Naxos is a wonderful Greek island, part of the Cyclades archipelago. A place of great cultural and tourist interest, it is loved for its unspoilt beaches, its tranquil atmosphere and its iconic white buildings. If you want to immerse yourself in nature and Greek tradition, then plan your holidays to Naxos today.
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Let’s explore the reasons to choose a Naxos holiday for your next trip.
Naxos boasts an extraordinary cultural heritage. One of its most popular landmarks is located at the entrance to the port, the famous Portara, which once formed part of a temple dedicated to Apollo. The historic centre features the Venetian Castle, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views. Near the village of Sangri, you will find the Temple of Demeter, a well-preserved example of Ionic architecture. Be sure not to miss the mountain villages, including Apiranthos, a charming marble-built village, and Halki.
Golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters make Naxos one of the most beautiful seaside destinations in the world, with seabeds similar to those of Formentera in Spain. Here are some of the beaches worth visiting:
Agios Prokopios: located near Chora, the capital, this is one of the island’s most popular beaches, filled with beach clubs.
Plaka Beach: with both free and serviced sections, this beach is perfect if you are looking for pure relaxation.
Mikri Vigla: known for its constant winds, Mikri Vigla is popular with those who enjoy sports like surfing and sailing.
Agia Anna: a charming spot with calm waters, Agia Anna is the ideal choice for a family holiday.
Naxos is a true paradise for anyone wanting to organise a trip centred around watersports, from diving to snorkelling. The island is also dotted with dozens of small bays and hidden coves, accessible only by sea. To discover them, all you need to do is book a boat tour. If you are a hiking enthusiast, there are several trekking trails leading towards the island’s mountains, including the path up Mount Zas, the highest peak in the entire archipelago.
As an island, you will need a ferry or boat to reach other destinations. Here are some of the most interesting places nearby:
Paros: just a few minutes away by ferry, offers beautiful beaches, picturesque villages and vibrant nightlife.
Koufonisia: a charming group of islands that can be visited in a day, featuring one of the most spectacular coastlines in the Cyclades.
Mykonos: one of the most visited islands in Greece, famous for its lively nightlife and idyllic beaches, with frequent ferry connections from Naxos that take under an hour.
Let’s explore more about Naxos, including its cuisine and nightlife.
Naxos has a fairly relaxed nightlife, perfect for evening strolls and enjoying a good drink by the sea. However, there are also places where you can dance and listen to live music, mostly located on the beaches. The best pubs can be found along the streets of the historic centre.
Naxos cuisine is simple and authentic, based on high-quality local ingredients. The island is famous throughout Greece for its potatoes, known for their unique flavour and often served fried in olive oil. Another typical dish is Kalogeros, made with beef or lamb, aubergine, tomato and cheese. The most popular dishes in restaurants and seaside taverns are grilled fresh fish and seafood. Another local delicacy is graviera cheese, often served alongside meat dishes. Finally, there is Kitron, a delicious citrus-flavoured liqueur made from citron, enjoyed straight after meals or mixed into tasty cocktails.
The most convenient area is certainly the historic centre, due to the range of services and its proximity to the beaches. If you want to stay right by the sea, you can find some of the best hotels in Naxos in Agios Prokopios, where there are options for all budgets. For a luxury holiday, the Stelida area offers Naxos all-inclusive packages with spas. For a budget-friendly holiday, there are several affordable Naxos hotels and B&Bs in the Grotta area, located near the historic centre.
A: Yes, Naxos is generally considered more affordable than other popular Cycladic islands like Mykonos or Santorini. You can find reasonably priced accommodation, dining and activities to suit different budgets.
A: The best months to visit Naxos are from May to September, as this is when the weather is warm and ideal for beach activities. June and September are particularly good if you want fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
A: Spending three to five days in Naxos is usually enough to explore the main sights. You’ll have time to enjoy the beaches and experience the local culture. However, if you want to hike or visit nearby islands, you should book holidays to Naxos for one week or longer.
A: There are no direct flights to Naxos from the UK, so you’ll need to fly to Athens first. From Athens, you can take a short domestic flight or a ferry from Piraeus to reach Naxos.
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