Best Time to Visit
May to October
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Greek
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Discover Naxos
Naxos, the largest and most fertile of the Cyclades, is an island of profound contrasts and authentic Greek spirit. While its iconic Portara, the marble gateway to an unfinished temple of Apollo, frames legendary sunsets over the Aegean, the island's true heart lies inland. Here, you'll find the towering peak of Mount Zas, the mythical birthplace of Zeus, terraced olive groves, and ancient marble quarries that supplied stone for masterpieces across the ancient world.
Unlike its more touristic neighbors, Naxos retains a deeply agricultural soul, evident in its prized potatoes, graviera cheese, and fragrant kitron liqueur distilled from local citron leaves. The experience oscillates between the endless golden sands of Plaka and Agios Prokopios beaches and the labyrinthine, Venetian-era alleyways of Naxos Town (Chora), where Byzantine churches hide behind medieval castle walls. This is an island for those who want to experience the Cyclades beyond the postcard, where village festivals (panigiria) in Apeiranthos or Filoti are as much a highlight as a day at the beach.
Why Visit Naxos?
Unrivaled Beaches for Every Taste: From the endless, organized sands of Plaka and Agios Prokopios with their crystal-clear, shallow waters perfect for families, to the wild, windswept beauty of Mikri Vigla for kitesurfers and the secluded coves near Abram.
A Living Tapestry of History: Walk through the monumental Portara, explore the 6th-century BC Temple of Demeter at Sangri, and get lost in the Kastro (Castle) of Naxos Town, a living Venetian fortress neighborhood still inhabited by descendants of the original Catholic families.
Authentic Mountain Village Life: Discover the stone-built villages of the Tragea valley like Halki, Filoti, and Apeiranthos, with their marble-paved streets, ancient towers (pirgi), and local tavernas serving slow-cooked lamb and local cheese.
A Culinary Powerhouse: Savor the island's self-sufficiency through its famous Naxos graviera cheese, aromatic potatoes, fresh seafood, and unique citron-based products like kitron liqueur, best sampled at the Vallindras Distillery in Halki.
The Heart of Cycladic Mythology & Nature: Hike to the summit of Mount Zas, the highest point in the Cyclades, following the path of Zeus, and explore the lush green valleys and ancient olive groves that make Naxos surprisingly verdant.
A Hub for Authentic Adventures: Perfect for hiking through ancient paths (monopati), learning traditional pottery in the village of Damalas, windsurfing at Laguna Beach, or simply enjoying the relaxed, unpretentious pace of local life away from the crowds.
Naxos is Known For
Ready to explore Naxos?
Naxos Neighborhoods
Naxos Town (Chora) & the Kastro
The bustling capital and port, a mesmerizing maze where the modern ferry port meets a medieval Venetian castle town. The lower Bourgos area is alive with shops and tavernas, while the upper Kastro is a serene, historic citadel.
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Agios Prokopios & Agia Anna
The epicenter of Naxos's famous beach life, featuring two of the island's longest and most stunning sandy beaches with incredibly clear, shallow waters. A mix of organized resorts, family-run studios, and lively beach bars.
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The Tragea Valley Villages
The lush, green heart of Naxos, dotted with picturesque stone villages like Halki, Filoti, and Damarionas. This area is known for its olive groves, Byzantine churches, and traditional way of life.
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Apollonas & the Northern Coast
A rugged, scenic region known for its dramatic coastline, quiet fishing villages, and ancient sites. It offers a more remote and tranquil Naxian experience.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Rent a car or ATV for at least a day. Naxos's best villages and secluded beaches are inland or on the north/east coasts, poorly served by public buses.
- •Visit the Temple of Demeter at Sangri in the late afternoon for the best light and fewer visitors. The site and small museum are a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
- •For the best kitron liqueur tasting, head to the original Vallindras Distillery in Halki, not just the shops in Chora. Try all three varieties: green, yellow, and clear.
- •Eat at a village 'panigiri' (saint's day festival) if your visit coincides. Villages like Filoti or Apeiranthos host huge feasts with free food, wine, and dancing.
- •Buy local produce directly. Look for small roadside stalls selling Naxos potatoes, thyme honey, and graviera cheese—they're cheaper and fresher than in tourist shops.
- •Hike the old Byzantine path from Melanes to the Kouros of Flerio. It's an easy, shaded walk through beautiful countryside to ancient marble quarries and statues.
- •Swim at Alyko Beach, not just for the sand but to see the unique, graffiti-covered abandoned hotel complex in the cedar forest—an unexpected artistic installation.
- •In Naxos Town, explore the 'Matogianni' area inside the Bourgos for the best traditional tavernas, hidden away from the main waterfront crowds.
- •Take the early morning ferry to the Small Cyclades (Koufonissia, Schinoussa) for an incredible day trip. They're closer from Naxos than from Mykonos or Santorini.
- •If you visit in September, you might catch the Naxos Festival, with open-air concerts and theatrical performances in stunning venues like the Bazeos Tower.
Naxos Food Scene
Naxian cuisine is a celebration of the island's fertile land and pastoral traditions. It's famously self-sufficient, producing its own cheese, meat, potatoes, and even its unique citron fruit. Meals are hearty, flavorful, and deeply connected to the seasons.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Village Taverna
- • To Elliniko in Apeiranthos for Patatato
- • Kafenio O Vasilis in Halki for home-cooked classics
- • Lefteris in Axiotissa for charcoal-grilled meats
Go for lunch; many village tavernas are only open midday and are where locals eat.
Seafood by the Sea
- • Irini's Fish Tavern in Apollonas
- • L'Oasis in Agia Anna
- • Mikri Vigla Taverna for the catch of the day
Always ask for the price per kilo before ordering fish to avoid surprises.
Naxian Cheese & Delicacies
- • Tirokomika Naxou shop in Chora
- • Any local 'manaviko' (greengrocer) for graviera
- • Kitron tasting at Vallindras Distillery in Halki
Graviera tastes best when slightly room temperature. Buy a wedge to enjoy with bread and local honey.
Casual & Modern
- • Labyrinth Restaurant in Naxos Town for creative Cycladic
- • Scirocco for sunset cocktails and mezze
- • Waffle House Naxos for a sweet treat
Even modern places often have a 'Naxian Plate'—a great way to sample local specialties in one sitting.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Naxos
Spring
April to June is idyllic, with wildflowers carpeting the mountains, comfortable temperatures, and vibrant green landscapes. The sea starts to warm up, and tourist crowds are minimal.
Pros:
- + Perfect hiking weather
- + Lush, photogenic scenery
- + Easter celebrations are spectacular
Cons:
- - Sea can be chilly for swimming early in the season
- - Some beach facilities/tavernas may not be fully open until May
Summer
July and August bring hot, dry weather, crowded beaches, and a buzzing, festive atmosphere. This is peak season with all services open and frequent cultural events.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed hot, sunny beach weather
- + All restaurants, bars, and tours operating
- + Lively nightlife and festivals
Cons:
- - Crowded, especially in Chora and popular beaches
- - Strong Meltemi winds can affect ferry schedules and beach comfort
- - Highest prices for accommodation
Autumn
September and October offer a golden, relaxed period. The sea is at its warmest, the summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather remains sunny and pleasant.
Pros:
- + Warm sea perfect for swimming
- + Harvest season for grapes and olives
- + Ideal balance of good weather and fewer people
Cons:
- - Some businesses start to close from mid-October
- - Unpredictable weather possible in late October
Winter
November to March is quiet and local. Many tourist businesses shut down, but you experience authentic island life, stormy seas, and cozy village moments.
Pros:
- + Absolute peace and authenticity
- + Lowest prices for long-term stays
- + Experience local winter festivals and traditions
Cons:
- - Unpredictable, often rainy and windy weather
- - Very limited tourist infrastructure (hotels, restaurants, ferries)
- - Not suitable for beach holidays
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Day Trips from Naxos
The Small Cyclades (Koufonissia)
1-1.5 hours by ferry
A journey to a simpler, more pristine Cycladic world. Koufonissia is actually two tiny islands (Pano and Kato) known for incredible turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a laid-back, bohemian vibe.
Delos & Mykonos
1.5-2 hours by ferry (often a combined tour)
A pilgrimage to the sacred, uninhabited island of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking ruins. Often combined with a short stop in bustling Mykonos.
Paros & Antiparos
30-45 minutes by ferry to Paros
Visit the charming, polished neighbor of Paros, famous for its white marble and picturesque villages like Naoussa and Lefkes, with the option to take a short boat ride to the caverns of Antiparos.
Naxos Budget Guide
Naxos is generally more affordable than neighboring Santorini or Mykonos, offering excellent value, especially for food and accommodation outside the peak July/August period. Self-catering and using local transport can keep costs low.
Budget
€50-70 per person for hostels, self-catering, buses, and cheap eats.
per day
Mid-Range
€100-180 per person for a comfortable studio/apartment, scooter/car rental, taverna meals, and some activities.
per day
Luxury
€250+ per person for boutique hotels, fine dining, private tours, and premium beach clubs.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Accommodation is significantly cheaper in villages like Agios Prokopios vs. Naxos Town harbor.
- •Eating at traditional village tavernas is often 30% cheaper than seafront restaurants in Chora.
- •Renting a car as a group of 3-4 is very cost-effective for exploring.
- •Buy wine, cheese, and snacks from supermarkets for picnics on the beach.
- •Many of the best experiences (hiking, village exploring, swimming) are free.
Naxos Hidden Gems
The Kouros at Melanes (Flerio)
A giant, unfinished 6th-century BC marble statue of a young man (Kouros) lying in an ancient quarry near the village of Melanes.
It's a fascinating, rarely crowded archaeological site that lets you walk right up to the massive statue and see the tool marks, all in a peaceful garden setting.
Kalantos Beach & Tower
A long, wild, and often completely deserted sandy beach on the southeast coast, backed by the ruins of a Venetian tower.
For true solitude and a sense of discovery. You'll likely have this dramatic, windswept beach all to yourself, with great views of the Small Cyclades.
The Eggares Olive Press Museum
A beautifully restored traditional olive press in the village of Eggares, now a small, free museum demonstrating old production methods.
It's a hands-on look at the agricultural history that defines Naxos, run by passionate locals. You can taste and buy exceptional local olive oil.
Chimarros Tower (Tower of Chimarrou)
A striking, well-preserved 17th-century Venetian tower house near the village of Galanado, standing alone in a field.
It's one of the best-preserved towers on the island and offers a fantastic, off-the-beaten-path photo opportunity against the backdrop of Mount Zas.
Alyko Cedar Forest & Abandoned Hotel
A unique area where a fragrant cedar forest meets sand dunes and the ruins of an abandoned 1970s hotel complex, now covered in striking graffiti art.
It's a surreal and photogenic landscape combining nature, decay, and modern street art—unlike anything else in the Cyclades.
Naxos Culture & Customs
Naxian culture is a proud blend of ancient Greek heritage, Byzantine religious tradition, and a tangible Venetian aristocratic legacy, all grounded in a strong agricultural identity. Family, village community, and religious festivals (panigiria) remain central to social life.
Cultural Etiquette
- •A friendly 'kalimera' (good morning) or 'kalispera' (good evening) when entering a small shop or taverna is appreciated.
- •Dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries (shoulders and knees covered).
- •Don't refuse an offer of a small treat (like a shot of kitron) from a shopkeeper—it's a sign of hospitality.
- •Tipping is not obligatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service in restaurants is customary.
- •When invited to a village festival, be respectful and join in the dancing—it's a communal celebration.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Naxos
How many days do I need in Naxos?
A minimum of 3 full days is recommended to see the main town, a few key beaches, and explore some mountain villages. 5-7 days is ideal to fully relax, discover hidden gems, and take a day trip to the Small Cyclades.
Is Naxos good for families?
Excellent. The island is safe, relaxed, and has many shallow, sandy beaches perfect for children (like Agios Prokopios and Plaka). The variety of activities—from beach time to easy village visits—caters well to all ages.
Do I need to rent a car in Naxos?
Yes, if you want to explore beyond the main town and nearby beaches efficiently. The bus service is reliable for major routes but infrequent to remote areas. A car or ATV unlocks the island's true beauty.
What is the famous drink of Naxos?
Kitron, a liqueur made from the leaves and fruit of the citron tree, which is unique to the island. It comes in three varieties: green (sweet), yellow (medium), and clear (strong). Visit the Vallindras Distillery in Halki to taste it.
Can I visit Naxos as a day trip from Mykonos or Santorini?
Technically yes via ferry (about 1-2 hours), but it's not recommended. Naxos is large and deserves more time. You'd only scratch the surface of the port town, missing the beaches, villages, and essence of the island.
Is Naxos windy?
It can be, especially in July and August when the seasonal Meltemi winds blow from the north. The west/south coast beaches (Plaka, Agios Prokopios) are more sheltered. The north coast and Mikri Vigla are windier, making them popular for windsurfing.
What is the best beach in Naxos?
This is subjective. For long, organized sands and amenities: Plaka or Agios Prokopios. For water sports: Mikri Vigla. For seclusion and beauty: Alyko or Kalantos. For families with small children: Agios Georgios (St. George) in town.
Where should I stay in Naxos?
First-timers and those wanting nightlife: Naxos Town (Chora). Beach-focused travelers: Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna. For a quiet, authentic village experience: Halki or Filoti in the Tragea Valley. For solitude: the north coast near Apollonas.
Naxos Itineraries
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