Νάξος: Ο απόλυτος ταξιδιωτικός οδηγός

Naxos is the largest and most fertile island in the Cyclades, combining idyllic beaches with impressive mountain landscapes. Beyond its beautiful coastline, Naxos is also home to a small mountain range, whose highest peak is Mount Zas, named after Zeus. According to ancient Greek mythology, Zeus was believed to have been born and raised during the first years of his life on Naxos.

In addition to its remarkable historical value, ancient monuments and medieval buildings, Naxos also offers wonderful beaches, both organized and unorganized, ideal for couples and families with children. Whatever your personal travel style may be, you are sure to find a Naxos village or settlement that suits you perfectly, along with tavernas and bars that range from relaxed and traditional to more cosmopolitan, serving delicious local food and carefully made cocktails. This is exactly what makes Naxos island such a complete destination for travelers who want authenticity, comfort and variety in one place.

Getting to Naxos is also easy, as there are daily ferry routes from Athens. Once you arrive on the island, you can get around by car, KTEL bus or taxi. Thanks to its central location among the Cyclades islands, Naxos is also ideal for island hopping, especially if you want to combine it with Paros, Mykonos, Santorini or Koufonisia. For anyone planning a Greece travel itinerary, the island of Naxos is a destination that balances beaches, villages, food, history and local life beautifully.

The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is warm, the sea is inviting and the villages are full of life. July and August are the busiest months, while June and September offer a more relaxed rhythm.

The Ancient City of Naxos

The beautiful and historic ancient city of Naxos is built on the site where ancient Kallipolis once stood. The Acropolis of Kallipolis was essentially the highest point of the medieval castle, although it is no longer visible after the Frankish occupation.

The center and marketplace of the ancient city were located where the Orthodox Cathedral stands today. In fact, beneath the Cathedral square, archaeologists discovered remains dating back to 1600–1100 BC.

Today, this site is open to visitors who are interested in exploring the ancient past of Naxos.

In addition, the discovery of an old manuscript suggests that a temple dedicated to Poseidon once stood on the small islet inside the port of Naxos.

Monuments, Castles and Sights in Naxos

Thanks to its long history, which dates all the way back to antiquity, Naxos is full of fascinating sights. Beyond being a holiday destination, it is also an island with a rich past and many impressive monuments that are well worth visiting.

The Temple of Demeter

This monumental temple is located in Sangri and was built a full century before the Parthenon. It is a site with free entrance and features a well-preserved structure made of white marble. Dating back to the 6th century BC, it is one of the most important ancient monuments on the island and a wonderful stop for travelers who want to understand the deeper cultural identity of Naxos.

The Castle of Naxos

Along with Rhodes, Naxos was one of the largest medieval states in Greece. The castle was built in the 13th century AD by the Venetian ruler Marco Sanudo. Today, the castle mainly consists of mansions, some of which are still inhabited by descendants of the Venetian settlers, while in the surrounding alleys you will find a wide variety of cafés, tavernas and restaurants.

Known locally as the Kastro, this area is one of the most atmospheric parts of Naxos Town. Its architecture carries both Venetian and Byzantine influences, creating a unique setting that feels like a walk through different periods of the island’s history.

It is also interesting that the name of Marco Sanudo, written as “Markos Sanoutos”, is used for one of the main characters in Alexandros Papadiamantis’ iconic novel The Merchants of Nations, which focuses on the expeditions that took place across the Greek islands during the Middle Ages. Why not combine Papadiamantis’ excellent storytelling with a walk through the Castle of Naxos?

Apeiranthos Village

For those who love traditional tavernas and walks through picturesque mountain alleys, a visit to this village in the mountainous part of Naxos is a must. Here, once again, you will admire the Venetian aesthetic that has been preserved since the medieval period.

Apeiranthos, also written as Apiranthos, is one of the most beautiful and characterful mountain settlements on the island. The locals still speak their own local dialect and keep the island’s customs and traditions alive. In this village, you will also find several interesting cultural sites, such as the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, the Geological Museum, the Library and the Women’s Weaving Cooperative.

Naxos is home to some of the most picturesque and authentic villages in the Aegean. From mountain retreats to seaside gems, each village has its own history, architecture and unique atmosphere.

The Portara of Naxos

To this day, the Portara of Naxos remains something of an archaeological mystery, with many texts having been written about its possible origins. The name refers to the enormous marble gate that stands on the islet known as Palatia.

The Portara is believed to have been part of the ancient Temple of Apollo, making it one of the most recognizable and meaningful landmarks on the island.

Today, this islet is connected to Naxos Town, and the Portara is, of course, one of the island’s most important monuments, known for both its timeless beauty and its photogenic value.

Zas Cave

If we were to call Zas Cave a monument, we would describe it as a monument of natural beauty. It is located on the western slope of the mountain of the same name, which, as mentioned above, was named after Zeus. According to some mythological sources, Zeus was believed to have been born on Naxos.

The cave is located at an altitude of 628 meters and consists of one main chamber, divided into sections by boulders that have fallen from the ceiling, as well as a smaller chamber that once served as a natural water reservoir. This attraction has geological, speleological and mythological value, as it is said to have been the home of Zeus, the cloud-gatherer.

Where to Stay in Naxos

Accommodation Recommendations for Families with Children

Most parents visiting Naxos with their children choose to stay in Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna or Naxos Town.

These are the three most popular accommodation choices for families, mainly because of their organized facilities and nearby beaches.

Agios Prokopios Beach is sandy, with shallow waters, making it ideal for families with young children. Agia Anna, on the other hand, offers a quieter atmosphere and is an excellent choice for families seeking relaxation and peace. Finally, Naxos Town has always been the safest and most convenient option, as it is close to the port, the town center and all essential services.

In all three areas, you will find plenty of hotels, apartments and family-friendly accommodation options. If you want to stay close to the sea, a beach hotel in Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna can make your holiday even easier, especially with children.

Naxos: Accommodation Recommendations for Couples

Plaka Beach, Mikri Vigla and Apeiranthos are three romantic destinations that are ideal for couples.

Plaka offers boutique hotels and luxury villas, making it a very good choice for couples who want to enjoy peace and privacy. Many stays in this area also offer beautiful sea views, creating the perfect setting for slow mornings and sunset evenings. For couples who love nature and even water sports, Mikri Vigla offers a sense of seclusion and unforgettable sunsets. Finally, for couples who wish to explore Naxos while enjoying traditional architecture and charming alleys, the mountain village of Apeiranthos is an obvious choice.

Like every island, Naxos offers accommodation for every type of traveler. You can find everything from affordable rooms to rent and traditional guesthouses to luxurious stays. Whether you are looking for luxury, budget-friendly options or romance, you will certainly find the ideal area for your stay in Naxos.

Explore our accommodation suggestions, whether you prefer the town or a village, the mountains or the sea. There are options for every taste.

Entertainment in Naxos

In Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, you will find a wide variety of entertainment options.

Naxos Town is ideal for everyone. With its old town, picturesque alleys and impressive Castle, every visitor can enjoy a walk through a setting that feels like something out of a fairytale. In the island’s capital, also known as Chora, you will find bars and clubs where you can experience Naxos by night and dance until the early hours.

The main town has a lively but still relaxed vibe, making it perfect for both evening walks and nights out. Around Naxos Chora, you can wander through shops, cafés and restaurants before ending the night with a drink by the sea.

For couples, there are many restaurants in Naxos Town and the surrounding villages, such as Apeiranthos, where you can enjoy dinner with a view. Wine tasting or an evening walk around the Castle will certainly be experiences to remember.

The Best Beaches in Naxos

Naxos is famous for some of the beautiful beaches in the Cyclades, with options for families, couples, nature lovers and travelers who want more privacy.

Beaches for Families

Plaka Beach

Plaka is the natural continuation of the beaches of Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios on the western side of the island, about 10 km from Naxos Town. It is a beach with crystal-clear blue waters and fine golden sand. Although there are beach bars and sunbed sets, it is not overly noisy or crowded.

With its long coastline and calm atmosphere, Plaka is also a popular beach for visitors who want space, comfort and easy access to beach facilities.

Agios Georgios

This beach is just 15 minutes from Naxos Town and offers crystal-clear waters and soft sand. It is one of the favorite beaches for parents and children, as the sea is extremely shallow, making it perfect for endless play in the water. Since it is only a minute walk from several hotels and restaurants in town, it is one of the most convenient beach choices on the island.

Beaches for Couples

Agios Prokopios

This is a sheltered beach where you can easily find parking. From there, you can either sit on organized sunbeds at a beach bar or set up your own umbrella. It has wonderful waters and the precious peace and quiet that couples need in order to enjoy their swim.

Its long sandy shore and turquoise water make it one of the most photogenic beaches in Naxos.

Agia Anna

Agia Anna is a more cosmopolitan beach, a small bay with beautiful blue waters. However, it has many shops and beach bars along the coast, so if you do not particularly enjoy crowds, it may not be the best choice for you.

Beaches for Water Sports

Mikri Vigla is one of the best areas in Naxos for sea activities. Thanks to the wind conditions, it is especially popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing, attracting both beginners and experienced visitors who want a more active beach day.

Secluded and Unorganized Beaches

Apollonas

The village of Apollonas is located on the eastern side of Naxos, relatively far from Naxos Town, but in a truly beautiful area. It is a seaside settlement loved by those who have truly discovered the island and its hidden beauties. The beach is not organized, but you will find tavernas and cafés very close by. It is ideal for both couples and families with children.

Abram

Abram is located in the northern part of the island, about 20 km from Naxos Town. The settlement of Abram is so full of greenery that it does not resemble the typical dry Cycladic landscape. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, while nearby you will find a quiet little taverna for coffee and food. From Abram, you can admire one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Aegean.

More Places to Discover in Naxos

If you have extra time, it is worth adding Halki to your itinerary. This elegant village in the center of the island is known for its neoclassical houses, peaceful alleys and local character. It is also strongly connected with kitron, the famous Naxian liqueur made from citron leaves. A visit to a traditional distillery is one of the most authentic experiences you can enjoy there.

Another place worth visiting is the area of Alyko, known for its natural landscape, cedar trees and relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the island’s hidden gems, especially for travelers who enjoy quieter beaches and wilder scenery.

Food in Naxos

Naxos offers a unique gastronomic experience that caters to every taste. Traditional, authentic flavors, fresh fish and fine dining are just some of the island’s culinary delights.

Naturally, the best places to eat are often found where the locals themselves choose to go out.

Seaside tavernas and restaurants in Naxos Town are usually preferred by larger groups, while the tavernas and restaurants in Plaka and Apollonas are especially popular with couples, mainly because of their romantic atmosphere and sunset views. Wherever you choose to eat in Naxos, you should definitely try Naxos potatoes, Arseniko cheese and rooster with local pasta.

Naxos is also known for its rich Naxian products, from cheeses and potatoes to local meats and homemade sweets. In Naxos Town, the restaurants are ideal for travelers who want to try traditional flavors in a warm, familiar setting.

During the summer season, it is a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially at popular restaurants in seaside areas. In high season, booking ahead is even more important if you want a table at sunset or in one of the island’s busiest villages.

Excursions in Naxos

Although Naxos is a large island and you will have plenty to do during your stay, it is worth dedicating one day of your holiday to an excursion starting from the port of Naxos.

Melanes – Potamia

In the central part of Naxos, you will find a wonderful trail that starts from Kourounochori. The route continues along the path connecting Kourounochori with Myloi, passing through impressive old watermills in an idyllic setting.

Your route should definitely end in Ano Potamia, where your walk continues along the river. When you reach Kato Potamia, the path leads back toward the river, through a lush landscape full of fruit trees.

A short walk in this area is enough to reveal a greener, calmer side of Naxos, far from the island’s busier seaside spots.

Kouros of Melanes

Near Melanes, you can also visit the impressive Kouros, an unfinished ancient marble statue lying in a peaceful green setting. It is one of the most interesting archaeological stops in inland Naxos and offers a different view of the island’s ancient craftsmanship.

Cruise from Naxos

Another excellent activity is to take a mini cruise from Naxos to Rina Cave and Koufonisi. You can also choose to stay overnight in Koufonisi, giving yourself the chance to swim in the heavenly waters of the Aegean. The island is only about 40 minutes away by high-speed vessel.

A cruise or a nearby island escape can easily become a memorable day trip, especially if you want to combine Naxos with smaller Cycladic destinations.

Getting Around Naxos

Naxos has a very good internal transport network, with KTEL buses operating all year round. However, if you want more flexibility, especially for mountain villages, remote beaches and hidden corners, renting a rental car is one of the most practical choices.

For more adventurous travelers, an ATV can also be a fun way to explore shorter routes and beach areas, always with the necessary caution and respect for local roads.

Ferry Routes from Naxos

From Naxos, you can also easily travel by high-speed ferry to nearby islands, whether they are just a short distance away or slightly farther. Indicatively, the travel times from Naxos are as follows:

Naxos – Paros → 30 minutes

Naxos – Koufonisia → 40 minutes

Naxos – Santorini → 3 hours 15 minutes

Naxos – Mykonos → 40 minutes

Naxos – Milos → 4 hours 35 minutes

Naxos – Tinos → 1 hour 35 minutes

Naxos – Ios → 40 minutes

Naxos – Syros → 1 hour 20 minutes

Naxos – Sifnos → 3 hours 45 minutes

Ferry Tickets to Naxos

You can travel to Naxos from almost anywhere in Greece, whether you are starting from Athens or from nearby islands such as Santorini, Mykonos or Paros.

From Athens, the journey to Naxos takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. In summer, you can also travel from the port of Rafina, which is only 30–40 minutes from Athens International Airport. From Rafina, the journey takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes.

There are daily ferry routes from the port of Piraeus to Naxos.

If you are planning holidays in Naxos Greece, ferry travel makes the island easy to combine with other destinations while still giving you enough time to enjoy its villages, beaches and authentic local life.

From ancient monuments and mountain villages to beaches, food and easy ferry connections, Naxos is a destination full of variety. Whether you want relaxation, culture, local flavors or the best things to do in the Cyclades, Naxos offers a complete island experience that stays with you long after your trip ends.

Getting Around Naxos by KTEL Bus

Naxos has a very good internal transport network, with KTEL buses operating all year round.

In brief, the routes are as follows:

Route 1

Naxos Town to Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka, Orkos and Mikri Vigla.

Route 2

Naxos Town to Galanado, Sangri, Chalki, Filoti, Apeiranthos, Stavros Keramotis, Koronos, Skado, Koronida/Komiaki and Apollonas.

Route 3

Naxos Town to Glinado, Agios Arsenios, Vivlos, Mikri Vigla, Kastraki, Alyko and Pyrgaki.

Route 4

Naxos Town to Melanes and Kinidaros.

Route 5

Naxos Town to Galini, Eggares, Faneromeni Monastery, Abram, Chilia Vrysi and Apollonas.

Route 6

Naxos Town to Galanado, Sangri, Chalki, Filoti, Apeiranthos, Stavros Keramotis and Keramoti.

Route 7

Chalki to Damarionas, Damalas, Sangri, Galanado and Naxos Town.

Route 8

Naxos Town to Aggidia.

Route 9

Tsikalario to Potamia and Naxos Town.

Route 10

Naxos Town to Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and Agia Anna/Kapares.

Taxi and Radio Taxi in Naxos

If you prefer to get around the island by taxi rather than by local bus, you also have several options:

• Naxos Taxi Owners’ Association: 2285024331
• Naxos Taxi Car Consortium: 2285022444

Useful Phone Numbers

• Municipality of Naxos: 2285360100
• KEP Naxos Town: 2285024303
• General Hospital – Health Center of Naxos: 2285360500
• Naxos Port Authority: 2285022300
• Naxos Police Station: 2285022100
• Naxos “Apollon” Airport: 2285024816
• KTEL Naxos: 2285022291
• Taxi: 2285024331, 2285022444