Holiday to Naxos

Here’s a richly detailed travel-style guide for a trip to Naxos, Greece — with ideas on what to see, where to go, and what to do to experience the island’s history, nature, beaches, villages, food and more. Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands with a mix of ancient sites, scenic landscapes, charming villages and spectacular beaches — ideal for a holiday of sunshine, exploration and authentic Greek island life.

Start in Naxos Town (Hora/Chora)

Your journey often begins in Naxos Town , locally called Chora .

Highlights

Portara – Temple of Apollo : The iconic colossal marble gateway from an unfinished 6th-century BC temple, sitting on a little islet at the harbour’s edge — a perfect sunset viewpoint with mythic atmosphere.
Naxos Castle (Kastro) : A Venetian citadel from the 13th century with alleys, stone houses, and elevated views over the town and sea.
Old Town Streets : Meander the whitewashed labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with boutiques, cafes and tavernas.
Archaeological Museum of Naxos : Housed in a Venetian building, with finds from Cycladic and later periods.

Don’t miss sipping an espresso or ouzo on the seafront promenade as the fishing boats glide in and the Aegean shimmers at sunset.

Beaches — Long Sandy Shores and Crystal Waters

Naxos has some of the best beaches in the Cyclades , ranging from organized to wild.

Recommended Beaches

Agios Prokopios – Golden sand and clear waters, great for swimming and lounging.
Plaka Beach – Long stretches of sand, ideal for beach bars, sunbeds and watersports.
Mikri Vigla – Windy and fun — popular for windsurfing and kiteboarding when conditions are right.
Alyko Beach – A more untamed, quieter beach backed by cedar forests and dunes.

Many beaches have watersports options , from paddleboarding to snorkeling, and offer beachside tavernas for lunch with views.

Ancient and Cultural Sites

Temple of Demeter

Near the village of Sangri, this partially preserved sanctuary of the goddess of agriculture dates to antiquity — a tranquil stop on a scenic inland route.

Kouros of Apollonas

Near the fishing village of Apollonas sits a giant unfinished ancient marble statue — a striking and photogenic piece of Cycladic history.

Church of Saint George Diasoritis

A Byzantine gem near the village of Halki, known for 11th-century architecture and interior frescoes.

Country Villages — Authentic and Picturesque

Naxos’ interior is dotted with traditional mountain villages and scenic hamlets where life moves at a relaxed pace.

Apiranthos – Marble-paved streets, cafes, small museums, and mountainous views.
Halki – Once the island’s capital, with stone mansions, boutiques and a distillery.
Filoti – A welcoming village at the foot of Mount Zas — a great base for hikes.
Chalkio & Koronos – Quiet, charming places to wander and enjoy local life.

Tip: Villages are ideal for sampling local cheeses, wines, and Naxian potatoes — specialties of the island.

Outdoor Adventures

Hike Mount Zas

At 1,004 m, Mount Zas is the tallest peak in the Cyclades — a rewarding hike with stunning panoramas over Naxos. Routes vary in difficulty, but all offer dramatic views.

Explore Caves and Trails

The Cave of Zas on the mountain slopes links myth and history — said to be where Zeus hid in childhood according to myth.

Boat Excursions

Half-day or full-day boat tours around the coast — with stops for swimming and snorkeling around sea caves like Rina — are a favorite activity.

Food, Drink & Nightlife

Naxos has great tavernas and cafés scattered around Chora, beaches and villages:

Try fresh seafood , dakos , local cheeses and kitro , a citrus liqueur unique to the island.
Evening drinks along the harbour promenade , or in cozy bars in the Old Town offer lovely sunset views.

Practical Tips

Getting Around: Renting a car or scooter gives you freedom to explore beaches and villages, though local buses run to many key spots.
Stay Duration: 4–7 days lets you balance beaches, culture and inland exploration without rushing.
Best Season: May–October offers warm sea and beach weather; spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.

Sample 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Chora & Historic Sights
Explore the Old Town, visit Portara at sunset, dinner by the harbour.

Day 2 – Beaches & Watersports
Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach — try paddleboarding or just relax.

Day 3 – Villages & Culture
Drive to Halki, Apiranthos and Sangri (Temple of Demeter). Sample local food.

Day 4 – Nature & Adventure
Hike Mount Zas or take a boat tour, end with a beachside dinner.