Naxos at a glance

Beautiful Naxos is a sparkling star in the deep blue galaxy of Aegean Sea islands.  And the enchantment starts as your ferry glides into harbour.

Spread before you are the gleaming white buildings of the old quarter of Naxos Town with a medieval Venetian castle crowning the hill.

But first there is a truly ancient welcome to this historic island - a huge marble doorway, part of an ancient temple to sun god Apollo.

Today, 2,500 years after this gateway was built, sun-worshippers flock to this, the largest of the Cycladic islands which offers so many timeless attractions. 

Golden beaches, crystal-clear sea, charming and historic villages, friendly people, ancient sites, stunning countryside and wonderful food are the ingredients that make this place so memorable. 

Naxos is said to be lined with almost 100km of beaches, most of them gorgeous soft sand. Tavernas, sunbeds and sunshades are available on many but, despite the increasing popularity of Naxos, there are coves and bays tucked away for those who want to avoid crowds.

The old part of stylish Naxos Town is a hillside maze of stone-flagged alleyways built with twists and turns to deter invading pirates.  Now they are a sheer delight for tourists. Then there is a long, bustling waterfront with a great selection of restaurants and shops.

The island is rightly proud of its great local produce so look out for dishes with home-grown potatoes and locally made cheeses.

There are places to eat and drink in the charming small towns, villages and hamlets dotted across this lovely island.  Seek them out by using the reliable bus service, hire a car or bike or take an excursion.

Whatever you do, snap the classic Naxos moment – as you watch the sun set through the ancient Portara doorway.  

Book Now Holidays to Naxos

Where to stay in Naxos

Stelida Naxos

Stelida

Stelida is a beautiful area on the northwest coast of Naxos and situated above the seaside settlement of Agios Prokopios, one of the most frequented tourist resorts on Naxos Island.

Naxos Town

Naxos Town

Naxos Town is the capital town of Naxos island and is considered one of the most beautiful villages among the Cyclades islands for its fine architecture that combines Venetian and Cycladic elements.

Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach in Naxos is a mesmerizing paradise with crystal clear waters, lures visitors seeking tranquility.

Agios Prokopios

Agios Prokopios

Discover Agios Prokopios, a captivating coastal gem on Naxos' western coast, Greece. Renowned for stunning beaches, this Mediterranean retreat offers sun-soaked relaxation, thrilling water sports, and a taste of Greek island charm. Embrace tranquility and savo…

Description

Naxos is an island of Greece that can fulfill anyone's appetite. The bigger the island, the more things to do, right? And since Naxos is the biggest island of the Cyclades you will definitely need a whole week to cross out more than half of the things to see & do on your list.

Naxos has high mountains, fertile valleys, lush green gorges, stunning seascapes and traditional villages perched high on mountain tops, where the inhabitants still wear their traditional dress and live off the fruits of the land. Naxos is also home to beautiful old churches, monasteries and Venetian castles coexisting harmoniously with the Cycladic architecture.

Upon entering the port of the whitewashed Chora of Naxos you'll encounter the islet ofPalatiaat its entrance. On Palatia islet the impressive marble gate,  temple of Apollo, “Portara” stands still since the 6th century BC. According to mythology, the god Dionysus met Ariadni there, who had been abandoned by Thesseus. 

Chora, the capital of Naxos, whose landmark is an imposing Venetian castle, is an old castle town with stone paved alleys (known as kalderimia in Greek) where you can admire a unique blend of Cycladic and Medieval architecture: mansions with Venetian blazons still decorating their entrances, narrow arched alleys (known as stegadia in Greek), catholic churches and fortifications.

Please note all transfers are shuttles in Naxos. We offer flights to Santorini and Mykonos from Naxos.

Best Time to Visit Naxos

As the legendary retreat of wine god Dionysus, Naxos enthusiastically celebrates its grape harvest, and late summer visitors can appreciate traditional production methods.
There’s plenty to sample, inevitably accompanied by traditional music.

Make the most of your trip Things to see & do

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