Naxos Greek Island
Naxos Island Greece
Capital City: Chora
Area: 430 Sq. KM
Population: 20578
Average Tourist: 600000 Per Year
Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades group. It is famous for its long sandy beaches and high mountains. Unlike some other dry islands nearby, Naxos has fertile valleys where farmers grow potatoes and olives and produce delicious cheese. The island has a very long history that you can see in its ancient temples and Venetian castles.
Families love this place because the water at the beaches is shallow and safe for children. The food here is excellent because most ingredients are grown right on the island. You can spend your morning swimming in the sea and your afternoon hiking in the cool mountains. The local people are very friendly and welcoming to visitors. It feels less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos which makes it a relaxing place to stay. Whether you like history or nature or just lying on the beach, Naxos has something for everyone to enjoy.
Main Attractions in Naxos
Visit the Portara which is a huge marble gate and the most famous landmark
Explore the Venetian Castle in the old town of Chora
Swim at Agios Prokopios Beach which has clear blue waters
Hike to the top of Mount Zas which is the highest peak in the Cyclades
See the ancient Temple of Demeter near the village of Sangri
Walk through the cedar forest and sand dunes at Alyko
Visit the Vallindras Kitron Distillery in Halki to taste local liqueur
See the giant unfinished Kouros statues in Melanes or Apollonas
Wander around the marble streets of Apeiranthos village
Visit the Eggares Olive Press Museum to learn about olive oil
Main Cities and Towns in Naxos
Chora
This is the capital and main port of the island. It features a famous castle and a maze of narrow streets filled with shops and restaurants.
Filoti
This is the largest village on the island and sits at the bottom of Mount Zas. It has a lively main square with many cafes under large plane trees.
Apeiranthos
People call this the marble village because the streets and houses are made of marble. It has four small museums and feels very traditional.
Halki
This village was once the capital and is famous for its neoclassical buildings. It is the home of the Kitron distillery where they make a local liqueur.
Apollonas
This is a quiet fishing village on the northern coast. Visitors come here to see a huge ancient statue that lies unfinished in a quarry nearby.
Main Ports in Naxos
Naxos Port (Chora)
This is the only major ferry port on the island and is located right in the capital city. All large passenger ferries and high speed boats from Athens and other islands dock here. It is very busy in the summer and has many cafes and travel agencies right next to the water.
How to get to Naxos
You can travel to Naxos by ferry or by plane. Ferries leave from the Piraeus or Rafina ports in Athens and take between three and six hours depending on the speed of the boat. You can also fly from Athens International Airport directly to the Naxos Island National Airport which takes about forty minutes. There are also frequent ferry connections from nearby islands like Paros and Santorini.
Activities in Naxos
Attractions
Activities
Beaches
Ferry
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Naxos
What is the best time to visit Naxos?
The best months are June and September when the weather is warm but not too hot. July and August are also great but can be quite busy.
How many days do I need in Naxos?
You should spend at least three to five days here. This gives you enough time to see the main towns and relax on the beaches without rushing.
Do I need a car on the island?
It is a good idea to rent a car if you want to explore the mountain villages. The island is big and public buses may not go to every beach or remote area.
Is Naxos good for families with children?
Yes it is one of the best Greek islands for families. The beaches are sandy and shallow and the atmosphere is safe and quiet compared to party islands.
Is Naxos better than Paros?
Naxos is bigger and has more mountains and agriculture while Paros is smaller with more nightlife. Naxos is usually better for nature lovers and those who want a more traditional feel.