Greece
Naxos
4.6
The largest Cycladic island offering stunning beaches, ancient temples, and mountain villages. Ideal for beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It features some of the longest sandy beaches in Greece.
The huge marble gateway of an unfinished 6th century BC temple stands on the islet of Palatia. It is the ideal spot on the island to enjoy the sunset overlooking the Aegean.
Known as the 'marble village', it preserves its architecture intact with stone tower houses and marble-paved alleys. It features five museums and a distinct local dialect reminiscent of Crete.
Morning Visit to Portara
Palatia Islet, Naxos Chora · 1 hour
Walk along the paved path connecting Chora to the islet of Palatia to see the imposing marble gate up close. The view towards the town and the Aegean is dazzling in the morning light, offering the best introduction to the island.
Why it's worth it: It is the most iconic spot on the island and visiting in the morning avoids the large crowds of sunset.
Tour of the Venetian Castle
Naxos Chora Castle · 2 hours
Explore the medieval castle town inhabited continuously from the Venetian period to the present day. You will see the nobles' mansions with their family crests, the Catholic Cathedral, and the Archaeological Museum housed in an old commercial school.
Why it's worth it: Strolling through the narrow, shaded alleys of the Castle is ideal before temperatures rise too high at midday.
Taverna Area · Traditional Naxian · €€
Rabbit stew and fried Naxian potatoes.
Mountain Tavernas · Meat Dishes · €€
Grilled lamb chops and house-made cheeses.
Beach Restaurants · Mediterranean & Fish · €€€
Lobster pasta and fresh shellfish.
Traditional Cafes & Meze Bars · Local Meze · €
Assortment of Naxian cheeses and local wine.
Confectionery Shops · Traditional Sweets · €
Citron spoon sweets and homemade lemonade.
Naxos Island National Airport 'Apollon' (JNX), located about 3 kilometers from Chora.
Naxos Chora and the Castle are ideal for walking, as most areas are pedestrianized. However, distances between villages and beaches are long and require transportation.
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Sign inBest time to visit
May, June, July, August, September
The Naxos General Hospital - Health Center operates in Chora for emergency cases. There are several pharmacies in Chora and larger villages like Filoti.
One of the most important ancient temples in Greece, built entirely of white marble in 530 BC. Located in a beautiful valley and exceptionally restored.
An unfinished giant statue 10 meters long lying in the ancient quarry of Apollonas since the 6th century BC. It is an impressive personification of the god Dionysus or Apollo.
An endless stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters and natural dunes. Considered one of the best beaches in Greece, offering both organized sections and secluded corners.
Swimming at Agios Prokopios
Agios Prokopios Beach · 3-4 hours
Enjoy the crystal-clear turquoise waters of one of Europe's most awarded beaches with its characteristic coarse sand that doesn't stick to the skin. The beach is sheltered from northern winds, making it ideal for relaxing and swimming.
Why it's worth it: Located close to Chora and offers all amenities for the warm hours of the day.
Stroll through the Sand Dunes of Plaka
Plaka Beach · 2 hours
Walk along the endless golden sandy beach of Plaka, where natural sand dunes with sea daffodils create a unique setting. You can combine your walk with a stop for coffee or a cocktail at one of the beachfront venues.
Why it's worth it: The afternoon light highlights the golden color of the sand and the temperature is more pleasant for walking.
Sunset and Stroll along the Chora Waterfront
Naxos Chora Port · 2 hours
Return to Chora to watch the sun sink into the Aegean behind Portara, creating one of Greece's most famous photographic frames. Afterwards, wander through the shops of the coastal road and the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Market.
Why it's worth it: It is the classic Naxos experience combining natural beauty with vibrant town life.
Chora Port
Chora Port · Cycladic Breakfast
Choose one of the cafes at the port to try local yogurt with Naxian honey and fresh pastries.
Caption: Naxian cheese pie with graviera.
Agios Prokopios
Agios Prokopios · Seafood and Greek Cuisine
Dine at one of the tavernas right by the wave, enjoying fresh fish and local salads.
Caption: Fresh grilled squid.
Chora Old Town
Chora Old Town · Traditional Naxian
Look for tavernas hidden in the alleys of the Old Market serving dishes with local meats and cheeses.
Caption: Rosto (pork with garlic and wine).
Visit to the Temple of Demeter
Sangri · 1-2 hours
Admire the restored 6th century BC temple, built of white marble in a fertile valley. The small museum next to the archaeological site offers important information about the temple's architecture, considered a precursor to the Parthenon.
Why it's worth it: The location is peaceful and the morning light highlights the whiteness of the marble.
Kitron Tasting in Halki
Halki (Tragaea) · 1 hour
Visit the historic Vallindras distillery in the village square to learn how traditional Naxian Kitron liqueur is produced from citron leaves. You can taste the three varieties of the liqueur and see the old copper stills.
Why it's worth it: Halki is the old commercial capital of the island and visiting the distillery is an authentic experience.
Hiking to the Summit of Zas
Filoti / Danakos · 3-4 hours
Follow the trail from the Aria spring or Agia Marina to reach the summit of the highest mountain in the Cyclades (1,004m). According to mythology, Zeus grew up here, and the view from the top includes almost all the surrounding Aegean islands.
Why it's worth it: The climb offers the best panoramic view of the archipelago and is a challenge for adventure lovers.
Exploring Marble Apiranthos
Apiranthos · 2-3 hours
Walk through the marble-paved alleys of the village, admire the Venetian towers and stone houses with their elaborate chimneys. Visit the Archaeological or Folklore Museum to understand the unique cultural identity of the residents who have Cretan roots.
Why it's worth it: It is the most picturesque mountain village of Naxos and the atmosphere in the afternoon is magical.
Relaxing in Filoti
Filoti · 2 hours
End your day in the largest village of Naxos, built amphitheatrically at the foot of Zas. The central square with its huge plane tree is the meeting point for locals and visitors, offering an authentic sense of Naxian hospitality.
Why it's worth it: Filoti buzzes with life in the evenings and offers great dining options.
Halki
Halki · Traditional Sweets
Sit in the village square and try homemade pies and spoon sweets.
Caption: Galaktoboureko or orange pie.
Filoti
Filoti · Mountain Naxian
At the tavernas under the plane tree, you will find excellent home-produced meats and local specialties.
Caption: Goat in the clay pot.
Apiranthos
Apiranthos · Local Cuisine
Enjoy your dinner with a view of the mountain peaks, trying dishes based on the village's famous cheeses.
Caption: Zamboni (local cured meat) and Arseniko cheese.
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