Sandy beach in Naxos, Greece with wooden boardwalk leading to rows of thatched umbrellas and loungers along turquoise waters. Mountains visible in the distance under clear blue skies.

Naxos, Greece: Best Things to Do, Where to Eat & My Favorite Hidden Gems

ByMelissa Kruse Hours Posted on

After dreamy days in Paros and whirlwind days in Santorini, my husband and I wrapped up our honeymoon with the perfect five days in Naxos. And, it turned out to be our favorite stop in the Greece.

Naxos is the largest island in the group of Cyclades islands, but it’s still easy to explore with a relaxed pace. It’s less crowded than Santorini, has a slightly more low key vibe than Paros, and offers the perfect mix of charming old town, traditional villages, and countryside.

Whether you’re visiting on a honeymoon like I did or planning a family trip, here’s everything you need to know, from the best things to do and beaches to where to eat, how to get around, and how to get here.

Why Naxos Is Worth Visiting

Of the Cyclades Islands, Naxos stands out a more authentic choice for your trip without being too off the beaten path – meaning there’s plenty of accommodation and restaurant options and touristy things to do without being filled with tourists.

My top three reasons for loving Naxos are:

A Cyclades Island That Feels Authentic, Not Overrun

Unlike Santorini or Mykonos, Naxos hasn’t been overtaken by cruise-ship crowds. In our four blissful days there at the end of our honeymoon, we never saw cruise liners dock at all.

More to See, More to Taste, More to Love

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades. That means rugged mountains, a fertile interior rich with local produce, and quietly authentic towns like Apeiranthos and Halki, where you can sip kitron (a lemony local liqueur) and stroll sun-dappled stone streets. It’s a welcome contrast to the more tourist-centered energy in places like Santorini.

A Perfect Base for Island Hopping

Naxos sits at a ferry crossroads. From here, you can hop over to Paros, Koufonisia, and the Small Cyclades—places like Irakleia, Schinoussa, and Donoussa

A beach on the island of Naxos, Greece. The foreground shows a smooth, light-colored sandy beach and gentle waves of transparent water rolling onto the shore. The sea extends into a light turquoise color and then a deep blue, with small, rocky islands visible in the distance. The background features a large hill with white buildings on its slopes, and a clear blue sky overhead.

Best Things to Do in Naxos

These are my top ten recommendations for things to do while exploring Naxos.

1. Explore Naxos Town (Chora)

Naxos Town is the island’s main town. Wander the narrow lanes, browse boutique shops, and grab a coffee in one of the small squares.

2. Visit the Venetian Castle (Kastro)

Check out this castle that sits above Naxos Town for a step back in history and gorgeous harbor views.

3. Watch the Sunset at the Portara

The Portara (a massive marble doorway from an unfinished temple) is Naxos’ most famous landmark. Grab a good spot and watch the sky turn gold over the Aegean Sea. It’s a quick few minute walk from Naxos Town out onto the rocky causeway.

The Portara, a large marble gate, standing on top of a small, rocky hill. The gate is the remains of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo on the island of Naxos, Greece. The hill is surrounded by the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea, which is calm and shows some rocky seabed near the foreground. The sky is a cloudless, bright blue
View of the Portara from the harbor

4. Drive to the Mountain Villages

Renting a car is the best way to explore. We visited villages like Apeiranthos, Filoti, and Chalki. You can expect stone houses, quiet squares, and local cafés in each town.

The mountain roads are well-paved but winding, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. A circular route linking Chalki, Apeiranthos, Filoti, and Apollonas makes for a packed but rewarding day trip. You could plan for one meal in each spot, with a couple stops for snacks and coffee too!

Chalki

Once the capital of Naxos, Chalki is a charming village with neoclassical mansions, narrow alleys, and a relaxed, artsy vibe. Don’t miss a stop at Vallindras Distillery to sample the island’s signature citron liqueur, or pop into local boutiques and cafés in the main square.

Apeiranthos

Nicknamed the “marble village” for its stone-paved streets and elegant Venetian architecture, Apeiranthos is one of the most picturesque villages in Naxos. It’s worth visiting for its craft shops, small museums, and mountain views. Try a traditional lunch in one of its tavernas before moving on.

Filoti

Nestled at the foot of Mount Zas, Filoti is the largest village in the interior and a lively stop with plenty of cafés and tavernas. The shady plane tree in the central square is the perfect spot for a coffee break. From here, adventurous travelers can also start the hike up Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades.

Apollonas

Located on the northern coast, Apollonas combines a fishing village atmosphere with history. It’s home to a giant unfinished Kouros statue dating back to the 6th century BC, lying in an ancient quarry just outside town. After sightseeing, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the seaside tavernas.

5. Spend the Day at Naxos’ Best Beaches

Naxos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cyclades, with long stretches of golden sand, crystal-clear water, and options ranging from lively beach clubs to quiet coves. Most of the top beaches are located on the island’s southwest coast, making it easy to explore more than one in a single day.

Plaka is the longest beach on the island. Plaka stretches for several kilometers and blends organized areas with sunbeds and tavernas alongside some quieter sections. It’s perfect if you want space to spread out and enjoy the soft sand and calm waters.

Plaka Beach on the island of Naxos, Greece. The foreground features a wide expanse of light-colored sand. To the right, a line of straw-roofed beach huts and sun loungers faces the sea. The water is a brilliant turquoise that fades into a deeper blue on the horizon. A distant hilly landscape is visible across the sea, and the sky is a clear, cloudless blue.

Agios Prokopios is a standout beach on Naxos. It’s beautiful clear water and fine white sand attract a lot of travelers so it can get busy. There’s plenty to do – including grabbing a bite at nearby tavernas, rent a sunbed, grab a cocktail at a beach bar, or go snorkeling.

Agia Anna is right next to Agios Prokopios. It offers the same stunning water but on a smaller, more relaxed scale. Its beachfront tavernas and calm vibe make it especially good for families or a laid-back swim-and-lunch stop.

Mikri Vigla is popular for wind surfing. We stopped here for a bit just to take in the scenery and watch all the wind surfers do their thing. It was quite impressive!

View of Mikri Vigla Beach on Naxos Island, Greece, with several kite surfers riding the waves under a clear blue sky. Colorful kites are scattered across the horizon, while the turquoise sea contrasts with the golden sandy beach in the foreground. Distant hills and small islands can be seen in the background.

Alyko is known for its natural beauty with sweeping dunes, cedar trees, and crystal-clear water. There aren’t any cafes and restaurants here, so bring water and snacks, but you’ll be rewarded with a quieter, more secluded setting.

Alyko Beach in Naxos, Greece, featuring a pristine sandy coastline with turquoise waters and dramatic golden limestone cliffs. Several beachgoers walk along the shore and relax on the sand, while green vegetation covers the clifftops under a clear blue sky.

6. Hike Mount Zas

The highest peak in the Cyclades offers panoramic views of the island. The hike takes about 2–3 hours round trip. If you go in the summer make sure you go early to avoid the midday heat.

Honestly, I didn’t do this one because I had been getting super hot in the sun wandering around Santorini in the days before we were on Naxos and I didn’t want to overheat on a hike.

7. Take a Day Trip to Other Cyclades Islands

Naxos is well-connected for island-hopping. If you’re only there for a few days, I’d stay on the island as there is so much to see, but if your stay is a week or longer then you should consider checking out some other islands.

Keep in mind you may need to book your ferries in advance, especially in summer, as high-speed routes can sell out. And always check return times carefully; schedules can change, and some islands have fewer evening ferries back to Naxos.

Small Cyclades

Travel time: 20–90 minutes by ferry depending on the island

The “Little Cyclades” — Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia, and Donoussa — are tiny, low-key islands with pristine beaches and a laid-back vibe. Koufonisia is the most popular option, with ferries from Naxos taking about 40 minutes. It’s ideal for a peaceful day of swimming, walking, and taverna-hopping.

Paros

Travel time: 30–45 minutes by ferry

Paros is the easiest and most popular island to visit on a day trip from Naxos. Ferries run regularly throughout the day, making it possible to explore Parikia’s old town, enjoy lunch by the water in Naoussa, or take a swim at one of Paros’ golden beaches before heading back to Naxos in the evening.

Mykonos

Travel time: 1–1.5 hours by high-speed ferry

Known for its whitewashed alleys, Little Venice, and beach clubs, Mykonos is doable as a day trip if you want a taste of its glamour without staying overnight. You’ll have enough time to explore the town, grab a meal, and wander its boutiques, though it’s more of a “sightseeing sampler” than a relaxed visit.

Santorini

Travel time: about 2 hours by high-speed ferry

It’s possible to do Santorini in a long day trip, but be prepared for an early start and a late return. You won’t be able to see everything, but you can walk the famous cliffside path between Fira and Imerovigli, or head straight to Oia for its postcard views and sunset (if the ferry schedule allows). This works best in summer when daylight hours are long.

8. Enjoy Drinks with a View

In a section below about the best restaurants I’ve listed a lot of great places to eat and drink around the island, but couple standouts if you’re seeking great views are:

  • Rotunda: Restaurant with gorgeous sweeping views from a hilltop village in the middle of the island. Be sure to book a reservation before driving out here.
  • Avaton 1739: A rooftop café and wine bar with views of Chora.
View of a dessert and a glass of wine on a table at an outdoor restaurant. The dessert is a parfait in a glass dish, topped with whipped cream, nuts, and caramel sauce. The table also holds a potted succulent plant and a glass of water. In the background, the sun has set, casting a deep orange and blue hue across the horizon. The view overlooks a sprawling landscape.
Sunset view from Rotunda

9. Go for a Boat Ride

The sea around Naxos is spectacular and a boat ride is the best way to get to experience the clear waters. Hidden coves, sea caves, and calm bays are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Compared to Santorini’s boat tours, which are often crowded and centered around caldera views, Naxos boat trips feel more relaxed and focused on the pure beauty of the Aegean.

Some of my top recommendations for a day at sea are:

10. Take a Cooking Class

Naxos is known as the most fertile island in the Cyclades, and it supplies much of the produce eaten on neighboring islands. From its famous potatoes to local cheeses, herbs, and honey, this is the best island in Greece to dive into a food experience. A cooking class not only gives you hands-on skills but also connects you with locals who are proud of their culinary traditions.

Here a couple of my top recommendations for cooking classes in Naxos:

11. Go Wine Tasting

While Santorini is famous for its Assyrtiko wines, Naxos has its own long winemaking tradition that many visitors overlook. The island’s fertile soil produces rich grapes that thrive in the Aegean climate, and small family-run wineries keep the craft alive.

  • Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos: A chance to step away from the beaches and experience another side of Naxos. Enjoy tastings of local varieties alongside a tour of the vineyard and cellars. It’s a peaceful and authentic experience, ideal for couples or anyone who enjoys learning about local food culture.

12. Go Kitron Tasting

Kitron, Naxos’ signature liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree, is a must-try while visiting the island. It comes in three varieties: green (sweet), clear (stronger), and yellow (somewhere in between). Learning about and tasting Kitron is a fun cultural experience and the perfect excuse to bring home a bottle (or two) as a souvenir.

Take guided tour and tasting at Promponas Distillery here, which is just outside of Naxos town. Or take their fun and creative cocktail making class!

You can also sample it at the Vallindras Distillery in Chalki. The distillery has been making kitron since the 19th century and offers tastings paired with a quick look at their traditional production process.

13. Go Scuba Diving

There are several PADI Certified Dive Centers on the island. There’s plenty of marine life to check out in addition to reefs, shipwrecks, underwater rock formations and caves.

Blue Fin Divers is located at Agios Prokopios beach, offering courses for all levels, equipment rental, and boat trips. 

14. Visit the Monasteries

Naxos has several historic monasteries, like Panagia Drosiani and Moni Chrysostomou, offering insight into the island’s religious heritage and Byzantine architecture. They’re peaceful, scenic, and usually less crowded than other island sites.

15. Go on a Bike Tour

Rent a bike and tour the countryside, beaches, or villages. Biking gives you a slower, more intimate way to experience Naxos’ landscapes and discover hidden spots off the main roads.

Where to Stay in Naxos

Stay in Naxos Town for walkable dining and shops.
Stay near Agios Prokopios or Plaka Beach for a beach-first vacation.

📍Sundunes Hotel Naxos: Sundunes sits right on Plaka Beach. Perfect if you want long beach days and a quieter setting away from the bustle of town. We rented sunbeds here for the day and loved it. I would love to stay here on a future trip to Naxos.

📍Dream on Plaka: A boutique stay with a cozy, personal feel. The rooms are chic yet simple, and being steps from the beach makes it a great pick for couples.

📍Anapollo Boutique Hotel – Adults Only: Outside Agios Prokopios, this adults-only option blends comfort with a sleek design. Ideal for honeymooners or couples wanting a tranquil stay.

📍 Nissaki Beach Hotel: (Naxos Town) One of the few beachfront hotels right in Naxos Town. You’ll be within walking distance of the port and restaurants while still having direct access to St. George Beach.

📍 Iria Beach Art Hotel: Located right on Agia Anna Beach (between Agios Prokopios and Plaka), this boutique hotel offers modern rooms with artistic touches. Great if you want a beach escape without being too far from town.

📍 18 Grapes Hotel: (Agios Prokopios) A luxury boutique option with a rooftop pool and beautiful suites. It’s just a short walk to Agios Prokopios Beach, making it a fantastic splurge-worthy stay.

How To Get To Naxos

By Ferry: The most popular way to reach Naxos is by ferry. High-speed ferries from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina port) take around 3.5–4 hours, while regular ferries take 5–6 hours. Naxos is also well connected to other Cycladic islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros, making it easy to include in an island-hopping itinerary.

By Plane: Naxos has a small domestic airport with daily flights from Athens that take about 40 minutes. Flights are quick but sell out fast in high season, so book early. Keep in mind the airport is small, so luggage allowances may be stricter than on international flights.

From the Port or Airport to Naxos Town (Chora): Both the ferry port and the airport are very close to Naxos Town. The port is right in Chora itself, so you can often walk to your accommodation if you’re staying in town. From the airport, it’s about a 10-minute drive. Taxis are available outside, or you can arrange a hotel transfer in advance.

Best Restaurants in Naxos

Here’s a list of great places to eat and drink in Naxos. I’ve linked to the location of each place for easy planning and so you can check out the menus.

In Naxos Town

Avaton 1739: A rooftop café and wine bar with sweeping views of Chora. Great for coffee, brunch, or a sunset glass of wine.

Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant: Another rooftop option for a pleasant outdoor evening.

Kitron Naxos: Known for its unique citron-based liqueur, this spot also serves breakfast and brunch.

Hurmas All Day Cafe Bar: A cozy bistro serving Naxian coffee, wine, and creative plates made with local ingredients.

Melimilon Naxos: A charming breakfast and brunch café famous for its homemade marmalades and fresh baked goods.

Honey & Cinnamon: A café-bar serving brunch, dinner, cocktails, and local wines in a relaxed setting.

Scirocco: A long-standing, family run, farm-to-table favorite. Greek-Mediterranean cuisine.

Sto Ladoxarto: A traditional grill house specializing in meat dishes, especially slow-cooked Naxian lamb and pork.

Café Ouzerie Barabbas: A traditional ouzeri with a lively atmosphere, perfect for ouzo and fresh seafood.

Verus: All day dining (good for brunch, lunch, or dinner) with a modern take on traditional flavors.

Irini’s: A hidden gem with homestyle cooking.

Waffle House: The island’s most famous dessert stop, serving homemade ice cream and freshly baked waffles.

The Rum Bar: A cocktail bar with a huge rum selection and sea views.

Swing Cocktail Bar: Good spot for cocktails and late-night vibes.

Like Home: Rooftop cocktail and dance bar with Japanese-inspired bites with nice views.

Lithos: A hidden gem of a cafe on a cute street in Naxos Town.

Baco: Seaside bar serving sushi, street food, and cocktails. I loved the tacos here and honestly it was a nice change of pace from all the Greek food we had been enjoying.

A waterfront restaurant table in Naxos Town, Greece, overlooking the harbor at dusk. The table features grilled seafood with pita bread, bread baskets, and drinks, with sailboats moored in the marina and traditional white Cycladic buildings rising up the hillside in the background

Near Plaka

Nikos & Maria Restaurant: Delicious traditional Greek food with tables right on the sand.

Yucca Beach Bar: A beachfront bar-restaurant perfect for a lazy day with food, drinks, and loungers.

Caya Italian Cuisine Cocktail Bar: Beach club with Italian-inspired cuisine, cocktails.

Tortuga: A bohemian-inspired beach bar and restaurant.

Picasso on the beach: Mexican restaurant with a bit of a Greek twist. We really enjoyed our dinner here towards the end of our 3 weeks in Greece when we wanted more than just traditional Greek food.

Apeiranthos

Rotonda: This wa easily my favorite meal on the island. Perched high above the mountains, this restaurant offers traditional dishes with one of the best panoramic views on Naxos. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Terrace dining at Rotunda Restaurant in Naxos with a handful of couples at tables and the sunset over the mountains and sea in the distance.
View from Rotunda’s terrace

Chalki

To Spitiko Galaktompoureko: Famous for its indulgent galaktompoureko (Greek custard pie).

Caffe Greco: A stylish café serving coffee, brunch, and wine in the heart of the village.

Paravas: A cute tavern known for grilled meats and hearty traditional dishes.

Best Time To Visit Naxos

The best time to visit Naxos is late spring through early fall. July and August bring the hottest weather and biggest crowds, while May, June, September, and early October offer warm, sunny days without the chaos.

I visited in early June and it was perfect. It was hot but not sweltering, with plenty of energy on the island but still before the major summer rush.

TLDR: Guide To Naxos, Greece

During our honeymoon, we found ourselves staying put in Naxos longer than we planned, just to soak in the slower rhythms, sea views, and real Greek island life. If you’re after beaches, villages, food, and more then Naxos stands out as a smart, soulful choice in the Cyclades. You can enjoy everything the Greek Islands have to offer without sacrificing peace or authenticity.