NaxosCyclades · Greece

All About Naxos

If you only have time to visit one island which captures the true spirit of Greece, then it has to be Naxos. Taking a ferry to Naxos is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets. Although the largest of the Cyclades group, Naxos has remained well under the mainstream radar, which is surprising considering how much it has to offer visitors.

If you want to experience fertile landscapes, endless sandy beaches, traditional mountain villages, diverse cuisine, and even an impressive archaeological past, you will find all of this and much more on the island. Hike through its lush gorges, explore a Venetian castle, learn to kitesurf, wander around the narrow streets of a hillside village or just sit in a seaside taverna and savor the local culinary delights as you make amazing memories of your Naxos stay!
 

Routes and Ferries to Naxos

It is easy to travel to Naxos by ferry from Athens, as well as from the nearby islands of Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, and others. Just book your ferry tickets to Naxos with Ferryscanner and choose from a high-speed catamaran with Seajets, which takes 3 hours and 40 minutes, or opt for a slower sail lasting 5-6 hours on the regular lines such as Blue Star Ferries from the port of Piraeus.

In the summer months, you can also sail from the port of Rafina, which is only 30-45 minutes from Athens International Airport, while ferries continue to make daily crossings from Piraeus throughout the winter. You can also depart from the port of Lavrio, which is on the tip of the Attica peninsula, with Hellenic Seaways. From Naxos, you can book a ferry ticket to some of the nearby islands like Paros and Mykonos, as well as lesser-known destinations such as Patmos.

If you are flying into Athens and need transportation to the port of Piraeus, the X96 express bus will take you directly there. You can also go by train to Monastiraki station in Athens and then take the connection to the Piraeus line.
 

Ports of Naxos

Naxos has only one main port used for ferry crossings, and it is located in the main town of Chora. You will never find a grander approach to an island, with the massive Portara, a marble doorway, or ‘propylon’ also known as the Temple of Apollo looming in the distance.

Dating back to 530 BCE, it stands proudly at the port entrance on the islet of Palatia so you can’t miss it on arrival. Take a walk along the causeway before you depart from the island to admire this gigantic archaeological marvel and enjoy the divine sunset views too! On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Naxos.
 

Capital & Villages

The main town and villages of Naxos present an intriguing glimpse into the island’s long and fascinating history, with many monuments and landmarks revealing a rich and varied past. Said to be one of the most beautiful of all the Cycladic villages, Chora also boasts a Venetian castle at the top, which is surrounded by grand mansions and picturesque churches in the narrow meandering streets.

Chora is also the best place to dine on Naxos, with dozens of fish restaurants lining the waterfront, while delicious local products such as graviera cheese and the sweet liqueur can be found in its little family-run shops.

Apeiranthos

Said by many to be the crowning glory of Naxos, Apeiranthos has managed to retain its unique charm, sitting on the slopes of Mount Fanari with fabulous mountain views. The quaint stone-built settlement with marble-paved alleyways also reveals its Venetian influences, with coats of arms on show above doorways, plus the ruins of a medieval tower. The lovely church of Panagia Apeirathitissa is one of the oldest on the island and you can also visit the Museums of Archaeology, Folk Art, and Geology.

Halki

Once the island’s capital, Halki derives its name from the bronze smiths once residing there and its neoclassical architecture tells of its powerful commercial past. The village is located just 16 km from Chora in the central Tragea region, which is the largest area of olive cultivation in the Cyclades. Check out the Venetian towers, once used to look out for marauding pirates, and the old Byzantine churches, before taking a tour of the kitron distillery where you can also sample their ouzo.

Filoti

Immerse yourself in the vibrant village life of Filoti, one of the largest Naxian villages, which is set amphitheatrical-style at the foot of Mount Zas. This is sheep-rearing territory, which explains its reputation for excellent lamb and goat’s meat, as well as cheeses such as kefalotyri, anthotyro, xinotyro and mizithra. The main village square is full of traditional eateries and cafés which you can enjoy after exploring the neighboring hamlet of Klefaros with its Frankish tower. Visit the nearby Zas cave on your return, said to be the birthplace of Zeus himself!

Sagri

A picture-postcard village set on a fertile plain to the west of Naxos, Sagri is a stunning little mountainside settlement with medieval architecture and hints of its vibrant past. The remains of three Venetian towers and a cluster of little churches add to the charm while nearby lie the amazing ruins of the 6th century Temple of Demeter, built with the world-famous Naxian marble. Hike to the top of the mountain to admire the landscape from the fortress of Apalirou, explore the Alyko juniper forest, or head down to the beautiful beaches popular with wind and kitesurfers.
 

Best Beaches

The beaches on Naxos are unique in the Cyclades due to their expansive lengths, with powdery white sand and clear blue waters. The best can be found on the western side of the island, which is also the most touristy. You will find an abundance of restaurants and hotels lined up on the seafront.

Agios Prokopios Beach

The award-winning Agios Prokopios is claimed to be one of the best beaches on Naxos and can be easily accessed only 5.7 km from Chora. Imagine turquoise waters lapping a long, golden stretch like a giant swimming pool with umbrellas and sun loungers and you will see why it is so popular with young and old throughout the summer months.

Plaka Beach

Plaka is just one in a string of beaches that seems to go on and on and is known for its natural beauty, crystal-calm waters, and fine sand. There are some sunbeds but it is mainly unspoiled by the footprint of tourism and you will find a handful of restaurants and hotels just beyond its golden dunes.

Mikri Vigla Beach

This stunning beach is made up of two sandy stretches of powdery sand separated by a small hill. Just 12 km away from the capital, it is exposed to the northern Meltemi winds, making it famous on an international scale for kite and windsurfing fans. While you are there, why not rent some gear and have a few lessons yourself?

Sahara Beach

Continuing on from Mikri Vigla, Sahara beach (or Limanakia as it is also known) is a long, calm haven with shallow waters and soft sand. A quiet escape away from the crowds, it is also the perfect spot for a bit of snorkeling or just to enjoy those amazing blues of the Aegean sea.

Orkos Beach

Orkos beach is famous for its natural beauty, made up of several privé coves backed by cedar trees and a long stretch of sandy coast, making it truly special. Spend the day relaxing on the thick sand and enjoy total peace and privacy, while only being a few minutes away from important amenities like restaurants and a smattering of small hotels.
 

Transportation Around Naxos

Since Naxos is such a large island, it is a good idea to organize some kind of transport if you want to explore further afield than Chora. It has an excellent, safe road network offering access to even the remotest of destinations, with daily bus routes from Chora to the most popular spots. Alternatively, hire a car or motorbike and set your own pace as you discover the island’s untouched beauty spots. Taxis and private transfers are also available on demand.