Naxos - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Naxos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Naxos, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Naxos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Naxos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Naxos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Naxos

Naxos is the largest and most fertile island in the Cyclades island group in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea. It has a rich history and was an important cultural center in Ancient Greece. Today, Naxos is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional villages, stunning landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. The island is also a great place for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Some popular attractions in Naxos include the Portara, a magnificent ancient temple, and the Venetian Castle which offers stunning views of the island. Naxos is easily accessible by ferry or plane from Athens, and there are plenty of accommodation options available for tourists.

What to visit in Naxos

Sure, here are the top tourist attractions of Naxos (Greece) and some info about each: 1. Portara: This is a large marble gate that stands alone on a small island connected to Naxos by a causeway. It is a remnant of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo and offers stunning sunset views.
2. Temple of Demeter: This is an ancient temple located in the village of Sangri that dates back to the 6th century BC. It is dedicated to the harvest goddess Demeter and features a well-preserved marble altar.
3. Kastro: This is the old castle of Naxos located at the top of a hill in the town of Naxos. It offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area.
4. Old Town: The old town of Naxos is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways lined with whitewashed houses and blue doors. It features traditional Venetian architecture and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
5. Agios Prokopios Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches on Naxos and features crystal-clear water and soft golden sand. It is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
6. Agia Anna Beach: This is another popular beach on Naxos located just south of Agios Prokopios. It features a long stretch of golden sand and shallow, clear waters.
7. Apollo Temple: This is an ancient temple located in the town of Naxos that dates back to the 6th century BC. It is dedicated to Apollo and features a well-preserved marble staircase.
8. Filoti Village: This is a scenic mountain village located in the center of Naxos. It is known for its traditional architecture, winding streets, and beautiful views.
9. Kitron Distillery: This is a traditional distillery located in the town of Chalki that produces the local liqueur called kitron. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and sample the different varieties of kitron.
10. Mount Zas: This is the highest peak on Naxos and offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. It is also known as the birthplace of Zeus in Greek mythology.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Naxos.

When to go on holiday to Naxos

The best time to go on holiday to Naxos is from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with pleasant temperatures perfect for swimming in the sea and visiting the island's many historical sites and other attractions. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with many tourists flocking to the island. If you prefer a quieter vacation, consider visiting in May, June, September or October when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are often lower.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Naxos

To get to Naxos, Greece, you can either fly or take a ferry. If you prefer to fly, you can book a flight from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Naxos Island National Airport (JNX). The flight lasts about 35 minutes. Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air are two airlines that fly from Athens to Naxos.
If you prefer to take a ferry, there are several options. You can take a ferry from Athens' port, Piraeus, or Rafina, to Naxos. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose. Some of the ferry companies that operate routes to Naxos are Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets, and Hellenic Seaways.
It's worth noting that during the high season (June to August), it's essential to book your flight or ferry in advance, as they can quickly sell out.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Naxos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Naxos

Here are some typical foods of Naxos (Greece) with a short description for each of them: 1. Potato omelet (Koukou): A traditional dish made with Naxian potatoes, eggs, onions, and flavored with herbs and feta cheese.
2. Kitron: A liqueur made from the local citrus fruit called "citron," which has a distinct sour taste and fragrant aroma.
3. Graviera cheese: A hard cheese made from sheep milk with a nutty and savory taste.
4. Patoudo: A pie made with slices of Naxian potatoes, onions, eggs, and local sausages cooked in the oven.
5. Seafood: Naxos seafood is caught fresh from the Aegean sea and includes fish such as sea bass, sardines, and octopus.
6. Kefalotiri cheese: A semi-hard cheese made from sheep and goat milk with a tangy and salty taste.
7. Louza: A type of cured pork tenderloin spiced with a mix of herbs such as thyme and oregano.
8. Tomatokeftedes: A tomato-based traditional appetizer made with ripe tomatoes, onions, and flour that are formed into balls and fried.
9. Citrus fruits: Naxos is known for its citrus fruits, such as lemons and oranges, which are used in numerous dishes and desserts.
10. Figs: Naxos grows sweet and juicy figs, which are often eaten fresh or used as an ingredient in desserts and pastries.
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Naxos an expensive destination for tourists?

Naxos can be considered moderately priced for a Greek island destination. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can vary depending on the season, location, and type of service you choose. In general, the prices in Naxos are lower than other popular island destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, but higher than some other islands in the Cyclades. You can find affordable accommodation options, local taverns with reasonably priced food, and attractions that don't cost much. It's always a good idea to do some research and plan your budget accordingly before traveling to Naxos.

Where to find accomodation in Naxos

The best areas to find accommodation in Naxos, Greece would be: 1. Naxos Town (Chora): the capital of the island with the largest selection of hotels, apartments, villas and all types of accommodations.
2. Agios Prokopios: one of the most popular beaches in Naxos, with a long sandy beach and plenty of hotels, apartments and other accommodations.
3. Agia Anna: located near Agios Prokopios, it has a beautiful beach surrounded by taverns and accommodation options.
4. Plaka: a long and sandy beach, less crowded than Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna, with a good selection of hotels and apartments.
5: Mikri Vigla: a peaceful area with two beautiful beaches, windsurfing and kitesurfing schools, and affordable accommodations.
You can check hotel prices at Naxos here:
Booking.com

Is Naxos a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Naxos is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The locals are friendly and welcoming towards tourists, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, as with any tourist destination, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take common sense precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night. It's also a good idea to stay informed about any local safety concerns and follow any advice from local authorities or your hotel.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Naxos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Naxos the most?

Naxos is an island that has something to offer for everyone, from couples to families and young people looking for fun. This is because the island is known for its beautiful beaches and picturesque villages, as well as its historical and cultural sites.
Couples will love the romantic atmosphere of the island, especially in the charming old town of Naxos, where they can wander along narrow streets and enjoy a romantic dinner at a local restaurant. They can also indulge in water sports and take romantic walks along the beach.
Families will also enjoy Naxos, as it has plenty of child-friendly activities and attractions, including water parks, sand dunes, and water sports. The island also has plenty of family-friendly beaches, where kids can safely play in the sand and swim in the clear waters.
Young people will also find plenty to do in Naxos, as the island has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars and clubs serving up drinks and music until the early hours of the morning. The island is also home to many music festivals, which attract young people from all over Greece and beyond. Overall, Naxos is a versatile destination that is suitable for all types of travelers looking for an enjoyable and relaxing vacation.

How to get around Naxos

In Naxos, you can use various modes of transportation to get around the island. The most popular options are renting a car, motorbike or ATV (all-terrain vehicle), taking local buses, hiring taxis, or cycling. Depending on your preference, the size of your group, and the activities you plan to do, you can choose the most convenient transportation.

What to see around Naxos

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Naxos: 1. Paros Island: Just a short ferry ride from Naxos, Paros is a charming island known for its beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and charming port town.
2. Mykonos Island: Known as the "party island" of Greece, Mykonos is famous for its nightlife, but it also has some lovely beaches and picturesque towns worth exploring.
3. Delos Island: This tiny island is home to some of the best-preserved ancient ruins in Greece, including the Temple of Apollo and the Terrace of the Lions.
4. Santorini Island: While it's a bit of a longer journey from Naxos, Santorini is often considered one of the most beautiful islands in Greece, with its iconic white-washed architecture and stunning cliffside views.
5. Koufonisia Islands: A group of small islands located southwest of Naxos, the Koufonisia are known for their crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beaches, making them perfect for a relaxing day trip.
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