The largest of the Cyclades Greek island, east of the island of Paros, is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, serene atmosphere, “green” mountainous landscapes, and the lower costs associated with a vacation in the island.
Naxos is considered the most fertile of the Cyclades due to the relative high level of rainfall resulting highly developed agriculture, lush vegetation, and “green” landscapes in the mountains area. Mount Zeus is the central part of the island and the highest peak in the Cyclades. Findings in various places in the island indicates continuous settlements from the Paleolithic era through to the Neolithic era, the Greek classical period, and the Byzantine and Venetian periods. Visit and explore the Neolithic Zas Cave, the 6th century BC Portara, the gate of the temple of Apollo, the Temple of Demeter, and the Kastro of Chora Venetian Castle.
The largest town and capital of the island, Chora or Naxos town, is in the islands west Aegean coast. When entering the town from the sea, enjoy the sight of the Portara the gate of the temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia, then stroll the waterfront and the beautiful stone paved narrow streets of the old Kastro district. You will admire the Whitewashed houses with the blue doors and shutters, window shop the numerous small shops, and relax in one of the cafes and restaurants. Visit the Kastro, the Venetian castle and its museums, the Archeological Museum, and the Venetian Museum, and enjoy the coast and the town’s landscapes especially at sunset. At night, party in Chora’s bars and night clubs on the waterfront and near the town’s beach. Most of the islands beautiful sandy beaches are on the west coast, some are part of vibrant beach resorts, and some secluded and tranquil, such as those at Agia Anna, Agios Prokopios, Alikos, Kastraki, Mikri Vigla, Plaka, Agios Georgios, and many others. When on the beach enjoy the island’s winds, great for windsurf and kitesurf, and the numerous water sports centers.
Naxos Town
Demeter Temple
Chalkio Village
Drive the beautiful island roads and enjoy magnificent mountainous landscapes, and visit the charming traditional villages of Filoti, Apeiranthos and Chalkio, their beautiful narrow streets, whitewashed houses and old churches. Visit the restored Temple of Demeter, the Kouros of Melanes and Apollonas, and climb to the summit of Mount Zas in one of the beautiful hiking trails.
When people visit Naxos, they will usually arrive by ferry from Piraeus or Rafina and stay in Naxos town or near one of the major beaches. Flights to the island are also available from either Athens or Thessaloniki. The island Bus service is quite good, and you can also rent a car, quad bikes, and scooters. The best time to visit the island is from June through to September.
Naxos is a diverse and fascinating island, offering various attractions in addition to the beautiful beaches. We would recommend a 2-3 day minimum visit to the island in which you would spend half a day in Naxos town, at least a day exploring the island and visiting its villages, and at least a day in the beach. If you plan to stay more consider a one day boat cruise to the nearby Paros Island (30 minutes),
Mykonos (1 hr) and/or Santorini (3 hr), or take a boat cruise to admire the spectacular Small Cyclades including Koufanisi and Danousa islands.
