Naxos: A Gem in the Cyclades
Naxos is a beautiful island located in the Aegean Sea in Greece, and it offers a unique experience to travellers. Thanks to a 2014 New York Times article declaring Naxos, Greece “not to be missed”, travel heavyweights have been including it year after year on their lists of must-see destinations within the Cyclades.
Unlike its neighbours Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos remains relatively unfazed by the North American hype – despite the fact that the picturesque island continues to surface on Greek island round-ups. Its low-key ambiance and quiet pace provide visitors with an authentic Greek island experience, only three and a half hours from bustling Athens.
When to Go
The weather in Greece is warm from March/April onwards, with peak crowds in July and August. Early September is an ideal time to experience the island. By September fewer tourists are packing the ferries and beaches, and there will be a wider range of accommodation options available, as children across Europe are back in school.
Getting There
The easiest way to get to Naxos is by ferry from Athens. From the port of Piraeus (just outside of Athens) a highspeed ferry will deliver you to Naxos in roughly 3.5 hours. If time isn’t an issue for you, other ferries offer a more scenic 5.5 hour journey. Purchase your tickets in advance to alleviate any headaches at the port and guarantee your arrival time.
What to Do
Eat! Simply arrive hungry, and don’t leave until you’ve sampled as much as you possibly can. Naxos is known for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh seafood, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and traditional Greek dishes. The local cheeses, such as graviera and kefalotyri, olive oil, and the famous Naxian potatoes are not to be missed, as well as imbibing on a glass of island-made Kitron (a spirit made from citron trees, a relative of the lemon). There are plenty of restaurants directly across the street from the port, however going inland (even if it’s a block or two) will often reveal restaurants aimed at locals instead of tourists, complete with more reasonable prices and authentic cuisine.
While it’s about a 45 minute drive inland, a visit to Rotonda (located in the Apeiranthos region of Naxos) will deliver gourmet food with jaw-dropping views of the island and sea.
Tip: Reserve a table for sunset, the views are some of the best on the island!
Naxos has no shortage of stunning beaches and beach bars. From the Chora (town centre) the first beach is Agios Georgios, an easy 15-minute walk from the centre of town. While there are ample oceanfront restaurants and beach bars, Agios Georgios is often the most crowded due to its proximity to the town centre.
Outside of the town centre, three well-known beaches dot the coast – Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka. Each boasts crystal clear turquoise water, not unlike the Caribbean, and Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are within walking distance of each other. All three beaches are easily accessible by public transit that runs every half hour from the town centre. If you want to rent a sunbed for the day (highly recommended to find reprieve from the scorching Mediterranean sun) visit any number of the beach bars along the beach. Some will rent two beds and an umbrella for a flat fee, others will include them for ‘free’ with the purchase of food or drinks. No matter which beach you choose you’ll feel the stress of every day life slipping away while you lounge on the golden sands and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Hiking and outdoor activities abound here. Naxos has a diverse landscape, with mountains, valleys, and beaches, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or even windsurfing or kiteboarding.
Naxos has a long and fascinating history, with many ancient ruins and historic sites to explore. You can visit the Temple of Apollo, the Portara (a massive marble doorway), and the Archaeological Museum of Naxos to learn more about the island's past.
Unique to Naxos is the Eggares Olive Press Museum, one of Naxos’s oldest remaining olive mills. A brief complimentary tour showcases the history of the mill, including original production materials once used at the site. Make sure to do a tasting before you leave and be prepared to purchase some of their oil, because you will be hooked!
How Long to Stay
We recommend staying 3-5 days, so that you can won’t feel rushed while exploring the beaches, museums, art galleries, and shops. There will also be plenty of charming cafes and restaurants along the way that you will want to pop into for a drink or to savor a delicious meal.
Where to Stay
There’s no shortage of accommodation on Naxos, ranging from luxurious private villas to basic room rentals. Here are just a couple of options:
Hotel Grotta Is rated #1 on TripAdvisor for good reason. The Greek hospitality is evident from the moment you arrive, welcomed with a snack and a glass of white wine from the family’s vineyard. Don’t miss the legendary breakfast spread, it’s something dreams are made of!
Kavos Boutique Hotel is located a ten-minute walk from Agios Prokopios beach and offers guests their choice of villas, apartments, or suites overlooking the Aegean sea and nestled among the bougainvillea. With an outdoor pool, restaurant, and pool bar, guests will want for nothing.
Final Thoughts
On Naxos you will have a truly authentic Greek Island experience. Unlike some of the more popular tourist destinations in Greece, Naxos has managed to maintain its authenticity and charm. You can experience the relaxed island lifestyle, explore small villages, and meet friendly locals. Overall, Naxos is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and relaxation. Who could ask for more?
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