Best Things to Do in Naxos, Greece

Let’s start by learning more about this stunning Greek island part of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea.

General Things to Know About Naxos

About Naxos: Right in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Naxos is a large and lush Cycladic island with one-of-a-kind features. It’s not a famous tourist destination, yet it offers many things to do.

Naxos is a rich island with fertile plains, springs and rivers, green valleys, and high mountains. And if these were not enough, it’s also home to some of the best beaches in Greece.

The island’s main center is known as Chora, yet, being such an extensive place, several villages keep very traditional habits to the present day.

The island’s economy depends mostly on its agriculture. Naxos is, in fact, known for its fantastic cheeses as well as for its potatoes and its landmark spirit, the kitron.

What to Expect in Naxos

The island enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate all year round, with very hot summers and little rain. Generally speaking, summer-like weather begins in mid-March lasting until the end of September, sometimes even well into October!

From the beginning of Spring, the island wears its greenest dress.

Wildflowers and herbs fill the air with inebriating aromas. But when the peak of the summer gets closer, the landscape turns dry and harsh.

Winter is cold, but temperatures are not as rigid as in the rest of Europe. It’s rare to find temperatures below zero, and there are many sunny days, even during the cold season.

Frequently Asked Questions about Naxos

Map of Naxos

How Much Time You Should Spend in Naxos

Even though just a few days will be ok to have a quick view of the island, if you want to go any deeper, I would not recommend spending less than 5 days in Naxos.

Having more time will make it easier to explore hidden villages, visit remote beaches, and get in real touch with the local culture.

A week would be enough… And more than a week is ideal! Let’s now look at some of the things you can do in Naxos if you have at least 4 or 5 days.

Stunning Things to Do on Naxos Island, Greece

Make a point to put these things on your Naxos bucket list!

Discover the Beautiful Chora of Naxos

One of the most stunning things to do in Naxos is to get lost in the romantic atmosphere of the old town. The city, or Chora, stands in a somewhat higher position, and it offers a magnificent view of the sea.

If you look at the old town from the port, instead, the imposing Venetian castle on top of the chora is the piece of jewelry on top of the crown.

Known as Bourgo, the old town grew surrounding the castle’s walls.

Bourgo is a typical Cycladic settlement of whitewashed cubic houses with colorful doors and shutters adorned with pink and white bougainvillea. 

Stop at any of the local tavernas for a cold drink during summer and to watch life passing by in this gorgeous area of Naxos.

Check the Kastro of Naxos

The best way to access the Venetian Castle is through the gate known as Trani Porta, or the main gate, located towards the north.

Check the rest of the defensive towers, the passages, and the ancient alleys inside the castle.

You can also access the Catholic church inside the castle and the ancient cemetery.

Watch the Sunset from the Portara

The city is connected to the Palatia islet by a long man-made road that everyone walks in the late hours to secure a spot close to the Portara. Nobody wants to miss the sun going down in this corner of the Aegean.

Visit the Venetian Museum

Known as Domus Della Rocca-Barozzi, the Venetian museum is located next to Trani Gate. 

The visit lets you better admire the structure of the old castle, but it also allows you to taste the different wines that the Della Rocca-Barozzi family produces on the island.

Discover the Archaeological Museum of Naxos

One more thing to visit when you are inside the castle, occupying the premises of the former French School, is the interesting Archaeological Museum of Naxos.

The museum features the mysterious Cycladic statues and an impressive collection of objects from different historic times, from the Neolithic to the Roman periods.

Spend a Day at One of the City Beaches

There are two beaches close to Chora that you can visit, Grotta and Agios Giorgos. These are convenient places to sunbathe and swim if you are not planning to explore other beaches on the island.

None of them can be considered the best beaches in Naxos, but certain characteristics make them worth a visit.

Grotta can be your cup of tea if you’re a snorkeling fan. The beach is known for the submerged Minoan settlements that can still be seen underwater.

Agios Giorgos is a long sandy beach on the southern end of the seaside promenade.

Explore the Mountains of Naxos

Besides its spectacular beaches, Naxos is also famous for the green valleys, the high mountains, and many traditional villages you can discover.

Driving around the island, you can discover forgotten archaeological ruins, lonely churches, remains of abandoned fortresses, and inspiring landscapes.

You can spend a day visiting several villages, tasting the island’s traditional dishes, and learning about unique Naxian arts and crafts.

Sangri is a gorgeous settlement where time seems to have stopped ages ago.

Kato Sangri (Lower Sangri) hosts the remains of an old Venetian Castle, while in Ano Sangri (Upper Sangri), there’s the old Byzantine Castle of Apaliron, about 400 meters high and with stunning views of the underlying valley.

Check Temple of Demeter

It’s also in the area of Sangri where you can discover one of the most spectacular remains from Classical times, the Temple of Demeter, with its perfect square shape.

You can also check out a Paleochristian Basilica and a small but interesting archaeological museum with findings from the local excavations.

Discover Halki and the Tragea Valley

Once you leave Sangri behind, drive north to reach the Tragea Valley, a unique wide valley covered with olive trees and aromatic plants.

From here, it’s possible to reach the picturesque settlement of Halki, one of the best-known traditional settlements on the island.

Halki is known for Vallindras Distillery, which has produced kitron since 1896.

Kitron is the landmark spirit produced in Naxos made with the zest and leaves of a local tree.

Go Beyond Halki: Apeiranthos

Apeiranthos is an immaculate white marble settlement with very clear Cretan characteristics. In fact, several historians believe that people from Crete moved here and founded the village in the 10th century.

In Apeiranthos, you will find characteristic Venetian fortifications and amazing natural views of the surrounding valleys.

There are four museums in the small village and tasty and varied gastronomy to taste, focusing on local cheeses, natural yogurt, and other dairy products.

Check out the Northern Coast of Naxos

Driving the scenic road from Apeiranthos to Apollonas is another of the many things to do in Naxos. Although not an exciting ride for those faint of heart, this mountain road can prove extremely fun for adrenaline junkies!

Driving this way, you will venture along winding roads from the villages of Koronos all the way to Koronida, the highest settlement on the island.

This is certainly one of the best things to do in Naxos and a non-touristic one!

Spend Time in the Village of Apollonas

Known mostly for the 12-meter-long Kouros, the male statue left abandoned in the area hundreds of years ago, Apollonas is a small fishing village with a couple of tiny beaches that attract those holidaymakers who want to relax and disconnect in this less popular area of Naxos. 

There are several cafés and tavernas for a traditional lunch by the sea too. You can either spend the night in one of the small local hotels or drive back to Naxos, taking the panoramic coastal road, most of it impressively overlooking the sea.

If the trip gets too long, you can visit Engares, a typical village with a small museum featuring an ancient olive mill.

Hike Mount Zas

If you love adventure, you can hike the tallest mountain on the Cyclades. According to the myth, this was where God Zeus grew up (if you’re looking for such a place in Crete, check this cave).

Following the legend, you can also learn that his son, God Dionysus, also grew up in the Cave of Zas.

The mountain is a beloved trekking destination on Naxos Island. It’s possible to follow the trekking path that starts from Danakos village.

Once on the summit, the views of the sea and other Cycladic islands are stunning. Besides, you can discover a lot about the local species too.

It’s possible to get there with your own car or take the public bus that from the Chora of Naxos reaches the village of Danakos (check the bus schedules at the station. Please take into account that the departure hours can change according to the season and the weather conditions).

Learn More About the Kouros

Close to the village of Flerio, it’s possible to visit two of the most mysterious ancient remains on this island.

These two male figures left unfinished in the area are located close to the impressive marble quarries of Naxos, towards the island’s center.

They are about 6 meters long each and date back to approximately 570 BC. You can check out more photos about our visit in this post.

Take a Day Trip to the Small Cyclades

The group of small islands also known as the Lesser Cyclades or Small Cyclades is located between the islands of Naxos and Amorgos, you can take a ferry to visit Iraklia, Schinoussa, Ano Koufonissia, or Donoussa.

These heavenly islands have yet to be discovered by mass tourism, and they are an ideal place to relax and disconnect completely.

It’s possible to reach the Small Cyclades with the Express Skopelitis, a small ferry that sails to these islands all year round, here it’s possible to check the ticket prices and the schedule.

Top 5 Beaches in Naxos

Of course, you cannot visit Naxos without checking out the local beaches, some of them among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean.

These are the top five beaches you must see in Naxos:

Plaka Beach

Plaka is one of my favorite beaches in Naxos… and in Greece. Maybe because I visited during May, when it was virtually empty, maybe because the trip to Naxos is one of my fondest memories of discovering the Cyclades…

This is a fantastic beach, and you won’t be disappointed.

The beach features kilometers of soft, clear sand and pristine waters. Nudism is ok, and it’s possible to get food and drinks within a small walking distance.

Agios Prokopios

About 15 minutes by car from the Chora, Agios Prokopios is a popular beach in Naxos that you can’t miss. It’s also possible to reach the area by public bus, so it’s commonly quite crowded.

The beach is well organized and some great tavernas at the beachfront promenade are usually overpopulated all day.

The water has a fantastic, vibrant turquoise color, the sand is soft, and there are some spots where you can get shelter from the sun under tamarisk trees.

Mikri Viglia

Probably the most exotic beach on the island, it is known for its transparent waters and soft sand. Some rocks on different spots along the shore create small coves that are not hit by the wind.

Mikri Viglia is known as one of the finest beaches in Greece. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the southern side of the beach, Limanaki, which is well protected from the northern winds.

Agia Anna

It might not be as spectacular as the other beaches mentioned above. Still, Agia Anna is easy to reach from the town center and super well-organized, making it one of the most popular shores on Naxos. It has very shallow waters, which makes it perfect for children.

The beach is close to Agios Prokopios beach, so it can be easy to visit both on the same day. Agia Anna tends to get quite busy during the summer.

Apollonas

This lesser-known beach is somewhat remote on the island’s northern tip, so not many visitors get to the area unless they have their own car.

It’s also possible to get to Apollonas with the public bus that departs from the Chora.

In the area, you will find beaches with small pebbles and sand.

There’s some organization by the beach, including traditional tavernas serving the catch of the day, and a few studios to spend the night if you change your mind and want to spend the evening instead of going back to the Chora.

Top Tours You Shouldn’t Miss in Naxos

These are some of the most popular tours in Naxos and the surrounding areas.

Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern: A great cooking class and meal tasting that let you be part of the island’s everyday life. Learn to cook your favorite Greek recipes and discover one of the most picturesque villages on Naxos. Book this cooking class here.

Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling with Lunch & Drinks: Join this activity to spend the day on a catamaran and explore the coastal wonders surrounding Naxos. You will check out beautiful swimming spots, snorkel for marine life, and enjoy lunch on the Aegean Sea. Book this catamaran cruise here.

Small Cyclades Full-Day Boat Trip from Naxos: Check out this activity at sea to explore the impressive Small Cyclades and with free time to soak up the sun, stroll through the village or visit the uninhabited island of Kato Koufonissi. Book this day trip here.

Naxos Mythology Walking Tour and Sunset at the Portara: Enjoy a relaxed evening walk in Naxos Old Town and the Castle with a local,  explore the winding streets of the old Naxos while listening to stories of Greek gods, heroes, and mythical creatures. Discover the beautiful sights of the city, and enjoy the sunset from the Portara. Book this walking tour here.

Alternatively, you can check. out these gorgeous Airbnbs and vacation homes in Naxos. If you prefer to check out a few properties now, these are my suggestions for different budgets:

Where to Eat in Naxos

• O Vasilis: A top-rated place on the island for traditional dishes (Melanes village)
• Yasouvlaki: Informal style, delicious souvlaki, and comfort food (Chora promenade)
• Taverna Dalas: Traditional Greek dishes with convenient prices (Koronos village)

You must try:

• Local dishes made with potatoes. Potatoes from Naxos are exported to the rest of the islands and are delicious, and crispy when fried, or cooked in the oven.
• Graviera cheese from Naxos is one of the most delicious cheeses in Greece.
• Kitron is the local alcoholic drink that has been a landmark of Naxos for ages.

Naxos at Night

There’s a lot to do in Naxos at night for every age and every pocket. Nightlife can be pretty active and intense…. or as romantic as you can make it.

Such a big island offers a lot of entertainment, from the most romantic sunset spot by the sea to clubs and bars to listen to music and enjoy summer cocktails.

Top Things to Do in Naxos at Night

• Enjoy the sunset at the Portara, walk along the romantic alleys in the Chora, and go for a degustation of local wines at La Vigne. If you’re in the mood, you can enjoy jazz music at Jazz & Blues Bar, a speakeasy in the Chora of Naxos.
• In the mood for cocktails? Check out Yazoo Summer Bliss Cocktail Bar right in the heart of Plaka, opposite the sea. Another great seaside venue, this time in Agia Anna beach is Banana Bar. In town, enjoy the terrace views and the drinks at 520 Cocktail Bar. Looking for a music bar? Check On the Rocks Bar, also in Naxos Chora.
• Want to go clubbing? Ocean Mojo Club is a top place for a fun evening seasoned with the most amazing cocktails (Naxos Town waterfront).

How to Get to Naxos

The best way to get to Naxos from Athens is by plane. Prices can be affordable if you book months before the travel date. However, the most common way to reach the destination is by traveling to Naxos by ferry.

Most departures are from the port of Piraeus, on mainland Greece. In summer, there are at least xxx boats reaching Naxos daily. there are also departures from the port of

There are also ferries departing from the Port of Rafina, (closer to Athens international airport), with a travel time from 3 to 5 hours. Weekly ferry services depart from the Port of Lavrio in Athens.

>> For more information on how to reach Naxos, check out this article.

How to Move Around in Naxos

On such a big island, nothing better than the freedom of renting your own car. It’s the perfect way to explore hidden corners of the island that you would otherwise miss because no public transport reaches the areas frequently.

Besides, a rental car gives you flexibility to plan your itinerary beforehand or your day on the go.

We’ve had an awesome experience with a local company. However, you can also look for a car by using an international car rental search engine for more choices when looking for a car to rent. 

Hiring a bike is a second possibility, especially if you plan to move close to the center or to visit beaches that are not off the beaten track.

However, motorcycles are not the best means of transport if you’re traveling with the family or in colder months. Mountain roads tend to be cold and even icy in winter.

What to Pack for a Trip to Naxos

Hikers will certainly walk better when wearing breathable walking shoes. If you venture into the mountains, carry a comfortable pair of pants, and add a good quality hat to your outfit to protect you from the sun. If you want more details about how to prepare your beach back, check out this article!

Clothing and accessories: Pack clothes that you can easily mix and match. Choose breathable material or garments that dry fast for you to wash and wear the day after.

Three T-shirts, two pairs of shorts, and a couple of summer dresses will be more than fine.

For men, a nice shirt for dinner, three to five T-shirts, plus two pairs of shorts or bermudas are more than enough for a week on the islands.

When it comes to shoes, if you’re a woman, avoid heels and prefer flat sandals or wedges. For men, the best shoes are summer loafers or soft leather sandals. Don’t leave your flip-flops at home.

Don’t forget your toiletries, electronics, a photo camera, extra memory cards, and a good guide to the Greek islands.

Only a Short Visit to Naxos? Don’t Miss These…

If you’re visiting Naxos for a couple of days only, these are the three things you should not miss:

• Visit the Portara at sunset
• Explore the beach of Plaka
• Spend a few hours discovering the mountain village of Halki

Are you visiting Naxos soon?

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