naxos tourist sites

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 Booking.com Cars . 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.

Booking Cars 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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27 Best Things to Do in Naxos Greece

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Naxos holidays are so much fun because there’s a lot on offer.

My list of the best things to do in Naxos includes seeing the sights, tasty experiences and active things you can try during your holiday. There’s something to keep everyone happy on this beautiful island and enough to keep you busy for weeks.

I often hear people recommending others to go to Paros instead of Naxos because there’s more to do. But that’s not been my experience at all (and I’ve lived on both islands.)

Things to do in Chora (Naxos Town)

Get lost in kastro and the old town.

Kastro, the medieval castle/old town area of Chora Naxos is lovely to walk around.

There are lots of little shops in the narrow, pretty streets. It’s the kind of place that’s fun to get lost in. You’ll always stumble across a new street, shop or taverna.

Step behind the buildings of the main port road to find this maze of streets in the traditional old town where plenty of locals still live. It’s a pleasant stroll in both the morning and around sunset (although note there are lots of steps, some steep hills and uneven footing).

wonder at Portara

As your wander around the Kastro keep going until you get to the Portara. The Portara (the door to Apollo’s abandoned temple) is the symbol of Naxos and stands at the end of the port.

People say the best sunsets in Greece are seen from Santorini but those in Naxos are pretty outstanding. I highly recommend you walk up to this imposing marble entrance just before sundown and watch the sunset from here. It’s magical.

Visit the Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is nestled within the Kastro area in a five-storey mansion. When I went it was free to enter and had one room of archaeological finds from the Naxos and neighbouring islands.

It’s a really interesting collection of items and I always find it fascinating to see what’s been found locally. Many of the pieces were found around the Grotta beach area of Chora.

There are other parts of the museum, including a large mosaic floor, that were temporarily closed off.

Opening times: 9am – 2pm everyday except Tuesday Telephone: +30 22850 22725 / Email: [email protected]

Laze on Agios Georgios Beach

Right in Chora, you’re lucky enough to have a gorgeous sandy beach. If you’re staying in town you have everything right on your doorstep. This beach has shallow, clear water, beach bars and umbrellas as well as stretches of just sand.

It’s a really lovely beach to swim in as the waves don’t get too big. Stay for the sunset.

Get Some Personalised Greek Sandals

There’s a sandal shop in Naxos called Pagonis where you can have Greek sandals custom made to your design spec. You choose everything from the colour of the sole and the straps to the style of straps.

You can have any combination of what they offer. They have loads of choices and you might find a pair on the rack that takes your fancy.

I got some made and what I liked was that I could get a woman’s style of shoe for my size UK 10 / Euro 44 feet! How it works is that you go in and choose your style. They measure your feet and then they make the straps and the top part of the sole.

You go back in a day or two later and they check the straps are the right length for you. Once they’ve checked how everything fits they finish the sandals for you. When you go back to collect they check everything over again and make any final adjustments.

The cost of custom sandals is around 10 euros more than the off-the-shelf equivalent.

See a Film at the Outdoor cinema

Cinema might be an odd thing to go on this list since you can go to the cinema anywhere. But do you? Maybe you just never get time at home so it would actually be a treat. If you fancy it, then there’s a cute little open-air cinema in Naxos .

The films are shown in English with Greek subtitles and usually have two showings. Double-check before you go but they normally run at 9pm and 11pm. If the film’s a long one, there will only be a showing at 9pm.

The cinema is on the edge of Chora opposite the Spar Koutelieris supermarket on the road towards the airport.

Historical Sites to See

Temple of demeter.

This temple was built for Demeter (sometimes Dimitris), goddess of Agriculture. It was created on a hilltop in an agricultural valley with the intention to bless the land with fertility.

It’s well worth a visit while you’re on the island. It’s set on a small hill in a beautiful valley and there’s a nice walk up from the road. As well as seeing the remains of the marble temple itself your ticket also gives you access to the little onsite museum.

In Greece, this structure is considered highly significant from an architectural point of view. The sanctuary is built entirely from marble and the remains are well enough maintained to understand the architecture of the time. It’s thought to have been a precursor for other major structures in the country.

Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year and there are concessions available. Opening times are 8:30am – 3:30pm every day except Tuesday.

The road to reach the temple is good if you go via Sagri village. If you go straight from the main road on what is a more direct route you’ll take a dirt road that has some large stones. Go the other way if you can.

Outside there’s a small amount of parking on the road and in terms of facilities, there’s also a free toilet just outside the museum.

Yria Archaeological Site

Although this is considered architecturally as important there’s not as much to see at the Temple of Dionysos as at the Temple of Demeter. But if you’re in Chora I think it’s worth a short visit and the 3 euro entry.

When I visited the site was really peaceful and the energy felt good. If I didn’t have to be somewhere I would have stayed longer and just enjoyed the atmosphere. I thought the gardens the remains are set in was lovely. Beyond the temple ruin is a wooded area with benches.

There’s also a small museum displaying items recovered from the site.

This site is only about 5km from Chora in the countryside close to Glynado. The Google Maps location is accurate. The opening times are 8:30am – 3:30pm every day except Tuesday. Entry price varies by season.

Kouroi Statues

A kouros is an archaic sculpture that often represents Apollo but these were also created for local heroes like sportsmen. You’ll usually see the statues posing with the left foot slightly forward and their arms down by the sides. In Naxos, there are three kouroi in two different sites.

Apollonas Kouros

Just outside Apollonas in the north of the island, there’s an ancient marble quarry. Here you’ll find Kouros of Apollo, a huge statue of Dionysus. He was probably on his way to the temple at Yria when he was abandoned.

No one’s quite sure why. Either it was decided he was flawed and thus ditched. Or, the work wasn’t paid for and so the statue was not delivered.

The location of this old quarry is interesting. Statues were apparently slid down the hillside to the port at Apollonas. From here they were taken to places like Delos where many items are from Naxos.

Although it’s fascinating to think about how long ago this work was created and how it would have been transported, there’s not actually much to see. Apollonas is quite a way from Chora so if you’re coming for this also go to Apollonas village.

The bay is lovely for a swim and there are some restaurants to have lunch in. The drive up there is also very beautiful with amazing views.

Flerio Melanes Kouros

There are two abandoned statues at the Flerio site. One is relatively easy to find and the other is a bit further up from the road. I managed to find both quite easily with Google Maps. The site is next to the Flerio spring and there are ruins of a sanctuary there too.

You can park close to the spring and then follow the road round to the left on foot to find the first kouros. Next to the path for it, there’s a gated field that has a cafe. When I went it was closed because of COVID. You might have more luck another year.

After you’ve seen the first kouros go back to the main path and continue. The way to Faragi Kouros is a bit sparsely signposted and is a bit of an uphill trek. But the walking directions on Google Maps kept me right.

Just when I thought I might have gone the wrong way I realised I was nearly there. You have to go through a gate or two on the way up.

If it’s not too hot while you’re there you can also walk to Potamia in around 30 minutes. Follow trail 6 from the spring.

Mount/Cave of Zas

Mount Zas is the highest peak in the Cyclades. It’s the place where Zeus is said to have grown up and been given his thunder from an eagle. The Cave of Zas is on the mountain too, well before the summit.

There are various versions, but some people say the cave is where Zeus lived as a child. The trek to the top of Zas is somewhat challenging and there are two options. Various artefacts have been recovered from the cave and are now displayed at the Archaeological Museum.

Climbing Zas option 1: Beyond Filoti on the road to Apirenthos, you’ll see the turning on the right signed for Mount Zas and Aria Spring. If you follow this road you can walk up to the spring.

The Cave of Zas is about 20 minutes beyond and you can continue walking from the cave up to the summit. However, this is the most difficult route and the path is pretty vertical.

(Note there also isn’t much parking this way. There is a parking place on the way and then you have to walk up the tarmac road for quite a bit to get to the spring. Don’t park in the space at the very top of the road, it’s needed for turning.)

Option 2 is to start from Agia Marina and is a more steady incline. To find the starting point on Google Maps look for either Saint Marina Holy Chapel (don’t put in Agia Marina because it’ll take you somewhere else) or head for Danakos and Monastery Fotodoti and then look for the church and signs.

Whichever way you go the views from the top are worth the effort. Make sure to take plenty of water, a hat and wear decent trainers or walking shoes. It’s not something I’d recommend in the height of summer but if you’re walking in any sort of heat then go early in the morning.

More of Naxos

Drive the island.

I think just getting in the car and exploring is a great way to happen upon interesting things. It’s something I recommend you do in Naxos because the drive alone will treat you to beautiful sights and smells.

Hire a car and just head off up the island. Choose the roads that take your fancy and see where you end up. Take your swimming cossie in case you come across a deserted alcove. And be ready to stop to explore a pretty village, there are plenty in Naxos.

See also Should I Rent a Car in Naxos?

Discover the Traditional Villages

Naxos has lots of lovely traditional villages and it would be a good idea to see some of the mountain villages Naxos has to offer during your stay. Here’s a short summary of some of them.

For more details, you can see this post about nine traditional Naxos villages you have to see.

Filoti is the biggest village in Naxos and used to be the administrative capital of the island. Now it’s a popular place for tourists to visit. Its whitewashed cube houses are built into the hillside by Mount Zas. The main street is the hub of activity with shops and cafes under the big plane tree.

Chalki is on the road towards Filoti. It looks very different to other villages on the island as the buildings have a strong Venetian influence. Park on the road and have a wander through the narrow streets off the main road.

Damalas is just off the road to Chalki. It’s a very small village with a nice little olive press museum, a folklore museum and a pottery shop.

Apirenthos is the marble village and has been voted one of the prettiest villages in Europe. It has a number of small museums, winding marble streets to discover and street cafes to enjoy.

Potamia is actually 3 villages, Ano Potamia, Mesi Potami, and Kato Potamia. There’s a nice walk that connects the three of them. You’ll find nice tavernas and Saint Anna’s Winery is at Kato Potamia.

Eggares has the Olive Museum and is close to Galini where you can get tasty food and take part in a cooking class.

Apollonas is a little fishing village with a lovely big bay and is close to the Kouros.

Melanes is close to the Kouroi and old watermills. You can also see the modern-day marble quarry where the marble on the hillside has been cut like slices of butter!

Moutsouna is a small seaside village right over on the east coast about an hour’s drive from Chora. It’s a beautiful drive out to the harbour that was important when the island’s emery was in high demand. You can visit the mines and still see the rail tracks in the port today.

See the Murals at Alyko

Alyko beach is beautiful. It’s all white sands and turquoise waters against a protected cedar forest backdrop. It’s a lovely place for a walk as well as to relax and have a swim.

Someone else thought the same and decided to build a hotel in this protected area. It didn’t come to fruition due to a lack of planning permission so now the abandoned hotel sits in ruins along the coastline.

A famous street artist has brightened it up and it’s worth a visit. Very Instagrammable. Just watch your footing as you wander around, it’s basically an abandoned building site. Make sure to look at the murals from the artist’s designated viewpoints for maximum effect.

Sun Yourself on the Beautiful Beaches

There are many beautiful, sandy beaches in Naxos, especially along the south west coast. I highly recommend sending a portion of your holiday enjoying them.

I’ve written more in this post about the best beaches in Naxos . But here’s a quick recap of some you’ll find:

Agios Georgios – already mentioned above, this is really convenient if you’re staying in town. A lively beach with bars and music plus organised umbrellas and beds.

Agios Prokopios – near the most touristy part of the island close to shops and tavernas

Plaka Beach – huge stretch of white sand. You might find nudists at the northern end.

Mikri Vigla – a windy beach with deep water, great for wind and kite surfing.

Kastraki – shallower waters and a good family beach and better if you prefer quieter and secluded beaches (although it’s not a hidden beach)

Enjoy Some Live Music

Check out Cycladia cultural space and see what’s on their calendar. If you’re lucky you can enjoy some live music or even a workshop or class on something completely different.

Foodie Things to Do

What food is naxos famous for.

After living there all winter I realised when I moved how spoilt I’d been in Naxos with fresh fruit. The valleys are lined with fruit trees: lemons, oranges, pomegranates, figs, apricots and tens of thousands of olive trees. Much of the fruit is exported to other islands and to Athens.

Potatoes are a standout star (yes, the humble tattie!) The Cycladic soil makes perfect growing conditions and you’ll taste the best potatoes you’ve ever had in your life.

You don’t need to go far on Naxos to see goats, goats and more goats. Thanks to them, Naxos makes several of its own cheeses. You can sample the cheeses at various places on the island.

Many restaurants also use the local sheep and goats in their dishes. I found that really hard given that I walked past the livestock every day. But if you like eating meat, then you know exactly where it’s coming from.

Beekeeping is another income producer for Naxos. Driving around the island you might notice clusters of hives on the hill terraces. The bees are surrounded by many local herbs and so thyme honey is very popular.

Thanks to all of this Naxos has a range of activities that foodies will enjoy. Here are some to add to your list.

Olive tasting at Eggares Olive Press

When you visit Eggares Olive Press Museum , you get a nice little tour of the press. The team tell you about how olive oil was originally produced and the history behind all the equipment.

After the education, you get to do a tasting of loads of products. You get a little tray with croutons to taste the olive oils of your choice. There are all types of flavours including chocolate, saffron and, my favourite, truffle.

You also get to sample lots of different olives -who knew there were sweet olives?- as well as olive tapenade and olive marmalades.

I really enjoyed the experience and of course, you can buy any of the products as gifts or souvenirs to enjoy back home. The shop also has a line of body care products made with olive oil. My favourite bit was getting to try those samples too.

The tour is free and you can also stop for coffee and cake outside afterwards.

Naxos Cheese Tasting

There are a couple of cheese shops in Naxos including one on the main shopping street. If you go to Apirenthos you can also do cheese tasting up there

For the tasting at Naxos Cheese Shop, you get to try out a variety of different cheeses all made locally on Naxos. In this experience, you get 10 kinds of cheese to try out with chutneys, crackers, olives and a glass of wine.

You’ll also get a small tour of the old dairy and hear about the history of each cheese and how the different types are made.

If you’re a cheese lover this is definitely one to squeeze in. At the time of writing, the experience lasts about an hour and costs 15 euros. Book directly in the shop.

Naxos Cooking Class

When I stayed in Chillia Vrisi, my friend told me about Platia restaurant in Galini. The village is just off the main road from Chora to Eggares (on the way to the Olive Museum) which I drove many times a week. I never made it for a meal but I found out they do brilliant cooking classes too.

The experience sounds amazing. Not only do you get to cook and eat your meal, but you also do plenty of sampling. And a tour of the family farm while things are cooking. See the info for the  Platia cooking classes  here.

Saint Anna’s Winery

In bygone eras, Naxos was famed for its wine which was shipped out all over the country and beyond. While there are still a lot of vineyards on the island, Naxos only has one winery.

Go along and meet Manolis Petrakis the young man that’s running this venture. As a teenager, he started learning wine-making from his grandad, spending all his holidays on Naxos. Now he’s building a growing business and his passion for the art of wine-making is obvious.

The tour and tasting session lasts about two hours. Manolis will show you the church that gave its name to the winery. It’s one of the oldest in Naxos and you can see frescoes still on the wall.

Then he’ll show you around his land, telling you about the produce and what he creates with it. Learning about the different processes he uses to make 7 distinct kinds of wine is really interesting.

Obviously, the best bit is at the end when you get to try those wines and have a taste of some of the olives and vegetables he grows.

You can book your place online via the winery’s website .

Kitron Tasting

If you like a drink, then try out Kitron. It’s a liqueur exclusive to Greece and made only in Naxos from the leaves of the Citron tree. The leaves are picked through the winter and then distilled to the desired level.

Water and sugar are added to get three levels of drink (amount of sugar and alcohol strength). Natural colourings are added to help distinguish them.

Promponas Kitron

You can find bottles of Kitron in the local products section of the supermarkets and  Promponas Distillery in Chora does distillery tours . You’ll get to try local citrus products and liqueurs, along with a selection of very tasty appetisers. M. G. Vallindras distillery in Halki also offer short tours and tastings.

Try out Spanakopita or another traditional pastry at the local bakery. Spanakopita is a filo pie stuffed with spinach and feta and I love it! There are a couple of variations as well as other traditional sweet pastries and biscuits to try.

In my experience, the best spanakopita can be found at Sitári Bakery, Chora (near Admiral sports shop) and at ArtoViglismata, the bakery in Mikri Vigla.

Pop Into Little Farm

Stop off at Little Farm just outside of Vivlos and see produce growing on a natural farm. Kostadis will show you his field with lettuce, leeks, broccoli, sugar cane, various herbs, calendula, peppers, passion fruit and more! He sells eggs from his chickens and wonderful cheeses he makes himself.

Kostadis’ wife is vegan and keeps him right with the animals. They have a number of goats on the farm who aren’t forced to reproduce. Because of this and because they don’t take on more goats than they have space for, they work with other local farmers to get enough milk or the cheeses.

Kostadis confirmed that he works with farmers who allow the animals to roam freely. (Although illegal now, hobbling – where an animal’s legs are tied together – is still common in Greece.)

The couple also looks after a lot of stray cats . Buying from the farm means that as well as supporting the family, you’re helping contribute to the sterilisation of the cat population on Naxos.

Indulge at AKTAION Boutique

AKTAION is a VIBE and is the best pastry shop in Naxos. They always make the shop look lovely and I like to see what themes they do for different times of the year. As well as traditional Greek sweets, they do THE BEST ice cream, stunningly designed cakes and exquisitely themed biscuits.

They have an indoor and outdoor seating area or you can take away a delectable creation. There is a small outlet on the seafront at Chora that only opens in peak season.

The main shop is on the edge of town and it’s worth a walk up from the port for sure. If you really need to work up an appetite, walk beyond the shop to Theologaki. It’s a lovely little church built into the rock. It’s uphill all the way, so you will need to have an ice cream to cool down on the way back!

Active Things to Do

Naxos hiking.

Naxos has many good hiking trails that are generally well organised. There’s a real contrast in the areas you’ll walk through and it’s a great way for discovering hidden gems.

Buy a walking map at one of the tourist shops around the island or just pick up a trail from a marker. Either way, have plenty of water with you, wear a hat and don’t go out in the midday heat.

I’ve written more in this post about hiking in Naxos and this one about short hikes in Naxos to some interesting places.

Scuba Diving in Naxos

Nima Dive Centre , Naxos located in Agia Anna and comes highly recommended. As well as running various recreational and specialist scuba diving courses, they do organised dives to various wrecks and reefs off Naxos.

I was hoping to complete part two of my own Open Water qualification here but it didn’t happen due to lockdown.

Kitesurfing in Naxos

Naxos is a windy island ( like Mykonos ) throughout the year so it’s perfect for kitesurfing. There are numerous places offering sessions. You’ll find them mostly at Mikri Vigla and Kastraki beaches running along the west side of the island.

I walked past Naxos Kite Life many times through the winter and saw the surfers out on the waves. You’ll find the kite surfing school right by the beach at Mikri Vigla.

If you’re an absolute beginner wanting to give this a shot they have lessons for you. They also hire out kit only if you’re a pro who knows what they’re doing.

The centre runs a long season in normal times and opens by request through the winter. I haven’t made it there yet but I quite fancy giving this a go.

Cycling in Naxos

Personally, I find Naxos quite hilly and would not like to attempt cycling too far on a mountain bike. I have, however, seen many hardcore cyclists enjoying it. I’ve passed both road cyclists and mountain bikers so pick your passion. If you fancy something a little more leisurely you can hire electric bikes too.

Naxos Bikes offer a variety of different bikes for hire from 10 euros per day. They also organise group rides and private cycling tours of Naxos. Find them just up from the port at the bottom of the castle.

Day Trips from Naxos

Popular day trips from Naxos include:

• Boat trips for example to Rina Cave or the Small Cyclades.
• Bus tours of the island:

The KTEL (public buses) runs  Naxos Bus Transfers  which offers tours of the island. They have two routes   plus a beach option.

The two main routes take in some of the prettiest villages, historic sites, and cultural places to visit.  Route One  runs Mon/Weds/Fri 9:30 – 5:30 and  Route Two  runs at the same time on Tues/Thurs/Sat/Sun.

These are run by a multi-lingual tour guides and both options include transfers to and from your hotel.

• Delos and Mykonos Tour

For some history and Greek mythology, you can visit the sacred island of Delos, next to Mykonos island. Although it’s not straightforward to visit from Naxos on public transport in one day you can take an organised boat trip.

It goes via Paros to collect passengers and then the day is split between Delos and Mykonos.

Visiting Neighboring islands from Naxos

There are more islands scattered around the Aegean Sea close to Naxos that are easy to visit.

Nearby islands include Paros, Antiparos (accessible via Paros) and the small Cyclades islands of Iraklia, Schinoussa and Koufounisia . These are all great for island hopping or as day trips with Naxos as a base.

Is Naxos on Your List?

I hope by now you’ve seen what a beautiful island Naxos is and how much it has to offer. It’s one of my top islands, and after spending seven months there during lockdown, it’ll always feel like home. Once you visit, I think you’ll fall in love with it too.

If you want to discover other islands, Andros is similar to Naxos in my opinion. It’s much greener than the other Cycladic islands and like Naxos has lovely beaches and lots of well-organised hiking .

Tinos is also a traditional island that’s not as visited as others. It has umpteen beautiful villages to discover, a thriving foodie scene, stunning hiking trails and amazing sunsets .

Suzie Young

Suzie writes informative posts for solo, nervous or first-time travellers to Greece, Turkey and other countries on her 50-before-50 bucket list. She became a Greek resident in 2020 and intends to visit every inhabited island (13 down!).

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The 15 Best Things to do in Naxos, Greece

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Imagine cerulean waters stretching as far as the eye can see, ancient ruins whispering tales of centuries gone by, and fanciful villages offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of Greece . The image you have in your head is Naxos, an Aegean island that holds untold wonders.

Naxos, hidden away from the rest of the world in the heart of the Cyclades, offers a treasure trove of experiences just waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a history lover, a sun worshiper, a foodie, or a seeker of serenity, this island has something magical in store for you. From the moment you set foot on this sun-drenched paradise, you’ll find yourself enchanted by its natural beauty and spellbound by its fascinating past.

With so many things to see and do, you may not know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Naxos. Add these activities and attractions to your Naxos bucket list, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring the Greek island shrouded in mythology! 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Take a Walking Tour of Ancient Chora

If this is your first time on this mystical island, one of the must-do things in Naxos is to take a tour around Chora, also known as Naxos Town. This part of the island is pretty small, so you don’t need to sign up for a guided tour. You can explore it entirely on your own without any chance of getting lost! 

This dreamy destination is filled with traditional Cycladic architecture and a traditional blue-and-white color scheme that instantly reveals you’re in Greece. This small town welcomes visitors from all over the world, especially during the peak season when the streets can get a little crowded, but it hasn’t lost any of its classic charm.

Here you can walk the long winding alleyways of the Old Town, past the many small cafes and family-owned stores. The 13th-century Venetian Castle is one of the town’s highlights, along with the Venetian Museum tucked inside a grandiose mansion.

Wherever your feet take you, take the time to breathe in the warm sea air along the harborfront, which is garnished with delicious smells from the nearby restaurants.

2. Sail Through the Aegean

Climbing aboard a luxury catamaran and sailing through the aquamarine Aegean Sea is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Naxos. The scenery in this part of the world is absolutely spectacular and if you stay on dry land, you only get to see a fraction of it. 

There are loads of amazing cruises to choose from. This full-day cruise is one of our favorites because it includes so much. You get the chance to visit famous landmarks, swim at a remote beach you can’t access any other way, and go snorkeling. An incredible Greek lunch with local wine is also included, as are coffee and snacks later in the day. 

For something romantic, how about a private sunset boat tour with fruit and champagne? You and your special someone will be the only two people on this boat and can cozy up together as you sip champagne and watch the fiery sun dip below the horizon.

3. Go Hiking in the Cedar Forest

For some of the best sights in Naxos, head to the cedar forest just back from Alyko Beach. This remote part of the island is only a 30-minute drive away from Naxos Town, but because it’s so quiet and free from crowds it feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere.

The beach, with its pristine white sands and gently lapping waters, is definitely one of our favorites. But if you’ve got the right shoes with you, we suggest swapping a lazy beach day in favor of an adventurous forestal escape. 

The cedar forest which lines the beach is absolutely huge and covers 1,000 acres. There are thousands of trees here, some of which are up to 300 years old and as much as 20 feet tall. Although there are no official trails throughout the forest, it’s a safe place to wander and immerse yourself in nature.

There are no dangerous animals in this part of the country, so you can let your guard down and enjoy the cool shade of the trees and the sound of birdsong.

4. Have a Lazy Day at Plaka Beach

When you need a break from all the Naxos sightseeing, spend a lazy day at Plaka Beach. Located on the west coast of the island, south of Agios Prokopios, this dazzling bay is known for its undulating golden dunes and crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming in. 

At 2.5 miles long, Plaka Beach is the longest in Naxos, so you’re guaranteed to find a peaceful place to lay down your towel, no matter how busy it is. If you’d prefer to keep off the sand, you’ll find plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas to rent – even during peak season. 

What makes this bay so special is that it has a laid-back, natural vibe. The sun loungers and umbrellas are the only real facilities here – you won’t find any bars on the sand or restaurants lining the promenade. This makes the beach ideal for when you just want to get away from it all and enjoy some quality “me” time in the glorious Mediterranean sunshine. 

5. Sample Naxos Gruyère

If you love trying the local food when you’re on vacation, one of the best things to do in Naxos is to try the island’s traditional gruyère cheese (or graviera, as it is known locally). Thousands of sheep and goats are raised in the mountainous parts of the island and the delicious milk they produce is used to make all kinds of remarkable cheeses. 

Naxos gruyère is definitely one of the finest and has won multiple distinctions and awards. You’ll find this delicacy on sale all across the island, from small roadside stalls and family-run grocery stores to fine-dining restaurants and traditional Greek tavernas. 

This highly-prized cheese has a rich and creamy flavor with a nutty, slightly sweet undertone. It’s known for its smooth, firm texture and excellent melting properties. Whenever you see it on a restaurant menu (usually as an appetizer or as a snack paired with other cheeses and charcuterie), it’s definitely worth trying.

If you’d like to try some other Greek cheeses, seek out the local goat cheese known as Kopanisti, which has a wonderfully spicy kick to it. Xinomyzithra, a type of cream cheese with a slightly sour taste, is also delicious.

6. See the Ancient Temple of Demeter

The Temple of Demeter is one of the top Naxos attractions and one you’ve absolutely got to check out during your visit. Prestigiously perched on the top of a hill in a lush valley close to Sangri village, this ancient wonder dates all the way back to 500 BC. 

The eye-catching temple is dedicated to the ancient goddess of harvest and agriculture. And while most of the marble you see is thousands of years old, some of it is a little more modern. German archaeologists restored parts of the temple to their former glory in the late 20th century using the same type of marble that was quarried on the island. 

But knowing this fact doesn’t take away any of the beauty of the structure. In fact, it makes it easier to understand how impressive and imposing it was to the local people when it was first built.

If you’d like to learn more about the Temple of Demeter, pop into the museum nearby. Here you can see a number of ancient artifacts excavated from the site and find out all sorts of fascinating information about the unique structure.

7. Celebrate at the Naxos Festival

If you’re planning on visiting the island during the summer, you’re just in time for one of the best and most exciting Naxos activities – the Naxos Festival! This high-octane event is held every year between June and September with the goal of encouraging people to get out of their comfort zones and embrace new cultural experiences they’ve never tried before.

Events take place all over the island and include everything from music concerts and dance performances to theatrical shows and visual arts. The island’s breathtaking natural landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for the event, with many performances taking place in front of ancient ruins and on historical sites. 

Don’t worry about the language barrier. If your Greek needs a little work, you’ll be happy to know that people travel from all across the world to perform at this festival, so many of the shows are suitable for international audiences. 

The dates, locations, and event calendar change every year, so be on the lookout for posters advertising the Naxos Festival.

8. Discover How Olive Oil is Made

If you love knowing the ins and outs of things, one of the most fun things to do in Naxos is to spend a morning at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum . Olive oil production has been a massively important part of Greek culture for more than 7,000 years, and you can learn more about it while you’re in Naxos. 

This unique museum takes you on a journey through the different harvesting methods that have been used throughout Greece for centuries. The buildings and olive press you can see inside the museum have been a part of the Lianos family for five generations!

After you’ve taken a tour of the museum and discovered how olive oil has been made throughout the centuries, you’ll be invited to sample a number of different types of olive oil and olive products, such as bread, cookies, hummus, and pâté. 

If you fall in love with any of the olive-based goodies, you’ll find them for sale in the gift shop, along with soaps and cosmetics made with olive oil, as well as olive wood utensils and homemade preserves. 

9. Go Snorkeling at Agios Prokopios Beach

Some of the best things to see in Naxos are hidden below the water’s surface. If you want to catch a glimpse of them, grab some snorkeling gear and head to Agios Prokopios, one of the island’s most popular beaches.

This gorgeous stretch of sand is lapped by turquoise waters that are almost too clear to be true. Even on a cloudy day, the sea surrounding this part of the island has excellent visibility, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. 

The best snorkeling spots are located at the rocky end of the beach, close to the church. Here you’ll spot all kinds of fascinating rock formations and colorful fish. The water around here isn’t deep at all, so when you need a break, you can always stand up.

Even if you’re not a fan of snorkeling, this beach is still definitely worth visiting. In the same spot, you’ll find a number of shallow rock pools you can wade in and watch mysterious sea creatures without having to put your head under.  

10. Fall in Love with Gouna

If you’re a fan of fish, one of the best things to do in Naxos is to find a traditional Greek restaurant and order yourself a great big plate of gouna. The waters surrounding the island are abundant in fish and seafood that taste divine when they’re cooked by an experienced chef.

Out of the myriad of fish and seafood dishes served throughout Naxos, gouna has got to be one of the best. This one-of-a-kind dish is made from an oily fish (like pollock or mackerel), which is marinated in a combination of dried oregano, salt, and pepper before it’s left to dry in the sun for hours. When it’s completely dry, the fish is then grilled over hot coals before it’s served with fresh lemon and mustard. 

Gouna is guaranteed to be unlike any other fish dish you’ve ever had in your life! Meze Meze in Naxos Town is one of the best places to try this classic dish. Here you get a huge portion of the grilled fish, accompanied by Greek salad and fries. 

11. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Naxos

Spend some time at the Archaeological Museum of Naxos if you want to learn more about the intriguing history of the island and how it became the place it is today. Hidden away from the bustling streets of Naxos Town inside a 17th-century Venetian building, this fascinating museum guards some of the most impressive artifacts that have been discovered on the island.

Take a look around, and you’ll discover all kinds of wonders from different Cycladic civilizations that date back to 3000 BC. The various displays include highly detailed marble sculptures, incredibly intricate jewelry, and pottery with delicate carvings, among many other treasured pieces. 

Even if you’re not a huge fan of history, spending a morning here is still one of the top things to do in Naxos. Some of the highlights of the museum include gold plaques and precious jewelry which date back to Neolithic times. It’s also worth seeking out the ancient mosaics, which are still colorful after thousands of years!

12. Wander around the Streets of Filoti

If you’ve got some spare time on your hands and you’re looking for somewhere new to explore, one of the best Naxos activities is to wander around Filoti. One of the largest and most populated villages on the island, Filoti has a totally different vibe from the rest of Naxos – one you’ll fall head over heels in love with.

Located along the side of Mount Zas, Filoti includes the settlements of Klefaro, Rachidi, and Liiri and is one of the most beautiful villages you’ll come across on the island. Here you can walk through the narrow streets, soak up the local vibe at the central square, and while away hours people-watching from a Greek taverna.

This small village is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the culture and feel like a local. But it’s a pretty good place for sightseeing, too. Filoti is home to the Barozzi Tower, which dates back to the 17th century, as well as the Panagia Filotitissa church. If you’re feeling energetic, you can even hike to the top of Mount Zas and check out the cave of Zeus.

13. Honor an Ancient God at the Naxos Carnival

Planning to travel in February or March? Then you’re just in time for one of the truly unique things to do in Naxos. At this time of year (the date changes depending on when Easter falls), the island celebrates its carnival. This huge spectacle is also known as the Dionysia Festival because a lot of the activities involve worshiping the Greek god of wine, theater, and festivities.

As you’d expect for an event in honor of such a lively god, the Naxos carnival is absolutely packed with fun-filled events and activities for the whole family. From colorful parades, live music concerts, and dance parties to theatrical performances, local food tastings, and plenty of wine, this is one of the biggest and best events to attend in Naxos. 

For many people, the highlight of the event is the parade, which begins in Kastro and works its way through the streets until it reaches Naxos Town. During this parade, you can see two locals dressed up as Apollo and Dionysus, followed by hundreds of people wearing white bed linen and carrying lit torches. Make sure you’re at the square for the end of the parade when the wine is free-flowing!

14. Watch the Sunrise from the Portara

Naxos is absolutely teeming with gorgeous lookout points and the Portara is one you’ve certainly got to visit. One of the most iconic Naxos attractions, this is the first thing almost all travelers spot for the first time when approaching the island by sea.

Hidden away on the peaceful island of Palatia, Portara is made with towering marble stones that weigh a total of 80 tons. The strong structure provides the perfect focal point for an amazing sunrise shot. At this time of day, the sky takes on dazzling shades of violet, magenta, and cerulean as the fiery sun rises up from the depths.

The most famous landmark on the island, the Portara is all that’s left of the once grandiose Temple of Apollo that was built around 2,500 years ago. Although the temple was never fully completed and instead left to ruin, you can still wander around the foundations of the structure today and imagine how impressive it would have been had it been finished. 

15. Say “Cheers!” with Kitron

Celebrate your incredible vacation with a shot of Kitron. The island’s local liqueur, Kitron has been made from citrus fruits in Naxos for hundreds of years and is still one of the most popular alcoholic drinks on the island to this day. 

To make it, locals harvest Kitron leaves between October and February. These leaves are cleaned and then left to soak with citrus fruit peel, water, and alcohol for 12 hours. When this step is completed, distillation takes place and the Kitron has been made! 

There are three different types – yellow (the sweetest with the least alcohol), clear (the least sweet with the most alcohol), and green (somewhere in between). You can pick up Kitron from most grocery stores and souvenir shops throughout Naxos, although you really don’t have to look far for it. Most restaurants will invite you to take a shot of it after you’ve finished your meal.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Naxos. What’s your favorite thing to do in Naxos? 

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Top Things to Do in Naxos [2024]

Key Takeaways

• There are plenty of things to do in Naxos, as the island offers diverse landscapes and attractions, including the iconic Portara, a hike up Mount Zeus, the village of Halki, and the Temple of Demeter and Apollo in Sangri .
• Naxos is a historically significant island with a rich mythology and played a significant role in ancient Greek civilization.
• Naxos is known for its local cuisine, featuring delicious dishes such as lamb stuffed with rice, pork with garlic and wine, and braised beef with eggplants and cheese.
• Visitors can explore the medieval castle of Naxos, visit the many museums , and enjoy a day at the picturesque village of Apeiranthos.

According to ancient Greek mythology ,  Naxos is the land where the Nymphs decided to raise young Zeus, the king of men and gods.

And if it was worthy of the raising of the Father of Gods, there must be a plethora of things to do in Naxos to make your holidays memorable.

By having such an important role in mythology, Naxos inevitably came to be one of the most important island centers of the ancient Greek world .  

Besides the vast historical and archaeological background of the island, Naxos offers a huge variety of diverse landscapes to visitors.

This is why we’ve prepared this guide with the best things to do on the island of Naxos .

1. Explore Portara, The Symbol Of Naxos

Nowadays, the most-photographed monument and the symbol of the island, the visitor can walk through the narrow dock and reach the small island of Palatia, where Portara  has stood for more than 2500 years!

Originally built by tyrant Lygdamis in 530 BC as the entrance of a huge marble temple dedicated to Apollo , Portara is all that has survived from this temple after centuries.

Interestingly, in 524 BC, Lygdamis was overthrown by the Spartans, and his temple to Apollo was never completed.  

After the conversion of the unfinished temple to a Christian blue dome church, most of the ancient materials were re-used for the construction of the Venetian castle of Naxos .

2. Sweat The Daylight Away With A Hike Up Mount Zeus

It might sound scary, but this activity is not only made for fitness fans looking for things to do in Naxos but for anyone looking to experience up-close the magical landscape of Naxos and discover the beauty of its mountains, a beauty that often gets neglected.

In the semi-mountainous village of central Naxos , Filoti , Mount Zeus stands tall, reaching the height of 1003 m -or 3290 ft-, which makes it the highest point in the Cyclades .

Mount Zeus is allegedly the place where the Greek god Zeus was taken after birth to be raised, and it couldn’t be anything short of breathtaking!

The hike up Mount Zeus,  or Mount Zas as it is often referred to, is not too long, but it’s rather tedious.

However, whoever chooses to make the effort will be rewarded with an unmatched view of the island and the Aegean Sea that will make it all worth it! There are two routes for the hike.

The easiest route is from Agia Marina, which is a 7 km round trip, while the second route starts at Aria Spring .

Do your research, take the necessary gear and equipment, and you’ll be able to conquer the challenge of hiking Mount Zeus like a pro!  

3. Discover The Village Of Halki

If you have some extra days on the island and are looking for fun things to do in Naxos, then we've got you covered!

Fifteen kilometers inland from the Town of Naxos  lies the beautiful traditional village of Halki on the plateau of Tragea.

An important commercial center of the past decades, due to its strategic position, Halki faced a substantial economic development that allowed the inhabitants to build wonderful towers and neoclassical houses.

Nowadays, Halki knows a different kind of development, with art galleries, boutique guesthouses, restaurants, and coffee shops. 

If you visit Halki , follow the paths that lead you to exquisite Byzantine churches , visit the 17th-century tower  of Barozzi, and do not forget to try kítro, the local Greek spirit made out of citrus tree leaves!

4. Visit The Temple Of Demeter and Apollo in Sangri

Half an hour away from Chora - or about an hour if you're really slow- is the area of Sangri . On the top of a small hill, there is the Temple of Demeter and Apollo , built in the 6th century BC, probably part of the construction program of tyrant Lygdamis.

An extremely important site, this temple is dedicated to the worship of Demeter , goddess of agriculture, and her daughter , Persephone .

There are also indications of an Apollo cult alongside those two fertility deities. Built almost a century before the Parthenon in Athens , this marble temple is one of the oldest examples of the Ionic order, and exploring it will be one of the most memorable things to do in Naxos.

The unusual shape of the building, in combination with other findings, suggests that the temple was a telesterion , where initiation rituals and other mysteries were held.

Do not miss the chance to visit the small museum located at the site, which was awarded the '2008 European Cultural Heritage Prize'! 

5. Explore The Island From The Back Of A Horse

Being away from the city opens up the opportunity for you to become one with nature. How about you take this literally and join the fascinating activity of horse riding across Naxos ?

As Naxos combines an imposing mountainous landscape with beautiful sandy beaches, like most Greek islands, you will have the chance to enjoy a ride on the back of a horse across Naxos' smooth coast for a day to remember.

You can even schedule your horse-riding adventure to take place during sunset so you can rejoice in the ultimate Greek sunset experience, an experience no picture will be able to commemorate.  

If that sounds like a good idea and you are looking forward to meeting your new four-legged friend, you can rely on Naxos’ horse riding club to make your dream come true with all the information you can possibly need. Ye-Ha!

6. Taste The Riches Of The Local Cuisine

One of our favorite things to do in Naxos is definitely tasting the local recipes! Although unique, Naxos is no different than any other part of Greece in regard to one thing: its heavenly cuisine.

The island is famous for its local produce and especially for its cheese and potatoes, which local producers export with great success to the rest of Greece and the world; don’t you dare leave Naxos without tasting its gruyere. 

Mouthwatering traditional local dishes are thankfully not hard to find at all, with the Chora of Naxos bustling with charming restaurants and tavernas.

Patoudo , -lamb stuffed with rice, liver, and herds- Rosto , -pork with garlic and wine cooked in the pot- and Kalogeros , -braised beef with eggplants and cheese- are the tastiest and most popular authentic Naxian dishes.

If you happen to get overwhelmed by choice, our top picks for traditional taverns are Maro, Melimelon Naxou, Kozi, Mpoulamatsis, Nteountas, Amorginon Naxos , and Naxian Gastronomy .  

While visiting those taverns, don’t forget to try the local liqueur or Kitro , one of the most delicious and original Greek spirits and perfect as an aperitif. 

7. Explore The Medieval Castle Of Naxos

Do you want to visit a castle in the heart of Naxos' Chora and learn everything about the  knights and the  crusaders that once used to occupy the island? The castle, or  Kastron , of Naxos, is the right place for you!

Built by Marco Sanudo , the nephew of the Doge of Venice, right after the Fourth Crusade in the 13th century, the castle operated not just as a military and administrative center but also as a religious, educational, and residential hub.

As the seat of the Duchy of the Archipelago, the island of Naxos experienced a huge political, economic, and cultural development.

Wander around its narrow alleys and admire its medieval architecture! Do not miss the opportunity to visit the Venetian Museum of Naxos .

There, you can learn all about the orders of Catholic monks that flooded the island, as well as stories about noble families and knights who lived in Naxos castle. The Venetian Museum is sure a sight to behold!

During your walk around Naxos Town and as you explore Naxos, don't forget to pass by the vendors selling beautiful street art; it will be the best souvenir to take with you back home.  

8. Visit the Roman Cathedral of Naxos

Located inside the Castle’s walls, you’ll have to pass through its gates to visit the Catholic Cathedral of Naxos .

Built during the 13th century, this old church was and still is the center of worship for the Catholic Christian community of the island.

Except for its wonderful architecture with visible ancient material used for the construction of the building, the visitors can see the coats of arms (even the one of Marco Sanudo!) of the noble families that benefited the church.

The central altar hosts a huge Byzantine icon of the  Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus, which dates back to the 11th century and has been attributed to workshops of Nicomedia.

The other side of the icon hosts the figure of John the Baptist. Don't forget to ask for someone to show you the unique icon of Saint Rocco and his dog, found in the church!

If you plan to visit the Cathedral, make sure to check its opening hours in advance.

9. Admire the Archaeological Museum in Naxos Town

Some steps away from the Cathedral, you’ll face the imposing School of the Jesuits , where Nikos Kazantzakis spent a year of his life, nowadays hosting the Archaeological Museum of Naxos .

Spend some time in the numerous chambers of the museum and check the exhibitions that showcase the history of Naxos and the islands nearby from the late Neolithic until the late Roman times.

It is one of the most culturally rich things to do in Naxos, and we highly recommend it!

Don't forget to see the Cycladic figurines dated to the 3rd millennium BC, the archaic kores , and kouroi , or the statue of the Roman General, Antonius!  

10. Spend A Day At The Picturesque Village Of Apeiranthos

One of the mountain villages of Naxos but surely a special one, Apeiranthos is located almost 30 km away from Chora, roughly at the center of the island.

The particular dialect of the people of Apeiranthos, alongside their unique customs, suggests that Cretans probably inhabited the region during the 10th century.

This small village is where Manolis Glezos, the hero of Greek resistance and politician, originates from.

Apeiranthos is definitely a must on your 'things to do in Naxos' itinerary during your trip to the island and offers numerous activities: from visiting picturesque museums of Natural History and Folk Arts or trying local delicacies in some of the traditional restaurants of the village to hiking in the surrounding mountains!  

11. Become A Domestic God/Goddess With A Naxos Cooking Class

You are guaranteed to become enamored by Naxos cuisine , who wouldn’t? However, tasting Naxos’ mouthwatering flavors is not the only way you can get in touch with Greek gastronomy .

Indulge in a Naxos Organic cooking class combined with a Greek family feast and get a full insight into the diet of Naxos locals. Talk about yummy things to do in Naxos!

Visit Naxos and take a picturesque walk across Kaloxylos Village , 20 minutes away from Naxos Town , before being taken to a traditional local home for your first taste of Greek hospitality.

You will be welcomed with a cup of Greek coffee , fresh fruit, and homemade cookies before kicking off your 2.5-hour cooking class, where you will prepare a luscious three-course Greek meal with the help of an expert cook. You will use even local olive oil from the island's olive trees in the olive groves!

To top it all off, your Naxos cooking experience will also include a visit to Naxos’ folklore museum as well as a Greek feast, where you will be able to taste the fruits of your labor along with a Greek salad , a variety of Naxos’ cheeses and local wine!  

Can you think of a more delicious way to spend your time in Naxos? 

12. Opt For A Sailabration And Explore The Wonderful Beaches 

Who wouldn’t want to spend their Greek holidays living a luxurious lifestyle?

Now you can do so by joining a Naxos sailing day trip that will take you to the neighboring islands of Koufonissia , Iraklia , and Schoinoussa .

Starting from the ferry port of Naxos and with the help of the friendly staff of the sailing boat, you will get to discover the breathtaking beauty of the less popular islands.

During this sailing tour, you will stop for swimming or snorkeling in the magnificent blue waters of the Aegean Sea .

Of course, no day of boat trip would be complete without a variety of drinks and snacks and a delicious, traditional Greek lunch onboard.

Your journey back to Naxos will also include a light dinner of fresh fruit and an incredible view of the sunset that will elevate your sailing trip to a whole different level.

Alternatively, you can sail around Naxos and visit some of the most secluded beaches, and some of the best beaches on the Island, such as Plaka Beach Naxos or Agios Georgios Beach.

Living the big life while getting wind of the impeccable whereabouts of Naxos is a winning combination; after all, we like big boats, and we cannot lie!  

13. Let The Night Fall On A Beach Bar 

As a typical Greek island , Naxos has a number of gorgeous sandy beaches.

Most -if not all- of the top Naxos beaches  have beautiful beach bars that serve the beachgoers all day long and turn into delightful bars at night.

There, you can sip delicious cocktails while letting the sea touch your toes on a walk along the smooth, sandy west coast front.

Watching the sun submerge into the sea will be one of the top moments of your trip; even if you’re not the romantic type, such a beautiful sight cannot leave you untouched.  

What’s more, a drink by the beach at night, or even a night dive, is the ultimate Greek island experience and one you should delve into if given the chance.

The best Greek summer stories start with ‘So the sun went down, but still, we stayed at the beach…’

14. Catch A Sunset In Portara And Look Out At The Aegean Sea

We talked about Portara in the beginning. It is one of the most popular attractions in Naxos and an important archaeological site in Greece.

It is the huge marble gate of a temple that began being built in the 6th century BC most likely in honor of the Greek god Apollo, Portara .

What we didn't talk about, however, is how Portara is famous for being one of the best places to catch the sunset in Greece. It is located on the islet ‘Palaces’, or ‘Island of Bacchus,’ at the north end of Naxos port.

According to mythology, Theseus abandoned Ariadne on this islet and was then abducted by Dionysus in his pursuit.

A walk around this magical location at nightfall will give you the opportunity to catch a view of Naxos illuminated by the night lights and admire Greek history and mythology in a dreamlike setting.

Combine culture with pleasure and explore the island of Naxos in a Naxos Castle and Portara walking tour ; who said the most fun things to do in Naxos are only for the daytime?   

15. Enjoy Naxos' Nightlife

Looking for things to do in Naxos during the night?

A good place to start would be one of the many cozy bars you can find downtown that serves delicious drinks and inspired cocktails while playing pick-me-up music.

Our  favorite bar in Naxos , hands down, is the popular Swing Cocktail Bar .

Forget about the cocktail bars you’re used to and can stumble upon anywhere and everywhere; Swing Cocktail Bar is both uncommon and one-of-the-kind, using the science of chemistry to make mind-blowingly delicious concoctions.

Another great option is Like Home Bar , a bar that fulfills the promise of its name. Cozy and homey, with its mouthwatering drinks, laid-back vibe, and excellent music, it will lure you in and make you sway. 

If a relaxed drink is too tame for you and you’ve set your mind on dancing till the early morning hours, it is time for you to hit the Naxian nightclubs ; and boy, oh boy, aren’t they lively and buoyant!

On most islands , both visitors and locals come together under the same roof to party, and for Naxos, that roof is The Ocean Club , where the heart of Naxos by night beats.

In the summertime, you can dance to the beat of mainstream dance music, while during the off-season, the club hosts special events, such as concerts, unique DJ sets, and themed parties.  

Put your hair down, grab a drink, and clear your head; it is time to have a fun, carefree time and dance as you’ve never danced before!

Isn't this one of the reasons you arrived from Athens to Naxos ?

16. Swim In An Oasis In The Middle Of Naxos' Cedar Forest

When you visit Alyko Beach , you will see a windless beach with white sand and turquoise waters. It does not have a very large area. On the contrary, it is a small creek that not many people know about.

This is the reason why you will not meet a large number of tourists there. This will make your experience even more beautiful.

The special feature of the beach is that it generously offers the desired natural shading, thanks to the small cedar forest located there.

Something that you cannot find on any nearby islands in the Cyclades. It is a small oasis that invites you to stay there for a few hours and enjoy the gentle breeze with your bath.  

In our opinion, Alyko Beach is one of the best Naxos beaches -alongside Hawaii Beach, Agios Georgios, and Agios Prokopios Beach. It is located in the southwestern part of the island and at a distance of 17 km from Chora.

The road is asphalt, although, at some point before the beach, there is a passable dirt road.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of things to do in Naxos, Greece, to enhance your trip to the island with beauty, culture, history, entertainment, and delicious flavors.

Visit Naxos, the biggest island on the Cyclades,  on one of our Greece vacation packages , and revel in the true spirit of Greek summer !

Frequently Asked Questions

What is naxos famous for.

Naxos is well-known for its long white sandy beaches and the winds that make it an excellent windsurfing destination, especially in Mikri Vigla Laguna , as well as the wonderful quality of local agricultural products.

Its local cuisine and products , such as its potatoes and cheeses, have crossed the borders of Greece and are sought-after all around the world. Therefore, put 'tasting the Naxian flavors' high up your list of things to do in Naxos, and you won't regret it.

How many days do you need in Naxos?

Naxos is a large island. As a result, when you visit Naxos, you need a good amount of days in order to be explored to its full potential. You need no less than 3 days and ideally around a week to discover its beauty.

By boat, Naxos can be explored in 3 days. Alternatively, you can relax on the beach, explore the beautiful town or take a trip on a boat across the island and spend five days and upward doing so.

Of course, it is an excellent idea to visit Naxos, even on a day trip from the neighboring Cyclades islands . Every second you spend on Naxos is time well-spent.

Is Naxos a touristy destination?

Naxos, Greece, is definitely a place that has gained worldwide recognition. There is a wide variety of tourist attractions and souvenir shops, and many travelers visit it every year, especially during the high-season summer months.

Regardless, Naxos is surprisingly less touristy than other islands nearby, like Santorini or Milos.

While it is popular, it has managed to maintain its offbeat character, making it much easier to experience authentic Greek island life compared to other Greek islands .

Which of the Greek islands is better, Naxos or Paros?

Both islands are stunning. They are considered some of the best Greek islands. Therefore, it is not a matter of 'which is best,' but rather of 'what fits you better.'

Paros has a vibrant, often wide, nightlife. It is trendier and offers more shopping opportunities and upscale hotels. Moreover, Paros is more easily accessible via public transport linking the major villages with nearby beaches. 

Naxos has a much more timid nightlife. However, it is richer in culture, with many historical churches and archaeological sites. It has a much more laid-back vibe, and it is often preferred by families and people who are after relaxing vacations.

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Climatic Data

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EXPLORE NAXOS ISLAND!

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful Greek islands!

Find out everything about your holidays in Naxos Greece in our travel guide! Discover the things to do , many sights , fantastic beaches, recommended hotels and restaurants , as well as a wide selection of breathtaking photos !

The island is easily reachable by plane from Athens and by ferry from Athens (Piraeus) and many islands of the Aegean. It may be a short ferry ride away from the super famous Santorini , Paros and Mykonos islands, but Naxos is relatively unknown, staying (so far) under the mainstream radar. Actually, Naxos is a paradise on earth. Are you ready to discover it?

How to Get There?

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What to Do? (+15)

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OUR TRAVEL SERVICES IN NAXOS

Book your trip to Naxos with Greeka, the Greek islands specialists! We help thousands of people every year to plan beautiful and trouble-free holidays. From tours to hotels and from car rentals to ferry tickets, we provide all the essential services to make your travel to Santorini the most epic and smooth one. Our travel services are rated . Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) at the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . Read reviews about our services.

ABOUT NAXOS GREECE

Despite being relatively low-profile, compared to the neighboring Cycladic islands, Naxos is one of the most enticing destinations in Greece! It sits in the center of the Cyclades islands group, in the heart of the Aegean sea, and is also the biggest of them Its glorious ancient past and the strong influences of the Venetians and the Franks are responsible for the abundance of ancient sites.  The most iconic of them -and the trademark of Naxos- is Portara , the remaining gate of an ancient temple dedicated to the Olympian god Apollo. Apart from its impressive monuments, though, the island boasts a beautiful natural landscape, as it is the greenest of the Cyclades. Imposing mountains, green valleys, beautiful beaches, and rural villages will exalt every nature lover’s spirit!

Chora , the main town , is a wonderful mixture of Venetian and traditional Cycladic architecture. Above the Cycladic whitewashed houses of Chora stands the imposing Venetian castle, oozing a medieval charm!

Are you a thrill-seeker? A heap of amazing things to do in Naxos’ nature is available! Visit enchanting mountain villages, explore Mount Zas , test your skills in water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, hike in the verdant nature… Naxos holiday is a never-ending adventure!

As for the beaches , they are considered some of the best of the Cyclades islands! The coastline of Naxos is fringed with small coves, creating an array of beautiful sandy- and uncrowded- beaches with cobalt waters. Don’t skip swimming at Aliko, Plaka and Agios Prokopios beaches.

Naxos island is the ultimate unpretentious summer escape! Are you ready to explore it?

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HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS

Naxos has managed to avoid getting touristy and its accommodation facilities have a strictly Cycladic style in order to ensure an unparalleled experience. Whitewashed hotels, peaceful villas, fully equipped studios or apartments, and many other lodgings will introduce you to the charming architecture of the Cyclades! You may find them close to the beach, in Town (Chora), or at numerous other locations around the island. Accommodation facilities are suitable for all kinds of visitors, from budget travelers and families to those seeking an environment with a luxurious touch. No matter what your preferences are, you will not be disappointed!

Some of the most popular hotels are: • Ayiopetra   • 18 Grapes   • Naxian Collection   • Ploes

HOW TO GET THERE & MOVE AROUND?

The most popular way to reach Naxos is by ferry from Athens (Piraeus) but the island can also be reached by plane. You can also include Naxos in an island-hopping itinerary as the island is well connected with Santorini, Paros, Mykonos, and more destinations. Book your ferry tickets with us

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Continue your trip to the best Greece destinations! The most popular destinations after Naxos are Paros, Santorini, Patmos, Koufonisia, Amorgos, all easily accessible by ferry .

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23 Amazing Things to Do in Naxos You Can’t Miss

If you’re looking for a summer getaway, Naxos is the perfect destination. Although it’s not as popular as the likes of Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos is packed with plenty of amazing things to see, do and experience. In fact, it’s the largest island in the Cyclades group, so you’ll definitely not run out of activities or attractions.

Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the island’s rich culture and history, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Naxos. From visiting historical sites to experiencing traditional cuisine and participating in outdoor activities, here are the best things to do in Naxos that you absolutely can’t miss!

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Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Naxos 

1. explore naxos town (chora).

The charming Naxos town is the capital of the island and it’s the quintessential Greek experience. In fact, if you arrive by ferry, this is the first place you’ll encounter so it’s a great place to start your exploration!

The town is filled with winding alleyways, cobblestone streets, and beautifully preserved traditional architecture. Don’t miss the impressive Venetian castle on top of the hill, the Temple of Apollo, or the Archaeological Museum of Naxos.

Make sure to take a stroll around the harbor which is surrounded by lovely cafes and restaurants. You can also pop into some of the quirky souvenir shops and buy something to commemorate your time on the island.

2. Spend the day at Agios Georgios Beach

When talking about the best things to do in Naxos, spending a day at Agios Georgios beach is an absolute must! It’s one of the most stunning beaches in Naxos and thanks to its close proximity to the town of Naxos, it’s easy to access.

Boasting endless golden sands and calm shallow waters, Agios Georgios is the perfect place for a relaxing day at the beach. You can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and top it all off with a delicious traditional meal at one of the beachfront taverns.

If you’re looking for a more active time, Agios Georgios Beach also has plenty of watersports opportunities including jet skis, windsurfing, and the banana boat. 

3. Visit the Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo is one of the most important archaeological sites in Naxos and a must-visit on any trip. Located on the islet of Palatia, this iconic attraction is the only remaining part of the unfinished temple of Apollo.

The current ruins were built in 530 BC and the site is believed to have been a place of worship since the 6th century BC. The temple is made up of impressive marble columns and intricate carvings, making it the perfect place for a spot of history and culture.

It’s only a 15-minute walk from the main town center, so you can easily explore it on foot. Since the ruins don’t offer any shade, they are best explored in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t at its hottest.

4. Visit the Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum is located in Naxos Town and is just a 10-minute walk from the port. The museum is actually set inside the Venetian Castle but of course, it’s the exhibits that you’re here to see! 

There are four floors at the museum so there’s an impressive collection of objects to admire. This includes typical Cycladic statues, jewelry, clay pots, wooden tools, and marble. Many of these items are carved or have pattern impressions on them which is pretty cool to see. 

If you’re a culture buff or you’re a fan of history, then visiting the Archaeological Museum is one of the best things to do in Naxos. You won’t need too much time to wander around the museum, but I’d recommend taking your time so you can learn about the exhibits.

5. Explore Kastro

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Naxos, you can’t miss a visit to Kastro. This gorgeous old castle is perched high on a hilltop right in the middle of Naxos town, and it’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Greece.

The castle was built in the 13th century and is surrounded by walls made of stones and marble. Inside, you’ll find the Archeological Museum, a 12th-century Byzantine church, and the ruins of an old Venetian palace.

Visiting Kastro is one of the most popular things to do in Naxos and you can easily spend an hour or two exploring its winding streets, admiring the incredible architecture, and taking in stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

6. Spend an evening at a cocktail bar 

During your time in Naxos, you’ll want to spend at least one evening at a cocktail bar. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, the atmosphere and often the views are worth the visit alone. 

Naxos town itself has a wide variety of cocktail bars, including the Honey & Cinnamon Cocktail Bar, Like Home Bar, and the Rum Bar.

However, I’d recommend visiting one of the rooftop bars in town so you can fully appreciate the views. Some fantastic examples include Swing Cocktail Bar , 520 Bar & Restaurant , and Toro Rooftop Cocktail Bar. 

You can also head to Yazoo Summer Bliss and Tohu Bar if you’re heading to Plaka or Island Bar Naxos if you’re visiting Agia Anna.

Read Next: Where to Stay in Naxos: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

7. Try some delicious Greek cuisine

No trip to Naxos is complete without trying some of the island’s delicious traditional cuisine. With its fresh seafood, colorful salads, and aromatic olives, Greek cuisine is always a hit.

You can find plenty of amazing restaurants in Naxos town where you can sample dishes like moussaka, fried feta cheese with honey, and a classic Greek salad.

If you’re a seafood lover, head to the harbor for some of the freshest fish around. My favorite restaurant for this was Nissaki restaurant , which serves up delicious seafood platters with a side of stunning views of the sea. The perfect combination for a romantic evening!

There’s no shortage of meals to try for those with a sweet tooth, either. The local pastry shops are full of treats like baklava, kataifi, and loukoumades. For the best ice cream in town, make sure to visit Milkato gelateria . Their homemade flavors are simply divine!

The local wines and spirits in Naxos also deserve a mention – try some of the local white wines, ouzo, or sweet liqueur made from honey and herbs. It’s sure to be a highlight of your Naxos holiday!

Read Next: 11 Best Restaurants in Naxos Town You Have to Try

8. Join a cooking class

If you want to get a real taste of the island, there’s no better way than to join a cooking class. This half-day cooking class at Basiliko Family Taverna is perfect for those who want to learn more about Greek cuisine.

During the class, you’ll learn about the history and traditions of Naxian cuisine, gather the ingredients for the meals directly from the family garden, and cook up some delicious local dishes. Of course, you’ll get to feast on the food you’ve made afterward, too!

After the class, you can choose to take a walk to the river, and you can even get a glimpse into the cheese-making process at a local producer.

If you want to gain deeper insight into the culture of Naxos while having lots of fun along the way, this cooking class is definitely one of the best things to do in Naxos!

9. Soak up the sun at Plaka Beach

With endless golden sands stretching up to 4 km (2.5 miles), turquoise waters, and plenty of facilities nearby, it’s no wonder that Plaka Beach is so popular. 

It’s known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece and once you get there, you’ll understand why! The waters here are crystal clear, which makes them perfect for snorkeling and swimming, so don’t forget your snorkel masks. 

There’s also plenty of space to relax, lots of water sports opportunities, and several beach bars where you can grab a bite to eat. Not only that, but there are lots of cafes, mini-markets, and shops nearby too! 

If you’re looking for things to do in Naxos, then you need to visit this beautiful beach. Public buses run regularly to Plaka, so you won’t have any problems getting there either. 

Read Next: 12 Best Beaches in Naxos, Greece You Can’t Miss

10. Marvel at the Kouros of Apollonas

The Kouros of Apollonas is the oldest statue on Naxos, and it’s an absolute must-see. The marble sculpture is over 10 meters (32.8 ft) tall and dates back to the 8th century.

Despite the name, it’s actually still an ongoing debate whether it depicts God Apollo or God Dionysus. Regardless, it’s an impressive sight to behold and one of the most important archaeological monuments in Greece.

You have to climb a few stairs to reach the statue but it’s nothing too strenuous. You can also marvel at the view over the Aegean Sea from here, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Naxos.

If you have time, be sure to explore the rest of Apollonas too! It’s located on a small peninsula that juts out into the sea, and you can enjoy some stunning views while you’re here.

11. Attend a food tour with wine tasting

Food and wine go hand in hand, so why not combine them into one fantastic experience? This Naxos Food & Wine Tour is an unforgettable tour that’s perfect for foodies and wine lovers.

After you meet your local guide, you’ll start by exploring the narrow alleys of the Old Town while making your way to the local food market. Here you can sample some of the freshest local produce, as well as enjoy your first glass of Naxian wine.

Then, it’s off to some of Naxos’ best restaurants, where you’ll taste a variety of different foods starting from olives and cheeses to orange pie and donuts. Make sure to arrive hungry, as after all the sampling, the tour includes a full meal with soup, salads, moussaka, and more!

If you want to learn more about the gastronomic culture of Naxos while indulging your taste buds at the same time, this tour is one of the top things to do in Naxos!

12. Have a relaxing day at Agios Prokopios Beach

Agios Prokopios is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Naxos and is easily accessible via public transport from Naxos town.

The beach has been certified as Blue Flag Status several times and is one of the most popular beaches on the island.

Boasting around 1.5 km (0.9 miles) of golden sands, crystal clear waters, and beachfront facilities, this spot has so much to offer. It’s also sheltered from the island’s strong winds, so you can try out plenty of watersports here.

Further down the beach, you’ll find a charming chapel that’s dedicated to Agios Prokopios and distinctive pink salt lakes too.

If you’re looking for things to do in Naxos, then don’t miss out on visiting this beautiful beach! It’s the perfect place to relax, although it can get busy throughout the day so it’s best to visit during the morning.

13. Go on a bus tour of the island

If you’re not planning to hire a car or ATV to explore the island, then I’d recommend taking a bus tour instead. Although the public bus system is pretty good on the island and it’s cheap, the routes don’t reach everywhere. 

This Highlights bus tour lasts for eight hours and will take you to some of the most popular Naxos attractions.

You’ll get picked up around 9 am, and then you’ll head to the green valley of Gyroula, where you’ll explore the Temple of Demeter. From there, you’ll continue to Chalki Village, Apiranthos village, and Apollonas. Other places you’ll get to visit include Eggares Village and the ancient marble quarries.

This bus tour also includes a swimming stop making it the perfect way to spend one of your days on Naxos!

14. Snap some cool photos at the Alyko Hotel Ruins

Visiting the abandoned ruins of the Alyko Hotel is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Naxos. The hotel was intended to be a luxurious seafront hotel complex, but it was never completed due to financial problems.

Today, it stands as an eerie reminder of the past, with its crumbling walls and overgrown plants. In recent years it has also become a favorite spot for street artists so many of the walls are covered with amazing graffitis and murals.

Once you’ve spent some time exploring and taking pictures, you can cool off with a refreshing swim either at Alyko Beach or Hawaii Beach. Both beaches are super close to the ruins and will offer you a chance to relax and take in the stunning views of Naxos.

15. Hike up Mount Zas 

For those looking for an outdoor adventure, the hike up Mount Zas (the highest mountain in the Cyclades) is a must-do.

According to local mythology, Mount Zas is where Zeus was born and raised, so it’s definitely a place full of history and legends. The mountain is striking from afar, but hiking to the summit is undoubtedly one of the most adventurous things to do in Naxos!

The hike is not particularly long, but it’s very steep and exhausting, so make sure you’re wearing appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water with you. Also, I would only recommend this hike to experienced hikers as the last part of it can be quite challenging.

Once you reach the summit, though, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding islands as well as a true sense of accomplishment.

16. Visit the Temple of Demeter

The Temple of Demeter is one of the most important historical sites in Naxos.

The ancient temple dates back to the 6th century BC and was built to honor the goddess of agriculture, Demeter. Made from the finest quality marble from the island of Naxos, the temple is truly a sight to behold.

It’s located near the village of Sangri and is surrounded by lush valleys and olive groves. You can explore the ruins on your own or join the highlights bus tour to learn more about its history and significance in the local culture.

The temple is closed on Tuesdays, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly!

17. Get lost in the colorful streets of Chalkio Village

Another one of the best things to do in Naxos is visiting the picturesque village of Chalkio.

This charming village is located in the middle of the island’s mountainous region and is known for its narrow, winding streets and brightly-colored houses. It’s the perfect place to wander around and simply soak up the warm atmosphere.

You can head to the main square of Chalkio, where you can find the iconic church of Panagia Protothronos, or explore the small alleyways and admire the traditional architecture. You’ll also find several traditional cafes and taverns where you can try some of the local delicacies.

Roaming the streets of Chalkio is one of the quintessential experiences on Naxos and a must-do if you’re looking for something off the beaten path!

18. Wander around Apiranthos

If you want to visit more villages in the middle of the island, make sure to head to Apiranthos as well. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Chalkio or a 40-minute drive from Naxos town, and it’s said to be one of the most beautiful villages on the island.

Known for its incredible architecture, authenticity, and endless attractions – Apiranthos has so much to offer. The village is located on the slopes of Mount Fanari, so it naturally boasts stunning views of the surrounding area.

However, it’s the architecture that steals the limelight as you’ll get to wander along paved alleyways, admire stone-built towers, and explore old churches.

The village is home to five museums which makes it one of the best places to visit in Naxos for culture buffs. This includes the Apiranthos Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, the Geological Museum, the Museum of Natural History, and the Visual Arts Museum. 

19. Go scuba diving 

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, then why not try scuba diving? The waters surrounding Naxos are crystal-clear, making them a fantastic place for spotting marine life under the surface.

This scuba diving experience is perfect for both beginners and certified divers, although if you’re certified, you can opt for a boat dive instead.

You’ll start your adventure at the Nima Diving Center, which is located in Agia Anna. From there, you’ll have an experienced team on hand to give you the best experience. 

Just keep in mind that the dive sites are all affected by weather conditions, so if your dive is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund.

Best Cruises & Day Trips from Naxos

20. head to paros on the ferry.

Although you won’t run out of things to do in Naxos, it’s always worth taking a day trip out to one of the nearby islands if you have the time for it.

Paros is one of the most popular islands in Greece and is known for its stunning beaches, idyllic villages, and epic landscapes. 

As the island is right next to Naxos, the ferry between the two islands only takes an hour, which leaves you plenty of time to explore during the day.

Some of the best places to visit in Paros include Parikia, Naousa, Lefkes, and Paros Park. You’ll also want to visit some of the stunning beaches on the island , including Kolympethres, Parasporos, and Santa Maria.

Just make sure you keep an eye on the ferry times for your journey back!

21. Head out on a Catamaran Cruise 

If you’re wondering what to do in Naxos, then why not head out on a catamaran cruise? It’s one of the best ways to explore the Aegean Sea and you’ll get to see plenty of wonderful sights along the way.

This all-inclusive catamaran cruise is a great option as it includes lunch, snacks, and alcoholic beverages.

You’ll also get to borrow snorkeling equipment while you jump off the boat and explore the crystal-clear waters all around you! The catamaran cruise will take you to some of the most secluded beaches on Naxos, as well as some beautiful coves.

The cruise lasts for around eight hours, so it’s a full-day experience.

22. Take a day trip to Mykonos Island 

Due to its great location, Naxos is the perfect base for visiting some of the other nearby islands. One of these is the beautiful island of Mykonos, and this fantastic round-day trip will get you there! 

You’ll depart from Naxos Port early in the morning and then spend around two hours sailing before you reach Mykonos.

Once you’ve departed the boat, you’ll have around six hours of free time to explore the island and see the best sites. You can either hire a car from the port area to explore, or you can simply get around by using one of the local buses.

Either way, try to fit in some of the most popular spots, including the picturesque Kato Mili windmills, the charming neighborhood of Little Venice, and the beautiful church of Panagia Paraportiani.

23. Take a cruise to Koufonissia Island 

There’s no denying that cruising around the Aegean Sea is one of the best things to do in Naxos! You’ll find plenty of tour operators and cruise options on the island, but this unique cruise takes you to the beautiful Koufonissia Island. 

You’ll be hopping aboard a traditional wooden boat and heading out on a cruise around Naxos first before you visit Kato Koufonissi.

This island is uninhabited, so you’ll get to dive off the boat and explore it to your heart’s content in the surrounding waters.

An onboard BBQ lunch is included with this cruise, and then you’ll head to Ano Koufonissi, where you’ll have three hours of free time to wander around.

Unlimited water, soft drinks, and wine are also included on this tour, so it’s fantastic value for money!

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!

• The Ultimate Naxos Travel Guide for First Timers
• Where to Stay in Naxos: 6 Best Areas & Hotels
• 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 largest of the Cyclades, Naxos packs a lot of bang for its buck. Its main town of Hora has a gorgeous waterfront and a web of steep cobbled alleys below its hilltop kastro and fortified Venetian mansions – testament to three centuries of Venetian rule. You needn’t travel far, though, to find isolated beaches, atmospheric mountain villages, ancient sites and marble quarries.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Hora (Naxos)

The most alluring part of Hora is the 13th-century residential neighbourhood of Kastro, which Marco Sanudo made the capital of his duchy in 1207. Behind…

Vallindras Distillery

The Vallindras Distillery on Halki’s main square has been distilling the kitron liqueur in the same way since 1896, passing from one generation to the…

Fish & Olive

This gallery displays the exquisite work of Naxian potter Katharina Bolesch and her partner, artist and jewellery designer Alexander Reichardt. Each piece…

Temple of Apollo

From Naxos Town Harbour, a causeway leads to the Palatia islet and the striking, unfinished Temple of Apollo, Naxos’ most famous landmark (also known as…

Bazeos Tower

The handsome Bazeos Tower stands prominently in the landscape about 2km east of Sangri. It was built in its original form as a monastery during the 17th…

Panagia Drosiani

Located 2.5km north of Halki, just below Moni, this is among the oldest and most revered churches in Greece. Inside are several small, cavelike chapels…

Della Rocca-Barozzi Venetian Museum

This atmospheric museum is in a handsome old tower house of the 13th century, within the kastro ramparts (by the northwest gate). Wander through the rooms…

Hawaii Beach

Particularly pretty sandy beach in the southwest with calm turquoise waters.

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Naxos and beyond

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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