The largest of the Cyclades is greener, more agricultural and more affordable than its famous neighbours. Expect long sandy beaches, marble mountain villages and excellent cheese, potatoes and kitron liqueur.
Highlights
- The Portara — a giant marble doorway to an unfinished temple of Apollo
- Chora's Venetian Kastro quarter
- Sandy beaches: Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka
- Mountain villages of Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos
- Hiking Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades
- Ancient kouros statues lying in the fields
Naxos is big enough to have its own farming economy, so tavernas serve island-grown produce: graviera and arseniko cheeses, potatoes, lamb and citrus. It is also one of the best Cycladic islands for families thanks to its shallow sandy beaches.
Inland Naxos
Drive into the Tragea valley for Venetian towers and Byzantine chapels among olive groves. Apiranthos, built of marble, is a highlight, and the climb up Mount Zas (just over 1,000 m) gives views across the Cyclades.
☀️ Best time to visit
June and September are ideal; the island is pleasant from May to October. July–August is busy but less frenetic than Mykonos or Santorini.
🧭 Getting there & around
Ferries from Piraeus and Rafina take about 3.5–6 hours, with good links to Paros, Mykonos, Santorini and the Small Cyclades. Naxos also has a small domestic airport (JNX) with flights from Athens.
Plan your trip to Naxos
Compare prices with KAYAKYou'll be taken to KAYAK to compare prices. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Plan your trip to Naxos
🏨Find hotels on Booking.comBooking.comAffiliate links — we may earn a small commission.
Deals from our travel partners
Bryan Adams-Athens- Greece Tickets - Olympic Stadium Athens Telekom Center, 2026-12-19Sports Events 365 · from 145 EUR
PAOK Thessaloniki vs Balkan Botevgrad Tickets - PAOK Arena, 2027-01-13Sports Events 365 · from 102 EUR
PAOK Thessaloniki vs BC Lietkabelis Tickets - PAOK Arena, 2026-12-19Sports Events 365 · from 102 EUR
Olympiacos Pireus vs Paris Basketball Tickets - Peace & Friendship Stadium, 2027-01-15Sports Events 365 · from 130 EUR
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Naxos guides & articles
Traditional Crafts of Greece: Pottery, Weaving and Marble
Greece's craft traditions reach back thousands of years, and pottery, weaving and marble carving still thrive in villages and workshops across the country. Here is where to find them.
Naxos in 3 Days: The Perfect Itinerary
The largest Cyclades island is greener, quieter and more affordable than its famous neighbours. This three-day plan covers its best sights, beaches and mountain villages.
Greek Island Hopping: Three Easy 7-Day Routes
Short on time but keen to see more than one island? These three easy seven-day routes make ferry hopping simple, with a mix of beaches, villages and local food.
Top Things to Do in Ios
Ios is famous for its nightlife, but its long sandy beaches, whitewashed hilltop village and quiet northern coast reward every kind of traveller.
Top Things to Do in Syros
Syros is the Cyclades' administrative capital and one of the few islands where a real, year-round town shapes the experience. Here is how to spend your time well.
Top Things to Do in Paros
From whitewashed harbours and Venetian forts to sculpted rock beaches and mountain villages, Paros rewards travellers who look beyond the postcard. Here are the experiences worth planning around.
Greek Coffee Houses (Kafeneia) and Their Traditions
Greece's kafeneia are far more than places to grab a coffee. Here is how these traditional gathering spots work, what to order and how to fit in.
Learning Greek Dance: Sirtaki and Beyond
Greek dance is the heartbeat of local culture, offering a unique way to connect with the spirit of the islands and the mainland. Learn the basics of joining the circle and understanding the rhythms that define Greek celebrations.
Greek Carnival (Apokries): Where to Celebrate
Apokries is the spirited three-week carnival season preceding Lent in Greece, marked by elaborate parades, ancient rituals, and traditional festivities across the country.
Best Greek Islands for First-Timers
Choosing your first Greek island can be overwhelming. This guide highlights the most accessible and diverse islands to ensure your first trip is seamless.
Top Things to Do in Naxos
Naxos stands out in the Cyclades for its lush landscapes, agricultural heritage, and long stretches of golden sand. It offers a perfect balance of ancient history, mountain tradition, and seaside relaxation.
Greek Village Festivals (Panigyria): How to Join In
Attending a panigyri is the most authentic way to experience Greek culture. These traditional village festivals offer a window into local life, music, and community spirit.
