Naxos
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands in Greece, is celebrated for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages. This island combines natural beauty with rich historical sites, such as the iconic Portara – the gateway to an unfinished temple of Apollo, dating back to the 6th century BC.
Naxos is also known for its fertile landscapes, producing some of the finest cheeses, olives, and fruits in the region. The island’s traditional villages, like Chalki and Apiranthos, offer a glimpse into the authentic Cycladic lifestyle, with narrow marble streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional crafts.
The vibrant local culture is on full display during various festivals and events that celebrate Greek heritage with music, dance, and culinary feasts. Naxos’s combination of natural beauty, ancient history, and lively traditions make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a comprehensive Aegean experience.
- Country: Greece
- Capital city of the country: Athens
- Population: Approximately 18,904
- Region: South Aegean
- Language: Greek
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Demonym: Naxian
- Known for: Portara, Naxos beaches
- Google Maps: Naxos, Greece
TOP 10 Best Things To Do in Naxos (Greece)
Top 10 Best Activities in Naxos
- Portara – Visit the iconic landmark of Naxos, the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo, offering stunning sunset views.
- Agios Prokopios Beach – Enjoy one of the island’s most famous beaches, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Naxos Castle – Explore the Venetian Castle located in the old town of Naxos, which offers a glimpse into the island’s historical past.
- Temple of Demeter – Discover the ancient ruins of the Temple of Demeter at Sangri, dating back to the 6th century BC, showcasing classical Greek temple architecture.
- Plaka Beach – Spend a relaxing day at Plaka Beach, appreciated for its long stretch of soft sand and turquoise waters.
- Mikri Vigla – Visit Mikri Vigla for its exceptional windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions, making it a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts.
- Old Market Street – Wander through the Old Market Street in Naxos Town, lined with shops, cafes, and traditional tavernas.
- Alyko – Explore the beautiful area of Alyko, famous for its cedar forest and secluded beaches, offering a perfect escape into nature.
- Archaeological Museum of Naxos – Learn about the island’s rich history through artifacts and exhibits found in the museum situated in Naxos Castle.
- Mount Zas – Take a hike to the summit of Mount Zas, the highest point in the Cyclades, where according to mythology, Zeus grew up.
Top 10 Best Activities for Kids in Naxos
- Aqua Fun Water Park – Have a splash at this family-friendly water park with slides and pools for all ages.
- Agios Prokopios Beach – Enjoy the sun and sand at one of Naxos’s most beautiful and child-friendly beaches.
- Portara – Temple of Apollo – Visit the iconic landmark and enjoy stunning sunsets and a history lesson about ancient Greece.
- Naxos Castle – Explore the historic castle located in Naxos Town, which offers fantastic views and a glimpse into the island’s past.
- Archaeological Museum of Naxos – Discover ancient artifacts and learn about the rich history of the island in a kid-friendly setting.
- Naxos Horse Riding Club – Experience horseback riding along the beautiful beaches or through the scenic countryside.
- Plaka Beach – Spend a relaxing day at this long sandy beach, perfect for families with children due to its shallow waters.
- Naxos Sailing Tours – Take a family sailing trip around the island, offering a unique way to see the coastlines and nearby islands.
- Kouros Statue – Visit the impressive ancient marble statues lying in the countryside, a great spot for photos and exploration.
- Chalkio Village – Explore this charming mountain village with narrow streets, traditional shops, and local eateries, a perfect cultural outing.
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Naxos
- Barozzi Restaurant & Cocktail Bar – A fine dining experience in a renovated 1930s mansion, known for its rabbit ravioli and sea bass marinated in watermelon and lime.
- Boulamatsis – Best known for its sunset views and classic Greek dishes, including moussaka and grilled fish.
- To Souvlaki tou Maki – Famous for its souvlaki and gyros, this grill house offers dishes made with Naxos potatoes and homemade wine.
- Giannoulis Taverna – A charming family taverna at Agios Prokopios Beach, offering local specialties like rosto (pork casserole).
- Rotonda – Located in Apeiranthos, this restaurant offers stunning sunset views and serves traditional Greek dishes.
- Axiotissa Taverna – Known for its sustainable approach and regional specialties, located in the island’s countryside.
- Akrogiali Restaurant – Specializes in freshly caught fish prepared with local herbs, near the island’s sandy beaches.
- Scirocco Cafe Restaurant – Offers a diverse menu with specialties like portokalopita, located in the main square of Naxos town.
- Pizzadelia – A cozy spot for Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, famous for its variety of pizzas and calzones.
- Antamoma – Offers a modern twist on traditional Greek recipes, using high-quality local products, located on Chora’s beach promenade.
Top 10 Best Bars in Naxos
- Like Home Bar – Naxos – A rooftop bar known for its welcoming atmosphere and stunning views of Naxos Town’s harbor and castle.
- The Rum Bar Cocktail & Spirits – Offers a huge selection of rum and other spirits, plus a balcony with sunset views.
- Prime Bar – A fabulous cocktail bar located on the Main Street near the port.
- Swing Cocktail Bar Naxos – Known for its great music, tasteful drinks, and prime location in downtown Naxos.
- Toro Cocktail Bar – A lively spot where you can dance the night away with great DJs, staff, and cocktails.
- Babylonia – The only gay bar in Naxos, offering a fantastic balcony view of the harbor.
- 520 Premium – A great bar/restaurant near the castle with a cozy atmosphere.
- Belman – A hidden gem in the old part of Naxos City, known for its impressive cocktails and unique setting.
- Yucca Beach Bar – Located at Plaka Beach, this bar offers a relaxed atmosphere under a grand juniper tree, ideal for romantic evenings.
- Island Bar – A beachfront bar at Agia Anna, popular for its lively beach party atmosphere and quality cocktails.
Top 10 Best Museums in Naxos
- Archaeological Museum of Naxos – Housed in a historic Venetian mansion, this museum showcases artifacts from the Neolithic to the Early Christian period.
- Naxos Venetian Museum – Located in the Della Rocca-Barozzi tower, it offers a glimpse into the life of Venetian aristocrats in Naxos during the medieval period.
- Eggares Olive Press Museum – A restored traditional olive press that now serves as a museum, showcasing the traditional methods of olive oil production.
- Kouros Statue – While not a museum, this site features an ancient unfinished statue of a Kouros, providing a unique insight into ancient Greek statue-making.
- Geological Museum of Apeiranthos – Focuses on the geological wealth of Naxos, featuring minerals and rocks from the island.
- Folklore Museum of Apeiranthos – Dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of Apeiranthos, this museum displays traditional costumes, textiles, and daily life artifacts.
- Folk Museum Collection of Naxos – A small collection that offers insights into the traditional lifestyle of Naxos, including local crafts and historical photographs.
- Mitropolis Site Museum – An archaeological site with remains of early Christian basilicas, providing an educational experience about the ancient city of Naxos.
- Naxos Byzantine Museum – Showcases Byzantine and post-Byzantine icons and ecclesiastical textiles in a historic church setting.
- Cycladic Olive Museum – Offers a look at traditional olive oil production techniques through restored machinery and tools in a natural setting.
Top 10 Best Shopping Areas in Naxos
- Chora Naxos – The main town offers a delightful maze of narrow streets lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, and local artisan stores.
- Old Market Street – A charming area in the heart of Chora, perfect for finding traditional crafts, jewelry, and handmade leather goods.
- Port Area – Along the waterfront, this lively stretch is great for evening strolls and shopping, with stores offering everything from local food products to clothes.
- Naxos Pottery Workshops – Scattered around the island, these workshops showcase the rich ceramic tradition of Naxos, ideal for unique and practical souvenirs.
- Agios Georgios Beach Promenade – Features a variety of shops and stands selling beachwear, crafts, and local snacks, complemented by the beautiful beachside setting.
- Plaka Beach Road – Known for its relaxed vibe, this area offers beachside boutiques selling fashion and artisanal products, perfect after a day at the beach.
- Apiranthos Village – A mountainous village with small shops specializing in textiles, handmade lace, and local marbles.
- Filoti Village – Explore traditional Naxian products like olive oil and cheeses in the quaint shops of this charming village.
- Halki Village – Visit for artisanal jams, liquors, and the famous Naxos Citron distillery; also a hub for local arts and crafts.
- Moutsouna Village – A quiet coastal village offering a peaceful shopping experience with local artisan products and fresh seafood markets.
Top 10 Best Events in Naxos, Greece
- Naxos Festival – July to September – Celebrates arts and culture with music performances, art exhibitions, and theater productions at the Bazeos Tower.
- Feast of Agios Prokopios – July 8 – A religious and cultural celebration in honor of the saint, featuring local food, music, and dancing.
- Dionysia Festival – Early September – A tribute to Dionysus, the god of wine, with wine tastings, parades, and traditional dancing.
- Carnival (Apokries) – February or March – Features traditional costumes, parades, and festivities leading up to Lent.
- Naxos Potato Festival – August – Celebrates the island’s famed produce with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live music.
- Easter Celebrations – April – Marked by unique local customs, midnight Mass, and festive meals featuring lamb and local delicacies.
- Naxos Music Festival – August – Showcases a variety of musical genres with concerts held in picturesque locations across the island.
- Wine Harvest Festival – September – Involves grape picking, stomping, and sampling of the new wine amidst folk music and dances.
- Fisherman’s Feast – July – A seafood festival where locals and visitors enjoy fish dishes, wine, and live entertainment by the sea.
- Feast of Agia Anna – July 25 – A vibrant local festival celebrating Agia Anna with traditional music, dance, and a seaside feast.
Top 10 Best Areas in Naxos
- Chora (Naxos Town) – The capital and main harbor of the island, known for its landmark Portara and bustling waterfront.
- Agiassos – A quieter beach area perfect for those looking to escape the crowds, featuring a lovely sandy beach and traditional tavernas.
- Apollonas – A small village on the northeast coast known for its scenic views, traditional atmosphere, and the ancient Kouros statue.
- Filoti – Set in the mountains, Filoti is vibrant with cafes, restaurants, and proximity to natural attractions like Mount Zas.
- Halki (Chalkio) – Known for its preserved neoclassical architecture, local distilleries producing the citrus-based liqueur Kitron.
- Plaka – Renowned for its long, golden beach and crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and water sports.
- Aliko – Offers beautiful beaches surrounded by cedar forests, and is perfect for nature lovers and peace seekers.
- Agios Prokopios – Popular for its stunning beach, one of the most beautiful in Greece, with fine sand and turquoise waters.
- Koronos – A picturesque mountain village with steep alleys, known for its marble quarries and traditional way of life.
- Moutsouna – A quiet coastal village, once the port for the emery mines, offering tranquility and a genuine feel of island life.
How many days in Naxos (Greece) is enough?
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands in Greece, offers a stunning blend of ancient ruins, sandy beaches, and quaint villages. To fully experience Naxos’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and culinary offerings, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended. This allows for a comprehensive exploration of the island’s key attractions, from its mountainous villages to its beautiful coastlines.
Day 1: Explore Naxos Town
- Morning: Start your visit at the Portara, the iconic ancient gateway on a small islet connected to Naxos Town, offering spectacular views especially at sunset.
- Afternoon: Wander through the narrow streets of Naxos Town (Chora), exploring the Castle and the Archaeological Museum. Enjoy the shops, cafes, and the lively atmosphere.
- Evening: Dine at a taverna in the old town, trying local dishes such as “arseniko” cheese and “kitron,” a local citron liqueur.
Day 2: Beach Day
- All Day: Spend a relaxing day at one of Naxos’s famous beaches. Plaka Beach, Agios Prokopios, or Agia Anna are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
- Evening: Return to Naxos Town for an evening stroll along the waterfront, capped off by a fresh seafood dinner by the sea.
Day 3: Villages and Nature
- Morning: Drive inland to explore the picturesque mountain villages like Apiranthos, known for its marble streets and traditional architecture.
- Afternoon: Continue to Halki, where you can visit a traditional distillery to taste the unique flavors of local spirits and explore artisan shops.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the villages, tasting more traditional Naxian cuisine paired with local wine.
Day 4 (Optional): More Exploration or Relaxation
- Day: If you have an extra day, consider a boat trip to nearby small islands like Koufonisia, or enjoy more of Naxos’s extensive beaches and hiking trails. Alternatively, engage in a cooking class to learn about Greek island cuisine firsthand.
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, relaxation on beautiful beaches, and immersion into the island’s rich gastronomic traditions. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, lounging by the Aegean Sea, or wandering through charming villages, Naxos provides a memorable and enriching experience. Tailor your visit based on personal interests, with plenty of options for further exploration, adventure, or culinary indulgence.
Top 5 Beaches to Visit in Naxos, Greece
- Plaka Beach – A long, beautiful stretch of white sand, ideal for a peaceful day by the sea.
- Distance from Naxos Town: 8km
- Google Maps
- Agios Prokopios Beach – Known for its stunning clear waters and sandy shores, perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts.
- Distance from Naxos Town: 6km
- Google Maps
- Agia Anna Beach – Offers a lively atmosphere with its turquoise waters and nearby tavernas.
- Distance from Naxos Town: 6km
- Google Maps
- Mikri Vigla Beach – A paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its ideal wind conditions.
- Distance from Naxos Town: 17km
- Google Maps
- Aliko Beach – A serene getaway featuring a series of beautiful coves and a unique cedar forest.
- Distance from Naxos Town: 18km
- Google Maps
TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Naxos (Greece)
Best Time To Visit Naxos
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands in Greece, offers stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and quaint villages. Its Mediterranean climate provides warm, sunny summers and mild winters, making it a great destination year-round. However, certain times of the year showcase Naxos at its best, providing the ideal conditions for both beach-going and cultural exploration.
Spring (April to June)
Spring in Naxos is delightful, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The landscape is lush and green, flowers are in bloom, and the island is less crowded, making it a perfect time for exploring the historic sites and hiking the island’s scenic trails. The weather is comfortably warm, ideal for the first swims of the season in the island’s crystal-clear waters.
Summer (July to August)
Summer is the peak season in Naxos, with temperatures typically between 25°C and 30°C. The island vibrates with energy as tourists from around the world come to enjoy the magnificent beaches, such as Agios Prokopios and Plaka. Naxos hosts several cultural festivals during summer, including the Naxos Festival, which features music, dance, and theatre performances in the ancient Venetian Castle. While this is the busiest time of year, the vibrant nightlife and bustling beach scenes are major draws.
Fall (September to October)
Fall is another excellent time to visit Naxos, as the temperatures cool slightly to between 20°C and 25°C, and the high season crowds dissipate. The sea remains warm, making it ideal for water sports and swimming. The light is particularly beautiful for photography, especially in the late afternoon, making it a great time for capturing the scenic beauty of the island’s landscapes and sunsets.
Winter (November to March)
Winter in Naxos is mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C. Although some tourist facilities may close for the season, winter can be a wonderful time to experience the local way of life, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s also an excellent period for culinary tourism, as visitors can enjoy local products like Naxian cheese and wine without the summer crowds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best time to visit Naxos depends on what you’re looking for. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for those who wish to explore the island’s natural beauty and historical sites in peace. Summer offers a lively atmosphere perfect for beach lovers and festival-goers. Winter provides a quiet, authentic experience of Greek island life. Regardless of when you visit, Naxos’s charm and beauty are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.
How To Get To Naxos?
- Naxos Island National Airport: Serves mostly domestic flights, particularly from Athens, making it a convenient entry point for visitors from the Greek mainland. Google Maps
- Port of Naxos: The main seaport on the island, offering ferry connections to other Cycladic islands, Athens (Piraeus and Rafina ports), and occasionally to the Dodecanese and Crete. Google Maps
How To Move Around Naxos
- KTEL Naxos Buses: Provides extensive bus services that connect most villages and popular beaches around the island, making it easy and affordable to explore Naxos.
- Car and Scooter Rentals: Due to the size of the island, renting a car or scooter can be very practical for visiting more remote areas and beaches that are not easily accessible by bus.
- Taxis: Available in Naxos Town and at the airport, taxis offer a convenient option for quick trips or when returning from a late dinner in the town.
- Bike Rentals: A fun way to explore the scenic landscapes of Naxos, with rental shops available in Naxos Town and near major tourist areas.
- Walking: Naxos Town, especially the historic Castle area and the waterfront, is pleasant and pedestrian-friendly, perfect for exploring the local shops, cafes, and historic sites on foot.
Top 10 Dishes in Naxos
- Grilled Octopus – Tender octopus traditionally grilled and served with olive oil and lemon, reflecting the island’s strong maritime culture.
- Moussaka – A hearty casserole made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, potatoes, and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce.
- Patatato – A local specialty of goat meat stewed with potatoes in a rich tomato sauce, seasoned with local herbs.
- Naxian Cheese – Try the distinct varieties like Graviera (a hard cheese), Arseniko (a robust sheep’s cheese), and Myzithra (a fresh, soft cheese).
- Stuffed Vine Leaves (Dolmadakia) – Grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs, and sometimes pine nuts or ground meat, often served with lemon sauce.
- Fried Potatoes – Locally grown potatoes, cut and fried, often seasoned with sea salt and oregano, served as a delicious side dish.
- Kokoras Krasatos – Rooster cooked in red wine and tomatoes, a flavorful dish that showcases the island’s rustic culinary traditions.
- Tomatokeftedes (Tomato Fritters) – Savory fritters made with tomatoes, herbs, and feta cheese, a popular vegetarian option.
- Saganaki – Fried cheese, typically a firm variety like kefalotyri, served sizzling hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Galaktoboureko – A sweet dessert of custard sandwiched between layers of phyllo pastry, soaked in a light lemon-scented syrup.
Top 10 Facts & Things To Know About Naxos (Greece)
- Largest of the Cyclades – Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea.
- The Portara – This massive marble gateway is the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo, prominently standing near the entrance to Naxos Harbor.
- Mount Zeus – The highest peak in the Cyclades, Mount Zeus is said to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods.
- Famous Cheese – Naxos is known for its production of various types of cheese, especially the Graviera Naxou, a sweet and hard cheese.
- Kouros Statues – Scattered around the island are several unfinished statues of kouros, ancient Greek representations of male youths, which date back to the 6th century BCE.
- Traditional Villages – Naxos features several picturesque villages with traditional Cycladic architecture, like Apiranthos and Halki.
- Agriculture – The island is fertile and agriculturally rich, producing olives, grapes, figs, and citrus fruits, unlike many other Cycladic islands.
- Windsurfing and Kitesurfing – Due to its windy conditions, especially during the summer months, Naxos is a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Archaeological Museum of Naxos – Located in a historic Venetian building, this museum houses artifacts that trace the island’s history from the Neolithic to the Early Christian period.
- Venetian Castles – Naxos was under Venetian rule during the medieval period, and the remnants of this era, including the castle in Naxos Town, add to the island’s historic allure.
Category: Greece
