Top 20 Things To Do In Naxos Greece

Naxos is not one of the more famous islands of Greece, but if you’re looking for a fun island with local charm for your holiday, it’s a great one, so let’s explore the best things to do in Naxos. Not only is it less touristy, there’s several golden sandy beaches along its coast, many delicious authentic tavernas and fun sea-side bars, the ruins of several ancient temples devoted to Greek gods and goddesses, an old Venetian castle, charming mountainside villages, the local exclusive liquor, kitron, and Mount Zas, or Zeus, where, according to mythology, the god Zeus spent his childhood years.

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades and second largest island in Greece (after Crete). With Mount Zas to trap passing clouds, the interior of this island is greener than most Greek islands. Rich and fertile, it was famous in antiquity for its vineyards, honoring the myth that Dionysus, one of Zeus’s children, lived here. Although its wines are not as famous today, you can still find wineries here to explore. Because Naxos is so fertile, agriculture, rather than tourism, is its main source of income.

Top 20 Things To Do In Naxos

Naxos is a charming little island with many things to see and do. I’ve listed the top 20 here, in order of distance from the old town of Naxos, or Chora.

Explore Naxos Town, or Chora

The main town is Naxos old town, or Chora, near the harbor (sometimes also called Hora). It’s a charming labyrinthine of pedestrian streets winding from near the coast to up beyond the old Venetian castle on the hill. The crooked, cobbled walkways, lined with whitewashed buildings and colorful old doors, are full of a mix of authentic tavernas, bakeries, cafes, bars, markets, shops, and even homes, making it a wonderful place to get lost. Best of all, since it’s not a tourist magnet, this city still retains much of its authenticity.

I found many delicious tavernas along these walkways. My favorite was Metaxi Mas, serving the traditional Greek food you crave while visiting Greece (not tourist food). But there are many charming little places with friendly, smiling faces.

There are also some sea-side bars overlooking the coast that attract a hip crowd at night, and many unique shops and nooks and crannies to explore. Many staying open late, providing plenty of things to do day and night.

Airbnbs and hotels are sprinkled throughout the town. Mine, Panorama, was full of charm, looking like a traditional Greek home. Located up by the Venetian castle, it provided amazing views of the harbor and temple of Apollo. A perfect place for a sunset drink before heading out. Also, being away from the coast, it was nice and quiet at night.

Admire Portara, The Temple Of Apollo

The doorway to the Temple of Apollo is one of the first things you’ll see when you arrive on Naxos (as you’ll probably arrive via ferry). This ancient door is its most iconic site. It’s a huge marble door, dating from 530 BC. All that remains of a temple planned to mirror the scale of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens.

This temple was started, but never finished, as war broke out with a neighboring island soon after it was started. After this, Lygdamis, the ruler at the time, was overthrown.

It stands alone, romantically picturesque, on the islet of Palatia, which is connected to Naxos via a walkway.

There is a legend associated with the islet of Palatia too. According to mythology, this is where Ariande was abandoned by demigod Theseus (her lover) after he killed the Minotaur on Crete. She later married Dionysus, who is also considered to have lived here.

Portara is a very popular spot, especially before sunset. It’s located on the coast, about a 10-minute walk from Chora harbor.

Visit Naxos Castle

This Venetian castle, or Castro, was built in 1207, the same year the Venetians conquered the island. This castle is really the walled Venetian old town of Naxos. Glezos Tower, the only surviving tower of a set of 12, is close to the northwestern gate. It’s the cylindrical grey tower at the top of the town in the middle middle of the photo below.

There are several other buildings here, including a Cathedral, an Archeological Museum, and a school, along with villas, some serving as homes, others as cafes and shops to explore.

Enjoy The Sandy Beaches

Some of the most popular beaches are relatively close to Chora, like Agios Prokopios and Agios Anna, its neighbor to the south. They offer plush, cream-colored sand, with umbrellas and day beds for rent. The waves here are gentle, so perfect for all ages, and there are plenty of cafes and bars nearby. They’re also very scenic with the island of Paros visible in the distance (just a short ferry ride away).

Agios Prokopios is about 3 miles (5 km) southwest of Chora, so you need to drive or take the bus. Naxos bus 1 runs frequently from the KTEL station near Chora harbor, taking about 15-minutes.

Once at Agios Prokopios, you can walk a string of beaches along the coast for miles and miles, passing Agois Anna, Maragkas, Plaka, Mikri Vigla, Kastraki, Glyfada, and eventually to Alyko Beach. In some areas, you can walk along the beach, in others you will need to walk along the road.

The total length is about 9 miles (15 km), depending on how you measure, so it will take several hours to explore them all by foot. Naxos bus 1 also stops at many of these beaches if you prefer to ride. It’s last stop is Mikri Vigla.

As you walk, you’ll see a variety, so find one that suits your style. You’ll see traditional sandy beaches interspersed with charming beachside tavernas,

rocky areas to explore,

natural looking beaches on the side of the road, and beaches popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing (see below).

Some of the beaches farther south are clothing optional. These beaches generally have sand dunes to provide some privacy, but don’t be surprised by nudity if you go for a long walk along the coast.

Believe it or not, you can now also rent sun beds in advance to make sure you get a space.

Note: There is a beach within walking distance of Chora, Agios Georgios, but I was not overly impressed. It’s better to head to the west side of the island for beaches.

Try Kitesurfing

Many of the beaches here are very windy, so kitesurfing, is popular. In fact, Naxos is one of the most popular spots in Greece for kitesurfing because of its excellent wind conditions. Windsurfing is also popular here.

One of the best beaches for kitesurfing is Mikri Vigla, on the west side of the island. Glyfada, farther south, is another. There are many kitesurfing schools, so talk to them about locations if this is in your plan. Sometimes the best locations change as conditions change (and are based on your ability).

Explore Tiny Cliffside Churches

One of the more charming aspects of Naxos are the tiny white churches you see on craggily, Desert-like cliff tops around the island. I was riding with a friend on a motorbike east of Chora and stopped at incredible, but teeny tiny, Theologaki Church. See the white spec in the cliff below left? That’s it. It’s located about 1.8 miles (3 km) east of Chora (see link above for exact location).

There is a small parking area below the church, but you still need to scramble up a bit from there. The church was open, and quite beautiful inside with colorful frescos (although too dark for interiors photos). Even better, was the view of the area from inside the church. Simply spectacular!

There are many more of these tiny churches though, so see if you can discover your own!

Visit The Eggares Olive Oil Museum

Housed in an old olive press mill from the 1800’s, the Eggares Olive Oil Museum is recently renovated. It’s small, but charming in many ways, so definitely worth a stop! There’s an authentic, old olive press, and tools, along with history. At the end of the free tour, you can sample some local olive oils and shop for gifts. I realize it may sound boring, but it really is cute if exploring this part of the island.

Outside, there’s a bright patio (with umbrellas for shade) to enjoy some of their coffees, teas, homemade breads, marmalades, and light snacks. I had a delicious pasta salad with olives and tomatoes in one of their olive oils. It was so good I literally wanted to lick the bowl! Very simple, but the freshness of the ingredients made it super special. The staff here is also very friendly making it fun.

This museum is located in Eggares, about 5 miles (8 km) east of Chora on the main road to Apollonas.

Visit The Temple of Dionysus

There’s also an ancient Temple for Dionysus, the god of wine and celebration, who was greatly revered in ancient Greece. As Naxos was important historically in wine production for Greece, lush with vineyards, many believe that Dionysus lived in the forests here.

It’s believed that the temple was constructed in the 6th century BC, although the site may have been used for worship as early as the 14th century BC. The Romans renovated the temple in the 1st century. In the 5th century it was converted to a church.

There is honestly not much here, so this site is best for true lovers of history, mythology, and ancient ruins. I personally did not visit here, so do not have a photo.

The Temple of Dionysus is located in Yria, 2.75 miles (4.4 km) south of Naxos port. To get here, drive or take a taxi, as there is no public transportation here. Taxis are in the port area and next to the KTEL bus station. If taking a taxi, negotiate the price in advance as they often do not use meters. Ask for an estimated cost at your hotel before you go. It is possible to walk, taking about 45-minutes from the port. Note that this temple closes early. Often as early as 3:00 (although the website says 3:30).

Visit The Temple Of Demeter

If you only have time for one Temple on Naxos, the Temple of Demeter is the one to visit. Built in the 6th century BC, it was made entirely of Naxion marble (including the roof it once had). In Greek mythology, Demeter was the goddess of agriculture, which is why it was built near the fertile farmland here. Apollo and Demeter’s daughter, Persephone, were also worshipped here.

In the 6th century AD, this temple converted into a church. The marble was later pillaged for other uses.

There’s a small museum near the temple called Gyroulas Museum. It contains artifacts found here and information on its history. I definitely recommend the museum as it helps to complete the story of the temple. Note that this temple, and it’s museum, also closes early. The website says it closes at 3:30, but I suspect they may close earlier if it’s quiet.

The Temple of Demeter is located about 9.5 miles (15 km) southeast of Chora, near Sangri. There is a bus that goes to Sangri, but it stops several kilometers from the temple. The walk from the bus stop is about a 30-minutes or more. Plus, the schedules change daily, so it doesn’t always stop at the same location. Ask at the KTEL bus station by the Naxos harbor if this is in your plan.

I recommend renting a car or motorbike, or arrange a taxi or tour. There is roadside parking near the temple. If taking a taxi, negotiate the fee with the driver in advance.

Stop At Bazeos Tower

If you’re heading up to Halki, Filoti, or Apieranthos (all below), make a quick stop at Bazeos Tower along the way. There’s not much more along the plains here, so you’ll find yourself very curious about it when you see it.

Dating back to the 17th century, this tower was built during Venetian rule as a combination monastery and watchtower (due to pirates). The monastery was the monastery of the Holy Cross (“Timios Stavros”).

The tower, bought by the Bazeos family in the 19th century, was used as a summer residence. They still own it today, but it now hosts performances and cultural events.

Bazeos Tower is located about 2.5 miles (4 km) northeast of the Temple of Demeter and about 7.5 miles (12 km) southeast of Chora. It’s located on the main road between Chora and Halki, so you can’t miss it if driving that way. There is a small fee to enter, but it’s free to wander around the grounds.

Admire Apalirou Castle

Apalirou Castle is considered the Acropolis of a historical capital of the island. A combined fortress, castle, and city located on a steep hilltop. It was abandoned in the 13th century when Venetians invaded. The Venetians later chose to build their capital in Chora.

Southwest of the Temple of Demeter and south of Bazeos Tower, it’s a little bit out of the way if heading up to Halki, Filoti, and Apieranthos. I did not stop here, but the history of this place is interesting. To get here, you need to park below and try to find the footpath to scramble up the steep cliff.

Aparilou is located about 10 miles (16 km) from the port of Chora and 1.8 miles (3 km) south of Bazeos Tower.

Visit Quaint Halki, or Chalkio

Halki is the former capital of Naxos, a fertile area that’s the birthplace of Kitron, Naxos’ exclusive liqueur made from citron leaves (see below). The old heart of Halki is a very charming area. Admire the aged, colorful neoclassical building facades, shop, explore Byzantine churches, visit the distillery (below), have coffee, lunch, drinks, or gelato.

This area is very photogenic, with al fresco dining amidst beautiful old architecture.

There’s also an old tower here, the Tower of Barozzi-Gratsia, built by the Barozzi family in the 17th century. It’s across the street behind Panagia Protothroni, an old church, although it is not open.

There’s also a trail through ancient olive groves and citrus trees to the 11th century Byzantine Church of Saint George Diasoritis (below). You will see the signs for it as you wander the back by the olive grove.

Halki is located in the center of Naxos, about 8.7 miles (14 km) from Naxos harbor. Try to find parking on the street. If you can’t find any, drive past the town and you’ll see a parking lot. To get here by bus, take the Naxos bus 2 or 6. The ride is approximately 30-minutes.

Visit The Villandras Kitron Distillery

The old Kitron distillery is located in what looks like a charming old house in the middle of the old center of Halki. It now acts as a museum. Entrance is free to learn how they distill this brilliant green liquor from the citron leaves of the island.

There are free samples to try and souvenir bottles for purchase. Expect to spend 30-minutes here.

Visit The Village Of Filoti

The village of Filoti is another great city to explore. It’s past Halki, higher up Mount Zas. This charming village is loaded with cafes and shops to explore. Most located under a delightfully thick cover of leaves from century old trees. Plus, as it’s up high, you can see the picturesque valley below from many cafes (like both below).

It started raining when I was up here, so my pictures look a little grey, but it was quite lovely anyway.

If driving, the village is located in the main road from Naxos to the center of the island, Naxos-Apiranthou. Look for street-side parking. Filoti is 1.4 miles (2.3 km) from Halki, or 10 miles (16 km) from the port of Naxos. To get here by bus, take the Naxos bus 2 or 6 (the same as for Halki). The ride is approximately 35-minutes.

Hike To Zeus Cave, or Zas Peak, From Filoti

This is known to be a challenging hike, so only consider this if you are a strong hiker and have good shoes with you. I did not do this hike, but want to go back and do it!

Zeus Cave is the cave Zeus reportedly hid in on Naxos when being persecuted by his father, Cronus (this is in mythology, of course). It’s also where he was given the lightening, which made him the King of Olympian gods. The mountain here, Zas, or Zeus, was named in his honor.

To find this hike on AllTrails, Google ‘AllTrails Filoti Za Cave Loop’. I cannot add the link here as I have a subscriptIon that will block the link. You will need a subscription to download the map. The loop is about 5 miles (8 km), taking about 3.5 hours round trip. Read the comments as several people note the need of a good lamp (better than an iPhone) for inside the cave. Others say not to go too deep into the cave as some have become lost here (ugh!). Bring water and snacks! And do this with a friend or two.

Visit The Mountainside Town Of Apieranthos

Apieranthos is a mountain town up beyond Filoti on the slopes of Mount Fanari. It’s so high up, (650 m) that you forget you’re even on an island. Since Apieranthos is remote, it still retains much of its Venetian era feel.

The main thoroughfares of this pedestrian village are paved with marble tiles and covered by quaint arches in some spots. The architecture is quite charming and the walkways wind around the town, some leading up steps to even more remote areas of the village. You end up exploring practically on your own, as the village is very quiet. At least I did. Although it may have been quiet as the rain was just moving out when I arrived.

The Tower of Zevgolis is a must see, built on a rock near the entrance of the village. It is not open to the public, but nice to admire. There are also several cafes and tavernas here, many with decadent views of the valley below. And, of course, delicious traditional Greek food.

There are also 4 museums here: the Apieranthis Archeological Museum, the Apieranthos Geological Museum, the Museum of Natual history, and the Folklore Museum of Apieranthos. I honestly did not stop at any myself, just wandered the town and stopped at a picturesque place for some moussaka.

If driving, the village is located on the main road from Naxos past the center of the island, Naxos-Apiranthou. There is a parking area across from the village. Apieranthos is about 3 miles (4.8 km) from Filoti, or about 13 miles (21 km) from the port of Naxos. To get here by bus, take the Naxos bus 2 or 6 (the same as for Halki and Filoti). The ride is approximately 1 hour from the Naxos harbor bus station.

Drive To Panormos Beach

Panormos is one of the most secluded beaches on the island (as it’s not easy to get to). It’s located on the southeast tip of Naxos with no public transportation. It is, however, a spectacular drive from Apeiranthos, at an elevation of 2,132’ (650 m) down to the sea. The drive is about 45-minutes, most of which is hairpin turns with stunning views to the sea. Expect to stop for photos along the way (like I did below)!

I’m not much of a beach person, so although I enjoyed the secluded nature of the beach here, it was the amazing drive that I really enjoyed the most.

Make sure to bring food and beverages with you as there is nothing in this area. There are also no lounge chairs, umbrellas, or any facilities. Plus there are pebbles and rocks in the sand, so bring good footwear.

I was actually the person at the beach (and at the Acropolis), although there were several cars in the parking lot. Maybe they were out to sea on boats (?).

This beach is 34 miles (55 km) from the port of Naxos. The ruins of the Acropolis of Korfari are within walking distance from the beach here (see below).

Marvel At The Acropolis of Korfari

The prehistoric Acropolis of Korfari is about a 10-minute walk from Panormos Beach. There are small signs along the way as you walk through bumpy, rocky fields and pastures (hint: wear good shoes!).

The ruins of a this prehistoric temple are in a stunning location overlooking the sea. There’s not much here physically, but the ruins of walls and some rubble. But when you learn that this Acropolis is from the 3rd millennium BC (2,500-2,300), you realize how amazing it is!

It once had 20 rooms and several circular towers protecting it, indicating a very well organized society. Very advanced for its time. Unfortunately, researchers think it was destroyed by enemy attack as traces of fire and and enemy weapons were found here.

See The Giant Kourous At Apollonas

This giant statue of Dionysus, only partially carved from the marble quarry, dates to the 6th or 7th century BC. It’s massive in scale at 35’ (10.7 m), weighing about 80 tonnes. The statue is a kourous, which is a statue of a Greek male. Due to its beard, some believe it is a statue of the god Dionysus.

This is one of those sites that is more spectacular in real life, rather than its images, mainly due to its massive scale.

It’s located in one of the oldest quarries in Greece, not far from Apollonas, about 19 miles (31 km) from the port of Naxos. I did not make it to this site, and am not sure if you can get here by bus. Ask at the KTEL station by the port of this is in your plans. There are two similar kourous, although smaller and missing their feet, at Melanes.

See The Ancient Tower of Chimarros

Yet another important ancient monuments on Naxos is Chimarros Tower. It’s a cylindrical defensive tower, built around the 4th century BC, made of marble blocks. It once stood 65’ (20 m) high with a base of 30’ (9.2 m). It’s in the middle of nowhere and covered in scaffolding, but if you have extra time, it’s a fascinating site for the historical perspective.

As with other ancient ruins here, they are not sure of its purpose, although it is definitely defensive in nature. There are 4 stories in the tower, originally connected by a marble staircase.

It’s located on a hilltop along the road from Filoti to Kalantos Beach (about 8 miles, or 13 km from Filoti) near the southern end of the island. The distance from Naxos port is about 20 miles (33 km).

Want To See More Of Greece?

Greece is such an amazing country with so much to see. On top of all the fascinating history, especially in Athens, there are over 200 inhabited islands to discover. Below are some of my favorites, along with interesting stories.

Mainland Greece

• Top 20 Things To Do In Amazing Athens | A Complete Guide
• Visiting The Clifftop Monasteries Of Meteora
• Teaching Yoga At A Refugee Camp In Serres Greece

Corfu Island

• Best Things To Do In Corfu Old Town
• Things To Do In Sidari: Must-See Canal d’ Amour and More
• Enchanting Cape Drastis, How To Get There And What To Expect
• Top Things To Do In Pretty Paleokastrista
• Top 12 Things To Do In Captivating Corfu

Crete Island

• Top Things To Do In Crete
• Balos Bay Beach And Gramvousa Island, Crete
• Day Trip To Elafonisi Island, Crete
• Hiking Samaria Gorge, Crete

Ios Island

• Top 15 Things To Do On Ios Island 

Kefalonia

• Exploring Enchanting Myrtos Beach & It’s Stunning Viewpoints
• Complete Guide To Charming Fiskardo
• How To Get To Melissani Cave & What To Expect
• Colorful Assos Village, It’s Castle & Turquoise Bay
• The Enigmatic Sinkholes Of Argostoli
• Best Things To Do In Argostoli | Top Attractions & Hidden Gems
• Ultimate Guide To The Best Things To Do In Kefalonia

Milos Island

• What To Do On The Cool Island Of Milos

Paros Island

• 15 Fun Things To Do On Enchanting Paros 

Santorini Island

• Hiking From Fira To Oia On Santorini

Zakynthos Island

• How To Get To Stunning Shipwreck Beach on Zakynthos
• Spotting Turtles in Zakynthos And Visiting Turtle Island
• Myzithres Viewpoint & Beach | Hidden Gem of Zakynthos
• Visiting Zakynthos | What To Do & Where To Stay

Other

• Philotimo, The Highest Greek Virtue
• Gorgeous Old Doors Of Greece

For an overview of all the best places in Greece, as well as how to get around, safety, tips, and more, see my Greece Travel Guide.

Safe Travels!

Julie

Want to learn more about me? See my About Me page to understand why I love traveling so much and my philosophies on travel.