Naxos Uncovered: The Cyclades' Best-Kept Secret
- Remo Bernardini
- Jun 17
- 4 min read
🌍 Why Choose Naxos?
If Santorini is for honeymoons and Mykonos for nightlife, Naxos is for people who actually want to stay awhile.
It’s where you’ll find:
Endless beaches with zero crowds
Charming villages where time slows down
Delicious cuisine made with local, island-grown ingredients
Ancient ruins, hiking trails, and secret coves
Friendly locals who treat you like family
🏖️ Top Things to Do in Naxos
1. See the Portara at Sunset
The iconic marble gate of the unfinished Temple of Apollo greets you as you sail into the port. It’s magical at sunset, when the sky turns gold and pink.
📸 Bring a bottle of wine and find your own spot to sit—it’s a moment worth savoring.
2. Swim at Agios Prokopios & Agia Anna
Golden sand and turquoise water with a relaxed vibe, beach tavernas, and easy access.
🏖️ Agios Prokopios is more developed, Agia Anna is cozier and perfect for families.
3. Explore Naxos Town (Chora)
Wander through the old town maze, visit the Kastro (Venetian castle), browse boutique shops, and sip coffee with locals.
🧿 Tip: Visit the Archaeological Museum—it’s small but fascinating.
4. Visit the Mountain Villages
Take a scenic drive inland to experience the real Naxos:
Halki – Gorgeous neoclassical architecture and home to the Vallindras Kitron Distillery
Apeiranthos – Marble alleys, cool breezes, and mountain views
Filoti – Great for lunch and a hike up Mount Zas
✅ TraveLab Experience: Village & Farm Tour – Includes olive oil tasting, mountain picnic, and local cheese sampling
5. Hike Mount Zas (Zeus’ Birthplace)
According to myth, Zeus was raised on Naxos. The hike to the summit of Mount Zas (1,004 m) is doable in a few hours and offers stunning island views.
6. Visit the Temple of Demeter
Located in Gyroulas near Sangri, this 6th-century BC sanctuary honors the goddess of harvest. Serene, minimal, and often overlooked.
🎟️ Entry is free or €4 in peak season.
🧭 Unique TraveLab Experiences on Naxos
✅ Farm-to-Table Cooking Class in a Mountain Village – Learn to make stuffed vine leaves, lamb with lemon, and Naxian cheese pies
✅ Private Sail Around Naxos & Small Cyclades – Secret beaches, snorkeling, wine on deck
✅ Kitron Tasting & Village Trail Walk – A guided tour of Halki and its citrus-based spirit
✅ Sunset Horseback Ride on the Beach – Epic views and unforgettable photo ops
🍽️ What to Eat in Naxos
Naxos is known for its cheese, potatoes, meats, and olives—thanks to its fertile soil and active farming culture.
Don’t Miss:
Naxian Graviera – Sharp, nutty cheese aged in local cellars
Potato everything – The island’s most famous export
Rooster in wine sauce – A mountain village favorite
Kalogeros – Eggplant and beef in a tomato & cheese sauce
Xynomizithra – Soft, tangy cheese often found in salads
🍷 Pair it with local wine or Kitron, Naxos’ unique citrus spirit.
🏨 Where to Stay on Naxos
🏛️ In Chora (Naxos Town)
18 Grapes Boutique Hotel – Luxury and walkable to the beach
Hotel Grotta – Friendly, family-run with caldera views
🏖️ By the Beach
Naxos Island Hotel (Agios Prokopios) – Rooftop pool, modern comforts
Irini Studios (Agia Anna) – Cozy, clean, and steps from the sand
🏡 In the Villages
ELaiolithos Luxury Retreat (Moni) – Ideal for wellness and nature lovers
Apeiranthos Traditional Guesthouses – Quiet mountain escape
🛍️ What to Buy on Naxos
Cheese & olive oil from village markets
Kitron liquor
Handwoven textiles
Local honey and herb blends
Ceramic art from Naxos Town shops
🚗 Getting Around Naxos
Car or ATV rental highly recommended, especially to explore inland villages and beaches
Local buses are good between Chora and beach towns
Taxis are available but limited
Boat tours offer access to Small Cyclades and hidden coves
📅 Best Time to Visit Naxos
🌸 Spring (April–June): Blooming hillsides, peaceful villages
☀️ Summer (July–August): Buzzing with beachgoers but never too crowded
🍂 Fall (Sept–Oct): Warm seas, grape harvest, fewer tourists
☀️ Best of both worlds? Late May or mid-September—pleasant weather and open tavernas without the rush.
❓FAQs About Naxos
Q: Is Naxos good for families?
Yes! Safe beaches, warm locals, and lots of space to roam make it ideal.
Q: Can I do Naxos without a car?
You can explore the basics with buses, but to see the real Naxos, a rental is key.
Q: Is Naxos good for couples or honeymooners?
Absolutely—especially if you prefer peace, beauty, and privacy over the party scene.
Q: How do I get to Naxos?
By ferry: From Athens (Piraeus or Rafina), Santorini, or Paros
By air: Domestic flights from Athens (~45 minutes)
🏁Naxos Is Where Greece Feels Real
If you want an island that blends beaches, mountains, mythology, and genuine hospitality, Naxos is your paradise.
It’s not flashy, but it’s full of soul. You’ll eat better, breathe deeper, and leave already planning your return.
📩 Let TraveLab Design Your Naxos Adventure
Whether you’re craving slow village life, epic beach days, or a blend of food, history, and island calm—we’ll build your perfect Naxos itinerary with heart.
Comments