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An Epic Solo Roadtrip Exploring The Island Of Naxos, Greece: Things To Do In Naxos

Putting together a Greek island-hopping itinerary is a bit nervewracking, because there are so many amazing islands to choose from.  Even once you narrow down to the Cyclades, you’re spoiled for choice.  But I’m here to tell you that the island of Naxos—and specifically a Naxos roadtrip—needs to be on your itinerary!

From the ruins of ancient temples and Venetian castles that rise above the delightfully jumbled streets of the towns, to the sparkling turquoise waters and long sandy beaches, Naxos is a hidden gem that is less crowded and more affordable than its famous sisters of Santorini and Mykonos.

Because it is often overlooked and is also the biggest island in the Cyclades, you can plan a super diverse Naxos itinerary and feel like you have the island to yourself.  Hike among Byzantine churches, olive groves, and goat farms.  Chill on a golden sandy beach surrounded by a cedar forest.  Chow down on fresh seafood and surprisingly-great cocktails in what has become a bit of a foodie destination.

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For me, Naxos was a welcome respite from the crowds of Santorini…very chill, with some of the best beaches in the Cyclades, turquoise waters, and whitewashed buildings as well as remote, ancient mountain villages.  It ticks a lot of boxes.

I deliberately paired my Naxos roadtrip with a few days in Santorini, where I stayed in a mind-blowing cave hotel , experienced the beauty and insanity of Oia , and explored the (less insane) rest of the island .

I was looking for a very different experience, then, in Naxos—beautiful beaches, diverse architecture and history, delicious and unexpected cuisine, and the chance to feel like I was getting real, quiet glimpses into local culture rather than just a tourist’s idea of Greece.

You’ll find something for everyone here, from solo travelers like myself, to couples, families young children, friend groups, or multigenerational.  So my goal with this post is to do a super deep-dive into the island and then show you all the amazing things to do in Naxos on your epic roadtrip!

How this post is structured:

• Why should you visit Naxos?

Where to stay in Naxos

• What to wear/pack
• How to get to the island
• Getting around: do I need to rent a car?  + driving
• Things to see in Naxos (what to do on your roadtrip)

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Why visit Naxos?

Let’s start with just a few of the many reasons that Naxos is worth a visit:

• Naxos is a melting pot of Mediterranean cultures…from Thracians to Ionians, to Romans and Venetians, you’ll see the millennia of history, as the island has been at the center of Cycladic life since 4000 BCE.
• Naxos has (arguably) the best traditional sand beaches in the Cyclades, with golden sand and sparkling azure waters.
• It’s easy to rent a car and get around.
• It’s also one of the most affordable destinations in the Greek isles, meaning you can frequently find high-end hotels at prices that feel like a bargain.
• Unlike other Greek islands, Naxos has an unhurried pace and never feels crowded or busy.
• It’s got great food and cocktails, including an up-and-coming foodie scene.
• The island is more green and mountainous than you’d expect (it somewhat resembles Crete), with enchanting mountain villages, Byzantine ruins, fields, and sheep paired with the beauty of its beaches.
• It’s a very popular walking or hiking destination, with lots of trails winding throughout the island.

Let’s tease out a few of those things further.   Naxos is the most fertile island in the Cyclades, looking quite lush (by Cycladic standards, as the island grouping is mostly dry and volcanic).  You’ve got plains of of olive trees, lemon trees, and grape vines, tree-covered hills and valleys, and quite a bit of agriculture—Naxos provides a lot of Greece’s dairy and potatoes, and the island is very proud of both.

If you only stay in Naxos Town and don’t explore further, you’ll miss the green, hilly interior and the enchanting ancient mountain villages sprinkled all over.  Naxos is and always has been a cultural crossroads, with 5,000 years of history layered on top of each other.

A quick snapshot of the island’s impressive history…I’ll skip the prehistoric and Neolithic times since I don’t have a lot of details but there is evidence here.  Naxos flourished after 700 BC under the Ancient Greeks. then Romans ruled the island for about 600 years beginning in 338 BC.  It became part of the Byzantine Empire from 362 AD to 1204.  The Venetians ruled it from 1207 until the island fell in to the Ottoman rule in 1566, and they had it until 1831, when it was liberated by the Modern Greek State.  That’s a LOT!

Is Naxos safe?   Short answer, yes.  Obviously things can happen anywhere, but Naxos is a quieter and less-touristy island, and you really get a sense of community and people looking out for each other.  The crime rate is very low and locals are friendly and laidback.  The island is a great destination for solo female travelers in particular.

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How to plan your trip

In this section I’ll talk about Naxos itinerary planning more broadly, including where to base yourself, accommodations, getting around, and more.  Then we’ll talk more about the various things to see in Naxos in the remainder of the post.

The biggest thing to know is that you don’t need a concrete itinerary—this is not a “plan out every minute of the day” type of destination.  But it’s good to know that it’s quite a large island, so difficult to truly explore in a very short time.  If you only have a day or two, you can focus in on a few things or consider taking a tour with a local .

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It’s always critical to consider where you base yourself.  While you can reach most places within Naxos fairly easily, you still have to remember that you’re driving on winding, hilly, unfamiliar roads and so it’s nice to stay somewhere fairly close in order to minimize driving times.

I stayed in two different hotels in Naxos, and would strongly recommend both.  The first was  Hotel Grotta ,  which was great—overlooking the ocean in Naxos town, with gorgeous views, wonderful hospitality, good food, and a 5-minute walk into town.

The other was the unique luxury  ELaiolithos , the only hotel located up in the mountains.  The location and views were amazing, and the hotel uses only local materials, food, and drink.  You get such an interesting experience here including the owner Helen’s hospitality, it’s absolutely worth a stay.

Read my guide for where to stay in Naxos!

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What to wear in Naxos (your packing list)

I visited Naxos in late September and it still definitely felt like summer, though got a bit chilly at night with the wind.  My first two days on the island (when I was in Naxos Town) were SO WINDY (it made dresses difficult).  But then once I was inland more, the wind died down.

I wore a good mixture of lightweight, breathable, stretchy pants and tops.  Personally I’d skip jeans (too heavy and take up packing space).

• My go-to travel pants are from  Athleta , and the exact style that works for me is their  Brooklyn Ankle Pant , specifically  these ones .
• These ones  and  these ones are two new travel pant favorites as well, super comfy and the fit is good on my body type.

I definitely wore sundresses once the wind died down, though.  I’ve had excellent luck with  StitchFix  in the past few years, though prefer to pick my own out vs. use the personal shopper option.

• Amazon is a great option for all sorts of styles, and a really good return process (which is KEY!).  Some good styles would be a  t-shirt dress , a  tank dress , or something  flowy with fluttery cap sleeves .
• Flowy skirts (like  this ) or long flowy dresses (like  this ,  this  and  this ) are perfect as well.

I’m not really a sun hat person and it would be less helpful in windy Naxos Town, but if you’re doing a lot of walking/hiking inland, it’s a good idea.  While I didn’t feel as hot (due to the wind), I had to be more careful of the sun… good sunscreen  was a must, as were  polarized sunglasses !

You’ll want comfortable and stable shoes for walking up and down the slippery and often-uneven stones of Naxos Chora.  My constant companions are  these Rockport ones , which balance comfort/cushioning and cuteness (party in the front, biz in the back).

• Aerosoles are my #1 go-to for really cute but still comfy sandals if I don’t need massive cushioning (a style like  this  for instance).  Other great brands I’ve found are Naturalizers (like  these ) and Vionics (like  these   or  these ), and these  Aerothotics  are a really good and very affordable option.
• I spent a ton of time in my Olukai sneakers on this trip as well, specifically these  Pehuea Li ones !

Don’t forget a good swimsuit, a headband (clutch for keeping windy hair out of your chapstick), a good face moisturizer, and I always have my fave clean makeup (which does great in sweaty weather)!

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How to get to Naxos

There are two main ways to get to Naxos—by ferry or plane.  I arrived by ferry and left by plane, so will speak to both briefly below.

Naxos is connected to Paros, Ios, and Santorini by ferry routes year-round, with a lot more sailing times during the high season.  I recommend a fast ferry, and the travel times between them will vary from 45 minutes (Paros to Naxos) and 2 hours.  Naxos also has regular ferry connections to Amorgos and Mykonos.

I took the ferry from Santorini, which takes about an hour and a half.  I took the PowerJet ferry by Sea Jets, which cost €55, and booked using FerryHopper , which was super easy (and then I could access my ticket on their app).  I’d book ahead of time during peak season, to be safe.

It’s a huge clean boat with plenty of seating, food options, and more.  You’ll stow your luggage upon entering the boat (a few people with small amounts of hand luggage chose not to), then spend the time in your assigned seat or walking around (or finding an open seat elsewhere).  I don’t find this type of boat to have a lot of motion/rough seas issues, but I’m sure it can on occasion.

You can also reach Naxos by ferry from Athens, which will take between 2.5 hours and 6 hours depending on which port and ship.

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Alternatively, you can fly.  I believe all flights will connect through Athens (though don’t quote me on that), which certainly adds time and steps to your trip if you’re hopping islands, but if you’re moving between island groups that definitely may be your best bet.

There are several daily flights to and from Athens, and the Naxos airport is super tiny.  It’s very informal, there are two ticket counters, and the line is out the door when a flight is coming up.  I didn’t have to take anything out of my bag going through security.

They do weigh bags (or at least checked them, not sure if they would have caused an issue).  Once you get through security, you go sit in a little waiting area and then walk out to the plan.  Sadly they did leave my suitcase in Naxos (I had wine in it so could’t carry on)…this was the first trip I had with my AirTags and boy was I glad to have them!

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Do I need to rent a car in Naxos?  

Short answer, yes!  The question of how to get around Naxos is fairly simple…if you’re planning on a Naxos roadtrip, you definitely need a car.  If you’re only going to spend time in Naxos Town, then you don’t need one.

This post was already getting super long so I’ve written a deeper post on renting a car and driving in Naxos .  Be aware that the majority of cars will be manual transmission (stick shift), so you’ll have to work a little harder to find an automatic and they’ll get booked up earlier.

I always recommend searching on a few different rental car aggregators…my favorites currently are DiscoverCars  and RentalCars , and AutoEurope   (I often have better luck with the first two, but always check all three).

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Driving in Naxos

Again, I’ve written a deeper post talking about driving in Naxos , so will just mention a few things here.  Mostly, the driving is completely doable—if quite hilly and winding.  Naxos makes a great roadtrip destination.

The highways are in good shape and easy to navigate, but I did end up on a number of really bad rock and dirt roads.

Go slowly on those types of roads and be super careful with your tires.  I grew up on gravel roads so am familiar with the driving and how to react if you start to fishtail, but if you’ve never driven that just make sure you’re a confident driver.

Google Maps worked on the island, but it’s important to realize that it doesn’t necessarily differentiate between the good highways or the somewhat harrowing narrow gravel roads with hairpin turns.  You may have to backtrack on occasion if you don’t like a particular road you’re on.

Gas stations are full service (I always tipped a bit).  I really recommend not getting low on gas, because there’s not always a gas station close by.  Navigating the island is pretty easy overall, but often the signs are only in Greek and don’t tell you how far away you are from the destination.  Having Google Maps is a helpful backup.

Here are other posts on Naxos to help you plan your trip!

How to Spend a Day or Two in Naxos Town (Chora)

Where To Stay In Naxos, Greece: The Best Beach & Mountain Hotels

A Guide to Renting a Car & Driving in Naxos

Review: Staying At The Unique ELaiolithos Luxury Retreat

Exploring Rina Cave On The Perfect Naxos Boat Trip

An Accidental, Awesome Discovery of Agios Mamas In Naxos

Views For Days: Why You Have To Visit Rotonda Restaurant in Naxos

Greece Food Diary: 20+ Of The Best Greek Foods To Try

Things to do in Naxos on your roadtrip

As I mentioned above, Naxos is a large island so it can be difficult to try and see everything in a very short time.  I had three full days plus bits of others, and felt like I really got a good feel for things.

That included about half a day in Naxos Town, a half-day boat tour, and a couple full days of driving the coasts and mountain villages.  I didn’t spend time just laying out at the beach, but you should factor that in if you want to.

I had cell signal throughout most of the island, except in the southwest near Agiassos Beach, occasionally in the mountains, and in the southeast near Panermos Beach.

Speaking of beaches, the best ones are generally on the west coast, and they are usually prettier, quieter, and have better sand the farther south you travel.  The more remote southeast coast is also stunning and note remotely crowded.  One tip:  if a beach is described as “organized,” that generally means it has sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent, and plentiful restaurants.

If you’re tight on time, consider a small group or private guided tour that can help you sample some of the island’s best sights with a local guide.  I’ll also shout out one thing I wanted to do—a food tour through the villages .

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Dive into Naxos Town

I first saw a photo of Naxos Chora on Pinterest, and immediately fell in love with that iconic view of whitewashed buildings piled atop a hill at the end of a narrow path, surrounded by sparkling blue water.

Chora (or Naxos Town) is the island’s capital, main port, and largest town (about 6,500 people).  It makes a great base for exploring the island, with plenty of accommodation options (I stayed at the lovely  Hotel Grotta ), beautiful beaches, rich history, and a great food and cocktail scene.

You’ll find nice beaches all over Naxos, including a few in the Chora…the ones in town are good-not-great, but are very easily accessible and one of them is quite kid-friendly.  Agios Giorgos and Agios Prokopios are both family-friendly, while Grotta Beach is rocky with more intense waves and wind.  There are also myriad day sail trips to choose from, all leaving from the waterfront.

Read (lots) more about what to do & where to eat in Naxos Town!

Other Greek adventures to help you plan your trip!

Things To Do In Oia (& “Is Oia Worth Visiting?”)

Santorini Beyond Oia: A Roadtrip Exploring The Island

Sampling The Delights Of Santorini’s Wineries

Santorini At Sunrise: Solo Hiking From Imerovigli To Oia

Where To Stay In Santorini: Oia’s Gorgeous Charisma Suites (or Art Maisons Aspaki)

How to Make the Most of a Half-Day In Athens

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Panagia Kapnikarea, A Hidden Gem in Athens

I spent two nights here, but really only about half a day exploring the town.  Climb the narrow, jumbled streets to find the ruined Venetian castle.  Browse the Old Town’s souvenir shops.  Find an awesome rooftop bar to sip a cocktail made with local kitron liqueur.

And, of course, wander the ancient ruins of the Portara.  This 2,500-year-old partially-constructed doorway is gorgeous any time of day, including with the sun sparkling on the turquoise waters.  But it’s especially amazing at sunset.

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Head inland & explore the mountain villages

So now let’s get that roadtrip started!  My first stop was unplanned, I just saw the sign and decided to check it out.

I rolled up to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Chryssostomos (John Chrysostom) and realized it didn’t open til 10:00am, so instead ate my donuts and sipped my coffee while soaking in the view.

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Then I stopped briefly at the tiny Chapel of Agios Ioannis Theologos , a tiny church built into the granite cliff that boasts breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the neighboring islands.  I wouldn’t go out of your way to stop here if you’re on a tight timeline, but it’s a charming very short stop.

I think the light would be better for photograph at sunrise, or in the late afternoon.

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Then I headed inland to explore the many charming mountain villages of Naxos .  I started with a stop at the  Eggares Olive Press Museum .  Naxos is full of olive groves, and this is where you can learn more about the olive harvesting process and how they make and use the oil.

It’s a very small museum, basically one room and then a gift shop with a tasting table.  The musuem features one of Naxos’s oldest remaining olive mills, from at least the late 1800s.  Our young guide took us through the museum’s few exhibits, explaining the processes and the island’s long history with the olive tree.

Naxos claims to have the world’s oldest olive tree (our young guide said it was 6,300 years old)…I can neither confirm nor deny!  But they are *obsessed* with olive oil here, always using it in lieu of butter.

In fact, he said they even baptize babies in olive oil…because it makes them slippery so the devil can’t touch them 🙂  The tour is free, though you’re welcome to tip.  You can also do a bit of shopping and taste some olive-based products, including semi-candied olives with yogurt and honey (the olives are boiled in sugar & cinnamon water).

This is a nice 30-minute stop, but I’d consider it skippable if you’re tight on time.

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Nearby to Eggares is the village of Damalas , where you’ll find a traditional pottery workshop.  I wasn’t able to detour and visit, but had read ahead of time that if you catch the ceramist when he’s working, you can watch and he’ll explain the process (some Naxos tours stop here).

I mention this at the beginning, but sometimes Google Maps doesn’t quite get you where you’re hoping.  I’d searched for the “Melanes blue dome church”.  Honestly I’m not positive whether I got there or not, but I DID end up here in the general vicinity with this view (despite a slightly difficult drive).  So…#winning??

As a side note, Melanes is one of the oldest villages on the island and is the start and ending point for a very cool loop walk to Myli to the Kouroi of Flerio and back.  It’s supposed to be a beautiful walk, easy to do, and takes about 2-3 hours.  You can see a detailed recounting of this walk from  EarthTrekkers .

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While I had specific destinations in mind a lot of the time, it’s important to also just…drive.  Take random side roads that look cool, stop and take pictures of little chapels on the side of the road.

Think about your time here less in terms of just the “things to do in Naxos”.  The beauty of having your own car is that you can explore the little nooks and crannies.

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After maybe-or-maybe-not finding the blue dome church of Melanes, I went to try and find the Temple of Demeter .  This was another fail for me.  I searched for it on Google Maps and somehow it got confused.  It took me to this spot where I walked a bit and realized I was in the wrong place.

This is what it should look like.  What you see below is NOT it.  The Temple of Demeter dates back to 530 BCE and is scenically located on a hilltop above the village of Kastri.  It’s a nice spot to wander the marble ruins and admire the panoramic views.  It should be on your way to the southwest-side beaches.

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From here I spent the rest of the day stopping in the mountain villages and wandering around.  I’ve posted a real deep-dive on the villages and what to see and do there.  For the sake of time and space I’m not going to go into as much detail here, so I definitely recommend checking out the other post.

Instead I’ll do more of a high-level overview of the coolest towns.  I’m going in a generally-logical order below, but you can ping-pong between them for the most part (the distances are relatively small)…I think I ended up visiting Chalki like three separate times.

And in fact, we’ll start with Chalkio !  You may also see it spelled Halki or Chalki, or probably like seven other names.  Whether you’re sipping a drink outside a little cafe, devouring a slice of galaktoboureko, meandering through the narrow alleyways, shopping for locally-made crafts, or sipping kitron liqueur. it’s a must-see.

I tried walking to the church of of Agios Giorgios Diasoritis, but I either did it wrong or just got impatient (I think the latter?).  Supposedly it’s just a 10-minute walk from the village, and I was following other people on the same mission…we walked past some old olive trees and a different church, then I finally turned back because I was tight on time.  This church is where I was supposed to end up.

If you’re able to swing it (I recommend staying at nearby ELaiolithos ), Chalki really shines in the late afternoon/early evening once the day tripper crowds have gone!  She recommended dinner at Paravas, which is a super cool spot.  I had saganaki, moussaka, traditional Naxian potatoes with graviera cheese, and some Greek wine.

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The main thing you’ll hear people talk about when it comes to Chalki is that it’s where the local liquor, kitron, is distilled.  You can tour the Kitron Distillery if you’re so inclined.  Mine was a self-guided tour through a few rooms.  As someone who has toured a lot of distilleries and knows the general process, it wouldn’t be high on my list.

But you definitely need to *taste* kitron!  I had a cocktail with kitron while in Naxos Town, but here I tried to get kitron ice cream next door to the distillery…sadly they were out.

If you’re doing a tour of Naxos instead of a self-driving roadtrip, you might consider doing a  private tour and having them go to Chalkio but personally I’d skip the distillery.

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Okay, moving on.  I loved the views of villages from the road as I was driving…I definitely had to stop to snap a pic!

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Next up is the town of Filoti . It’s only 2km down the road from Chalki, but I didn’t spend as much time here (mostly because I had a bit more trouble finding parking).  Filoti is the largest village in Tragea Valley, so has lots of good options for taverns, restaurants, and apartment rentals.

And if you climb and wind your way your way up the hill from the main road, you’ll find a tight, steep maze of paths and alleys that are perfect for wandering without a destination in mind.

Make sure to catch the incredibly photogenic white marble church, Panagia Filotissia (Virgin Mary of Filoti), toward the top of the town.

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I was thoroughly charmed by all the kitties of Naxos (though they prefer to be admired from afar).

From Filoti, the natural next stop for me was Apeiranthos.  One note—I think the views and pullouts are even better the opposite direction, so going from from Apiranthos toward Chalki.

But first I wanted to stop at Rotonda , a cafe and restaurant with stunning views.  I’ve written a  separate post on this lovely spot , which is a must-visit in your Naxos mountain village explorations, as long as the weather is nice (and it would be great at sunset!).

I had a late lunch and a glass of local wine while enjoying the view, then continued on toward Apeiranthos.

One other thing that’s in this general vicinity is the starting point to hike to the top of Mount Zeus , the highest point of the Cyclades.  Naxos’ most famous hike starts at “Aria Spring” and is supposed to take an hour and a half.  I didn’t end up doing any hiking while on Naxos, but it’s a very popular pasttime.

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Apeiranthos is definitely a must-visit on your Naxos roadtrip!  The town’s name means “plenty of flowers”, and it’s a beautiful STEEP little village full of little alleyways and paved walking paths.  For the most part you park on the edge of town and then walk into/up into the main town area.

I feel like I didn’t really explore the town as much as I’d have liked to.  There are lots of beautiful viewpoints, some good souvenir shopping, and an old wood bakery (a dying art) that is supposedly there, which I forgot to look for.

All the marble-paved alleys and white buildings make the town just sparkle.

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From Apiranthos, you could next continue east through Koronos, and north to the small harbor village of Apollonas, then take the northwest coastal road back to Naxos Chora (if that’s where you’re staying).

We’ll get there eventually, but for tonight we’re wrapping up and checking into our amazing hotel.  I’ve got lots of beautiful seaside towns and beaches to show you next.

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Before we wrap up our main mountain villages, here are the ones I’d hoped to visit and didn’t get to:

• Kaloritsa Cave Monastery…about 15 minute walk from Timios Stavros Monastery

Right near Chalki and Filoti and literally a minute from ELaiolithos is the famous Panagia Drosiani Church , Naxos’s oldest Christian church (from about the 6 th century).  It’s worth a quick stop.

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As I’ve mentioned a few times in this post, for the second half of my Naxos roadtrip, I stayed at the unique ELaiolithos Luxury Resort .  This is the only hotel in the mountains, and is a “green” luxury hotel run by local Helen Marakis, blending sustainability and hospitality.

She lovingly chose every single element of the hotel’s design and décor, and all the materials and food are using local Naxian materials and artists—it’s basically a love letter to the island!  Helen is so welcoming and treats you more like family, inviting you into her life.

The hotel is nestled into the mountains, with a gorgeous sunset view and SO much peace and quiet (except the occasional distant clang of the goat bells).  The breakfast is amazing, cocktails are great, and the rooms spacious and comfortable.  I highly recommend a stay here!  While it’s luxury, I found the price still very affordable.

Read my deeper review of staying at ELaiolithos Luxury Retreat here!

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Before we head to the coast, there are two other spots I want to mention.  I made a fairly short visit to  Saint Anna Winery , and was so happy I did!

It’s tiny and charming, and I was welcomed warmly by the winemaker’s mom.  I tasted a few wines (which were great but I didn’t have room in my luggage), and bought a tiny bottle of their sweet white and their grappa (made with cinnamon and spices).

I got to briefly meet Emmanuel, the winemaker, who arrived just as I was leaving. This is a little spot that mostly flies under the radar, and I think is worth a spot on your Naxos roadtrip itinerary!  I wished I’d had more time here, and considered booking a small guided tour instead.

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From here things went…sideways.  (Not in a wine “Sideways” way.)  I can’t remember for sure where I was trying to go, I think back into the mountain villages.  But somehow Google Maps took me on a tiny dirt and rock tracks.  This happened from time to time, but 9 times out of 10 it worked out fine.

Just a minute after I left the winery, Google Maps took me down a terrible dirt road that first plunged steeply down, then wound and climbed back up into the hills.  I was nervous about whether this was a legit road or one that was faking me out, especially as I went further on…and even further on.

Parts of the road were your basic gravel road, and others more rutted out.  I was worried at a few parts about popping a tire or centering my tiny car on a rock.  But then I stumbled onto Agios Mamas , a mid-9th century church that’s the oldest in the Balkans (I’m noticing a theme of many claims to “the oldest church”…).

It’s gorgeous and completely untouristy, worth a visit if you’re comfortable driving semi-sketchy gravel and rock roads.

There’s more to the story…read more about my Agios Mamas accidental visit!

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Beach-hop on the southwest coast

Okay, enough mountains for a while, let’s head to the coast!  Either from Naxos Town or from the mountain villages like Chalki, getting down to some of Naxos’s best (easy to get to) beaches is really easy.  They’re all kind of dotted along the southwest coast.

Most people will tell you that the best Naxos beaches can be found between Agios Prokopios and Mikri Vigla.  And while I don’t want to argue with anyone, I don’t know that I agree.  Sure, those are lovely (and they’re all right next to each other, so it’s easy to try them out).

You might also like:  My Ultimate Packing List for a Beach Trip

But for my money, Hawaii Beach was the most beautiful.  It would be my pick for the best more “on the beaten path” Naxos beach.  The beaches along the southwest coast are a bit further out from Naxos Town (though still a pretty short drive), so aren’t as crowded and tend to be quieter.

Hawaii and nearby Alyko Beach are “unorganized”, so they don’t have sunbeds, umbrellas, or tavernas.  Bring your own drinks, snacks, and chairs.  I didn’t make it to Alyko Beach, but it’s supposed to be gorgeous…pristine waters that are good for swimming, and surrounded by cedar trees and sand dunes.

To the right of Hawaii Beach is the abandoned graffiti hotel .  Surrounded with dunes, rocks, and cedar trees, it’s an interesting place to wander for a few minutes.  You can see out to Alyko Beach from the hotel ruins as well.

I briefly stopped here because I was dying for a bottle of water.  I think this might be Pyrgaki Beach?

Continuing down the coast, Agios Prokopios Beach is a great spot to sit and relax.  Unfortunately as you can see, the weather wasn’t really cooperating while I was there.

Just a few minutes away was a quick stop at Mikri Vigla as well.  Though, while they have different names, you will notice on the map that Agios Prokopios are basically two points with one long stretch of sand between them.

This spot is popular for kitesurfing, due to the windiness this side of the island gets.

Drive the northern coast

Now you’ll get some whiplash, because I’m jumping all the way up to the north side of the island.  You definitely want to drive the west coast from Naxos Town up and over to Apollonas—this drive is gorgeous!!

I kept having to stop and snap photos of the intensely-blue waters and some of the random ruins and towns I stumbled upon.

And then you round the bend and catch your first glimpse of Apollonas .  It’s a beautiful seaside fishing village on the northern coast, with that small town feel.

There is a fairly famous sight nearby, the Kouros of Apollonas (a 30-foot statue of Dionysus/Apollo lying on the ground).  I didn’t prioritize going to see it, but it may be worth a quick stop if you’re in the area (I hear the views from here are great).

But I was still decompressing from my harrowing Agios Mamas driving incident and just wanted lunch and a glass of wine.

Apollonas village has two beaches, one of which is sandy and small, with a calm bay.  The other is a longer stretch with more waves and pebbles.  The beachfront has plenty of shops, cafes, and tavernas, and is a great spot to nosh on fresh seafood.

Finding a parking spot was…challenging.  But I finally did (and then had to move it and find another spot mid-meal because a giant tour bus couldn’t get through).  What on earth those buses think coming through there is beyond me.

I found myself a spot at Grill Restaurant Apollon on the water, which was exactly what the doctor ordered.  I devoured cheese pies that were the best I had on my whole trip, zucchini fritters that were decent but really underdone in middle, house wine, and chicken souvlaki.

I soaked in the view and then finished it off with some baklava and gave the kitty scratchy-pats.  I’d definitely recommend Apollonas as a stop on your Naxos roadtrip itinerary, as it gives a very different vibe than the other beach towns.  It could even be a good place to base yourself if you’re staying on Naxos longer (like in an cute seaside apartment ).

More beautiful random views as I made my way between parts of the island.  Because next we’re headed to the most remote parts, that most tourists never get to!

Get really off-the-beaten-path on the southeast coast

When I was planning my Naxos itinerary, I knew that getting on a boat was an absolute MUST for me.  I’d wanted to find a more traditional smaller sailboat and do a full day trip, maybe to some of the other nearby islands.  But I was visiting in late September and that just wasn’t in the cards weather-wise.

There are tons of different boat tours most of which visit Rina Cave.  But based on a recommendation from my hotel host, Helen, I ended up instead choosing to do a boat trip with Yiannis.

To get there, I drove through Apeiranthos and Moutsouna, then along the east coast down to the south.  It’s a really pretty drive, filled with dozens of tiny gorgeous beaches.

There are lots of ore hairpin turns and elevation gain and loss, but the highway is good quality.  I felt like I was stopping every three minutes to take pictures.

You could hop out at any one of them and basically have your own private beach.  This corner of Naxos is fairly unexplored, and if you have a car—and you should—it’s a must-visit in my opinion.

You can basically see me making the “heart googly eyes” emoji through this whole thing.

But finally I pulled up in Panermos .  I don’t think it’s even really a town, just a beach with a few houses and tavernas.  The first thing I noticed was the sparkling, crystal-clear water in various shades of blue.

I had a bit of time, so changed clothes and grabbed a delicious chicken souvlaki lunch, and then headed over to board Yiannis’s boat.  You can’t book it online, but I found them pretty responsive to email and WhatsApp (you can contact them through their website ).

We boarded the  trehantiria , a small Greek double-ended watercraft that historically has been used chiefly for fishing.  I appreciated that it had some covering, so I wasn’t frying in the sun.

Read the full details about my unique boat trip to Rina Cave!

As we went, Yiannis told us about the area, fun stories about the seven different lagoons we visited, and then took us to Rina Cave for some swimming and cave exploration.

Then we had a snack and some of his homemade wine, and did some more swimming.  I was obsessed with the way the water shifted colors against the shoreline (and the white Naxian marble along the coast).

I can’t tell you enough that this is the perfect way to spend a few hours, if you’re looking for a different, quieter, more local feel than a bigger catamaran cruise!  You can read more about the trip, how I booked, costs, and more in this post .

As you can tell, I jam-packed SO much into my four days in Naxos!  Hopefully this gives all the details you need for the logistics side of planning your trip, and an idea of the wide variety of things to do in Naxos.  It absolutely deserves a spot on your Greek island hopping itinerary!

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What To Expect When Renting A Car & Driving In Naxos, Greece

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Best 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2024)

Planning a trip to Naxos, Greece? Our perfect 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary will help you unlock all the secrets of Naxos. Having recently visited Naxos during our Cyclades island-hopping trip, we understand the challenges of crafting a Naxos itinerary that captures the highlights of the largest island of the Cyclades in only a few days.

But we’ve got you covered! Our Naxos travel guide includes everything from the top things to do to the most beautiful beaches in Naxos to mind-blowing ancient archaeological sites – all in just 4 days. Join us as we explore the multifaceted beauty of the Greek island of Naxos!

Disclaimer: This blog post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases/bookings made through these links, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I’ve personally used and genuinely like.

Naxos Itinerary – Quick Tips

Dive right into my top picks for hotels, tours, places to visit, insider tips, and more, and make the most of your 4 days in Naxos, Greece. Your journey starts here!

Best Places to Stay | Naxos DownTown Suites , Naxos Pantheon Luxury Apartments , Mirabelle Luxury Villas , 18 Grapes Hotel Best Time to Visit | May – September How to Get Around | Rental Car , Private Minibus Driver , Taxi, Bus Top Places to Visit | Chora, Portara, Agia Anna, Demeter Temple, Halki, Filoti, Apeiranthos Insider Tips | Alyko Peninsula, Hawaii Beach, Cave of Zeus, Koronos Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM Best Experiences & Tours ✨ Naxos Highlights Tour 🌅 Naxos Castle Walking Tour with Sunset at the Portara 🍷 Naxos Town Food Tour Including Tastings and Wine 🥘 Naxos Half-Day Cooking Class 🛥️ Naxos Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch ⛵ Koufonisi Cruise

Keep reading for my complete Naxos travel guide!

How to Get to Naxos

Naxos is the largest and one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades. Therefore, getting to Naxos is fairly easy.

If you’re starting your journey in Athens, the capital city serves as a perfect gateway to Naxos. From Athens, you can take a short flight (around 45 minutes) to Naxos Airport (JNX), which is located around 3 km from Naxos Town.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens to Naxos Port. The ferry ride takes between 3 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the ferry type.

Tip: I highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Athens if you want to combine your trip to Naxos with visiting the capital city.

If you’re island-hopping within the Cyclades, you can also reach Naxos by a short ferry ride from any of the neighboring islands like Paros , Mykonos , Ios , or Santorini .

Make sure to book your ferry tickets well in advance to secure the best prices.

⛴️ BOOK YOUR FERRY TICKETS WITH FERRYHOPPER

Effortlessly plan your ferry trips and island hopping in Greece with Ferryhopper. Get all ferry schedules, including direct and indirect connections between islands, and book your tickets at the lowest prices with no hidden fees. You can also compare schedules, ferry companies, and prices to choose the best route.

How to Get Around in Naxos

While public transportation offers a convenient way to travel around the island by bus , I highly recommend renting a car if you only have a few days in Naxos.

Opting for a rental car unlocks the freedom to discover all the hidden gems at your own pace, from the picturesque villages to the remote beaches. Driving in Naxos is very easy and we absolutely loved exploring all the scenic routes around the island.

🚘 BEST CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking a rental car online, I personally recommend and always use Discover Cars . They search not only for international car rental companies but also for small, local agencies to find the best deal for you . Plus, there are no hidden costs and they offer free cancellation. I always opt for full coverage because of their comepetitive rates!

Alternatively, if you prefer not to navigate the roads yourself, consider hiring a private driver for the entire day .

Another option is to join a guided tour including transportation to explore the island.

➡️ Check out this organized Naxos Highlights Full-Day Tour , which includes the Temple of Demeter, Damalas, Halki, Apeiranthos, and the Kouros of Apollonas, and this amazing Half-Day Naxos Tour , which takes you to the Demeter Temple, Halki, Panagia Drosiani, the Kouros of Melanes, and an olive oil museum.

Best Time to Visit Naxos

The best time to explore Naxos is from late spring to early autumn (May – September). During these months, Naxos has perfect weather with glorious sunshine, offering ideal conditions for beach days, village explorations, and uncovering ancient ruins.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds and the scorching summer heat, you should avoid visiting Naxos in July or August.

We visited Naxos at the end of September and had the perfect weather for exploring Naxos’ mountain villages, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. The crowds had already left, which was a big bonus for enjoying the island without too many people around.

Where to Stay in Naxos

When staying in Naxos, you can choose between the bustling charm of Naxos Town and the serene beauty found in other corners of the island. Naxos Town, with its labyrinthine streets, waterfront tavernas, and vibrant nightlife, is an optimal choice if you crave a lively ambiance and easy access to key attractions.

On the contrary, venturing beyond the town unveils a different allure – secluded beaches, traditional villages, and a more tranquil atmosphere. Choosing accommodation outside Naxos Town allows for a peaceful retreat surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.

If you are looking for some inspiration on where to stay during your 4 days in Naxos, I have compiled a list of some of the best places to stay in Naxos for you:

• Naxos DownTown Apartments & Suites ($) – great location in Naxos Town, modern, boho-style rooms
• Princess Mare Hotel – Adults Only ($) – great location in Naxos Town, close to everything, modern rooms
• Naxos Pantheon Luxury Apartments ($$) – luxurious apartments with wonderful views
• Mirabelle Luxury Villas ($$) – Cycladic villas with private pools
• 18 Grapes Hotel ($$$) – close to the beautiful Agios Prokopius Beach, lovely pool area
• Villa Faros ($$$) – lovely rooms at the stunning Alyko Peninsula

Not quite what you are looking for?

4 Days in Naxos Itinerary Overview

Below, you can find a breakdown of our Naxos itinerary.

Day 1 in Naxos: Naxos Town

Stroll through chora, discover naxos castle (kastro), visit the portara at the temple of apollo, have dinner at chora’s seafront, day 2 in naxos: naxos island road trip, pay a visit to the dionysus temple, snap a picture of the windmills in vivlos, admire the temple of demeter, sangri, explore halki village, wander around filoti village, hike to the mount zas cave (cave of zeus), visit the charming village of apeiranthos, stop by koronos, check out the kouros of apollonas.

• Walk around Apollonas Village

Optional: Visit the Kouros of Flerio Melanes

Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant in naxos town, day 3 in naxos: discover the best beaches in naxos, agios georgios beach, alyko peninsula and alyko beach, hawaii beach, glyfada beach, mikri vigla beach, plaka beach, agia anna beach, agios prokopios beach, day 4 in naxos: visit the nearby islands of koufonisia, swim in the beautiful bays of kato koufonisi, explore the charming island of ano koufonisi, relax at the best beaches in ano koufonisi, swim at the rina cave in naxos.

If you only have one day in Naxos:

If you find yourself with just one day in Naxos, start your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming alleys of Naxos Town, immersing yourself in the island’s rich history and culture. Next, explore the ancient wonders at the Portara, a monumental gateway offering panoramic views. Indulge in local cuisine at a seaside taverna for lunch, savoring the flavors of the Aegean.

Afterward, spend your afternoon unwinding at one of the beaches near Naxos Town, such as Agios Georgios Beach, Agios Prokopios Beach, or Agia Anna Beach. As the day draws to a close, treat yourself to a sunset dinner by the beach or at the seafront of Naxos Town.

If you have 5, 6, or 7 days in Naxos:

If you have 5, 6, or 7 days in Naxos, I highly recommend spreading the activities planned for days 2 and 3 of our Naxos itinerary across additional days to enhance your Naxos experience with a more leisurely pace. This will also provide some time to relax between activities.

You could also explore some more hidden gems, like the small village of Moni and the church of Panagia Drosiani, the oldest Christian church in Naxos.

Another option is a captivating day trip or tour around Naxos. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the island’s hidden corners and unique activities. Make sure to check out the following top-rated tours in Naxos :

• 🍷 Naxos Town Food Tour Including Tastings and Wine
• 🥘 Naxos Half-Day Cooking Class
• 🛥️ Naxos Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch

In the following, you can find our detailed 4-day Naxos itinerary, including the best beaches in Naxos, the most beautiful mountain villages, and what to do in Naxos in 4 full days.

Complete 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary

On the first day of our 4-day Naxos itinerary, you will explore Chora (Naxos Town), including the Kastro and the iconic Portara at the Temple of Apollo. In the evening, you will have a traditional Greek dinner at Chora’s seafront.

Start the first of your 4 days in Naxos by delving into the history and culture of Chora, also known as Naxos Town. The bustling capital boasts a rich heritage , with its labyrinthine alleys showcasing a blend of Venetian, Frankish, and Cycladic influences.

As you wander through the charming streets of the old town, you’ll encounter white-washed buildings with vibrant bougainvillea, creating a picturesque setting. Dive into the local atmosphere, discovering lovely cafes , quaint shops , and hidden gems that unfold the island’s authentic character.

I really loved the lively ambiance and unique vibe of Naxos Town.

Now, ascend to the summit of the old town, where the 13th-century Venetian Castle of Naxos , known as Kastro , awaits your exploration. Marvel at the remnants of medieval architecture, discover the treasures housed in the Archaeological Museum , and wander through the atmospheric streets flanked by ancient mansions.

Visit the Catholic Cathedral of the Presentation of the Lord and encounter the Tower of Glezos , the sole surviving structure of the original twelve towers.

An interesting fact : The Kastro served as a strategic stronghold against pirate invasions during the island’s tumultuous history, a testament to Naxos’ enduring resilience.

💡 Insider Tip: I recommend booking this Naxos Castle Walking Tour with Sunset at the Portara to learn more about the past of Naxos.

Next, cross the causeway to the islet of Palatia, where the iconic Portara stands proudly against the azure backdrop. This colossal marble doorway , part of the unfinished Temple of Apollo , dates back to the 6th century BC.

Despite the temple’s incomplete state, the Portara has stood resilient for over two millennia. Dedicated to the god Apollo, it once marked the entrance to the sacred sanctuary.

Nowadays, the Portara is a popular tourist attraction and a fantastic sunset watching spot . So, if you like, you can stay here to watch the sunset before heading to dinner at the seafront promenade of Naxos Town.

Wrap up your first day in Naxos with an enchanting dinner at one of the charming tavernas lining Chora’s seafront promenade. This idyllic setting offers the perfect place to savor authentic Greek food, immersing yourself in the local culinary delights.

Indulge in local favorites such as moussaka, souvlaki, Naxian cheeses and other Naxian specialties like the island’s famous potatos and kitron, a unique citrus liqueur.

Insider Tip: Be sure to leave room for dessert and savor the delicious Loukoumas (Greek honey donuts) at Rendez-Vous Café.

The second day of your Naxos itinerary is an island road trip filled with adventures, from ancient historical sites to picturesque mountain villages to breathtaking views – you will experience Naxos’ diverse beauty.

Please note that you will have to start your day early in the morning to fit all of the below highlights into one day and still be able to enjoy enough time at each place. If you have more than 4 days in Naxos, I recommend spreading the below itinerary across two days.

Start your second day in Naxos by visiting the remains of the Temple of Dionysus, situated approximately 3 kilometers from Naxos Town. The temple and the small museum open at 8:30 AM and the entry is 3 euros. The Dionysus Temple is dedicated to the Greek god of wine and revelry and offers a glimpse into Naxos’ history.

While the Dionysus Temple is a relatively small ancient site, requiring only a short visit, its historical charm may appeal more to avid history enthusiasts. If ancient history isn’t your passion, you might consider skipping this temple. Personally, I find the Temple of Demeter to be more captivating and worth exploring.

On the way to the Temple of Demeter, make sure to stop in Vivlos , also known as Tripodes , a charming traditional village located just 8 kilometers from Naxos Town. Here, picturesque houses line narrow paved streets, painting a quaint image of Greek island authenticity.

The main landmark of the village are the three characteristic traditional windmills gracing a small hill at the village’s entrance. Vivlos is a perfect stop for capturing some quintessential Greek island pictures.

Close to the serene village of Sangri, the Temple of Demeter stands as a testament to ancient Greek devotion. This well-preserved temple, dating back to 530 BC, pays homage to Demeter , the goddess of agriculture .

Explore the sacred grounds and marvel at the Doric columns that once framed this sanctuary dedicated to fertility and harvest. Adjacent to the temple, the Archaeological Museum of Gyroulas at Sangri unveils a treasure trove of historical finds, providing deeper insights into the history of this ancient site.

Both the temple and the museum open at 8:30 AM, with an entry fee of 4 euros.

Located in the heart of Naxos, Halki village, also known as Chalki or Chalkio , boasts a rich history as the island’s former capital . Wander through its narrow streets lined with neoclassical houses, which are a testament to its historical significance.

The village exudes timeless charm: As you explore Halki’s enchanting streets and picturesque corners, soak in the ambiance of a village steeped in centuries of Naxian history, once a thriving hub of commerce and culture. Make sure to walk by the imposing Barozzi-Gratsia Tower and visit the lovely Byzantine Church of Saint George Diasoritis .

Nestled against the backdrop of Mount Zas, Filoti is a charming Naxian mountain village with a character all its own. Its traditional houses and winding alleys reflect authentic Cycladic architecture. Filoti is, in fact, comprised of several smaller villages, collectively forming the largest village in Naxos and the Cyclades .

At the heart of Filoti lies Panagia Filotitissa , a striking white church with a vibrant blue dome. Close by, you will also find the Tower of Barozzi .

Embrace the local atmosphere at the village’s tavernas, shops , and cafes . Filoti captivates with its authenticity, offering a genuine Naxian experience. It’s one of my favorite villages in Naxos!

— My Travel Photography Gear — Camera: Sony A7R III Allrounder Zoom Lens: Sigma 24-70mm F/2.8 Favorite Lens: Sony FE 35mm F/1.8 Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 100-400mm F/5-6.3 Drone: DJI Mini 3 Pro GoPro: GoPro Hero11 Black Phone: iPhone 12 Pro Max Camera Tripod: Rollei Compact Traveler No. 1 Carbon Phone Tripod: Lammcou Tripod As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. To read more about my photography gear, click HERE .

Embark on an adventure to the Zeus Cave atop Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades . This exhilarating hike unveils panoramic views and leads to the mythological cave where Zeus, the king of the gods, was said to be raised.

Mount Zas, standing at 1,004 meters , offers a challenging ascent rewarded by breathtaking landscapes. You will need proper shoes , water , and sunscreen for this hike. In scorching summer heat, you should tackle the climb early to evade midday temperatures. If you visit Naxos in the low or shoulder season, like we did, it’s absolutely fine doing this hike in the middle of the day.

The hike to the summit of Mount Zas takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes , while the hike to the Cave of Zeus only takes 20 to 30 minutes from the beginning of the trail.

The trailhead can be reached by a winding mountain road and you can park your car on the side of the road when reaching the trail.

Due to our packed itinerary, we decided to only hike to the cave, but the views were spectacular nonetheless.

Situated in the heart of Naxos, Apeiranthos is a captivating hilltop village rich in cultural heritage. Also known as the “ Marble Village ”, its cobblestone streets wind through a labyrinth of white-washed houses. Most of the alleys and steps are made of beautiful marble.

If you like, you can immerse yourself in Apeiranthos’ history by exploring the Archaeological Museum , the Folklore Museum , and the Geological Museum .

Alternatively, just stroll through the quaint streets or enjoy a coffee or a late lunch in one of the lovely restaurants of the village offering amazing views of the island’s mountains. Apeiranthos undoubtedly has some of the best views of Naxos!

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Naxos, Koronos is one of the island’s oldest settlements . This lesser-known village consists of seven neighborhoods and is built up on two opposite mountain sides. With its traditional architecture and stone-built houses , Koronos unveils a timeless charm.

Get lost in Koronos’ narrow alleys , climb the countless flights of stairs , and discover the village’s historic gems and hidden corners. The mountainous village of Koronos offers a tranquil escape off the beaten path.

Naxos is famous for its Kouros statues scattered around the island. One of these statues is located near the quaint village of Apollonas. Carved from Naxian marble , this colossal male figure represents an unfinished feat of ancient sculpting, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past.

Approximately 10.45 meters tall, this enigmatic Kouros dates back to the 6 th century BC and lays testament to the island’s rich artistic heritage. The lying statue is unfinished, probably due to an accident during transportation.

Walk around Apollonas village

Next, head to Apollonas, a picturesque fishing village on the northern coast of Naxos. With its serene ambiance and a backdrop of rolling hills, Apollonas offers a lovely seaside escape.

Apollonas was once the export port for the famous Naxian marble . Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, where traditional houses, cafes, and local tavernas create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Take in the scenic beauty of the coastal surroundings, and if you fancy a moment of relaxation, there’s a small beach in the village.

This article may also pique your interest: 3 Days in Ios, Greece

Close to the village of Melanes, there are two other colossal male Kouros statues dating back to approximately the 6 th century BC. The impressive statues are around 5 – 6 meters tall. You can visit them on your way back to Naxos Town.

One of the statues, the Kouros of Flerio Melanes , lies in a rustic garden. Unfortunately, transportation mishaps left this monumental piece incomplete.

Nearby, another Kouros, known as the Kouros of Faragi , rests halfway up a 300-meter-high marble outcrop. It can be reached by a short, scenic walk from the Kouros of Flerio Melanes.

Visiting the Kouros of Naxos is one of the best free things to do in Naxos.

Conclude your second day in Naxos with a romantic rooftop dinner at Naxos Town’s Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant. We personally chose this place and can wholeheartedly recommend it.

The authentic rooftop restaurant has incredible views of Naxos Town and the Aegean Sea. Every dish we sampled was absolutely delicious, offering an interesting blend of traditional Naxian cuisine with modern touches. It was the perfect way to wrap up an exciting day in Naxos.

This article may also pique your interest: 3 Days in Tinos: Travel Guide & Best Things to Do

On your third day in Naxos, you will explore the island’s most beautiful beaches. Naxos’ beaches are known for their crystal-clear, turquoise waters and soft, golden sands. Therefore, including a beach day in your Naxos itinerary is a must-do!

In general, the Cyclades boast some of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever encountered in Europe. Alongside the captivating beaches of Naxos, I equally loved the unique beaches in Paros and pristine beaches on the charming island of Syros .

Start your third day by visiting Agios Georgios Beach (Saint George Beach). Agios Georgios Beach is the town beach of Naxos and, therefore, one of the island’s most popular and bustling beaches. The beach features soft sands and beautiful, shallow waters.

Agios Georgios Beach stretches for kilometers and is fully equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beachfront tavernas, cafes, beach bars, and water sports facilities. The southern end of the beach is a hotspot for windsurfing enthusiasts.

The second stop of our beach hopping adventure is the picturesque Alyko Peninsula, just a 30-minute drive from Naxos Town. The secluded cape of Alyko, in the southwest of Naxos island, is renowned for its beautiful coves and beaches.

Alyko Beach, nestled on this idyllic peninsula, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery golden sands, inviting you to unwind in its tranquil beauty. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Naxos.

Next to the beach, in the heart of the peninsula, you can find a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: a long-abandoned and uncompleted resort complex, which is now a unique open-air gallery.

The ruins are decorated with mesmerizing murals created by street artists from around the world, making the abandoned hotel ruins of Alyko a captivating landmark and one of the top hidden attractions on the island.

Another hidden gem on the Alyko Peninsula’s opposite bay is Hawaii Beach. Hawaii Beach maintains an unspoiled charm, free from commercialization. Its distinguishing feature is the striking cliffs of irregular shapes, forming a stunning backdrop against the turquoise sea.

For me, it’s the best beach in Naxos when it comes to the natural setting. We absolutely loved spending time there!

To reach this secluded paradise, just park your car beside the road and take a scenic walk across the sand. Then, descend through the narrow path carved between the cliffs.

Next, head to Glyfada Beach, which is situated between Alyko and Kastraki. As one of the longest beaches on the island, Glyfada remains pleasantly uncrowded, with most people favoring the nearby Alyko Beach.

The sandy shores of Glyfada Beach are framed by expansive sand dunes. Given Naxos’ characteristic winds, Glyfada Beach is a haven for windsurfers and kitesurfers. There is also a kitesurfing club.

Mikri Vigla Beach is only a short drive from Glyfada Beach and boasts two incredible beaches, divided by a distinctive hill.

The northern beach captivates with golden sands and pristine waters, benefiting from the Meltemi winds, making it an international hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The southern beach is more sheltered from the winds and offers a beautiful sandy beach with stunning turquoise waters. Personally, I found the southern Mikri Vigla Beach particularly enchanting.

Take a moment to relax amidst this incredible backdrop before venturing to the next beach.

Plaka Beach undoubtedly belongs to Naxos’ best beaches. This popular beach stretches for approximately 4 kilometers, featuring organized sections with umbrellas and sunbeds. But even during the high season, Plaka remains a quieter alternative to Agios Prokopios or Agios Georgios Beach.

On calm days, when the winds are gentle and the sea is tranquil, Plaka offers an ideal setting for snorkeling right from the beach. It’s also a wonderful spot to relax and bask in the sun, immersing yourself in the serenity of the beautiful Naxian coastline.

Agia Anna Beach is only a few kilometers from the heart of Naxos Town. This lovely organized beach is renowned as one of the busiest and most popular beaches on the island and features a vast tourist infrastructure with umbrellas, sunbeds, tavernas, hotels, and beachfront cafes and bars.

The sandy beach, complemented by calm, azure waters, also has a small port with charming fishing boats, adding a picturesque touch to the scenery. I really loved the vibe of this beach!

The iconic Agios Prokopios Beach is located right next to Agia Anna Beach. This beautiful beach, repeatedly honored with the prestigious Blue Flag Award, also belongs to Naxos’ most popular beaches and is consistently celebrated among the best beaches in Greece and Europe.

Agios Prokopios Beach features an endless stretch of golden sands and mesmerizing turquoise waters. You can also find sunbeds, beach clubs, water sports, and other fun beach activities at this fully-organized beach. It’s the epitome of a holiday haven!

If you are looking for a Naxos beach to stay from sunrise to sunset, Agios Prokopios Beach is the perfect choice! We watched a mind-blowing sunset at this beach!

On your last full day in Naxos, you will embark on an unforgettable day trip from Naxos to Koufonisia, a hidden gem in the Cyclades. Koufonisia is part of the Smaller Cyclades and consists of two main islands: Kato Koufonisi and Ano (Pano) Koufonisi.

Koufonisia is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, laid-back atmosphere, and postcard-worthy landscapes. Be ready to explore secluded coves, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this enchanting Greek island in the heart of the Aegean Sea.

We visited Koufonisia as part of a day trip and can highly recommend this amazing tour ! It was hands down one of the absolute highlights of our Naxos trip! The tour starts in the small port of Agia Anna.

(Please note that the cruise as well as the itinerary are subject to weather conditions.)

After a picturesque boat ride along Naxos’ enchanting eastern shore, you will reach the uninhabited island of Kato Koufonisi. There, you will anchor in a lovely bay with crystal-clear, turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim before having a delicious Greek BBQ lunch on board, complemented by local wine.

The natural beauty of this island totally blew my mind! I wish we could have explored more of the island itself, but swimming in its stunning bays was definitely a fantastic start!

The next stop is the inhabited island of Ano Koufonisi. Ano Koufonisi is a true hidden gem, which is still off the radar for many tourists. The picturesque island offers a delightful blend of traditional Greek vibes and unspoiled landscapes. I loved wandering through the main village’s narrow alleys with the typical white-washed houses and quaint cafes.

Ano Koufonisi radiates a laid-back atmosphere and authentic charm, which invites you to immerse yourself in the simplicity and beauty of the Cycladic island life. We completely fell in love with Ano Koufonisi and definitely plan to stay there for a few nights during our next Greek island hopping trip.

As avid beach lovers, we couldn’t resist exploring some beaches during our time in Ano Koufonisi. The most popular beach in Ano Koufonisi is Ammos Beach , the village’s main beach. The beach boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters and a picturesque backdrop with the iconic white houses of the village.

After Ammos Beach, head to Julias Beach and Treleo’s Beach . These natural pebble beaches, surrounded by steep cliffs, can only be reached by walking down a steep trail to the bay (located at Julias Beach). We loved spending time at this stunning bay, basking in the sun and dipping into the azure water.

Finally, make sure to visit Ludiko Beach , which is close to the port of Ano Koufonisi. It’s a lovely bay with a small pebble beach that is perfect for relaxing and swimming.

As we only had limited time on Ano Koufonisi during our day trip, we definitely need to return to check out more of the island’s beautiful beaches. We’re already counting down the days!

On the way back to Naxos, you will stop at the enchanting Rina Cave on the south coast of Naxos, a hidden aquatic gem waiting to be explored. Dive into the clear waters surrounding the cave, where you can swim and snorkel.

The cave not only boasts captivating marine landscapes but also serves as a unique habitat for bird nests. As you swim into the cave, its interior reveals a spectacle of stalactites gracing the roof, providing shelter for both birds and bats.

Discovering the cave above and below the surface was such an amazing experience.

After visiting the Rina Cave, we sailed back to Naxos and witnessed a magical sunset. Doing a day trip to Koufonisia definitely was a fantastic way to end our stay in Naxos.

I hope you enjoyed reading our comprehensive Naxos guide, discovering the island’s hidden gems, and immersing yourself in its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Naxos, with its mountain villages, ancient sites, and beautiful beaches, offers a diverse experience for every type of traveler.

As you plan your Greek island hopping adventure, also consider exploring other Cyclades treasures like Syros , Mykonos , Tinos , Paros , Ios , and the iconic Santorini . Embark on a journey to uncover the unique charm of each island. Whether you’re drawn to the lively atmosphere of Mykonos, the serene landscapes of Paros, or the romantic allure of Santorini, the Greek islands promise an unforgettable island-hopping experience.

FAQ – 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary

I recommend spending at least 4 days in Naxos to explore its diverse beauty, from historic sites to pristine beaches. It’s the perfect duration for a well-rounded experience for first-time visitors.

No, 4 days in Naxos is ideal. It allows you to see all the highlights of Naxos, including its picturesque villages, ancient sites, and beautiful beaches. Still, you can extend your visit to Naxos for a more leisurely experience.

Naxos is a Cycladic island in the Aegean Sea, situated in the heart of the Greek Islands.

Naxos captivates with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Absolutely! Naxos offers a diverse range of experiences, making it an excellent destination for history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and culture seekers.

A car is recommended for exploring Naxos efficiently, especially to reach remote sites and beautiful beaches. We always use Discover Cars to rent a car.

Driving around Naxos takes approximately 2-4 hours, depending on your stops. The island’s diverse landscapes make the journey scenic and enjoyable.

Naxos is best known for its ancient sites, charming villages, and beautiful beaches, offering a well-rounded Greek island experience.

The choice depends on your preferences. Naxos is larger with diverse landscapes, while Paros charms with its unique, traditional villages. Both islands have excellent beaches. I recommend combining both for a comprehensive Cycladic island experience.

Beauty is subjective, but both islands offer unique charm. Naxos is larger and more varied, while Paros enchants with its traditional ambiance. Personally, we liked Paros a bit more than Naxos.

Ferry durations between Naxos and Paros vary, but the average is around 30 – 50 minutes.

Naxos is close to Paros , Mykonos , Ios , and other Cycladic gems, offering opportunities for delightful island-hopping adventures.

Want to explore more of Greece? Check out my other Greece travel guides for the best travel tips!

• 2 Days in Athens Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Santorini Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Paros Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Mykonos Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Ios Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Tinos Travel Guide
• 2 Days in Syros Travel Guide
• Best Photo Spots in Mykonos

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Founder of Simply Madeleine

Madeleine is the storyteller and globetrotter behind Simply Madeleine, a travel blog focusing on bucket list destinations, memorable travel itineraries, and unique travel experiences. She travels the world full-time together with her fiancé. Together they have explored over 25 countries. On this blog, Madeleine shares detailed travel guides of the places they have visited, including the best things to do and the best hotels to stay. Originally from Germany, Madeleine has lived in many different countries around the world and is now based on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. She is a blogger, content creator, beach lover, and passionate photographer.

• The Ultimate Naxos Travel Guide for First Timers

Naxos is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands in Greece and should be a must for any bucket list. Boasting breathtaking beaches, striking landscapes, and plenty of archaeological sites, it’s no wonder that this island attracts so many tourists every year. 

However, if you’re visiting Naxos for the first time, then there are a couple of things you should know. I’ve condensed them all into this Naxos travel guide so you don’t have to spend all day researching for your trip.

This travel guide to Naxos will take you through all the information you need to know including where to stay, how to get around, and the best things to do. So, let’s dive right in!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Naxos Travel Guide: Useful Info for Your First Visit

Where is naxos located.

Naxos Island is part of the Cyclades Island group just like the islands of Ios, Milos , and Santorini . It’s situated in the middle of several islands including Paros and Mykonos so is a great base for exploring the rest of the Cyclades.

Naxos is around 175 km (108 miles) from the capital of Athens.

How big is Naxos?

Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades family and covers an impressive area of around 430 square km (166 sq miles). The width of the island is 24 km (15 miles) at its widest point, and its length is 33 km (20 miles) from the North to the South. 

What is Naxos known for?

The island is known for many things, but primarily it’s considered to be a popular holiday spot because of its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and archaeological sites.

Naxos is also known for its Greek mythology and you’ll find plenty of places across the island that are thought to be connected to the gods.

How many days to spend in Naxos?

As Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, there’s a lot to see! I’d recommend spending at least 3 days on the island so you can see the best sites and not have to rush.

However, many people choose to come for the week so it’s completely up to you. There are certainly enough things to keep you occupied for longer! 

What currency is used in Naxos?

Like the rest of Greece and Europe in general, the island of Naxos uses the Euro (€). As with many of the islands in Greece, card payments are widely accepted but many businesses will prefer you to pay with cash.

Do I need a visa to visit Naxos?

If you’re traveling to Greece from other countries in the European Union, you don’t need to apply for a visa but you will need a valid ID card or passport.

Other countries such as Australia, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand can travel through the Schengen area without a visa for up to 90 days.

The circumstances will differ depending on your country of origin so make sure you check the visa requirements for Greece before you travel.

Is Naxos expensive?

The island of Naxos is a great destination for budget travelers as it’s not expensive. Although the nearby islands of Mykonos and Santorini will put a dent in your wallet, you’ll find Naxos to be extremely affordable.

The public bus system here is very cheap and you can find some great bargains on accommodation too! 

Is Naxos safe?

Generally, Naxos is a very safe island to visit. During the day it’s extremely safe to wander around but at night just keep an eye on your belongings (as you would anywhere). 

How to Get to Naxos

Flying to naxos.

There are no direct flights to Naxos from anywhere other than Athens so you’ll need to travel from the capital if you want to fly. In this case, it’s worth doing a short layover and seeing the best of Athens in a day too!

The flight to Naxos from Athens only takes around 30 minutes so it’s the quickest way to reach the island by far.

However, as it’s the most convenient mode of transport, you’ll often pay much more for plane tickets compared to the ferry. If you book in advance though you might get a good deal! 

The airport on Naxos is located at Agios Prokopios which is just 3 km (1.8 miles) from the main town of Chora/Naxos.

Taking the ferry to Naxos

Catching the ferry to Naxos offers more flexibility as you don’t necessarily have to travel from the capital. There’s a ferry service that runs from Athens though if that’s where you’re staying.

You can get the ferry to Naxos from several Greek islands including Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini among others.

There’s also a local express ferry that operates six times a week between Naxos, Amorgos, and other islands from the ‘small Cyclades’.

The ferries take between 4-6 hours depending on where you’re traveling from but tickets are often much cheaper than flying. During the summer months, the ferries run frequently too which is always handy. 

Usually, there are more ferry operator companies on the same route with various prices and duration. You can use the below search box to compare ferries and check the schedules.

Best Time to Visit Naxos

High season.

The peak/high season in Naxos runs from June to September and this is when you’ll experience the most crowds.

These months are popular for a reason as the temperature during this time of year ranges from 18-30°C (64-86°F). You’ll also experience plenty of sunshine throughout the summer and rainy days are relatively uncommon.

You’ll have no problem getting to Naxos during the summer either as the ferries run regularly. This is generally the case for most Greek islands! 

Just keep in mind that accommodation prices during the peak season can be more expensive and you’ll need to book in advance.

Shoulder season

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, then I’d recommend heading to Naxos during the shoulder season. The shoulder season consists of May, early June, September, and early October and has plenty of advantages.

Not only is it quieter, but you’ll find some great deals on accommodation, especially if you book in advance.

The weather is still pleasant too but you’ve got a higher chance of rainy days. Temperatures range from 14-28°C (57-82°F) so many of the days are still pretty warm.

However, some of the restaurants and tour agencies may be closed which is something to consider.

The low season in Naxos generally runs from late October to April. It’s the quietest time to visit the island although the weather can be unpredictable.

The temperature will vary depending on when you visit throughout this time of year but expect a range between 9-25°C (48-77°F). Late October will often give you the highest temperatures although this isn’t guaranteed. 

You’ll also want to keep in mind that precipitation levels are at their highest during the low season, although you can bag some great accommodation deals.

However, ferries will be running on a limited schedule during this season, and many of the restaurants and tour agencies will be closed.

How to Get Around in Naxos

Public transport.

Naxos has a really efficient public transport system and it’s extremely cheap too. Tickets start from just €1.80 and there are several routes on the island.

You’ll easily be able to reach the most popular spots on Naxos including Agia Anna, Agia Prokopios, and Plaka, and the service is quite frequent too.

The central bus stop is found in Naxos town/Chora and this is where you’ll have the most options. From here, you can access not only the places mentioned above but Apollonas, Filoti, and Koronos among others.

During the summer months buses are much more frequent so just keep that in mind. For more information, you can check out the official website of Naxos Buses . 

If you’re visiting Naxos for the first time, then I recommend hiring a car if you’re able to. There are so many fantastic places to visit on the island and some of them are hidden gems, so you won’t find any bus services that run there. 

If you can hire a car you also won’t be restricted by the bus timetables, so you’ll have much more flexibility.

The only thing to consider is the price. If you’re planning to visit Naxos during the peak season, then car rental prices can be higher than usual. This is where the shoulder season comes in handy, as you can find some great rental bargains during this time. 

If you’d prefer not to hire a car or catch the bus, then you’ve always got the option of using taxis instead. They are undeniably comfortable and convenient, but they are much more expensive than using public transport. 

This is especially the case during peak season, so you won’t want to get around this way if you’re on a budget. If you’re traveling as a group and splitting the cost, then it becomes more affordable. 

Taxis on the island are generally found parked near the ferry port, the airport, and throughout Chora.

Where to Stay in Naxos

If you’re visiting Naxos for the first time then deciding where to stay is no easy feat! Luckily, you can find a wide range of accommodations starting from budget hostels to many gorgeous luxury hotels in Naxos .

There are six popular areas on the island and these are Agia Anna, Agia Prokopios, Chora/Naxos town, Mikri Vigla, Plaka, and Stelida. Each one has something unique to offer and it will all depend on what you’re after.

If you’re interested in reading more about each place and what they have to offer, make sure to check out my in-depth guide about where to stay in Naxos .

However, if you’re in a rush, take a look at my top choices for different budgets below.

LUXURY – 18 Grapes Hotel

This hotel is the definition of luxury, with gorgeous suites, a fantastic concierge service, and incredible facilities. Boasting an outdoor swimming pool, a spa & wellness center, an on-site restaurant, and a bar – 18 Grapes Hotel has so much to offer! They even offer personal shopping and treatment experiences. 

MID-RANGE – Naxian Breeze

Situated right by the beautiful Agia Anna Beach, Naxian Breeze is another fantastic option. They offer a variety of sea-view studios and apartments, and each one is kitted out with a kitchenette and a private balcony. You’ll also find plenty of bars, restaurants, and supermarkets nearby!

BUDGET – Hotel Sphinx

Centrally located in Naxos Town, Hotel Sphinx is only 50 meters away from several traditional taverns, shops, and cafes, 150 meters from Agios Georgios Beach, and a 10-minute walk from Naxos Port. The Deluxe suites are really spacious and worth the upgrade.

Best Places to Visit in Naxos

For the ultimate travel guide to Naxos, you’ll want to visit some of the island’s beautiful beaches and important archaeological sites. Here are the places you don’t want to miss! 

Naxos town/Chora – Chora is the island’s capital and is known for its scenic coastline, whitewashed buildings, and fantastic restaurants. You can find some of the best things to do in Naxos here like exploring the old town, visiting the Temple of Apollo, and wandering around the Archaeological Museum. You’ll find lots of cute restaurants here too.

Plaka Beach – Plaka Beach is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece. Once you get there, it’s easy to see why! With up to 4 km (2.5 miles) of golden sands, turquoise waters, and lots of facilities, it’s one of the best beaches on the island. You can try your hand at watersports here too.

Mount Zas – Mount Zas is the highest mountain in the Cyclades and it dominates the island’s skyline. At an impressive height of 1,003m (3,290 feet), it’s no wonder that this is where the God of Zeus spent the majority of his childhood – according to Greek mythology. If you hike to the summit, you’ll be treated to spectacular views!

Kastro – During your visit to Chora, you need to visit the Kastros of Naxos. This castle dates back to the 13th century and there is a small village within its walls. Kastro is made up of four levels in total and there are plenty of fortress towers throughout.

Agios Prokopios Beach – This is one of the best beaches in Naxos and has been certified as Blue Flag Status several times. Boasting golden sands, crystal clear waters, and beachfront facilities, this beach has a lot to offer. You’ll have no problem getting there either as public buses run to Agios Prokopios. 

Alyko Beach & Cedar Forest – Alyko Beach and the cedar forest next to it are both a must-visit during your stay in Naxos. The beach is one of the largest on the island and is pretty quiet compared to some of the others. You can also find some really cool hotel ruins nearby which are now home to many graffitis and street art.

The Temple of Apollo – No Paros travel guide would be complete without including a visit to the Temple of Apollo. Today, there’s just an enormous marble gate that’s left from the old temple which dates back to around 530 BC. This place is one of the most visited sites on the island and it’s associated with Greek mythology.

Apiranthos – This is one of the most beautiful villages on the island and it’s known for its authentic charm and incredible architecture. Located on the slopes of Mount Fanari, Apiranthos offers stunning views of the surrounding area and there are plenty of attractions to visit here too. There are five museums for you to explore in fact!

The Archaeological Museum – This incredible museum is set in a 17th-century Venetian building. There are four floors so as you can imagine there are plenty of cool items to see here. This ranges from typical Cycladic statues to clay pots. No trip to Naxos is complete without visiting the Archaeological Museum as you’ll get to learn about the island!

Agios Georgios Beach – Agios Georgios Beach is just a short walk from Naxos town/Chora and it’s one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island. With calm shallow waters and a sandy shelf that extends out into the sea, it’s the perfect spot to spend some quality time with the little ones.

Best Places to Eat in Naxos

There are plenty of fantastic restaurants in Naxos , especially in the main town. Whether you’re looking to sample some local cuisine or try some fresh seafood, this island has something for everyone.

For the best experience, you’ll want to dine at some of these spots! 

Nissaki Restaurant – Nissaki Restaurant is close to Saint Georges Beach and is located within the Nissaki Beach Hotel. Many of the dishes are seafood based, but they also offer grilled meats and pasta dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a romantic evening under the stars, this restaurant is the perfect option. 

Scirocco Cafe Restaurant – This is undoubtedly one of the best places to eat in Chora. It’s a family-owned restaurant that’s been around since 1995 and is renowned for its delicious food. From Greek salads to fresh seafood, there are options for everyone but it’s the desserts that often steal the show; the homemade orange pie especially. 

Padelis Coffee Shop – This coffee shop is also located in Chora and is known for its fantastic service and friendly staff. They serve a variety of tasty dishes including burgers, club sandwiches, and waffles so there’s something to everyone’s taste. Just make sure you try the loukoumades during your visit here!

Doukato Restaurant – Doukarto is just a short walk from Naxos Port and is one of the most popular options in town. Boasting a beautiful outdoor seating area, a great atmosphere, and delicious dishes, it’s no wonder this place gets so busy! Trust me, this is a place you’ll go back to again and again. 

Taverna Platanos – This place is located in Apiranthos and is one of the best restaurants in the area. Although it’s only a small restaurant, this taverna is a hidden gem and the staff are lovely too. It’s a great spot to grab some authentic Greek food and you’ll get large portion sizes too. Not only that, but the prices are extremely reasonable. 

Honey & Cinnamon Cocktail Bar – Although based on their name you would assume that this place is a chic cocktail bar, it’s actually a lot more than that! Besides cocktails and long drinks, Honey & Cinnamon Cocktail Bar offers plenty of brunch options, and lots of other delicious dishes including bagels, salads, and tortillas.

Planning a trip to Naxos?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Naxos. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Where to Stay in Naxos: 6 Best Areas & Hotels
• 14 Best Luxury Hotels in Naxos for an Unforgettable Stay
• 23 Amazing Things to Do in Naxos You Can’t Miss
• 12 Best Beaches in Naxos, Greece You Can’t Miss
• 11 Best Restaurants in Naxos Town You Have to Try

Other Amazing Destinations in Greece:   Athens  |  Santorini  |  Mykonos  |  Milos  |  Paros

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary

Last Updated on January 22, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Naxos itinerary can be a bit confusing as there isn’t as much information out there when compared to islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Crete or Rhodes . Whether you have 2, 3, or 4 days in Naxos, you’re in for a treat. There is so much to see and do on this gorgeous island that you’ll never regret a visit.

Naxos is one of the lesser-visited islands in the Greek Cyclades but is considered one of the best. Located near the heavily trafficked island of Santorini , Naxos boasts the same iconic white-washed building and blue-domed roofs that are unique to Greek islands.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Naxos?

Perhaps the biggest hurdle is figuring out how many days to spend in Naxos. How long you spend on the island is entirely dependent on the kind of experience you want to have.

There is a lot of sightseeing to do across Naxos–from rural villages to stunning beaches. If you prefer to stay centrally located, 2 days in Naxos is more than enough.

If you have 3 days to spend in Naxos, then you’ll have time to enjoy some of the nature and hikes around the island and really get to enjoy the active lifestyle that this area promotes.

However, if you’re planning to venture out to explore more of the island, you’ll want up to 4 days on the island.

Naxos is considered one of the best Greek islands for families and those traveling in pairs or small groups who want an island with smaller crowds. There are plenty of family-friendly shops and restaurants as well as a few options for nightlife while still being a quiet island.

Naxos is a great option for those wanting a more laid-back experience of the Cyclades. Naxos also tends to be more affordable than Santorini or Mykonos. 

Getting To & Around Naxos

You have two options for how to reach Naxos. The first is to take a short regional flight from Athens to the island. There are several nonstop flights every day that usually take around 45 minutes to complete. You can organise a transfer from the airport here .

If you’re spending time in the Cyclades, you can also take a short ferry ride from Paros , Santorini or Mykonos. Depending on the flights available, you could fly to a neighboring island and then take a ferry to Naxos.

The second option is the ferry from Athens . Ferry paths between Athens and the Greek islands are divided into pockets of islands. For example, one ferry line from Athens goes to Santorini, Mykonos , Paros, and Naxos because of their close proximity to each other. This makes visiting Naxos as part of an island hopping itinerary absolutely perfect.

The ferry ride from Athens to Naxos is around 6 hours on the main line. There are express ferries from Athens, but they run less frequently. The ferry is a unique way to reach the islands and experience the Mediterranean. You can book ferries in advance here .

Once on Naxos, you can get around using the island’s bus service, but you will likely find it easiest to get around if you can rent a car. If you’d like to hire a car on Naxos, we suggest browsing Rentalcars.com to find deals across a range of different companies.

If you don’t rent a car, it is also possible to take some day tours around the island such as this full-day tour for those interested in the history of the island or this full-day cruise for those looking for a relaxing time on the water.

2, 3 or 4-Day Naxos Itinerary

There is so much to do on a trip to Naxos – whether you have 2 days, 3 days or 3 – that you’re sure to fall hard for this incredible island. From beautiful beaches to mountains to the historic centre of Naxos Town, there’s a lot to love about this Cycladic paradise.

Day 1 – Chora, Beaches & Archeological Museum

Explore chora and the portara.

If you’re arriving by ferry, Chora will be where you dock. It’s the largest and most developed area of Naxos Island, but this also makes it one of the busiest towns. It’s also often referred to as Naxos Town.

Chora was built on the ruins of an ancient town dating back to 4,000 BCE. The Temple of Apollo, or the Portara, will stand out to you upon arrival. It’s a large temple on an islet jutting out from the town.

The Old Town is home to an eye-catching Venetian Castle (the Kastro) that captures a period of time in Naxos history. Both the Archeological Museum and the Metropolis Museum are worth the visit if you have an afternoon to explore Chora.

There are beaches nearby for a relaxing afternoon once you’ve first arrived in Naxos. 

Visit nearby beaches

To kick off your trip, explore one (or several) of the incredible beaches on the island. Soft sand and crystal blue waters await you when visiting beaches on Naxos. Grotto Beach is the best for snorkelers as they can explore the ruins of an ancient city underwater.

Agios Georgios and Agios Prokopios are the most family-friendly beaches–they’re great for swimmers and sunbathers with several options for restaurants and beach clubs. The further south you go, the better the beaches get.

Plaka Beach is the most famous beach in Naxos. The northern end is more tourist-heavy, but the further south you go, the quieter it gets.

Mikri Vigla Beach catches a lot of wind–great for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Kastraki Beach offers incredible sunset views while the sun goes down behind Paros Island.

Go to the Archeological Museum

The Naxos Archeological Museum is located in the central square of the Kastro and boasts the largest collection of Cycladic artifacts in the area. Everything from household objects to works of art from the Late Neolithic period are on display.

It’s a perfect spot to spend a quiet afternoon learning more about the long and impressive history of the Cyclades and Greece. Terra-cotta figurines, pottery, Mycenaean artifacts, jewelry, and more are housed here.

Make sure to seek out the mosaic floor depicting a Nereid riding a bull from the Roman period. Naxos has a long history of being a culture hub throughout Greek history that is captured here. 

Day 2 – Sangri, Filoti & Apeiranthos

Visit sangri for the temple of demeter.

On your second day, set out to explore Naxos further including several of the charming villages on the island. Sangri is located about 12 kilometers southeast of Chora toward the center of Naxos.

Here, you won’t find the classic white-washed buildings with blue roofs. Instead, you’ll encounter greys and browns of brick walls and roofs.

The village is known for the Byzantine monasteries. The Temple of Demeter is one of the most famous sites–made from marble and dating all the way back to 530 BCE.

There are a few good options for restaurants and cafes if you want to get an early start and have breakfast in the area. The best way to see the villages of Naxos on your second day on the island is by car.

Stop at Filoti

Filoti is one of the most famous and beautiful mountain villages on the island. You should plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring here. It’s known for its olive groves and Byzantine churches.

Filoti is thought to be one village, although it’s technically the combination of several smaller villages to create the largest village in Naxos. It’s built on the slopes of Mount Zas with white-washed buildings and flowered streets.

The main street is full of cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to stop for lunch or an afternoon treat. Make sure to stop at Barozzi Tower and wander through all the old churches.

Parking is usually readily available for visitors and public transportation connects the villages to other main parts of the island. 

See the museums at Apeiranthos

Round out your day of exploring the mountain villages of Naxos with a visit to Apeiranthos. This village is by far the most popular for tourists outside of Chora.

Over the years, it has largely remained untouched, allowing it to retain its authenticity. It’s built along the side of Mount Fanari to give its visitors an exceptional view of the Naxian mountain ranges.

If you’re a museum lover when traveling, you’ll want to come here as Apeiranthos is home to five different museums. The Apeiranthos Archaeological Museum, Geological Museum, Museum of Natural History, Visual Arts Museum, and the Folklore Museum are all worth stopping in.

If you think there is plenty for you to do here that an afternoon isn’t enough, you could consider spending the night. 

Day 3 – Mount Zas, Halki & Vallindras Kitron

Hike mount zas.

Mount Zas is not only the highest place in the Cyclades, but it’s also the mythological birthplace of the Greek god Zeus. Mount Zas, also known as Mount Zeus, is home to a cave near the summit where it’s believed the god was born and raised. You can visit the cave of his birth if you hike to the summit.

This hike offers a close-up look at what makes Naxos unique–its mountainous, green, and vibrant landscape that is vastly different from any other islands in the Cyclades. The hike is 5 kilometers, or 3 miles, round trip, but it’s by no means a relaxing hike.

This is a highly strenuous climb that rewards its hikers with stunning views from the peak. The trailhead is closest to Filoti. Be mindful of the road up to the trailhead as the last section does become narrow and steep. Make sure to come prepared with a water bottle and a good pair of hiking shoes.

Visit Halki 

Considered to be one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Naxos, Halki should be on your list when you complete your hike of Mount Zas. You could also swap your visit to Filoti here too as the villages are very close together.

Halki, also known as Chalkio, captures the look that makes mountain villages in Naxos so breathtaking. Olive groves, citrus trees, and famous archaeological sites await visitors. You’ll have several options for a meal–you’ve earned it after climbing to the top of Mount Zas.

Halki is just a 30-minute drive from Chora, but make sure to take your time. This village is worth at least an afternoon to explore. Art galleries and jewelers are prominent here. The Kitron Distillery, Fish & Olive ceramics, and Byzantine Church of St. George should all be on your list.

Go to the Vallindras Kitron

As mentioned above, the Kitron Distillery is one of the most-visited sites in Halki.

The distillery was established in 1898 and produced the famous Kitron, a yellow liqueur made from a fruit that is slightly less bitter than a lemon. The liqueur became popular throughout Greece and was distributed widely from Naxos.

There is a museum where the traditional tools and machinery used to create Kitron are preserved. You can also taste some of the liqueur yourself or purchase a bottle.

Day 4 – Wine Tasting & Sunset Views

Go wine tasting.

It might come as a surprise that several Greek islands are known for their wine production. Naxos is one of them going on a day trip wine tasting is an excellent way to experience more of the island.

Wine tours on the island offer a unique opportunity to learn more about the land and the grapes that grow well there. For wine enthusiasts, this is one of the best things to do in Naxos and the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Saint Anna Winery is one of the most popular and well worth the visit.

Guided tours take visitors through olive groves and the vineyard, as well as offer plenty of opportunities to try the local wine. Some highly rated options include this half-day tour that combines food tastings with local wine or this winery tour.

Watch the sunset at the Portara

Close out your time in Naxos with an iconic Greek sunset from the Portara in Chora. The best view comes from taking a slow evening walk down the islet leading to the temple.

There is a paved path that leads visitors to a short hill where the temple is perched. Climb the stairs to the top of the hill to secure your spot for the sunset viewing. You can also settle somewhere along the path.

Keep in mind that this tends to be a busy area for watching the sunset, especially during the peak tourist season, so try to get there a bit on the earlier side. Make sure you sit with a view facing the west, looking toward Paros Island, for the best view.

Where to Stay in Naxos

Hotel Grotta – This mid-range hotel is great for those looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay on Naxos. They have a great location, countless lovely rooms to choose from and have a swimming pool, bar and lots of other great amenities to make your stay a great one.

Nissaki Beach Hotel – This gorgeous 5-star hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a luxury escape on Naxos. They have countless plush rooms on offer, a beautiful swimming pool to enjoy, sea views, a beachfront location and an on-site bar to enjoy.

Sunday Studios – For those looking for a self-catering option, you’re sure to love these holiday apartments. They have a range of flats to choose from that can accommodate any group size and they are all fully furnished with everything you may need during your trip.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Naxos hotels!

This Naxos itinerary is filled with a mixture of lesser-known spots and famous destinations that build a well-rounded trip. Spend some time exploring the mountain villages, but make sure you relax on the beautiful island beaches for an afternoon too. Between the food, the history, and the views, you may find yourself sad to leave the stunning island of Naxos. 

Are you considering a visit to Naxos? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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Road Trip on Naxos : From Door to Door

Sometimes, you meet a man who is supposed to be a one night stand, and finally you end up in a beautiful love relationship with him. I feel the same thing happened with Naxos. 

If you’re not familiar with Greek islands other than the outdoor shopping mall that is Santorini, Naxos is the biggest of the Cycladic Islands. It’s also a place where bus schedules don’t coincide with ferry schedules in September, leaving you with no choice but to rent a car.

We could also have chosen to rent a scooter, but in that case, I would have had to abandon my boyfriend or my backpack. And since I would have had to carry my backpack by myself in both cases, I decided to rent a car.

“Can you drive standard?”, I asked my boyfriend. “I could in 2003.”, he answered.

After several humiliating attempts, we managed to leave the car rental company. I did a thumbs up to the owner to reassure him that we would find a way to bring back the car, ideally in one piece. The man was not impressed.

Naxos is the real thing.

Of course, when you get off the ferry, there are tons of solicitors trying to convince you to go to their hotels, but once you make it through, you’ll discover a peaceful island.

Vast fields lined with agave and cactus, goats looking at you while chewing grass, Naxos allows you to slow down and breathe. We were supposed to spend two days on the island, we stayed for four.

Lola, the owner of  Studios Petra  in Kastraki, where we rented our room, was the most adorable person I have ever met.

She insisted that we have cookies while she explained to us the best road to the Temple of Dimitra. She’s the kind of women who takes care of you like a mom and would give you the moon to make your stay better. Even while taking care of all the rooms on her own, she wasn’t any less enthusiastic about her island.

With our cookies for the road, a map full of encircled places to go and our new confidence in our capacity to drive standard from A to B, we were ready to conquer Naxos.

Studio Petra Door, Kastraki

The beach in Kastraki was almost deserted in the shoulder season and we had our own piece of paradise to swim in the Aegean sea. From Studio Petra, it was only a 5-minute walk. The water was clear, the beach cleaned and there was a small restaurant to have a drink and eat.

Temple of Dimitra

Ruins are scattered over the island and are not all worthy of interest. However, I recommend a quick stop at Dimitra’s Temple. The site is super small, but the view of the surrounding mountains is picturesque!

Apeiranthos

Of all the indications Lola had drawn on our map, the circles around Apeiranthos village were a tornado of doodles, arrows and stars.

It is a paradise for people obsessed with doors ( guilty ).  Old teal metal doors or red wood doors, each one has its charm.

I won’t lie, there’s not much to do in Apeiranthos if you are looking for particular activities, but it is worth a visit if only to walk in a scenic old village by the mountains.

Doors in Apeiranthos, Naxos

Naxos (Chóra)

My favorite part of the main town of Naxos is without a doubt the port.

With tens of restaurants, bars and café facing the water, it’s a good spot to enjoy a baklava and a freddo cappuccino, Greece’s favourite type of iced coffee. At any time of the day, you’ll see Greeks slowly enjoying it on a terrasse .

Boats are docked and freshly caught octopus dries, symbols of mediterranean culture.

The best spot to see the sunset is the Temple of Apollo , landmark of the city of Naxos.

And of course, you’ll find beautiful doors in this town too…

Door in Naxos

Back to Studio Petra, we packed our bags and said goodbye to Lola. As we closed the door behind us, she said we were the last clients of the season. “I love my job, but it’s hard work”, said Lola. “It’s time to rest, now.”

My boyfriend and I highly recommend the place.  Plus, it only costs us around 50$ a night.  Lola will do anything to make sure that your stay is perfect, and the family-owned house is adorable, with its garden and balconies. 

For more pictures of Naxos, follow me on Instagram !

Annie Anywhere

Annie est rédactrice et chargée de projets. Elle adore le Street Art, le café, le wifi et les endroits qui sortent de l'ordinaire. Elle aime aussi faire connaissance, alors n'hésitez pas à cliquer sur les icônes plus bas pour prendre contact!

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What To Do in Naxos Greece: 35 Amazing Attractions

Last updated on April 24th, 2024 at 01:14 pm

If you’re wondering what to do in Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, you’re at the right place. After visiting Naxos several times during the last couple of decades, we curated a list of the 35 best things to do in Naxos, a diverse Greek Island like no other.

An island that manages to remain authentic to its core regardless of its high popularity in recent years, Naxos is known for its delicious food, rich ancient history, beautiful beaches and insanely picturesque villages. Keep reading to find out what to do in Naxos for a trip you’ll never forget.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

Why Visit Naxos & What To Do in Naxos at a Glance

Probably the main reason to visit Naxos is that it’s the perfect island if your ideal vacation is all about exploring , hiking, discovering hidden gems or learning history.

Apart from the most popular things to do in Naxos, such as swimming in crystal clear waters, eating delicious Greek food and sipping cocktails at seaside bars, Naxos has some unique characteristics that you won’t easily find on other Greek Islands. First of all, Naxos is dotted with gorgeous mountain villages that scream authenticity and quaintness.

To get from one village to the next, you witness the natural beauty of Naxos as you walk or drive through forests, streams, waterfalls and beautiful dry-stone walls, slowly taking in the charm of one of the most fertile islands in Greece .

Moreover, the island of Naxos is renowned for its special architecture that’s strongly influenced by Venetian culture. Naxos is abundant in impressive mansions, towers and churches built in the Middle Ages by the Venetian lords that ruled the island. Nowadays, these masterpieces, either abandoned or restored, are implemented in the island’s stunning scenery.

Last but not least, Naxos is an island rich in history that spans many centuries, from ancient times to this day. Ancient relics, medieval gems and remnants of 20th-century industrial wonders await to stun visitors who are willing to embark on an exciting trip through the island’s past.

Before we go over all the incredible things to see in Naxos in more detail, why not have a sneak peek of some of them in our Naxos YouTube video?

Top 35 Things To Do in Naxos Greece

1. walk to the temple of apollo (portara).

The indisputable highlight of Naxos is Portara, the imposing marble gate that stands in the centre of Palatia Islet near the island’s port, defying the winds for centuries on end and tirelessly welcoming visitors who arrive in Naxos by ferry.

Portara is the very symbol of Naxos. The gate is the only remaining part of the unfinished Temple of Apollo that stood there in ancient times. You can get to Portara via a lovely paved path from Chora .

Although Portara is considered the top sunset spot in Naxos , you can also visit Portara early in the morning and then enjoy a dip in the sea that’s right below the archaeological site. Portara has no entrance fee and it’s open to visitors all day long .

2. Get Acquainted With Chora

Naxos Town or Chora is where the heart of the island beats. The main town comprises the promenade that leads to the Ferry Port of Naxos and Portara, the Old Town, the Castle of Naxos, the Grotta area, the modern part of Naxos Town and Agios Georgios Beach.

If you overlook a handful of not-so-pretty buildings that line the promenade , the latter is very charming, especially in the evening, the best time to sit back and people-watch.

The Old Town of Naxos or Bourgos is built outside the walls of the Venetian Castle of Naxos. Getting lost in its maze-like alleys is one of the best things to do in Naxos. It’s there that you will find the Old Market of Naxos , home not only to souvenir shops but also to the bakery and grocery store where locals have been doing their shopping since forever.

The Grotta neighbourhood is worth a visit for a walk along its picture-perfect beach . Moreover, in Grotta, you can visit the Orthodox Cathedral of Naxos and the Archaeological Site of Grotta with its display of findings that date back to the Bronze Age.

Last but not least, don’t miss an evening stroll around the vibrant modern part of Naxos Town which extends to Agios Georgios , one of the best beaches in Naxos.

3. Wander Around The Castle of Naxos

Although the Castle of Naxos is part of Chora, it deserves its very own place on our list of the best things to see in Naxos. The Venetian Marco Sanudo built the Castle of Naxos in 1207. The fortified settlement has never stopped being inhabited since then, its medieval beauty reflected in glorious mansions and enchanting courtyards.

One of the best places to visit in Naxos Castle is the Roman Cathedral , a splendid marble church that stands at the Castle’s main square. Near the Roman Cathedral, you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Naxos , the Della Rocca Barozzi Venetian Museum and the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti , probably the oldest building inside the Castle of Naxos.

Yet what dominates the Castle of Naxos is the former complex of the Ursuline Nuns School . It comprises many buildings, most of which are now renovated and used as cultural and educational centres.

One of them houses Avaton , a rooftop bar which is worth a visit not only for a glass of local wine with the best view but also because there you can have a look at what the Ursuline School must have looked like back in the day when it was filled with young girls’ laughter.

To get the most out of your visit to the Castle of Naxos, you can join a walking tour run by a knowledgeable guide who will let you in on the secrets of the island’s past.

4. Admire The Unique Kouros Statues

Throughout its long history, Naxos Island has been known for its excellent marble quarries. Nowadays, the island’s shiny and durable marble is extracted at the modern quarries near Kinidaros Village . As you drive around inland Naxos, you catch fleeting glimpses of the modern marble quarries that shine so brightly under the Greek sun you’ll have to look twice to make sure it’s not an apparition.

In ancient times, the island’s top-quality marble was used in sculpture and architecture. Local craftsmen of the time would give the sculptures their rough shape on-site at the quarries. The final details would be carved after each work of art had reached its final destination. This was done to prevent damaging the sculpture during its transfer from the quarry to its final destination.

Accidents during the transfer weren’t uncommon, though. Therefore, whenever a sculpture was damaged, it was abandoned at the quarry. Other reasons why sculptures were left at the quarries were order cancellations or various political events. Among the most interesting attractions in Naxos are the Kouros statues that were abandoned at the island’s ancient quarries.

Kouros is the Ancient Greek word for the statue of a standing, often naked, young man. There are three Kouros statues scattered across Naxos. Two of them are in the greater area of Flerio, near Melanes Village .

Each of these two statues depicts a young man of supernatural size (5.5 metres tall). Both Kouros statues were shaped at the same quarry and later abandoned because the legs broke during transfer. The two Kouros statues of Flerio lie within short walking distance from one another.

The third and probably most impressive of all three Kouros statues in Naxos is the one at the ancient quarry near Apollonas Village . The Kouros of Apollonas is the statue of an old man who’s more than 10 metres tall. Scientists disagree as to which Ancient God it depicts. Is it Apollo or Dionysus?

The Ancient Quarry of Apollonas is a site of great significance. That’s because it was the main source of marble for the Holy Sanctuary of Delos.

The site is free to visit all day long. Sadly, there isn’t even a rope to keep avid Instagrammers from stepping on the ancient Kouros statue for a selfie that will be gone in 24 hours. Please, don’t be those people. Refrain from stepping, lying or sitting on the statue when you visit the Kouros of Apollonas.

5. Don’t Miss The Sanctuary of The Springs

When you visit the Kouros statues of Flerio, drop by the nearby Sanctuary of The Springs . It’s free to visit and it provides great insight into the importance of this area in ancient times. Situated in the lush Flerio area, the sanctuary was dedicated to a female deity connected to the fertility of the soil . It was also a favourite place of worship for the workers at the nearby ancient quarries.

6. Enjoy Pristine Beaches

There are many beaches in Naxos. So many that it would take an entire article to talk about all of them. Therefore, here’s just a small selection of the best Naxos beaches.

Agios Georgios is a sandy beach in Chora with beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds and umbrellas. It’s the perfect option if you’re staying in Chora and don’t feel like driving or taking the bus to go to the beach.

The most popular beach in Naxos is Agios Prokopios on the island’s west coast. You can get to Agios Prokopios from Chora after a short drive or ride on the public buses. With crystal clear shallow waters, golden sand and three pink salt lakes that give it an exotic touch, Agios Prokopios is graced with utter natural beauty.

Sadly, sunbeds and umbrellas have taken over the beach and it can get unbearably crowded during the high season – which you should avoid anyway. For fewer crowds, try to pick a spot on the beach that’s as far from the village as possible. As a rule of thumb, the closest to Agios Prokopios Chapel you are, the better.

Other sandy beaches you can enjoy on the island’s western coast include Agia Anna , Plaka Beach , Mikri Vigla and Kastraki , all of which feature beach clubs. For a more exotic beach, head to Psili Ammos on the eastern coast of Naxos in the village of Kanaki.

If you long for seclusion, Kalandos and Panormos (or Panermos) are two remote beaches in southern Naxos, while Abram is a peaceful – yet exposed to the north summer winds – beach in northern Naxos.

A beach you should definitely check out is Aliko . An area renowned for its natural beauty, Aliko is home to the largest cedar forest in Greece. It comprises several small bays with turquoise waters and impressive sand dunes. Next to Aliko Beach, you can enjoy the more exotic-sounding (and looking) Hawaii Beach .

7. Be Amazed At The Island’s Street Art

There’s yet another reason to visit Aliko. Right above the beach, there’s a large hotel complex that was never completed and has been abandoned for decades. As of late, the abandoned hotel has become a favourite with street artists who have turned its grey walls into masterpieces.

Among the drawings, you can find some signed by WD (Wild Drawing) , such as The Third Eye , probably the most impressive piece of street art in Aliko.

PRO TIP: While walking around the abandoned hotel in Aliko and the surrounding area, make sure you watch your step because there are many holes in the floor. Also, don’t spend too much time inside the buildings as there’s always the risk of falling parts.

Aliko Beach is a great place in Naxos to admire superb street art, but it’s not the only one. Street artists are inspired by the island’s charms, creating little wonders in various places, such as Chora and Filoti Village. Therefore, while strolling around, make sure you keep an eye out for fantastic street art.

8. Visit The Temple of Demeter

The myth of the ancient goddess Demeter and her daughter Persephone is among the most heartbreaking stories in Greek mythology.

Demeter was antiquity’s goddess of agriculture and the fertility of the earth. Her beautiful daughter Persephone was abducted by Hades, the god of the underworld. When her mother found out, she got furious and demanded that her daughter be brought back to her on earth. Zeus, the king of all gods, was called to find a solution.

Zeus decided that Persephone would spend six months in the underworld with Hades and six months on earth with her mother. When Persephone was with her mother, Demeter was happy and the land was fertile.

But when Persephone returned to the underworld, Demeter’s grief was so great that no crops could grow and the land was barren. And that’s how Ancient Greeks explained the cycle of the seasons.

Naxos has always been a very fertile island. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Demeter was widely worshipped in Naxos. In the beginning, Demeter and Persephone were worshipped in the open air.

However, around 530 BC, a splendid marble temple was built in the heart of the fertile Sangri Valley, in close proximity to the modern-day village of Sangri. The temple was discovered by archaeologists in 1960 . Visiting the Temple of Demeter and the small on-site museum is one of the best things to do in Naxos.

9. Try Arseniko Cheese

Agriculture and farming lie at the core of the local economy of Naxos. The island produces exquisite cheese, among other products. The most famous cheese is arseniko , a PDO cheese that’s produced only in Naxos. Arseniko is the Greek word for male. This type of cheese got this name because of its harsh texture and intense taste and flavour.

Naxos also produces thiliko cheese. You guessed it right. Thiliko is the Greek word for female. This cheese is more often called anthotiro and it’s soft and light with a delicate taste. Hence, female.

Sexist references aside, both cheese types are delicious. Another cheese you should try is the PDO graviera of Naxos . Graviera is the Greek word for gruyere cheese and it’s produced all over Greece. However, Naxos graviera is among the best in the country.

10. Don’t Stop There, Eat All The Food in Naxos

Now that we’ve got your attention, let’s stay on the subject of Naxos food. The island boasts some of the best food in Greece, always prepared with local fresh produce and served in huge portions. Here are some of the top things you must eat in Naxos.

First of all, Naxos produces the best potatoes in Greece . Fried potatoes should be part of every meal you enjoy in Naxos. It’s also wise to try any other potato-based dishes on the menu, such as fried potato balls or oven-baked potatoes.

Another delicious dish to try in Naxos is hortopita or sefoukloti , a savoury pie with greens and herbs. Of course, in Naxos, you can also try all the typical vegetarian dishes of Greek cuisine , such as briam, gemista and fava.

Food tastes better when you sprinkle it with a pinch of a sense of accomplishment. Join a cooking class with dinner at a locals’ home in one of the prettiest villages in Naxos.

11. Drink Citron Liqueur

The signature alcoholic drink of Naxos, citron liqueur is produced by the leaves of the citron tree . It comes in three colours. The yellow version is the driest and strongest. The green is the sweetest and the white (transparent) is the lightest with the most balanced taste.

You can try citron liqueur or citron-based cocktails at many bars in Naxos, while a bottle of citron liqueur is probably the best gift you can bring back home as a souvenir.

12. Stroll Around Chalki Village

It’s hard to believe there are so many fantastic things to see and do in Chalki considering it’s a tiny village tucked away in the heart of Naxos. However, due to its location, Chalki has always been a major administrative centre. The village’s architecture testifies to its past grandeur and wealth. Chalki is home to marvellous neoclassical mansions, quaint alleys and picturesque squares.

While strolling around Chalki, you can see the 9th-century Church of Panagia Protothroni and the 17th-century Barozzi-Gratsia Tower . Moreover, you can visit Vallindras Distillery , one of the island’s oldest citron liqueur distilleries, established in 1896 and housed in an 1870 building in the heart of the village.

Also, you must sit at Kafeneio Galani for a piece of the most mouthwatering galaktoboureko , second only to the one we tried in Kalamata perhaps.

One of our favourite things to do in Chalki is to walk along the circular hiking path 4 that starts and ends in the village. During this walk, you can admire gorgeous Byzantine churches scattered across a lush green area. If you don’t feel like walking the entire length of the path, you can just enjoy the short walk to the 11th-century church of Agios Georgios Diasoritis and back.

13. Savour The Magic of Apeiranthos Village

As already mentioned, the island’s mountain villages are among the best things to see in Naxos. The most famous village is Apeiranthos – also spelt Apiranthos, Aperathos or Aperathou. Apeiranthos is the second-largest village in Naxos, built in the 10th century by Cretans. If you’re familiar with the distinct dialect of Crete Island, you’ll find that the local dialect in Apeiranthos sounds a lot like it.

Often called The Marble Village , Apeiranthos feels like an open-air museum with its marble mansions, streets and squares. Moreover, Apeiranthos is famous throughout Greece for being the birthplace of Manolis Glezos , a WW2 hero of the Greek Resistance, known for taking down the Nazi flag from the Acropolis in 1941.

Even though Apeiranthos is a small village, it’s home to six museums, which is quite impressive. These are the Archaeological Museum , the Folklore Museum , the Geological Museum , the Museum of Natural History , the Museum of Fine Arts and the Library of N.N. Glezos .

Probably the most striking thing to see in Apeiranthos is the Tower of Zevgolis which stands in all its grandeur at the entrance of the village. You can admire the tower from the outside alone, as it’s privately owned and not open to the public.

14. Feel The Laid-Back Vibes of Koronos Village

One of the lesser-known mountain villages in Naxos is Koronos . Contrary to the glorious Apeiranthos with its impeccable looks, Koronos has a rugged quality that renders it beyond words charming.

Koronos is one of the oldest settlements in Naxos, built on the slopes of a dramatic ravine. This whitewashed dream of a village used to be the capital of the mountainous region of Naxos. It’s divided into seven neighbourhoods, each of which has its own square and old water fountain. The village’s main square is called The Platsa .

Keep in mind that walking around the village involves going up and down several flights of stairs and uphill alleys.

15. Try To Resist The Charm of Moutsouna

One of our favourite places in Naxos, Moutsouna is located on the island’s east coast. It’s a small seaside village with a large history, related to the island’s abundance of emery, yet another valuable raw material produced in Naxos alongside marble.

Moutsouna is home to the island’s only natural port. From there, the emery was shipped from Naxos to the world when the island’s emery mining activity was at its peak until the early 1980s. Nowadays, you can see the impressive old loading ladder while sitting in the shade at one of Moutsouna’s cafés and restaurants or swimming in the incredible waters of the village’s small beach.

16. Embark On a Scenic Road Trip

Driving in Naxos is a unique experience in its own right. With its landscape alternating from high mountains to fields of gold to long stretches of fine sand, a road trip in Naxos can never be boring.

There’s one particular route that’s indescribably scenic. Driving from Apollonas to Moutsouna , past the villages of Koronos and Apeiranthos, is the best way to appreciate the raw beauty of the northeastern part of Naxos.

The most fascinating thing to see along this route is the old aerial cableway . The latter was used to facilitate the transport of emery from the mines to the port of Moutsouna. The aerial cableway was constructed between 1926 and 1929 to replace the poor donkeys that were burdened with the task of carrying the emery up and down steep slopes under the scorching sun.

The old aerial cableway is considered an engineering wonder of its time and it changed the landscape of northeastern Naxos forever. The most impressive remnants of the old emery aerial cableway are located towards the end of the route, near Moutsouna.

17. Find The Most Picturesque Café in Naxos

Probably the most picturesque café in Naxos is situated in Mili , a small village in the mountains. The traditional café enjoys an idyllic location amid lush greenery and running streams. It’s open from 7 PM onwards and you can get there either by car or via a hiking path.

18. Go Hiking, One of The Best Activities in Naxos

An island graced with great natural beauty, Naxos is one of the best hiking destinations in Greece. However, online information about hiking in Naxos is scarce while signposting of the hiking trails is inadequate compared to other Greek Islands, such as Andros . We do hope that this will change in the future and Naxos will become the hiking-friendly destination it deserves to be.

There are many hiking trails in Naxos, all of which boast magnificent scenery. Some trails can get you to major attractions in Naxos, thus combining hiking with sightseeing.

For example, hiking trail number 6 takes you to amazing points of interest in the lush Melanes Valley, such as the two Kouros statues of Flerio, the medieval Fragopoulos Tower in Kourounochori Village and the remnants of the island’s ancient aqueduct. Another interesting route is hiking trail number 1 from Apeiranthos to Moutsouna, past the old emery mines.

19. Drink Water At Aries Spring Before Climbing The Highest Mountain in The Cyclades

Just two kilometres outside of Filoti Village , you can visit the scenic Aries Spring . Situated in a dreamy setting, under the shade of a century-old plane tree, Aries Spring is where you can refill your thermal bottle with freshwater that’s perfectly safe to drink, as it comes straight from the surrounding mountains.

Aries Spring is worth a visit in its own right. That said, it’s also near the starting point of a fascinating hiking trail that leads to Zas Cave and the summit of Mount Zas.

Zas is another name for Zeus, the ancient king of gods. Legend has it that Zeus was raised in a cave in the mountains of Naxos. In his honour, the cave became an important sanctuary where Zeus was worshipped and the locals named the highest mountain in the Cyclades after him.

We’d recommend hiking to the top of Mount Zas with an expert guide.

20. Step Inside an Abandoned Jesuit Monastery, One of The Most Special Things To Do in Naxos

The abandoned Jesuit Monastery in Kalamitsia is probably the most atmospheric and awe-inspiring attraction in Naxos. Built in the 17th century as a summer resort for Jesuit monks, it’s an intricate complex of buildings with sophisticated architectural elements that now stand in absolute yet enchanting neglect.

PRO TIPS: Tread carefully as you step inside the abandoned monastery, as time hasn’t been too kind with the building and there’s always the danger of falling parts. Moreover, the dirt road that leads to the Jesuit Monastery in Kalamitsia requires a bit of extra attention.

21. Stand in Awe Before a Gorgeous Fortified Monastery

One of the most beautiful things to see in Naxos is the Monastery of Fotodotis , the oldest fortified monastery in Naxos. Built in a location of rare natural beauty, the monastery looks like a fortress when you look at it from the outside. However, when you step inside, the peacefulness of the shady courtyard that leads to the church leaves no room for doubt.

The church itself is a sight to behold. Its most striking features are the colourful marble templon and the chapel of Saint Nicholas on the right side of the church. The upper floor is dominated by the church’s dome which is surrounded by the cells of the monks.

The tale of how the monastery was built in this location is an exciting one. Legend has it that a queen who had sailed from Istanbul was caught in a terrible storm in the Aegean Sea. She prayed for a sign of land and she made a vow to build a magnificent monastery at the very spot where she would see some light.

Finally, she saw light coming from this spot in the countryside of Naxos. She kept her promise and built this monastery to thank God for saving her life. She even named it Fotodotis which translates to Light Giver.

PRO TIP: Keep in mind that the dirt road that leads to the Monastery of Fotodotis is in a rather terrible condition. Therefore, be extra careful not to damage your (rental) car.

22. Spend Time in a Restored Medieval Tower

Naxos is dotted with countless imposing towers. This architectural style was developed in Naxos between the 13th and 18th centuries. Sometimes, a tower would be built in the heart of a village. Yet most towers are located in the stunning countryside of Naxos. Some of them are abandoned while others are restored to their former glory, now housing museums or private homes.

A perfect example of a restored tower is Bazeos Tower , a 17th-century masterpiece that dominates the surrounding landscape. Bazeos Tower used to be a monastery, the Holy Cross (Timios Stavros) Monastery . After the last remaining monks abandoned it in the early 19th century, Bazeos Tower hosted several families of potters.

Nowadays, you can visit the tower for a small fee to see what the interior of a Naxian tower looks like. In the summer months, Bazeos Tower hosts the renowned Naxos Festival , one of the greatest cultural events on the island.

23. Catch Splendid Views From an Abandoned Medieval Tower

Probably the most eye-catching of all abandoned towers in Naxos is the windswept Agia Tower . It’s worth visiting for its splendid architecture but also for its unique position that boasts unobstructed views of the Aegean Sea.

It’s easy to walk to the tower from the main road via a few stone steps. The tower was largely destroyed by a fire in 1992 . Yet you can still sense how grand it must have looked like in its heyday.

24. Check Out Chimaros Tower

Unlike the other towers in Naxos that date back to the Middle Ages and were mostly used as the residences and holiday homes of Venetian lords, Chimaros Tower is a masterpiece of ancient defensive architecture .

Built in the late 4th century BC and standing at a height of 15 metres, Chimaros Tower was initially 20 metres tall. Its exact function remains a mystery to this day. You can’t enter Chimaros Tower. You can simply admire it from the outside.

25. Walk Inside Panagia Drossiani, One of The Oldest Churches in Naxos

Dating back to the 6th century and home to some of the oldest frescoes in the Balkans , the Church of Panagia Drossiani is one of the prettiest attractions in Naxos. The church features a spectacular interior and a quaint courtyard.

Outside the church, local ladies sell handmade table linen and other loom-woven items. Don’t hesitate to buy something from them as a souvenir. In doing so, you help preserve a local craft.

26. Discover The Prettiest Churches in The Cyclades

Countless churches are dotting the landscape of Naxos. Whether in the villages or perched on lonely slopes and hilltops, a quest to discover the prettiest churches in Naxos can give a whole new meaning to your trip to Naxos .

27. Explore The Wild South

Southern Naxos is the wildest part of the island, known for its raw beauty and otherworldly scenery. Driving is one of the best ways to explore the south of Naxos. Whether it’s from Filoti to the peaceful Kalandos Beach or from Moutsouna to the exotic Panormos (Panermos) Beach , driving in Southern Naxos allows you to enjoy some of the most scenic routes on the island.

Alternatively, you can savour the magic of Southern Naxos with the bonus of exploring the jaw-dropping Rina Cave – that’s only accessible by boat – during a half-day cruise that will make your Naxos holidays all the more memorable. For the optimal experience, make sure you pick a windless day for your boat tour. Also, if you get seasick, always keep your motion sickness meds handy.

28. Chase The Best Sunsets in Naxos

Early on this list of what to do in Naxos, we mentioned that Portara is the ultimate sunset spot in Naxos . However, it’s not the only one. We’re here to let you in on our favourite locations from where to watch an equally – if not more – amazing sunset.

A former secret yet now popular location is Rotonda , a bar restaurant near Apeiranthos Village that enjoys unobstructed views for as far as the eye can see. You need to make a reservation to eat or drink there. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the stunning sunset from the adjacent parking lot.

Back to Naxos Town, other fantastic sunset spots include Agios Georgios Beach and Grotta Beach . The latter is one of our favourite sunset spots in Naxos because it offers a unique vantage point of the sun setting behind Portara.

Yet if there’s one sunset spot we absolutely love is the sandy Laguna Beach with the adjacent Manto Islet , a favourite spot of ours for a relaxing stroll. Although you don’t see the sun set from this location, the spectacle of Chora in the distance being painted in all hues of red, pink and gold is breathtaking.

29. Take a Day Trip To The Small Cyclades

During your Naxos holidays, it’s worth planning a day trip to the nearby islands of the Small Cyclades. If you ask us, you can easily spend the rest of your summer holidays on the Small Cyclades. That said, if you don’t have enough time to do so, you should at least plan day trips from Naxos to one or two of them. You can choose among Iraklia , Donoussa , Koufonisia and Schinoussa .

You can plan a day trip from Naxos to the Small Cyclades by the regular ferries that connect the islands. If the logistics sound too much of a hassle, a great option is to book a full-day trip to the Small Cyclades to enjoy the sea and the sun without worrying about catching the last ferry back to Naxos.

30. Tame the Wind

Or stand in awe watching others do so. Mikri Vigla Beach is water sports heaven. It attracts windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts from all over the world. Even if you’re not brave enough to tame the wind, admiring daredevils riding the huge waves in Mikri Vigla is a must if you’re wondering what to do in Naxos.

31. Snap a Selfie With The Windmills at Vivlos Village

What’s an island in the Cyclades without its windmills? If you’re on a quest to find the windmills of Naxos, head to Vivlos (or Tripodes) , one of the largest and most densely populated villages in Naxos with whitewashed buildings and alleys, century-old churches and a quaint square in the shade of majestic eucalyptus trees.

32. Mingle With Locals in Filoti Village

Filoti is the largest village in Naxos. Built on the slopes of two hills at the foot of Mount Zas, Filoti features a lively square where locals and visitors alike hang out until late at night in the summer. Some of the best things to see in Filoti include the imposing Barozzi Tower and the gorgeous Church of Panagia Filotitissa which was built in 1710.

The village of Filoti is also where the greatest traditional feast (panigiri) of Naxos takes place on August 15th every year, with dancing and singing going on for three consecutive days.

33. Pay a Visit To The Olive Press Museum in Eggares

Α 15-minute drive from Naxos Town, in the nearby Eggares Village, the local Olive Press Museum awaits. The recently renovated olive press dates back to the 1800s. You can learn the secrets of traditional olive oil making during an enlightening guided tour of the small museum, followed by an olive oil tasting . After the tour, you can relax at the on-site café or drop by the museum shop to buy top-quality local products.

34. Experience The Calm Naxos Nightlife

The keyword here is calm . If you want to know more about the island’s wild nightlife, well, these girls can’t contribute much. Long gone are the days when we’d stay in bars and clubs until – or after – the sunrise. Except for Antiparos Island , where staying up late at the local disco is a must-do.

Naxos is the ideal island for all of you kindred spirits who want to enjoy a drink or two in a perfect setting without staying up too late. The best bars in Naxos for calm nightlife are hidden in the maze-like alleys of Chora.

One of our favourite bars in Naxos is Notos , a rooftop bar under the shade of the Castle of Naxos with a romantic decor, serving cocktails based on citron liqueur. Yet another is Naxos Café , a cosy bar with a local feel in a whitewashed alley in the Old Market that’s also open all day long for coffee, sweets etc.

35. Plan The Best Island-Hopping Adventure

Right in the heart of the Cyclades Islands, Naxos enjoys the ideal location from where to set out on an amazing island-hopping trip.

Apart from islands close to Naxos, such as Paros or the Small Cyclades, Naxos connects by ferry to the lesser-known islands of Amorgos , Milos, Folegandros and Sifnos , the super popular islands of Mykonos , Ios and Santorini and islands outside the Cyclades group, such as Astypalaia or even Crete.

Of course, which islands connect to Naxos depends on seasonality so make sure you check ferry schedules in advance .

If you’re travelling on a tight schedule, consider booking this full-day sailing cruise to Paros and other smaller islands from Naxos.

Travel Resources For Naxos Island

• Ready for your Greek holidays? Here’s our list of the best books set in Greece to keep your wanderlust going.
• Click here to buy your ferry tickets to Naxos.
• Find the best deals for your accommodation in Naxos.
• Find the best car rental in Naxos.
• Book the best activities with GetYourGuide or Viator in Naxos.
• Travel without a worry in the world. Click here to buy your travel insurance.
• Make your transactions in foreign currency  simple without visiting a bureau de change.  Order your Wise Card here!
• Grab your sunscreen and you’re good to go!

Now that you know what to do in Naxos, it’s time to start planning your trip to this island of wonders, a Greek Island that is sure to give you memories to cherish for life.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria IMAGES: Katerina

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40 Best Things To Do in Naxos, Greece

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Naxos, Greece features lush landscapes, mountain villages and a sublime coastline. The island has a rugged appeal that is in stark contrast to other nearby Greek islands – like Mykonos and Santorini. A favorite island destination for travelers seeking ‘authentic’ Greece, the top things to do in Naxos are exploring the mountainous countryside, soaking up the sun at the sandy beaches and indulging in the local cuisine.

Things To Do in Naxos, Greece FAQs

Before we get to our list of what to do in Naxos, Greece, we want to answer of a few of the most frequently asked questions.

Where is Naxos Island, Greece?

Before you can make your Naxos To Do list, it’s best to know where it is located! The Greek Island of Naxos is part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea. The island group sits southeast of the Greece mainland and north of Crete. Within the Cyclades, Naxos is located between Mykonos and Santorini. 

We discuss how to get to Naxos Island later in the article, under our Travel Tips section.

How To Pronounce Naxos?

The Greek language is complicated and can be difficult for many foreigners. That said, the pronunciation of Naxos is one of the easy ones! Naxos Island is pronounced Nak-Sos .

How Big is Naxos?

Naxos is the biggest island in the Cyclades – measuring 170 square miles. The main town is Chora (or Naxos City) and there are several mountain villages that dot the island.

The best things to do on Naxos are spread across the entire island. We discuss how to get around in Naxos later, in the Travel Tips for Naxos section.

What is Naxos Known For?

The Greek Island of Naxos is well known for many things, including ancient ruins, charming villages and a delectable cuisine. The long sandy beaches in Naxos have long attracted tourists to the island – and spending time at the beaches still ranks as one of the top Naxos, Greece things to do.

In the ancient mythology of Greece, Naxos Island is known as the childhood home of Zeus, the King of Gods. In fact, visiting the cave where he resided is one of the top things to see in Naxos – but you have to hike to get to it!

Do You Need a Car for Visiting Naxos?

While a vehicle is not necessary for Naxos sightseeing, independent travelers will likely want to rent a car. For our trip, we decided to get a car rental in Naxos – so we could explore at our own pace and make detours when we were inspired.

However, the top things to do in Naxos Island can be reached by public bus or on a guided tour. We will highlight the best tours in Naxos on our list.

We also share our thoughts on driving in Naxos – and the pros and cons of renting a car in Greece.

Are Naxos Things To Do Expensive?

Of all the Greek Islands, Naxos is one of the more affordable places to visit! Many of the Naxos attractions – like beaches and villages – are completely free to visit. Some sights in Naxos charge a fee to enter, but it is typically just a few euros.

Dining in Naxos is also incredibly affordable – and insanely delicious. Later, you will find an entire section of this article dedicated to eating and where to find the best food in Naxos, Greece!

Are There Things To Do on Naxos, Greece with Kids?

Of course! While our list of Things To Do Naxos is not designed specifically for family travel, we include many kid-friendly Naxos activities in our list.

Are There Non-Touristy Things To Do in Naxos, Greece?

Absolutely! In fact, while Naxos is a tourist destination, it still feels slightly off the beaten path (especially in comparison to the neighboring islands of Mykonos and Santorini).

In the peak summer season, some of the Naxos must-see sights will get crowded, but it is easy to find fun things to do in Naxos away from the crowds.

How Many Days in Naxos?

Determining how long to stay in Naxos, Greece is one of the biggest dilemmas that travelers face. In our opinion, travelers need at least 3 days in Naxos. Spending three days allows enough time to get to most of the Naxos top things to do.

However, we understand that some travelers will be limited to a single day, while others plan to stay for at least 5 days. Therefore, we share a sample Naxos Itinerary later in the article for 1 to 5 days in Naxos to help fellow travelers plan their time on the island.

Planning a Trip to Naxos, Greece

In addition to figuring out what to see and do on Naxos, travelers also need to determine how to get there, where to stay and what to pack. Don’t fret! In addition to listing the Best Things To Do on Naxos Island, we also share pertinent travel details that will help to make trip planning a breeze.

Visitors traveling to Greece from abroad will find our Guide to Planning a European Vacation helpful for general travel information. Furthermore, travelers visiting other Greek destinations can use our 2-Week Greece Itinerary for trip planning advice.

As you begin to make your travel plans for Naxos, staying organized is key. We recommend using a travel planner – like our Trip Planning Printables – to make sure you stay on top of all the details!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN NAXOS, GREECE

Now that we have covered the basics, it’s time to dive into our list of Best Things To Do Naxos, Greece.

To make the list as user-friendly as possible, we have segmented the attractions into categories: Things To Do in Chora Old Town, the Best Beaches of Naxos, Attractions around Naxos Island and Day Trips and Boat Trips from Naxos. As we already mentioned, we also share a robust list of the Best Food in Naxos.

Additionally, we feature a useful Map of Naxos that is marked with all of the sights and attractions on our list.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Naxos Travel Guide to plan your Greece Vacation!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN NAXOS CHORA

We are kicking off our list with the Best Things To Do Naxos Town. As the capital of the island – and the island’s hub of transportation – there are many things to do in Chora, Naxos and we are highlighting the best of the best!

#1 Explore Chora Naxos Town

Chora, the main town in Naxos, is a fabulous place to explore. Narrow, twisting lanes weave through neighborhoods and open onto small squares. Classic Cyclades white-cubed houses are stacked on the hill. Shops line the streets and cafes are tucked into quiet corners.

Like many Greek Islands, Naxos has a long, convoluted history – and remains of the past are found throughout the Old Town. We think it is best to wander and get a little lost – just to see what you might find!

That said, travelers who don’t want to miss a single sight can create their own Self-Guided Free Walking Tour Naxos using our list of things to see and do in Naxos Old Town.

#2 See the Remains of the Venetian Castle of Naxos

Dating to the year 1207, the Venetian Castle – or the Kastro – is a must-see Naxos sight. Built atop the hill in the center of town by Venetian Marco Sanudos, the Castle of Chora was not only used to fortify the city, but was also the center of government, education and religion.

Acting as more of a fortress than a castle, the medieval stronghold originally had 12 defensive towers and three gates. Within the fortifications, there were schools, churches, homes and offices – and many of these buildings are preserved to this day; in fact, some of the residences are still inhabited.

Only one tower still stands – called the Tower of Krispi or the Glezos Tower – and it houses the Byzantine Museum. It is one of the historical attractions in Naxos, but it was closed for renovations during our visit.

The Kastro is certainly one of the most interesting places to visit in Naxos, but there are only a few signs with information. Travelers interested in learning more about the history of the castle can join a local tour guide on a Naxos Castle Tour. Learn more here!

#3 Step Inside the Catholic Cathedral of Naxos

Officially called the Catholic Cathedral of the Presentation of the Lord, the Naxos Cathedral is located within the Kastro walls. Visiting the all-white church with its ornate bell tower and dome is one of the best things to do in Naxos Town.

The medieval church has a long history, but there have been few alterations since the 17th century. If the church is open, go inside to see the detailed Baroque altar, golden icons and carved family crests in the marble floor.

#4 Stand in Awe of the Zoodochos Pigi Holy Orthodox Church

Built in the 1870s, the Zoodochos PIgi Church is the Naxos Orthodox Cathedral. The church was built using stones from previous temples – and it is believed that the pillars came from the sacred island of Delos.

It is worth stepping inside – especially if you have yet to visit a Greek Orthodox church. That said, even if the church is closed, it is still one of the things to see in Naxos Town. The white church sits on a spacious square and boasts a façade of arches, along with a 4-bell tower.

While on the square, peer down into the Mitropolis On Site Museum. The excavated archaeological site shows unearthed buildings and tombs and ranks as one of the intriguing ancient Naxos things to see.

#5 Visit the Archaeological Museum in Naxos

Learning about the ancient past is one of the interesting Naxos Town things to do – and the Naxos Archaeological Museum offers a quick history lesson.

The museum exhibits a small collection of historic artifacts – including Cycladic carved figurines, sculptures and local ceramics. While not necessarily one of the Must Do Naxos attractions, it is quite interesting (especially for Greek history buffs). 

#6 Stroll down Old Market Street

The Naxos Old Market Street is one of the most atmospheric places to go in town. The slender passageway is lined with boutique shops, jewelry stores and tourist trinkets. For shoppers searching for the perfect souvenir, there are quite a few hidden gems in the Old Market district.

Looking for Naxos things to do and see at night? The Old Market Street is particularly beautiful after dark, plus there are several fun cafes, bars and restaurants in the area!

#7 Walk along the Port Promenade

Walking along the wide, pedestrian-only Port Promenade is one of the top things to do in Naxos City. The path is lined with restaurants, where patrons can dine on fresh seafood right on the water’s edge.

As you amble along the Port of Naxos Promenade, don’t miss the islet in the harbor that houses the Church of Panagia Myrtidiotisa. The small island is occupied by the whitewashed chapel, which is a Naxos landmark, and it is only accessible by boat.

#8 Get a Taste of Naxos Cheese

Here’s a fun fact about Naxos: The island is one of the leading cheese producers in Greece! Thus, it’s not surprising that sampling the island’s special cheeses makes our list of Best Things To Do Naxos.

Naxos Graviera (made with cow, sheep and goat milk), Kefalotyri (from 100% sheep milk) and Mitzithra (a soft cow milk cheese) are three of the best Naxos cheeses to try. Restaurants around the island serve dishes made with these (and other) island cheese products.

That said, turophiles (that is, cheese connoisseurs) should stop by Naxos Cheese Koufopoulos. The cheese shop sells local dairy products – and many other locally sourced food items. Want an in-depth introduction to the cheese from Naxos, Greece? Join their 1-hour cheese tasting experience.

Kiriakos Tziblakis on Sokratous Papavasiliou Street is another shop that sells cheeses from Naxos – along with a slew of other traditional Naxos products, like spices, herbs, dried fruits and olive oils.

#9 Shop for Hand-Crafted Greek Sandals

Greek leather sandals have been in fashion for centuries – and while there are many places visitors can purchase them, Pagonis is one of the best Naxos places to visit for the handmade product.

Since 1940, Pagonis Greek Sandals has been creating Greek leather sandals. The family business opened their workshop and storefront in Naxos in 1982 – and the tradition continues today.

Visitors not in the market for a new pair of sandals might still want to pop by the Pagonis Greek Sandals Shop – as they make other leather products, too, like handbags and belts.

#10 Watch Sunset at Temple of Apollo Portara

Without a doubt, one of the cool things to do in Naxos, Greece is to watch the sunset at the Temple of Apollo.

Built in the year 530 BC, but never finished, the Apollo Temple in Naxos sits near the entrance of the Naxos Harbor on an island (connected to the mainland by a walkway). While fragments of the temple litter the ground, the Portara Gate – a symbol of the City of Naxos – still stands all on its own.

A popular Naxos photo is to capture the sun sinking into the sea through the Portara Gate – but watching the sunset from the temple’s island is spectacular from any angle.

That said, there are several fun places to watch a Naxos sunset in the Old Town. Visitors can take in the view with a cocktail in hand at Swing Bar, gaze across the rooftops at the Naxos Castle or watch the setting sun from the abandoned Altes Restaurant.

BEST BEACHES IN NAXOS

When creating your Naxos: What To Do List, visiting a few of the island’s beaches is a must! We spent a full day discovering the beaches on Naxos. We walked along the shoreline, dipped our toes into the turquoise water, dined on a picnic lunch with sea views and savored the dazzling landscapes.

We are highlighting a few of the best beaches in Naxos that you might want to include in your trip itinerary. 

#11 Sink your Feet into the Sand at Plaka Beach

Perhaps the most stunning stretch of white sand on Naxos Island, Plaka Beach is regularly touted as the Best Beach in Naxos. The coast is lined with beach bars – and sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented in the summer season.

Visitors without a car can catch a bus to Plaka Beach Naxos. Find schedules and buy tickets at the Naxos Bus Office (KTEL of Naxos), which is located near the harbor at the end of the ferry pier.

#12 Find a Secluded Spot at Hawaii Naxos Beach

Spending a day at Hawaii Beach is one of the Naxos best things to do. Without services or beach beds, it is one of the best places along the shoreline for complete solitude.

The striking crescent-shaped, sandy beach is isolated at the base of a red rock cliff. With deep crevices in the towering rock, there are plenty of places for privacy at this Naxos beach. Unsurprisingly, naturists often use Hawaii Beach as a place to swim and sunbathe sans swimsuit.

Hawaii Beach is located within the Aliko Nature Reserve – which features a cedar forest (more like shrubs), sand dunes and a maze of trails.

Just north of Hawaii Beach is Kedros Beach – another rugged and remote beach in Naxos without services. The two beaches are separated by a small rocky outcrop, and it is relatively easy to get from one to the other.

#13 Ponder the Street Art Murals at Mikrolimano Beach

The shallow cove at Mirkolimano Beach (or Alyko Beach) is a favorite for families – and attracts tourists and locals alike for swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling.

However, the real reason many travelers make their way to Mirkolimano Beach is to see the street art murals at the abandoned hotel. The concrete structure was built in the 1960s with grand plans for a posh beach resort, but it was never finished. Artists have since used the bare walls as a canvas for their expressive artworks – and it’s a fascinating place to visit in Naxos, Greece!

#14 Swim in the Crystal-Clear Water at Agios Prokopios Naxos

The brilliantly blue water at Agios Prokopios Beach is a must see in Naxos, Greece. Even though the water tends to be chilly, the azure color lures in swimmers – and we encourage you to at least dip your toes in the sea at this spectacular beach.

Located near the Naxos airport, Agios Prokopios Beach is a fairly long beach. Visitors can opt to rent beach loungers under an umbrella for a fee (expect to pay 20 euros or more) or simply spread out their towel on the pebbly sand.

#15 Relax on a Sun Chair at Agia Anna Naxos Beach

The flat, sandy Agia Anna Beach is the perfect place to kick back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Grab a beach chair or find your own place in the sand to stretch out – the beach attracts all types of visitors: young, old, families, friends and couples.

Feeling adventurous? Take the boardwalk to the south and climb up the rocky hill to the small St. Nikolaos Naxos Chapel. One of the beautiful places to see in Naxos, it’s a great sunset spot and the church is often used for weddings. (As you navigate your way around the headland, just be aware that the beach directly south is a nudist beach.)

#16 Ease into the Water at Agios Georgios Beach

The closest beach to Naxos Old Town, Agios Georgios Beach is just a 15-minute walk and is a popular Naxos tourist attraction and beach-lover destination.

The water is shallow and the cove is usually protected from wind – both of which make it one of the best family-friendly beaches in Naxos, Greece. Sun beds are available, but there’s plenty of space along the shoreline, too.

Agios Georgios Beach is also popular with active travelers – as it is an ideal spot for windsurfing, paddleboarding and even surfing.

#17 Stroll the Sandy Shore at Mikri Vigla Beach

Typically not as crowded as other Naxos beaches, Mikri Vigla Beach has small pebbly sand, a long shoreline and a rocky promontory that is fun to clamber around on. The secluded setting has just a few companies offering sunbeds and a single traditional taverna on the water.

We think it is the best beach in Naxos for travelers who like nature and walking.

WHAT TO DO NAXOS ISLAND

As the biggest of the Cyclades Islands, there is much to see beyond Old Town Naxos and beaches. With that in mind, we are sharing some of the other best things to do in Naxos Island.

#18 Discover Naxos on a Road Trip

One of the top Naxos Island things to do is to set off on a journey to visit ancient sites, wander through whitewashed villages and feast on local fare.

We spent a full day driving around the island, visiting many of the sites listed below. Visitors can create a self-drive route to the best towns in Naxos – like Chalkio, Filoti and Apeiranthos – or use this Naxos Map for a sample driving route. 

Travelers without a car can still discover some of the best places on Naxos Island. Buses depart from Naxos Town to many of the villages. Alternatively, there is an organized Naxos Island Highlights tour that is an excellent value. Get the details!

#19 Taste Greek Products at Eggares Olive Oil Museum

One of the interesting things to do Naxos Island is to learn about olive oil – and the best place to get an introduction to the production of olive oil is at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum.

Housed in a small building next to an old church, the museum is somewhat of a hidden gem in Naxos. The small Eggares Museum displays historic equipment and a guide explains the process on a short and informative tour. Afterwards, visitors are welcome to taste an array of samples – from oil infused with lime to an olive marmalade to tasty olive spreads.

There is no charge for the tour and tastings – it’s one of the best free things to do in Naxos!

Families traveling in Naxos can upgrade their experience to a paid tour that is aimed at family fun. In addition to the tour and tasting, participants plant seeds, play traditional games and create crafts. Find out more!

#20 Size up the Tower of Agia

While not a must-see Naxos Island attraction, the tower of Agia is difficult to miss for travelers taking a road trip. Situated right along the main road on the northern tip of the island, the Agia Tower Naxos is the ruins of an old, abandoned olive mill.

Travelers can walk the short dirt trail and enter the tower (at their own risk) to see old olive oil presses – however, we thought it was more beautiful from afar.

#21 See a Famous Kouros Statue in Apollonas

Seeking out the Apollonas Kouros Statue is one of the top things to do on Naxos Island. Full of mystery and intrigue, the Naxian marble statue is believed to have been sculpted in the 7th century BC – and it sits, unfinished, in the ancient quarry from which it was carved.

The Kouros of Apollonas measures 35-feet-long and weighs 80 tons. Some of the features have been clearly chiseled – like the feet, head and beard – while the arms are just rough blocks.

There are some theories that it is not a kouros (a statue of young, naked male), but rather a sculpture of Dionysus, a Greek god.

#22 Feast at a Tavern in Koronos

Situated on a steep mountain slope, Koronos Village is an enchanting place to visit. The traditional houses sit dramatically on the hillside among lush greenery and terraced vineyards. Long staircases and narrow pedestrian lanes constitute streets and local tavernas dish out homecooked specialties.

In fact, eating lunch at Matina and Stavros Tavern, which pleasantly spills out into the cobblestoned square, is one of the best things to do on Naxos Island. The menu varies by day, but all of Matina’s cooking gets rave reviews

We devoured tender chicken in a divine lemon sauce, goat in an exceptional wine sauce and wild rabbit in tomato sauce – a Naxos specialty.

#23 Wander in Wonder at Apeiranthos

An atmospheric Naxos mountain town, Apeiranthos Village is one of the best things to see in Naxos, Greece. The village abides by tradition and feels distinctly different from other Naxos Island towns. The local inhabitants (just over 1,000 of them) speak their own dialect and the architecture has remained relatively untouched since Venetian times.

Nestled at the foot of Fanari Mountain and surrounded by hilly terrain, Apeiranthos offers incredible vantage points. Wandering through the village on the marble paved lanes is a top activity. Other Apeiranthos things to do are to visit one of the many museums and churches.

#24 Feel the Tradition in Filoti

A quiet village full of charm, Filoti is found at the base of Mount Zas. Although Filoti has a population of 1,800 residents, it feels very remote and rural.

Filoti may only have a handful of attractions, yet it remains one of the top things to see in Naxos, Greece. We think it is best to approach the town as an experience, rather than a place to check off.

All that said, there are a few points of interest that travelers might want to seek out while wandering the labyrinth of lanes. The 18th century Panagia Filotitissa Holy Mary of Filoti Church is a beautiful church with three separate bell towers and a clock tower. Next to the church is a tree-shaded courtyard – and facing the church is a fabulous little Folklore Museum.

Other things to see are the Tower of Barozzi that has been standing since the year 1650 and the pretty main square, Gefira, that is shaded by a 100-year-old plane tree.

#25 Sample the Local Products in Chalkio, Naxos

Characterized by flower-lined lanes and olive tree groves, Chalkio (also Halki or Halkio, Naxos) has long attracted Naxos tourists. Spending a half day in Halki is regularly touted as one of the top things to do in Naxos Island.

There are quite a few things to do in Halki, Naxos – and we are sharing a sample itinerary of how you can spend your time in the town.

Chalkio, Naxos Things To Do

Start your visit at the local hangout, Tradizionale Caffe Ristorante Galanis, for coffee or lunch – and definitely order the galaktoboureko (a Greek phyllo and custard dessert). Then, set off to explore Chalkio on foot. Pop into the shops selling local products – like the Fish and Olive Gallery (for handmade ceramics) and Naxia Gi (for spices, herbs, honey and jam).

Next, follow the path through a grove of olive trees to the 11th century Church of Saint George Diasoritis. If time allows, explore the other trails that lead to dusty villages and old stone Byzantine churches.

Back in Chalkio, go to the Vallindras Kitron Distillery, which was established in the village in 1896. First tour the small exhibits that shed light on the traditional distilling methods, then sample the product!

#26 Marvel at the Ancient Holy Paleochristian Church of Panagia Drosiani

An ancient 6th century stone church, the Panagia Drosiani Church is the oldest Christian church on Naxos. The extraordinary Byzantine church is one of the best places to visit in Naxos – not just for the history, but for it’s beauty, as well.

Original frescoes still decorate the walls and local women sell handmade products in the courtyard.

#27 Go Hiking on Naxos, Greece

Hiking in Naxos, Greece is a fun way to explore the natural landscapes. A network of trails connects villages – and there are routes that climb up Mount Zas, too.  

One of the top things to do in Naxos, Greece is to hike to the top of Mount Zas, which ranks as the tallest mountain in the Cyclades, standing at 3,290 feet. In Greek mythology, the mountain marks the place where Zeus was raised – and hikers can visit the cave he called his home.

Hiking Mount Zas Naxos is moderately challenging, but trekkers who make it to the summit are rewarded with 360-degree views that stretch across the Aegean Sea.

Hikers can explore on their own or join a guide who knows the best routes and has local knowledge. There are guided treks through the villages , as well as guide-led hikes to the Mt. Zas summit.

#28 Learn about the Kouros at Melanes and Flerio

Travelers seeking historic things to do at Naxos will not want to miss the Flerio Melanes Kouros archaeological site. Near an ancient quarry, visitors can see two Kouros statues that lie where they were deserted thousands of years ago.

Made of Naxos marble, the statues date to the 5th century BC. Much smaller than the Apollonas Kouros and closer to a finished product, it is believed that these statues likely broke during transport and were simply discarded. 

#29 Visit the Ruins of the Temple of Demeter

Dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, the white marble temple sits on a hillside, well positioned to overlook the countryside and fields of crops below.

The temple, which was structured as a square and featured Ionic columns, dates to the 6th century BC – and has been partially reconstructed. The small museum offers details about the history of the site.

There is a small fee to enter the site and visitors should bring along water – as there is a bit of a hike to reach the ruins and no shade or services.

NAXOS BOAT TOURS 

During the hot summer season, a boat tour is a must-do in Naxos, Greece! There are quite a few different Naxos boat tours – all with varying offerings in a range of prices. We are highlighting a few of the top-rated boat trips that you might want to add to your Naxos itinerary.

#30 Sail Away on a Catamaran Cruise Boat Tour Naxos

Embarking on a full day boat trip is one of the best things to do in Naxos Greek Islands! On this highly-rated catamaran cruise, passengers get to swim, snorkel and soak in the sunshine on an epic adventure along the coastline.

This tour features three gorgeous swim stops, an on-board traditional Greek lunch and beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic). Fellow travelers give rave reviews regarding the crew and cleanliness of the boat. Reserve your spot!

#31 Take the Helm of a Luxury Yacht

Spend a day at sea on a luxury yacht as you sail around the Island of Naxos. The winds will dictate your direction – and there are plenty of coves to tuck into for a swim or snorkel.

Participants can join the captain for an informal sailing lesson – and may even have the chance to take the wheel. Learn more here!

MORE NAXOS ACTIVITIES

Naxos offers plenty of opportunities for memorable experiences. We are sharing a few of the top picks for the best activities on Naxos Island, Greece.

#32 Enjoy Horse Riding in Naxos

One of the unique things to do on Naxos Island is to go horseback riding on the beach. While enjoying a ride on the beach, the knowledgeable guides share stories about life on Naxos.

#33 Sip and Swirl at Santa Anna Winery

Definitely one of the fun activities in Naxos Island, tastings at Santa Anna Winery offer an introduction to the wine-making process. Participants tour the beautiful property and vineyard with the owner, while learning about the history and tradition of Santa Anna wines. 

During the tasting – which is highlighted by home-grown produce and snacks – participants are offered a full range of the winery’s products. Book it here!

#34 Experience Marine Life while Scuba Diving Naxos

Visitors interested in learning the basics of scuba diving in Naxos can join a trained guide for an unforgettable underwater adventure. After learning how to use the equipment, participants go into the sea for a 45-minute dive along the reef. Get the details!

#35 Partake in a Naxos Cooking Class

Greek cooking classes are an exceptional way to learn about the flavors of the traditional cuisine. During this cooking class on Naxos Island, you travel to a rural village and learn how to make a Greek feast – from farm to table! Sign up here!

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM NAXOS

We have shared our tips on the Top Things to Do Naxos, but there are day trips to consider, as well. These Naxos excursions get rave reviews from fellow travelers!

#36 Embark on a Mykonos Day Trip

World-famous Mykonos Island is a top Greece destination – and visitors can plan an easy day trip to Mykonos from Naxos Island. With a day in Mykonos, visitors can see the iconic windmills, shop on Matoyianni Street and sip a cocktail in Little Venice.

When getting from Mykonos to Naxos by boat, you can opt to take the fast ferry or join a tour – like this one! – that provides round-trip transport and 6 hours of free time on the island.

#37 Double Down on a Mykonos and Delos Full Day Trip

Travelers who want to pack as much sightseeing into one day as possible can sail from Naxos to two of the most fascinating places to see in the Aegean Sea: Mykonos and Delos.

First, sail to Delos, where you have 3 hours to discover the revered ancient island, visit the ruins and see artifacts in the museum. The voyage continues to cosmopolitan Mykonos, where you can spend your 3 hours freely climbing up to see the windmills and shopping in the Matoyianni district. Find out more!

#38 Set Off on a Day Trip to Santorini from Naxos

Santorini is another one of the islands close to Naxos that is well worth a visit! On an organized tour, visitors can see the best of Santorini in a relatively short amount of time.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide and bus transport around Santorini – including stops in stunning Oia and bustling Fira. Book the tour!

#39 Spend a Day in Koufonissi Islands via Boat

One of the lesser-known islands near Naxos, Koufonissi sits off the southeastern tip of Naxos and offers travelers a range of entertainment. Visitors can take a full day boat trip to explore on bikes, relax at the beach or hop over to an uninhabited island. Reserve your spot!

Known for fertile lands and abundant water, the Greek Island of Naxos has long produced exceptionally delicious food. In fact, this would not be a complete Best of Naxos Guide unless we talked about the epic Naxos food scene!

#40 Eat the Best Food on Naxos

Naxos is well-known for its local cuisine – and has an array of specialties! We are recommending a few of the best things to eat in Naxos on your trip. 

After our top tips on the best food in Naxos, we also share our advice for the best places to eat in Naxos.

That said, travelers short on time who want to get a taste of the best food Naxos has to offer should join a guided Naxos Food Tour. On this fun tour , the guide shares the history of the island and its cuisine – and no one leaves hungry!

Naxian Potatoes

Superb spuds in terms of quality and taste, Naxos Potatoes have been a thriving crop on the island since the 1800s. In 1953, however, the village of Glinados was selected as the distinguished center of cultivation and production…and those potatoes are labeled as a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) product.

Potatoes from Naxos appear in various forms on menus around Greece – but we think they taste best fried.

Naxian Cheese

It might be surprising to learn, but there is a good reason why Naxos is known for both potatoes and cheese. Apparently, cow dung does wonders for growing potatoes…so they went ahead and learned how to make really good cheese from cow milk, too. (Naturally, beef is often found as a main ingredient in Naxos dishes, as well).

Some of the Naxos cheese varieties to try are: Xinotiro, Kefalotyri, Xinomizithira, Graviera, Mizithra, Arseniko and Gruyere.

Cheese is used in many local Naxos dishes and salads – and it can also be ordered all by itself. We love Naxian Graviera Saganaki – a fried cheese drizzled with honey.

Naxos Seafood

Naxos is also known for seafood, and visitors have ample opportunities to order a fresh catch during their trip. Grilled octopus, shrimp, calamari and gouna (sun-dried, grilled mackerel) are top Naxos seafood dishes.

A slow-cooked Naxos specialty, Pig Rosto (or Pork Rosto) is pork that is simmered in a sauce of wine, tomatoes, garlic and herbs until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Kalogeros is a flavorful Naxian dish that features eggplant (aubergine), beef and tomato. It is then baked in the oven and topped with Naxos cheeses – like graviera and xinomizithra – and paprika.

Patoudo is Naxos-style Lamb that is stuffed with savory spices, chard and fennel – and an absolute delight to the taste buds!

Meat in Sauce

While not unique to Naxos, slow-simmered meat features heavily in the local Naxian cuisine. Beef, pork, lamb and goat are slow-cooked in tomato, lemon and wine sauces. Cinnamon is commonly used in meat dishes, as well, which adds a subtle and unique flavor.

Zamboni is salt cured ham, similar to prosciutto, that is spiced with garlic, cinnamon and cloves. It is often served alongside Naxos cheeses.

Kitron Naxian Liqueur

We already recommended visiting the Kitron Distillery in Chalkio – but visitors who don’t make it to the small village can still get a taste of the local beverage that is made from the leaves of a citron tree.

The drink is made three ways: Green (more sweet, less alcohol), Clear (less sweet, more alcohol) and Yellow (little sugar, lots of alcohol).

A syrupy dessert cake made with walnuts and Kitron that is typically served with ice cream made of sheep’s milk.

Best Restaurants in Naxos Town

Now that you know what to eat, let’s talk about where to eat in Naxos Town. There are a hefty number of Naxos restaurants – but these were our favorites.

To Elliniko Restaurant

Often touted as the Best Restaurant in Naxos, To Elliniko is an inviting eatery with friendly service and a spacious patio. The menu features regional products and Naxos specialties at fair prices.

The Kleftiko Goat is the signature house dish, but we ordered the Greek salad with Naxos sour soft cheese, Naxos fried potatoes, Pork Rosto with potatoes and Moussaka. Delicious!

Doukato Restaurant Naxos Town

Tucked down an inconspicuous walkway and occupying the courtyard of an old church, Doukato offers a casual and quiet ambiance. This Naxos restaurant has earned a solid reputation for their grilled meats and seafood selection – but we indulged in their traditional Naxian baked meat dishes.

We started with the Fig and Pomegranate Salad topped with Graviera Cheese – and for our mains, we feasted on Kalogeros and Lamb in Wine Sauce. Simply perfection! 

Nostimon Hellas

At Nostimon Hellas, they excel at creative, modern Greek cuisine. With contemporary dishes, a flair of local flavor, exquisite presentation and friendly service, it could easily be your best dinner in Naxos Town.

For our meal, we ordered several dishes to share, including mushroom risotto with Naxos guyere, fresh Greek shrimp with a lemon olive oil dressing and the chef’s special stuffed chicken dish served with a Kitron liqueur sauce.  

More of the Best Places to Eat Naxos Town

We shared our top picks for the best restaurants on Naxos, but there were a few more places recommended to us that we simply did not have time to try! That said, we want to pass along the suggestions to you.

Café Ouzerie Barabbas: Best Seafood Naxos

A quirky little restaurant that is known for serving the best seafood in Naxos, Cafe Ouzerie Barabbas is a family-run tavern that is frequented by both tourists and locals.

Maro’s Taverna: Greek Favorites

Cozy and traditional, Maro’s is another family establishment that serves huge portions of Greek home-cooked food. The moussaka, gyros platter and rosto pork are top picks.

Lithos Restaurant: Hip and Chic

Located in a quaint alley in the Naxos Old Town, Lithos Restaurant creates a range of contemporary Greek dishes with a flavorful twist.

Regularly rated as one of the best bars in Naxos, Swing Bar not only has a list of creative cocktails, but they are served with a stunning, elevated sea view.

Map of Naxos Island, Greece

Use this link to Google Maps for an interactive version of our Naxos Map.

How Many Days to Stay in Naxos

Now that you know about all of the fun and fabulous Naxos Island things to do, you are probably wondering, How many days do you need in Naxos to see it all? Personally, we think that travelers should plan to visit Naxos for 3 days – at a minimum.

However, we know travelers plan Naxos vacations with various timeframes, so we are sharing a sample itinerary for Naxos showing what travelers can see and do on a 5 day trip.

1 Day in Naxos

On a day trip to Naxos – with a full 24 hours – travelers can actually cover quite a bit of ground.

We recommend starting with the Old Town sights, stopping by churches and shopping at the stores. In the afternoon, head for one of the beaches along the western coast (Plaka for fun in the sun, Mikri Vigla for chill vibes or all the way south to Hawaii Beach and the abandoned hotel). Be back in Naxos for sunset at the Portara and eat dinner in town.

2 Days in Naxos

Visitors planning a 2-Day Naxos Itinerary can see quite a bit of the island. Use our advice for Day 1 and then on Day 2, embark on a Mountain Village Tour.

If you are comfortable driving, rent a car and start driving north. Visit the Eggares Olive Oil Museum, stop in Apollonas to see the Kouros Statue, eat lunch in Koronos at Matina and Stavros Tavern. In the afternoon, tour the mountain villages of Apeiranthos, Filoti and Chalkio.

Alternatively, if you don’t rent a car, hop on a public bus or join an organized tour .

3 Perfect Days in Naxos

To plan a 3-Day Naxos Itinerary, use our above tips for visiting Naxos in 2 days. Then, on the third day, spend the morning shopping at the traditional food shops and pick up a few different things for a picnic lunch.

Mid-morning, lace up your hiking shoes and trek to the summit of Mount Zas (either on your own or with a guide ). In the afternoon, delve deeper into the gastronomy with an afternoon cooking class  or wine tasting . 

4 Days in Naxos

Creating a 4-Day Naxos Itinerary? Lucky you! Start with our suggestions for what to do in Naxos for 3 days – and on the last day set sail on a full-day cruise .

5 Days in Naxos

Visitors planning a 5-Day Naxos Travel Itinerary need not worry – there is still plenty to see and do! Following the advice for our 4-Day Naxos Trip, spend the final day discovering more Naxos sights – like the Melanes Kouros and Temple of Demeter…and then soak in the scenery on an afternoon horseback riding trip.

Alternatively, take a day trip to a nearby island – like Mykonos , Santorini or Koufonissi .

Naxos Travel Tips

Now that you know what to see and do on Naxos Island – and have an idea of how to plan your Naxos trip itinerary – we have a few more travel planning tips.

Best Time to Visit Naxos

Travelers planning a trip to Naxos often wonder, When is the best time to go to Naxos Island? It is a fair question. Most of the things to do on Naxos Island are outdoors – so travelers will want to go when the weather is best.

Summer is often thought to be the best season to visit Naxos – but there is a downside. First, it can be brutally hot (which, admittedly, can be good for swimming) – but it can also be very windy, especially in August. Additionally, crowds and prices are at their peak and it can be difficult to get into certain restaurants (reservations are a must!).

The autumn is considered the shoulder season and can be a great time to visit Naxos Island. There will be fewer crowds, better prices…and it is still usually warm enough for days on the beach and possibly swimming.

Winter, which stretches from November until March, is the off season – but not necessarily a terrible time to visit Naxos. While some restaurants will be closed and the weather can be unpredictable, the hotel prices are at their lowest and visitors can have a more local experience.

All that said, we think spring is when visitors should go to Naxos. Springtime typically has nice weather, decent prices and manageable crowds. It is ideal for exploring the island – both for trekking and discovering the archaeological sites – and it can be warm enough for beach days, too.

How To Get To Naxos, Greece

Figuring out how to travel to Naxos is one of the first steps in planning a trip. The best way to get to Naxos Island depends on where you’re coming from. For our Naxos vacation, we arrived by ferry (Santorini to Naxos) and departed on a flight (to Athens).

Getting to Naxos, Greece by Ferry Boat

Taking a ferry from Athens to Naxos is the most popular way to reach the island from mainland Greece. There are several companies that transport passengers (and cars) via ferry Athens to Naxos. The Athens to Naxos boats depart from the Athens Piraeus Port and dock at the Naxos Harbor in the town center.

Be aware that Naxos ferry schedules can get disrupted – especially by wind.

From Athens to Naxos by Ferry FAQs

If you are anything like us, you have a lot of questions regarding the ferries from Athens to Naxos!

How Long is the Athens to Naxos Ferry Ride?

The Athens to Naxos Fast Ferry can make the trip in about 3.5 hours. The slower (and often more affordable) boats can take up to 6 hours.

What is the Athens to Naxos Ferry Cost?

Prices range depending on what boat you take. The fast ferry to Naxos costs the most; it was about $75 USD when we visited Greece. The slower boats cost about $55 USD.

Do Ferries Connect Naxos with other Greek Islands?

Yes. The ferry boats can also be used for island hopping from Naxos. For example, there is a ferry from Santorini to Naxos and there is a regularly scheduled ferry from Mykonos to Naxos, too.

How Can I Book an Athens to Naxos Boat?

When researching ferries, we used Ferryhopper to find the schedules and prices – and you can book tickets directly through Ferryhopper , too. 

How To Go to Naxos by Plane

Hopping on one of the Athens to Naxos flights is often the quickest way to get there. The flights from Athens to Naxos depart from the Athens International Airport (ATH) and land at the Naxos Airport Apollon (JNX), which is just 2 miles south of Naxos Old Town.

Before booking flights to Naxos Island, be sure to read our tips for Finding the Best Flights – then start your search for cheap flights to Naxos on SkyScanner .

How To Get Around Naxos

The best places in Naxos to see are spread far and wide. While there is a decent network of buses in Naxos, getting a rental car can offer a lot more flexibility.

Renting a Car on Naxos Island

There are pros and cons of renting a car in Naxos. Obviously, driving around Naxos allows for the most freedom. You are on your own schedule and you can choose to make detours as you wish.

Although a car is not necessary for getting around in Naxos, buses do not go to all of the villages and sites that we feature on our list of things to do in Naxos, Greece.

On the other hand, driving in Naxos is not exactly easy. The streets in the Old Town are narrow and parking near your accommodation can be problematic. When in the Old Town, we recommend parking at the Municipal Parking Lot ( map ) that is free. 

Drivers should also be aware that gasoline is quite expensive on Naxos Island. Furthermore, buying a paper map is highly recommended – and having Wi-Fi is essential for finding your way. We use a WiFi hotspot for the most affordable data packages. Find out more about how Pocket WiFi works . 

Also, consider if you will need a car for your entire trip. It might save money and hassle to only rent a car in Naxos for the specific day(s) that you need it.

Either way, be sure to read our Top Tips for Cheap Car Rentals before making your booking!

Top Tip : Rather than a car, some travelers might be more comfortable getting a Naxos ATV rental – which can be used in town as well as the country roads.

Naxos Buses

Visitors can use the public bus in Naxos to get around to many of the top places to see.

Tickets are inexpensive (typically less than 3 euros per ride). The bus timetable in Naxos does change by season, so we recommend going to the Naxos bus station at the base of the ferry pier to confirm schedules and rates and to buy tickets in advance.

Find more information on the Naxos bus website .

Where To Stay in Naxos

The island has long attracted tourists, so there is no shortage of accommodation in Naxos. Accommodations range by type and price point – from Luxury hotels in Naxos, Greece to affordable apartments.

We didn’t find any hostels in Naxos Old Town, but there are inexpensive rooms to rent. Travelers on a budget might have luck finding an inexpensive room on Airbnb – but there are several affordable studios and apartments on Booking.com , too. 

Pro Tip: Read our Advice for Booking the Best Accommodations at the best prices.

Best Place to Stay in Naxos

Travelers often wonder what the best area is to stay in Naxos. In the Old Town? By the beach? In a mountain village? Personally, we think the Old Town is one of the best areas to stay in Naxos. It is well-connected to transport and there are ample dining options.

These are a few of the best places to stay in Naxos, Greece – hotels and apartments – that are in the heart of the Old Town.

Portara Seaside Luxury Suites

The Portara Seaside Hotel in Naxos is ideally situated right on the seafront on the north end of the Old Town. The sea view rooms with private hot tubs are the most coveted, but every room in the hotel is stylishly decorated and impeccably clean. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Burgos Barrio

Offering fantastic value for money, the Burgos Barrios Hotel is located in the town center near the Old Venetian Castle. Rooms are decorated with thoughtful touches and the staff is friendly and helpful. Check rates for your stay!

Travelers looking for a house to rent in Naxos for a family, group of friends or two couples should check to see if Eudaimonia is available. It is where we stayed for our trip to Naxos, Greece and we absolutely loved it! Not only is the space super clean, comfortable and spacious, but the host, Dimitris, is fabulous – he even provides a daily home-cooked breakfast. Check availability here!

What To Pack for Greece

Our final Naxos travel tips are all about packing hacks . We have a few specific tips for Naxos, but you can find all of our packing advice on our Packing Tips page. Need a checklist? Get your FREE Packing Checklist here !

The Right Shoes

It is likely that your list of To Do Naxos Activities ranges from lounging on the beach to exploring the twisting lanes of Chora to hiking Mt Zas – and you will need the right shoes for each activity.

Everyday sneakers – like my favorite shoes for trips – are good for getting around towns and hiking on trails. However, I always wear my flip flops to the beach!

Top Tips: Read all our advice and reviews for the Best Shoes for Travel . 

Travel Camera

The Naxos must see places on our list are undeniably beautiful. You will want to capture all that beauty – so go ahead and upgrade to a real travel camera .

We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens . It’s easy to use, takes high quality photos and is a very affordable DSLR. In fact, we think it is the best camera for budget travelers !

Sun Protection for Greece

The sun in Naxos is strong! Make sure you bring plenty of sunscreen , as it can be very expensive to buy it on the island. Travelers should also pack sun essentials – like a favorite pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed travel hat .

Zippered Day Bag

A good day pack is another necessity for your vacation to Greece. We use small backpacks when we travel – as they are comfortable while sightseeing, useful when trekking and great for the beach. Check out our reviews and tips for Finding the Best Day Pack for Travel . 

Greece Travel Documents

Of course, don’t forget to pack your necessary travel documents – like your passport, plane tickets and travel planner ! We recommend using a Travel Organizer so that you can easily find your most important documents when you arrive in Greece.

Trip Insurance for Greece

No matter how well you plan your vacation to Greece, luggage can get lost , someone could get sick …and travel insurance may help. If you haven’t already insured your trip, check the affordable rates and robust coverage at World Nomads .

We Want To Know: What would you add to our list of Naxos Island, Greece Things To Do? Give us your best advice in the comments!

Start planning your trip to Greece ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

More Top Greece Destinations

Many travelers who visit Naxos also make plans to visit other top Greek travel destinations. Use our travel guides for Greece to plan your perfect trip! 

• The Best 2-Week Greece Itinerary
• How To Spend 3 Days in Athens
• Things To Do in Chania, Crete
• What To See in Santorini in 3 Days
• How To Plan a Trip to Hydra Island
• Sightseeing in Corfu Old Town

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Visit Naxos: Top 10 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in naxos: the 10 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Naxos during your next trip to Greece ? You’re looking for the best things to do, the best places to stay or the best beaches?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 10 best places to visit in Naxos , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Naxos in 1, 2 or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

And as always, this travel guide contains all my best tips: planning your trip will be super easy!

So, what to do in Naxos? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

2. Naxos’ best beaches

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The city of Chora (also named Hora, or Naxos like the island) is one of Naxos’ major tourist sites. If you take the ferry from Athens or from another Greek Island, you will arrive in Chora.

You will start your visit of the island’s main city on the waterfront. There, you will find many restaurants, cafés and shops and also enjoy a beautiful view of the port.

At the waterfront’s end, you will reach Naxos’ must-see attraction, the famous Portara, located on the islet of Palatia.

The Portara (literally “The door”) is the only remain of an unfinished Temple dedicated to Apollo, built in the 6th century B.C. Greek Mythology says that Theseus abandoned the Minoan princess Ariadne here, right after he killed the Minotaur. Then, she was forced to marry Dionysus.

The Portara was built entirely in marble. It’s Naxos’ most famous monument and landmark. On the site, you will also enjoy an amazing panoramic view of Chora town, the sea and the mountains .

Then, take a stroll in the Old Market streets to reach the Kastro district , the city’s oldest neighborhood . You will enjoy a typical and charming Cycladic architecture, with white and blue houses and paved alleys.

In the neighborhood, you can also admire many Venetian houses and the Kastro (castle). You can visit the inside for 2€. There isn’t much to see except the view of Naxos from the terrace.

There are also 4 small museums you can visit in Chora:

• The Archaeological Museum and its marble statues collection
• The Venetian Museum Della Rocca-Barozzi, if you want to discover clothes and furniture belonging to the noble Italian families who lived in the Kastro
• The Mitropolis Museum, where you can see the remains of an ancient Mycenaean city.
• The Folk Museum Collection, if you want to discover Naxos’ History and traditions

If you want to admire the sunset in Naxos, you should go to the Portara . It’s simply breathtaking!

What are the best beaches of Naxos?

Great news: Naxos is among the best Greek Islands if you want to relax at the beach!

Here are my favourite ones (and the ones to avoid):

• Agios Georgios Beach, the closest to Naxos. Not the prettiest beach, but ideal if you don’t have a car.
• Agiassos: a large and quite wild beach. Not very crowded, and with a large car park.
• Between Agiassos and Pyrgaki: 3 small and beautiful sand coves. A great place to take a dip!
• Pyrgaki: a very large sand beach, with a tavern and 2 hotels. There was no one when I went there.
• Kastraki: a wild beach with dunes offering a nice view of Paros ‘ island.
• Mikri Vigla Beach (South): a beautiful but quite windy sand beach. There, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Paros too.
• Mikri Vigla Beach (North): ideal for Kitesurf
• Plaka Beach , a large sand beach
• Agia Anna: a small and crowded sand beach, with a private part. You can rent deckchairs and umbrellas here.
• Agios Prokopios : a sandy beach with shallow waters. Half of the beach is private. One of Naxos’ busiest beaches!
• Between Galini and Agia, you will find small coves accessible by car, as Amitis Bay, Hillia Vrisi Bay, Abram Bay or Agios Theodoros Bay. Nice and quiet.
• Apollonas Beach, not the best I’ve seen
• The beaches of  Psili Ammos, Panormos and Kalados: 3 very wild beaches, as they are far from Hora.

If you want to do something else than relaxing and swimming, you can take the opportunity of your stay in Naxos to try water sports (simply click on the links to book):

• Kitesurfing course at Mikri Vigla – 2-hours private course to learn the basics
• Kitesurfing course or internship
• Windsurfing course

Halki is one of the best places to see in Naxos. The village is located 20 minutes away from Hora, in the mountainous Tragea Valley.

Located in the centre of Naxos, Halki is the perfect place if you want to enjoy a authentic Cycladic atmosphere. When taking a stroll in its charming paved alleys, you will discover many shops selling the best local products. The main square, with its huge plane tree, is also worth stopping by.

If you want to try the best local cuisine, have your lunch break at “Giannis Taverna” . The roasted meats are simply delicious!

You can also visit the Vallindras distillery. It’s the only place on the island producing the Kitron, a local liquor you won’t find anywhere else in Greece.

The Kitron liquor, made with citron (a very big lemon), is available in 3 versions, depending on the alcohol content: green (the lightest), white and yellow (the strongest). You can visit the distillery from May to October.

End your tour of Halki with a visit to the Church of Agios Giorgios Diasorites. From the village,  walk for 10 minutes through the olive trees to discover this picturesque small church built in the 11th century.

You should park your car at the village’s entrance or exit, as there are only pedestrian streets in Halki.

Filoti , the largest village in Tragea Valley, is another place you should really visit in Naxos.

Take a stroll in Filoti’s alleys to admire its typical Greek architecture. At the heart of the village, you will discover a beautiful church, entirely built in white marble.

You will also find many taverns and restaurants along the main road. It’s the perfect place if you want to taste typical Greek cuisine.

Speaking of traditional Greek cuisine, you should take a cooking class to discover some of its secrets!

The class takes place in a small family tavern in the village of Potomia . You will first collect all the vegetables and herbs needed for the recipes in the family’s garden before cooking delicious local specialties .

You will then taste everything accompanied by a good local wine in a very friendly atmosphere!

You need to book your cooking class in Naxos by clicking on the button below:

Filoti is mostly renowned for being the starting point of Naxos’ most famous hike. From there, a trail goes to the summit of the 1004-meter high Mount Zeus (or Mount Zas), the highest point of the Cyclades . It was considered as Zeus’ birthplace by ancient Greeks.

From Filoti, walk for around 40 minutes to reach “Aria Spring”, the hike’s first point of interest. If you don’t want to walk that much, you can drive to Aria Spring and park your car close to the fountain. You can’t miss it, on the road, you will find many signs indicating the direction.

From Aria Spring, hike to the Cave of Zeus (20 minutes away), then continue for 1 hour to reach the summit of Mount Zeus. There, you will enjoy a beautiful panorama of the island of Naxos.

In addition to Halki and Filoti, you should also visit the village of Apiranthos during your trip to Naxos.

Apiranthos is located on the slopes of Mount Fanari, a 45-minute drive from Chora. As in Filoti, you will enjoy beautiful alleys paved with marble as well as many cafés and restaurants.

If you have some time left and want to learn more about archaeology, folklore, art or natural history in the region, you can also visit the village’s small museums.

The road connecting the villages of Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. You will also admire many beautiful small churches in the mountains. Even if you don’t spend much time in Apiranthos, the road itself is worth passing by!

You’re going to Naxos?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Naxos on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Naxos.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Naxos, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Naxos!

The Kouros are among the best things to see in Naxos.

These huge unfinished marble statues are still in the ancient quarries. You will be amazed by their size! Kouros means literally “young man” in Greek.

You can discover Naxos’ Kouros in 2 different locations:

• In Apollonas, the quarry is located along the road, before the village. The Kouros of Apollonas, carved in the 7th century B.C, is 11-meter long and weighs more than 80 tons! It is the largest Kouros in Naxos.
• You can also admire 2 Kouros in Flerio, but they are a lot smaller (around 5-meter long) and not as well-preserved as in Apollonas.

You can access all the Kouros for free. The one in Apollonas is clearly one of Naxos’ Must-See attraction.

I couldn’t do a Naxos’ definitive guide without mentioning one of the places I loved the most on the island: the road connecting Skado, Koronos, Stavros, Apiranthos and Moutsouna.

This road offers some of the most beautiful views on Naxos’ coast . There, you will enjoy a splendid scenery!

You should also drive down to Moutsouna. If you take the trail on the left, right before you arrive in the village, you will find Azalas beach , a nice and wild pebble beach with deep waters.

The small port of Moutsouna is really lovely, with its many restaurants on the seaside. The fresh grilled fishes were delicious! In Moutsouna, there is also a small sand beach with shallow waters.

If you continue on the road after Moutsouna, you will find 3 wild and remote beaches. The most beautiful is Panormos Beach, the farthest from the port. As the road ends here, you will have to turn around and go back to Moutsouna to continue your tour of Naxos.

Vivlos (also called Tripodes), is located South of Naxos, around 10 km from Hora.

Vivlos is one of Naxos’ largest and most picturesque villages. As everywhere else, you will find here the typical Cycladic white houses and narrows alleys. There are also 3 ancient windmills  sitting on a hill.

The other points of interest in Vivlos are the Church of Panagia Tripodiotissa, Plaka Tower and the Folklore Museum.

You want to discover other Greek Islands, and you only have one day? Then, you should do a boat trip from Naxos.

You will find here a list of 1-day boat trips available from Naxos:

• Cruise on a sailboat in the Lesser Cyclades with 3 snorkeling stops in isolated bays + lunch and drinks included. This is a small group tour (15 people on the boat maximum).
• Day trip from Naxos to Mykonos Island with 6-Hours Free Time : Take the boat from Naxos to reach Mykonos. You will have 6 hours of free time to discover the island, do some shopping and enjoy Mykonos’ unique atmosphere.
• From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos full-day boat trip :  visit the archaeological site of Delos, then go to Mykonos for the rest of the day. Both boat transfers are included in the price .
• Day trip by boat to Amorgos island from Naxos : during 6 hours, you will visit Amorgos ‘ villages, and see the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, built on the cliffside. The island is also an hiker’s paradise.
• Koufonissi Islands full-day boat trip from Naxos : spend a whole day in Koufonisia island, to enjoy beautiful beaches and discover the Kato Koufonissi sea caves.
• From Naxos: Full-day boat trip to Santorini: after a 3-hour boat ride, you will enjoy a guided bus tour in Santorini . You will visit Fira and Oia, Santorini’s most beautiful villages.

And, if you wish to stay closer to Naxos, and do a cruise around the island with several stops to go swimming , you should choose this tour.

You will swim and do snorkeling in Rina Cave and Kalados bay , and around the islands of Iraklia, Schinousa and Koufonisia in the Small Cyclades. You will also get a glance at Paros and Antiparos . It’s clearly the best cruise around Naxos!

The 80€ price also includes soft drinks and snorkeling equipment.

Finally, if you’re looking for a VIP experience, you should opt for this luxury catamaran cruise in a small group:

If you’ve seen most of Naxos, you can continue your Cyclades itinerary and visit the other Greek Islands located nearby:

• Paros , the closest island to Naxos. There, you will enjoy beautiful beaches and picturesque villages
• Mykonos, if you want to party all day and night long
• Ios, Mykonos’ “little sister”, also renowned for its nightlife
• Amorgos , the perfect island for hiking lovers
• Santorini : the most famous Greek Island, a great place for a romantic gateway!
• The Small Cyclades located between Amorgos and Naxos

If you want more details  about the other islands around Naxos , you should read my detailed article:  The 15 best Cyclades Islands .

You can also visit  this website   to check the  ferries rates, schedules and book them.

To visit the island, you should spend at least 3 days in Naxos.

You will have time to relax at the beach , discover picturesque villages and even do a boat-trip around the island. Of course, you can spend 4, 5 days or more and enjoy relaxing holidays!

Here are my recommended itineraries to visit Naxos in 1, 2 or 3 days.

If you want to visit Naxos in 1 day , start by discovering Hora, the capital.

Then, spend your afternoon at one of the West Coast beaches.

There is another option: if you want to make the most of your stay without having to rent a car, you should do a guided bus tour on the island . During this tour, you will discover the Kouros, Halki and its distillery, Panagia Drosiani church, Apiranthos and even more! It costs around 25€ per person.

You need to book your 1-day bus tour in advance by clicking here.

If you spend 2 days in Naxos , in addition to the first day described above, you should go discover the island’s picturesque mountain villages. The most beautiful are Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos.

From Filoti, you can also hike to the top of Mount Zeus. It takes 2 hours to reach the summit.

End your day around Moutsouna, and enjoy the calm on one of the East Coast beaches.

If you have 3 days in Naxos, you can do a boat trip on your last day, to discover Delos, Mykonos, Santorini or the Small Cyclades.

You can find the list of boat trips from Naxos here.

If you’re going to visit Naxos, the best is to stay in Hora (the capital city) or its surroundings.

• Anatoli Hotel:   Located a 10-minute walk from Naxos centre and the beach. The modern rooms with balcony and a view of the pool or the garden are starting from 45€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the sauna, the hot tub, and the free transfer from the port and the airport.
• The Saint Vlassis:  Located only 700m from the city centre and 500m from the Agios Georgios beach. This hotel offers comfortable and large double rooms, with an outdoor hot tub for some of them! The prices are starting from 60€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the warm welcome, the good breakfast, the free parking.  It’s simply the best value for money in Naxos!
• Xenia Hotel:  Located in the centre of Naxos. The modern and well equipped double rooms are starting from 70€ with an 8€ breakfast. Strong points: the location in the city centre (really convenient to take the ferry), the kind staff, the comfortable beds.
• Hotel Grotta:   Located only 700m from the Portara and 15 minutes from the beach. Those nice and bright double rooms with balcony are starting from 90€ with breakfast included.  A great place for a romantic gateway in Naxos!
• Nissaki Beach Hotel:  Located on Agios Georgios beach, the closest to Naxos. The double rooms are very well decorated, and with a balcony. The prices are starting from 220€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: The pool, the location next to the beach, the amazing breakfast, the staff.  It’s the best hotel for a luxury stay in Naxos!

How to get to Naxos?

There is a national airport in Naxos, with daily flights to and from Athens. It takes only 45 minutes to reach the island!

Naxos airport is located 3 km South of Hora.

You can also take the ferry to Naxos from the Port of Piraeus or the Port of Rafina.

These 2 ports are located close to Athens and Athens airport. It takes between 2h30 and 6h to reach Naxos, depending on the port of departure and the ship’s speed.

There are also regular ferry connections between Naxos and the Greek Islands of Paros, Amorgos, Ios, Mykonos and Santorini.

If you want to plan your ferry trips in the Cyclades,  you should book your tickets in advance, especially during summer!

As it’s the largest Cyclades Island, you should rent a car to visit Naxos.

It’s by far the best way to discover its most beautiful beaches and remote mountain villages!

Whenever I’m renting a car abroad, whether I’m in Greece or anywhere else, I always book my cars on Rentalcars.com . It’s my favorite website for the following reasons:

• You can compare prices between all the car rental companies in Naxos. You will also have access to the customer’s reviews.
• You can get a “Full Protection Insurance” to be fully refunded in case of theft or accident with your rental car (tested and approved, they refunded me more than 1200 euros to date!)
• You can modify, or even cancel your booking for free.

Rentalcars also offers the “Best Price Guarantee”. If you find the same car cheaper elsewhere, they will refund you the difference!

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Santorini and Greece by yourself. (Click here to read all my articles about Greece) .

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to the Greek islands, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

I have made a tourist map of Naxos for you , to help you picture what the island looks like and where the best places to visit are located. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button (the one with a little arrow).

Now that you know everythign about the best things to do in Naxos, which places do you plan to visit during your trip? If you need help to plan your stay, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section.

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Greece – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Greece
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Central Greece in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + Cyclades (Santorini)
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Central Greece + even more Cyclades islands!
• Itinerary: 1 month in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Greece in a month!
• Road trip in Greece – The best itineraries for 5, 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days.
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 4 comments.

My wife and I just returned from our trip to Greece. We 3 days in Santorini, 5 days in Naxos, 1 day in Mykonos and 1 day in Athens before flying home. These suggestions for Naxos were excellent and helped make our stay memorable. A few additional comments for others who are planning to go to Naxos. TIP #1: If you are planning to stay for more then one day, you MUST rent a car or ATV/scooter to get around to see the sites around the island. TIP #2: When renting a car/atv, make sure you can access google maps or something similar to help you navigate as the signs are terrible! Also, be careful that google maps identifies routes on non-paved roads. I’m not sure how some of these routes even classify as a “road”. Some of these routs were definitely memorable for sure, but be warned as i think the local goats use these paths more then cars do! TIP #3: We decided to go to Greece in late September. The positives were that it wasn’t that busy with tourists because end of the season. That said, the weather changed quickly and became 20 degrees but very windy. Also, they stop offering as many ferry options so couldn’t do Paros for a day trip as originally planned. TIP #4: There are positives & negatives of going in September (see tip #3), but if you do plan to go in off-season, WAIT to book your hotel or Airbnb accommodations to the last minute. We booked those 3-months in advance and realized that when we arrived, the exactly same accommodations were being offered at sometimes a 50% discount.

Hello Will,

I’m glad to hear that my article about the best things to do in Naxos helped you to enjoy your stay.

Thank you very much for your very detailed comment and the additional tips, it will be very useful for other travellers.

For the wind, it’s unfortunately very common in the Cyclades (all year round). Sometimes ferry trips even have to be cancelled. And I totally agree with you about the roads.😅

See you soon for a new destination!

Great information. It helped me plan a Greek vacation last month that we are on now. Thank you so much! Want to let you know that Mount Zas is 1004 meters high, not 1400 meters high. We checked this with several resources. We will climb it on Tuesday. .

Thanks a lot! For Mount Zeus, you are right, I made a typo and reversed the numbers. I have corrected it.

Enjoy your hike and have a great stay in Naxos!

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The Ultimate Naxos Itinerary 

From mountain hikes and scuba dives, to food tours and historic monuments, this Naxos itinerary will help you plan the perfect island break.

Whether you’re looking to sit back and relax on some of the best beaches in the Greek islands, find an off-the-beaten-path destination for your island hopping adventure, or want to soak up the food culture of a unique island, you’ll love visiting Naxos.

This pretty island in the Cyclades offers so much…. yet, it’s not battling the over tourism like the nearby islands of Mykonos and Santorini .

If you’re an adventurous type like me, you could spend a day hiking up Mount Zas. This epic spot is the highest point in the Cyclades island chain. If you’re more of a water baby, how about SCUBA diving in the crystal clear waters or sea kayaking around Rhina Caves?

With the ferry from Athens to Naxos only taking between three and a half hours and five hours 20, it’s a great island paradise in the heart of Greece’s most beloved island chain. From Athens, there are tons of connections to North America and Europe. Alternatively, if you’re in Europe, you can fly into Mykonos and catch the ferry which only takes between 35 min and an hour and 45 minutes.

Once you’re in Naxos, the best way to travel around is by public transportation. The KTEL buses are reliable and link the major tourist hubs.

So, are you ready to plan your holiday? Dive into my amazing Naxos itinerary and make your dream trip to Greece a reality!

Before you leave, don’t forget to have a thorough read of my Greece packing list . There are lots of tips on what to wear in Greece, whether your trip is taking you to the islands or the mainland.

How many days in Naxos?

If you want to visit this beautiful island, I’d recommend between two and four days in total. If you have three days in Naxos, you’ll be able to see plenty of attractions and natural wonders!

It’s a lovely island and also an ideal stop on a wider island-hopping adventure, thanks to its close proximity and short ferry ride from Paros , Santorini , and Mykonos . Or, spend your time chilling, with a beautiful long weekend in Naxos! 

The Ultimate Naxos Itinerary

Explore halki village.

Unlike many of the Greek islands, Naxos has mountainous scenery. I’d recommend exploring the wonderful mountain villages and getting off the beaten path. Halki is one of the most popular spots, sometimes referred to as Chalki. 

It’s around a 30-minute bus journey from the capital, Chora, and is full of winding alleyways, tavernas, and Byzantine churches. Honestly, I think it’s one of the best day trips on the island, and definitely worth checking out if you’re spending 3 days in Naxos. 

Try kitesurfing at Mikri Vigla

Now, Mikri Vigla might be a small resort village, but the winds that whistle through this part of the Aegean make it an ideal spot to try kitesurfing. This adrenaline-pumping sport will have you soaring across waves in no time. 

With amazing views back across this picturesque village, it’s a must-do on your next visit to Naxos! 

Visit the Temple of Apollo

If you’re spending the weekend in Naxos and want to add some history and culture to your trip, head to the Temple of Apollo. With unique door-shaped ruins, this archeological site perfectly frames the seafront views.

Of course, you can learn all about the ancient Greek worshipping practices of the god Apollo as well as marvel at the engineering of the temples. Imagine creating that without the modern tools we have today! 

Hike Mount Zas

Are you ready to check out the highest point in the Cyclades? Mountainous hiking on the Greek islands isn’t super common, with many of the popular walks being coastal, but Mount Zas is an amazing exception. 

It’s regarded as a challenging hike, but it only takes around three hours to complete both ways. As you hike, you’ll be treated to panoramic views all around the island and across the ocean. I’d recommend tackling the hike earlier in the day before the sun gets too hot. Pack water and snacks, and be prepared to take lots of photos!

Enjoy a delicious food tour in Naxos Old Town (Chora)

From delicious local olive oil, to cheeses to amazing wine, Naxos and the surrounding islands offer some of the best fresh produce in the Med. I’d recommend hiring a guide or jumping on a walking tour in the Old Town, known as Chora, to find the best local spots. This Naxos food tour is highly-rated, and even includes some wine tasting!

If you join a tour you’ll get the chance to learn about the local ingredients and pick up tips on the best places to eat on the island, and exactly what to order.

Visit a local beekeeper and taste all the honey

With honey being known as the nectar of the gods, you know that the practice has been honed and revered on the Greek islands for centuries. Interestingly, the practice is alive and well in Naxos, where you can book your very own beekeeping experience .

Of course, there’s also ample opportunity to sample the goods while you’re there! Try the honey as it is, or drizzle it over local cheeses. You could even treat yourself to a delicious honey cake or two! Mmmm!

Try your hand at marble carving

Want to try something completely different during your holiday in Naxos? How about trying your hand at marble carving? I bet you’re intrigued now! On this marble carving excursion , you’ll learn this traditional Grecian craft using authentic methods and tools.

Learn all about the history and culture of marble carving throughout the Greek islands and then attempt to carve your own marble block using Archaic Greek templates and designs. It’s something that I’ve never seen before and definitely a unique addition to any Naxos itinerary!

Take a day trip to Delos and Mykonos

While this might not be an option if you only have a weekend in Naxos, if you’ll be exploring the Greek islands for a little longer, I’d recommend booking this day trip to Delos and Mykonos .

Filled with mythology, history, and culture, the island of Delos is well known for its temples and oracle-based stories. Of course, Mykonos needs no introduction. As the holiday spot of the rich and famous, it’s glamorous, beautiful, and well worth the visit. 

Sea kayak around Rhina Cave

As with so many of the islands in the Cyclades, the best way to appreciate Naxos’ natural beauty is from the water. I’d recommend joining a sea kayak tour around the Rhina Caves . This is a picturesque place to visit – a truly unforgettable experience.

You can paddle through mythological caves, snorkel the waters around you, and end up at a delicious local Greek eatery on the coastline. How about that for a perfect day on Naxos? Sounds like perfection!

SCUBA dive at Agios Georgios Beach

Well, with the clear and beautiful waters of the Aegean, it’s the ideal place to go SCUBA diving. Thanks to the sheltered cove conditions of Agios Georgios Beach, a tour like this one will help you get to grips with the basics and discover the world that lies under the waves!

Wildlife that you might see in this part of Greece includes octopus, stonefish, silverfish, and various sponge animals. This is also recommended as a great spot for beginners to build their diving confidence.

Chill out in Agios Prokopios or on Plaka Beach

Is it even a Naxos itinerary if I don’t share a few of my favourite beaches? There are plenty to choose from, but some of my top picks are Plaka Beach and Agios Prokopios. With stunning white sand, Plaka Beach is a popular choice, located just 15 minutes away from Chora. 

Meanwhile, just 5km away from Chora, you’ll find Agios Prokopios which has been voted as the third best beach in Greece as well as one of the top 10 beaches in the whole of Europe. Definitely enjoy one day as a beach day on your holiday in Naxos.

Explore Zas Cave in Filoti village

Located on the side of Mount Zas, Zas Cave is a popular spot that is steeped in mythology and history. Zas is another word for Zeus. Legend has it, this is where Zeus grew up when he was hiding from his hungry and paranoid father, Kronos.

It’s a super cool place to visit, and worth adding in if you’re hiking Mount Zas, or if you just love Greek mythology!

I hope this guide to Naxos helps you plan the perfect holiday. It’s a beautiful island – you’re guaranteed to have an amazing trip!

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in Greece? Don’t miss these posts:

• 9 Best Greek Islands For Couples To Visit
• The Ultimate Greece Honeymoon Itinerary
• The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More
• 7 Amazing Alternatives To Santorini
• What To Wear In Greece For Women And Men: Greece Packing List
• Best Honeymoon Hotels In Mykonos
• The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini
• How To Spend The Ultimate Weekend In Athens
• 15 Amazing Things To Do In Tinos, Greece
• 9 Best Luxury And Boutique Hotels In Crete, Greece

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

1 thought on “The Ultimate Naxos Itinerary ”

We spent 3 days in Naxos in 2019. We loved it ! We rented a scooter/motorbike and went around the whole island. It was wonderful ! We ate in tiny tavernas and bought beautiful handmade placemats! I would recommend it !

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