visit Mykonos for a day. It’s especially appealing if you’re staying in Naxos and want to maximize your time exploring rather than organizing logistics yourself. It might not be ideal for those craving a more in-depth or relaxing stay on the island or for travelers who prefer longer, more leisurely visits.

Key Points

• Convenient day trip from Naxos with all logistics handled
• 6 hours of free time to explore Mykonos at your own pace
• Comfortable and punctual ferry, with some reviews highlighting its efficiency
• Good value for money compared to separate ferry bookings
• Includes scenic stops at Paros and Delos, if booked for those options
• Beach options available if you want to swim or relax, but timing is tight

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

The main draw of this tour is the round-trip boat to Mykonos, with 6 hours of free time once you arrive. This lets you wander where you like—whether it’s shopping, sightseeing, or just soaking up the atmosphere. The price ($83 per person) is reasonable for a full day of travel, especially considering the convenience of having transportation taken care of.

However, it’s worth noting that personal expenses on the island aren’t included—so if you want to buy souvenirs, eat at a nice restaurant, or rent a vehicle, those costs are on you. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to get yourself to the Naxos port for departure.

How the Day Unfolds

Departure from Naxos

You’ll start your day at the small port in Naxos Town, which is easy enough to reach by bus or taxi. The departure time varies, so be sure to check your booking details and arrive a little early to avoid stress. The boat makes a quick stop at Paros’ Naoussa Port, if you’re coming from Paros, and at Delos for some who booked that trip—these are brief stops, but a neat way to see more of the Cyclades.

The Ferry Ride – About 1.5 Hours

The ferry ride is generally smooth, but some reviews note that sea conditions can impact comfort. A few travelers recommended bringing travel sickness medication if you’re prone to feeling seasick. The boats are described as larger and not overly crowded, which adds to the comfort compared to smaller vessels. Several reviews praised the punctuality and service; one traveler called it “extremely punctual,” which is quite important when you’re on a schedule.

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Arrival on Mykonos – Six Hours to Explore

Once on the island, you’re free to roam. You might start at the old harbor, filled with vibrant cafes and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely breakfast or early lunch. From there, the winding streets of Mykonos Town beckon, with whitewashed houses, blue windows, and colorful bougainvillea. This area is perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the charming vibe.

A walk up to the hill with the iconic windmills offers sweeping views of Little Venice—an Instagram favorite for good reason. Many visitors mention that standing here, watching the boats sway in the harbor, is an unforgettable highlight.

Shopping and Sightseeing

In Matogiannia, you’ll find chic boutiques, jewelry shops, and art galleries. If you’re into designer labels, this is your spot to browse or make a splurge. For history lovers, the archaeological museum is worth a quick visit, according to reviews, though it’s more a background note than a must-see.

Optional Beach or Bar Stops

Some travelers choose to rent a vehicle or hop on a local bus to visit famous beaches like Super Paradise, known for its lively party scene. Others prefer to stay closer to town and enjoy a cocktail at a seaside bar, soaking in the views. Remember, you’ll need to keep track of your time; the boat departs approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled return, so plan accordingly.

The Return Journey – About 1.5 to 2 Hours

The ferry back typically takes around 110 minutes. Some reviews mentioned the return trip being just as smooth, but a few noted the possibility of choppier seas, so plan for that. Once back in Naxos, it’s a straightforward journey to your accommodation.

The Experience in Practice – What Travelers Say

The majority of reviews echo a positive experience. Many highlight how punctual and well-organized the trip was, with one traveler saying, “Ferry was on time both ways and large enough not to feel too crowded.” Others appreciated the value for money—paying about $83 for a full day trip that includes transportation, free time, and some scenic stops.

Sea conditions can vary; travelers have experienced choppier waters, so packing a seasickness remedy is wise. The boat’s size was appreciated for comfort, with some reviews mentioning that the vessel was not small or crowded.

On the island, visitors enjoyed the ease of strolling through the iconic streets, snapping pictures of the windmills, and enjoying a leisurely lunch or drink while admiring the views. Many were pleased with the short but sweet visit, feeling it was enough to get a flavor of Mykonos without rushing.

However, one review pointed out that Mykonos can be overpriced and crowded, especially during peak season, so manage expectations accordingly. The trip is ideal if you want a snapshot of the island rather than a deep, relaxing stay.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Arrive early at Naxos port to avoid last-minute stress.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunblock are essentials.
• Pack light but smart—comfortable shoes are a must for wandering, and a small backpack or bag will hold your essentials.
• Consider seasickness remedies if you’re sensitive, especially since some reviews mentioned choppier waters.
• Manage your time carefully—set alarms or reminders for departure times to ensure you’re back on the boat.
• Reserve some cash for personal expenses on the island, as food, shopping, and extras are not included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those staying in Naxos who want to visit Mykonos without the hassle of booking ferries individually. It’s perfect if you value organized logistics, moderate sightseeing time, and an inexpensive way to see a top Greek island. If you’re after a relaxing, leisurely island experience with plenty of time to explore or relax on beaches, you might find this day trip a bit rushed.

It also suits first-time visitors who want a taste of Mykonos’ highlights, like the windmills and Little Venice, without committing to a longer stay. But if you’re looking for in-depth exploration or a more peaceful experience, consider staying longer or choosing different tour options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry ride from Naxos to Mykonos?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours each way, making for a reasonably quick journey that gets you to the island with minimal fuss.

Is the ferry comfortable?
Most reviews say yes—ferries are generally large enough not to feel crowded, and the ride is described as smooth, though some travelers mention that sea conditions can sometimes be choppy.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers round-trip boat transportation and 6 hours of free time on Mykonos. Personal expenses, food, and souvenirs are on you.

Can I visit other islands during this trip?
Yes, the boat makes brief stops at Paros (Naoussa Port) and Delos if you booked those options, providing a quick glimpse of more Cyclades.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. If you’re sensitive to seasickness, consider taking medication.

Is there an option to stay longer on Mykonos?
No, this is a day trip, so you only get the designated 6 hours on the island.

How do I find the meeting point?
It’s at the small port in Naxos Town, with details provided a day before the trip.

Would this be suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the steady boat ride and sightseeing appeal to most ages. However, keep in mind the boat ride and timing—if your kids get easily seasick or need more downtime, plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Naxos-to-Mykonos day trip offers a practical, well-organized way to see one of Greece’s most famous islands without the hassle of overnight bookings. The simplicity and punctuality of transport, combined with the freedom to explore, make it appealing for travelers eager to tick off a top destination in a single day.

While it’s not the best choice for those wanting a slow-paced, immersive experience, it excels if you’re after good value, convenience, and a taste of Mykonos’ iconic spots. Pack your essentials, bring a sense of adventure, and you’ll likely come away with some memorable snapshots and stories.

Final Recommendation

If you’re visiting Naxos and want a straightforward way to see Mykonos’ highlights, this tour fits the bill. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy organized day trips with flexible free time and are comfortable managing their own transport to and from the port. For those seeking a more relaxed, in-depth island experience, consider staying longer or exploring other options. But for a quick, scenic escape, this trip does a solid job, especially given the positive reviews about punctuality, comfort, and value.

Happy travels, and I hope this helps you plan your perfect Greek island adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: