Naxos: The best sights, hotels and travel tips

Contents:

• The most beautiful places on Naxos

• The most beautiful beaches on Naxos

• Activities and experiences on Naxos

• Culinary highlights and restaurant recommendations on Naxos

• Wine tasting on Naxos

• Accommodation on Naxos: special hotels between the beach and the island’s idyllic setting

• Practical tips for Naxos

• Conclusion: Naxos – island bliss between the beach and the mountains

The most beautiful places on Naxos

Naxos captivates visitors with its lively coastal towns, unspoilt mountain villages and impressive ancient ruins. You shouldn’t miss these places on your trip.

• Chora – the heart of the island: Chora, also known as Naxos Town, is the lively centre of the island. Tavernas, cafés and small shops await you at the harbour. The town’s landmark is the Portara, the monumental marble gateway to an unfinished temple of Apollo. Above the old town lies the Venetian Kastri, with its winding alleys and historic buildings.
• Apeiranthos – the marble village: Apeiranthos is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in the Cyclades. Marble-paved streets, Venetian towers and traditional stone houses characterise the village’s appearance. Small museums, cafés and tavernas invite you to take a leisurely stroll.
• Halki – the green centre: Halki, the island’s former centre, lies amongst olive groves and lemon trees. Worth seeing are the elegant mansions, small galleries and the historic Vallindras Kitron distillery, where the island’s traditional lemon liqueur is produced.
• Filoti – at the foot of Mount Zas: Filoti is the largest mountain village on Naxos and a good starting point for hikes up Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. Around the central village square, you’ll find numerous traditional tavernas.
• Apollonas – a fishing village in the north: The quiet fishing village of Apollonas boasts a small beach and restaurants right by the sea. Nearby stands the Kouros of Apollonas, an unfinished marble statue from antiquity measuring around ten metres in length.
• Sangri – ancient history: Near Sangri stands the well-preserved Temple of Demeter, dating from the 6th century BC. The peaceful landscape of vineyards, olive groves and rolling hills makes the place particularly charming.

The most beautiful beaches on Naxos

Kilometres of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and small natural coves make Naxos one of the most beautiful seaside destinations in the Cyclades. Whether you’re looking for a lively seafront promenade, a peaceful retreat or the perfect spot for water sports – the island has the right beach for every type of holidaymaker. 

• Agios Prokopios – the popular classic: Agios Prokopios is one of the island’s best-known beaches. The expansive beach delights visitors with its golden sand, crystal-clear water and numerous tavernas, cafés and water sports facilities. Come in the morning and combine a day at the beach with lunch at one of the tavernas right on the beach.
• Agia Anna – beach fun with tavernas: Agia Anna lies right next to Agios Prokopios and offers a long sandy beach with beach bars, tavernas and a small fishing harbour. The sheltered coves near the chapel are particularly relaxing for a swim. 
• Plaka Beach – plenty of space to relax: Plaka Beach stretches along a wide stretch of coastline with golden sand, dunes and crystal-clear water. Despite the sun loungers, beach bars and tavernas, you can still find quieter sections along this extensive beach. 
• Mikri Vigla – a paradise for water sports enthusiasts: Mikri Vigla is divided into two sections by a rock and is one of the best spots on the island for kitesurfing and windsurfing. However, the sandy beach is just as suitable for a relaxing day by the sea. Watch the kitesurfers or book a taster course at one of the local surf schools.
• Alyko and Hawaii Beach – pure nature: On the Alyko peninsula, several small sandy coves are tucked away beneath an old juniper forest. Alyko and the neighbouring Hawaii Beach delight visitors with their turquoise waters, dunes and a pleasantly unspoilt atmosphere. Be sure to take plenty of water and sun cream with you, as the coves have significantly fewer tourist facilities.
• Agios Georgios – ideal for families: Agios Georgios is just a short walk from Chora. Fine sand and shallow water make the beach particularly attractive for families with young children, whilst windsurfers also gather at the southern end. The beach is perfect for a relaxed day at the beach if you’re staying in Chora and don’t want to hire a car.

Activities and experiences on Naxos

Naxos offers far more than just relaxing days on the beach. Walking trails lead through green valleys and up to the highest mountain in the Cyclades, whilst road trips, boat trips and culinary experiences showcase the island’s diverse character.

• Hike up Mount Zas: at 1,004 metres, Zas is the highest mountain in the Cyclades. From the summit, there is a breathtaking view over Naxos and the surrounding islands. Our recommendation: set off early in the morning, wear sturdy footwear and combine the hike with a visit to the mountain village of Filoti.
• Road trip to Panormos: The drive to the secluded bay of Panormos takes you through the unspoilt interior of the island, past small mountain villages, barren landscapes and spectacular viewpoints. At the end of the route, a tranquil bay with palm trees and crystal-clear water awaits. Our recommendation: Allow a full day and stop off at Apeiranthos and Moutsouna along the way. The winding road is an experience in itself.
• Day trip to Koufonisi: Koufonisi is part of the Small Cyclades and can be visited from Naxos as a day trip. The island is known for its turquoise waters, light sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Our recommendation: Take a boat trip with several stops for a swim, or catch the ferry and explore the beaches around the main town on foot.
• Cookery class at Basilica: A cookery class offers a particularly personal way to discover the traditional cuisine of Naxos. Together, you’ll prepare regional dishes using local ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, olive oil and herbs. Our recommendation: Book your cooking class at Basilica well in advance and make sure you come with a healthy appetite – sharing the meal is, of course, part of the experience.
• Kiteboarding and windsurfing: The Meltemi wind creates ideal conditions for kiteboarding and windsurfing, particularly in summer. Mikri Vigla is one of the island’s most popular spots and offers courses for beginners and advanced riders alike. Our recommendation: Beginners should book a morning session, when the wind is often a little lighter.

Culinary highlights and restaurant recommendations on Naxos

Naxos’s cuisine thrives on fresh local produce, traditional family recipes and a wide variety of dishes: in the mountain villages, hearty dishes and local cheeses take centre stage, whilst on the coast, freshly caught fish and seafood are served. These tavernas and restaurants are among our recommendations.

• Nikos & Maria: Right on Plaka Beach, Nikos & Maria combines traditional Naxian cuisine with a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Many of the ingredients used are sourced locally or grown on the premises.
• O Vasilis: The traditional tavern O Vasilis is situated in the leafy mountain village of Melanes and welcomes its guests onto a terrace overlooking the fertile valley. It serves classic Greek dishes and local specialities.
• Rotonda: On the road between Filoti and Apeiranthos, Rotonda is situated at one of the island’s most beautiful vantage points. From the terrace, the view stretches across the countryside to the Aegean Sea – particularly impressive in the evening.
• Amorginos: The traditional Amorginos Taverna is situated in the marble village of Apeiranthos and combines regional cuisine with a beautiful view from the terrace. The focus is on local cheeses and typical dishes from the mountainous region.
• Paradise Tavern: The Paradise Tavern in Kastraki is situated in peaceful surroundings near the sea. Traditional Greek dishes, fish and seafood are served under the shade of trees.
• Axiotissa: Axiotissa in Kastraki offers a creative take on traditional Greek and Naxian cuisine. The focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients and produce from the island.
• Doukato: Doukato is situated in the old town of Chora and welcomes its guests into an atmospheric, typically Cycladic courtyard with white walls and natural stone.
• To Elliniko: Since 2008, To Elliniko has been serving homemade Greek dishes made with fresh, local produce. The cuisine is based on Mama Katerina’s traditional recipes, which are freshly prepared every day.

Wine tasting on Naxos

Naxos is not only known for its beaches, villages and good food, but also for its small wineries in the island’s interior. A tasting at the Saint Anna Winery in Potamia is particularly enjoyable; this family-run winery overlooks a terraced valley. There, guests can sample a variety of wines, often accompanied by regional specialities.

Terra Grazia in Kato Sangri is also well worth a visit. The winery is situated on a historic estate and combines biodynamic viticulture with the unique landscape of Naxos.

Another lovely spot is Tranampelo in Glinado. During a wine tasting or vineyard tour, you can discover local grape varieties and traditional production methods, whilst enjoying the wines alongside Naxian specialities. This turns the wine tasting into a special experience away from the beaches.

Accommodation on Naxos: unique hotels combining beach life and island charm

Whether it’s a stylish boutique hotel, a luxurious villa or accommodation right on the beach – there’s a wide variety of hotels to choose from on Naxos. If you enjoy strolling through Chora on foot, it’s best to stay in the island’s capital. For a relaxing beach holiday, however, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna or Plaka Beach are ideal.

• Virtù on the Hill: Perched on a hilltop in Stelida, Virtù on the Hill captivates with its modern Cycladic architecture and a magnificent view across the sea to Naxos Town. Its peaceful setting makes this boutique hotel a stylish retreat away from the bustling coastal resorts.
• Ammothines Cycladic Suites: Just a few steps from Plaka Beach, the Ammothines Cycladic Suites combine natural materials and soft earth tones with modern Cycladic design. A swimming pool, plenty of peace and quiet, and the immediate proximity to the sea create the ideal conditions for a relaxing beach holiday.
• 18 Grapes: Just around 200 metres from Agios Prokopios beach, this 5-star boutique hotel combines minimalist design with a relaxed island atmosphere. The hotel has just 18 rooms and suites, some with a private pool or outdoor hot tub.
• Naxian Collection: The Naxian Collection enjoys a peaceful location in the coastal region of Stelida and offers elegant suites and villas with private or semi-private pools. From the resort, the view stretches across the countryside to Chora and the Venetian Kastro. An on-site vegetable garden and regional produce also play an important role in the culinary offerings.

Practical tips for Naxos

To ensure you can relax and enjoy your holiday on Naxos, it’s worth planning your journey, transport and travel budget well in advance. With these tips, you’ll be perfectly prepared for your stay on the island.

• Travelling to Naxos: Naxos has a small airport with flights from Athens. Alternatively, you can reach the island by ferry or high-speed catamaran from Piraeus. The journey takes around three and a half to six hours, depending on the service. During the peak season, it is advisable to book flights and ferry tickets well in advance.
• Getting around the island: Public buses run between Chora, the popular beaches and numerous villages. However, services and timetables vary depending on the season. If you’d like to visit more remote places such as Apollonas, Moutsouna or Panormos Bay, a hire car offers the greatest flexibility.
• Best time to visit: May, June, September and early October are particularly good times to visit Naxos. Temperatures are pleasant, the island is less crowded and the weather offers ideal conditions for days at the beach, walks and excursions.
• Recommended length of stay: Allow at least four to six days to explore Chora, the mountain villages, several beaches and the island’s interior at a leisurely pace. If you’d also like to go hiking, take a road trip to Panormos or go on a day trip to Koufonisi, you should stay a little longer.
• Payment and pre-ordering euros: The euro is the currency used in Greece. For smaller tavernas, tips, beach sun loungers or spontaneous purchases, it’s handy to have some cash with you as well as a card. With the Swiss Bankers banknote delivery service, you can conveniently order euros before your trip and have them delivered securely to your home address in Switzerland.
• Travel with peace of mind thanks to TravelProtect: An unexpected illness, a disruption to your journey or delayed luggage can quickly throw your holiday plans into disarray. With TravelProtect, Swiss Bankers supplements the Travel Card with travel insurance for private trips. The cover includes, amongst other things, protection in the event of cancellation, delayed departure, interruption of travel, and damage to or delays with luggage.

Conclusion: Naxos – island bliss between the beach and the mountains

Naxos combines stunning beaches, unspoilt villages, breathtaking natural beauty and genuine Greek hospitality. The island is ideal for anyone looking to combine relaxation, enjoyment and a variety of experiences.