There are certainly a lot of unique things to do in Naxos.

Naxos, being the biggest island in the Cyclades, has managed to stay uncrowded and authentic.

From exploring the town of Naxos and discovering sandy beaches to admiring the unique architecture and stunning landscapes, there are a lot of things to do in Naxos.

We’ve recently spent a month on Greek island hopping and exploring some of the best places to visit in Crete, Naxos and Paros.

We stayed ten days on the island and found many cool things to do in Naxos.

Here are our top 10 things to do in Naxos:

1. Explore the Naxos town

There are many things to do in Naxos town and you can easily spend 2-3 days exploring this vibrant city.

From whitewashed buildings composed of Venetian and Cycladic elements, small streets, and craft shops to majestic Chora castle, you won’t be bored here.

Naxos Town has kept an authentic, traditional character and an intense local colour.

The 13th-century Venetian castle (Kastro) stands proudly on top of a hill, housing many astonishing historical monuments.

2. See the Temple of Apollo – Portara

The Portara, or the Great Door, a massive 2,500-year-old marble doorway, is the most famous landmark on the island.

The Portara stands on Palatia, a little island once a hill before the Meditteranean sea rose significantly (since ancient times).

This impressive landmark is believed to be initially a temple dedicated to Apollo.

3. Learn windsurfing in Naxos

Naxos is one of the best Cycladic islands to try windsurfing, and this was one of our favourite things to do in Naxos (until Steve dislocated his shoulder)!

The island is famous for its perfect wind conditions, and all watersport enthusiasts.

Whether you wish to learn on shallow lagoon waters in the Flisvos Sports Club or catch the wind at Plaka Beach, there are so many options and incredible Naxos beaches! 

4. See a movie under the stars

Naxos has its summer open-air cinema; if you get a chance, watch something under the stars. It is conveniently located within walking distance of town and serves beer, wine and, of course, delicious popcorn.

5. Explore the most beautiful Naxos beaches

Naxos is famous for its stunning white sand beaches with crystal clear blue waters. The island has many stunning beaches perfect for relaxing away from the crowds. Plaka, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna and Mikri Vigla belong to the most recognised ones. But there are so many Naxos beaches to discover. 

6. Visit the ancient temple of Demetra

Just outside of the Sangri village, you will find the magnificent temple of Demetra proudly sitting on a small hill.

Dating back to the 6th century, this Naxian marble temple attracts many tourists looking to explore the island.

The temple is believed to be dedicated to worshipping fertility and the growth of vegetation.

7. See how an authentic Naxian pottery is made

The Pottery Limpertas Manolis, located in the traditional village of Damalas,, is uniqueThe owner invites you to watch how he creates unique pottery within minutes. This truly special place offers beautiful pottery designs perfect for gifts and souvenirs.

8. Visit Apiranthos

Located about 30 km from Naxos town, on a hilltop, you will find a crown jewel of Naxos, the ‘Plenty of Flowers’ village.

Apiranthos is one of Naxos’s most beautiful and charming villages, filled with stunning architecture entirely made of fine marble.

Take your time here exploring the beautiful streets, small handicraft shops and cafes offering some of the best views on the island.

9. Spend the day in Apollonas

Apollonas was once a sleepy fishing village that used to serve as the port of the Koronida village.

Today, this stunning beachfront town has become northern Naxos’s most developed tourist settlement.

It is a wonderful place with whitewashed buildings, a gold sandy beach, seafront tavernas and shops lined up, creating postcard-perfect pictures.

Only 5 minutes drive from the village, you will find the famous Statue of Dionysos.

10. Learn how olive oil was made traditionally

You can’t come to Greece and not learn about the olive oil.

The Engares Olive Press Museum was wholly restored to share the knowledge of the traditional manufacturing of the olive with visitors.

After the tour, you get to taste olive bread, olive oil and some of the best-marinated olives on the island.

Bonus: Our top 3 best places to eat in Naxos

Naxos has some of the best restaurants we’ve been to in Greece. Here are our top 3 best places to eat in Naxos:

1. AVALI Restaurant is an amazing seafood restaurant with one of the best views overlooking the Agios Prokopios beach.
2. Traditional Greek Tavern Giannoulis – run by a family- has some of the best traditional Greek dishes. Stuffed tomatoes are a must-try!
3. La Trattoria was one of the best restaurants we visited. The relaxing and friendly atmosphere, delicious food and excellent wine make for a must-visit.

Where to stay in Naxos

We stayed in two different hotels in Naxos, yet both were situated in the Agios Prokopios area away from touristy Naxos town.

We found our beautiful accommodation on Airbnb and Booking.com.

Our favourite accommodation was by far the Camara Hotel in Agios Prokopios. The rooms are clean and spacious, the staff is fantastic, and the breakfast is outstanding!

Best time to visit Naxos

Naxos weather varies throughout the year. The best time to visit Naxos is, no doubt, in the summertime.

We visited Naxos at the beginning of June when the weather was warm and there were few to no tourists.

If you are truly looking for a relaxing break away from people, then May, June, and September are the best times to visit the island.

July and August are the most popular months amongst travellers, but the island seems to handle the crowds well.

After you book your holiday, make sure to get your travel insurance with World Nomads or True Traveller. They are the best!

How to get to Naxos

The easiest way to get to Naxos is by ferry. Naxos also has a small airport with flights arriving regularly to the island during the summer months.

The most common route, however, most visitors take is the Piraeus – Naxos, which also stops in Santorini. It takes approximately 8 hours to get to Naxos from Piraeus. If you are looking for Greek island hopping tips, read our guide here.

If you prefer to fly to Naxos, many airlines, including Aegean Airlines, British Airways or Lufthansa. S

We hope that you found our top things to do in the Naxos guide useful.

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