Despite the fact that it is relatively undervalued, compared to the neighboring Greek islands, Naxos is one of the most interesting destinations in Greece!
The glorious ancient past and strong Venetian and Frankish influences account for the abundance of ancient sites. Naxos breathes history!
The most emblematic of them - and a trademark of Naxos- she is Portara , the remaining gate of an ancient temple dedicated to the Greek god Apollo.
But apart from its impressive monuments, Naxos also has a beautiful natural landscape, as it is the greenest island of the Cyclades. Imposing mountains, green valleys, beautiful beaches and rural villages will lift the spirits of nature lovers!
Naxos Greece is located in the center of the Cyclades islands, in the heart of the Aegean. It is the largest and greenest island of the Cyclades, with a magnificent natural landscape! The Town of Naxos
Kastro is the most picturesque district of Naxos Town. It is actually the old town part. The modern part of the city has been built around this castle.
Not to be missed Castle Tour and Portara Sunset
Recently renovated, this ancient temple is dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of grain. It dates back to the 6th century BC. and it was discovered 1949. Next to the temple is a small church of Agios Ioannis.
Built on the steep rock, seemingly hanging a few kilometers away from the deep blue waters of the bay of Agiasos in the southwestern part of Naxos, the whitewashed chapel of Agios Sozonas attracts many visitors as it shines brightly under the sun.
Summer is for seaside fun and Naxos offers just the beaches for that!
According to the above, Naxos is a big island, resulting in a long coastline. The most famous beaches of the island are located mainly on its western side.
Popular locations that one will probably have heard of before their initial visit to the island is Plaka , Saint Procopius , the Alikos and the Sahara (Harbors). These site names are associated with large, pure white, sandy beaches with crystal clear waters and ranks at the top of the list of things to do when visiting Naxos.
They are considered as some of the most beautiful beaches of the Aegean, for’ it is good to spend a significant part of your vacation there.
Besides, both the organized ones with beach bars and sunbeds, as well as the unorganized, aloof, they offer the perfect tan sure to compliment guests back home
Naxos in Greece is home to a very important historical and fascinating cultural heritage. One of the first things you see upon entering the port is the ancient monument of Portara on your left and the old castle of Chora on your right.
Portara is the most famous landmark of the island and with good reason.
It consists of a huge centuries-old marble door standing on a small islet. When you see it for the first time, its elegance will leave you speechless.
For romantic souls, the best time to visit this site is during sunset, when the sky turns gold!
Some of the most important attractions of the island are located in the Naxian hinterland: The
temple of Demeter , Kouros of Melanes and Kouros to Apollo , the church of Panagia Drosiani , the monastery of Fotodoti and the Monastery of Kalamitsia , it should definitely be on your guest list.
These monuments and statues hold a large part of Naxian History and are worth touring and admiring.
To visit more freely the beaches and villages of Naxos, it is recommended to rent a car. If booking one for your entire stay isn't ideal for you, a rental for selected days is recommended, in order to explore the mainland of the island and some rather remote parts.
A short road trip across the island from West to East is definitely a must! A visit to the picturesque village of Halki is a must during your holidays on the island. Two-story houses with neoclassical architecture, small cobbled streets, bougainvillea and jasmine, olive groves and fine shops such as Fish & Olive are just some of the things you can expect in this village. No wonder why it has become such a trend among travel bloggers and photographers!
After your walk in the village, you must visit Dolce Vita cafe , where the most delicious confectionery of the island is served.
From the first day of your vacation, you will love the culinary and taste uniqueness of Naxos products.
Naxos is a very fertile land and maintains a thriving agricultural economy, producer of some of the tastiest vegetables, cheeses, meat and last but not least fresh fish and seafood in Greece.
Choosing a restaurant for your daily meals is never disappointing since most of them serve delicious, traditional food.
If we had to recommend only two restaurants that should not be missed on the island , then without a second thought, these would be Axiotissa for the best Greek cuisine with a twist in a great location (but due to high demand, a reservation 4-5 days before is necessary) and Vasilis tavern for a local, more homely touch.
Because of the fresh produce and delicious Mediterranean recipes, a new trend of cooking classes has emerged in Naxos.
If you want to take the secrets of Naxos cuisine at home, you can attend a cooking workshop at Vioma . For wine lovers, highly recommended.
The visit to the winery of Agia Anna ! A tour and wine tasting at this pocket winery with its quaint white chapel located in the small village of Kato Potamia is simply heartwarming!
The places to eat and drink in Naxos are many and spread all over the island, both in touristic and secluded spots. Most restaurants, cafes and bars are located in Naxos Town, either along the harbor promenade or in the Old Town. Many tavernas and beach bars are also located along the beaches, especially the west side beaches, like Saint Anne, Plaka, Saint Procopius, Agios Georgios et al. Visitors will find many delicious tavernas in the rural villages of Naxos, like Halki, Aperianthos, the Crown, Filoti and others.
Although the nightlife in Naxos is not intense, there are many bars to have a drink and listen to music. Many bars are located in Naxos Town or on popular beaches, like Saint Procopius. Naxos Town also has some clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning (but they play Greek music).
