From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip
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Naxos
Naxos, the island of Ariadne’s myth, is the largest and most fertile of the Cyclades. Famous resorts, secluded beaches, quaint villages, historical sites and a mountain more than 1,000 metres high also include olive groves, vineyards, figs, lemons and potatoes.
Once an important centre of Greek and Byzantine civilisations, it is today one of the four most famous and visited Greek islands along with Santorini, Mykonos and Paros.
This marvellous island is certainly perfect for a romantic holiday for couples, but also for lonely hearts: the excellent wines produced on the island have been considered effective antidotes against lovesickness since the ancient times of Ariadne…
The ending of her story – discover it at the bottom of this page – is more than happy, as will be your holiday on Naxos.
The beaches of Naxos are considered among the most spectacular in the Cyclades, characterised by fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters reminiscent of Caribbean landscapes. With over 90 kilometres of coastline, the island offers an extraordinary variety of beaches for every type of traveller.
The west coast is home to the most famous and organised beaches. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are considered absolute pearls, with soft sand and shallow waters ideal for families. Plaka Beach stretches for kilometres, offering both equipped areas and wild stretches, while Mikri Vigla is a paradise for kitesurfers and windsurfers thanks to its constant winds.
The urban beach of Agios Georgios, a short walk from the port of Chora, combines comfort and beauty with shallow waters perfect for children. For those seeking tranquillity, the east coast offers remote coves such as Apollonas, set in wild scenery and frequented mainly by local fishermen. Each beach has its own personality: from the traditional taverns of Agia Anna to the trendy beach bars of Plaka, Naxos knows how to satisfy every seaside desire.
Naxos offers an extraordinary cultural heritage ranging from classical antiquity to traditional Cycladic villages. The symbol of the island is the Portara, the imposing marble gate of the Temple of Apollo (6th century B.C.) that stands on the islet of Palatia, offering breathtaking sunsets and has become a worldwide photographic icon.
The old town of Naxos Chora retains its Venetian charm with the Kastro, the fortified citadel from 1207 where noble families built elegant palaces. The narrow cobbled streets hide archaeological museums, art galleries and craft workshops that keep local traditions alive.
The mountainous hinterland holds authentic gems such as Halki, the island’s ancient capital, famous for the historic Vallindras distillery, which has been producing Kitron liqueur since 1896. Apiranthos, the ‘marble village’, preserves a unique Cretan dialect and a medieval atmosphere unchanged over time.
There is no shortage of archaeological treasures: the Temple of Demeter near Sangri and the colossal Kouros of Apollonas, unfinished statues that testify to ancient artistry. Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades (1003 metres), offers scenic treks through the Tragaea Valley and hidden Byzantine monasteries.
The island of Naxos is a paradise for those who love the sea but get bored lying in the sun for hours. You can alternate hours on the beach with exciting walks along the seafront or inland among villages, forests and ancient churches. We recommend you get a hiking map because there are not many marked trails.
Another popular activity on Naxos is kitesurfing, practised on the windiest beaches, almost all of which are located along the west coast.
If you want to give your beach holiday a break, you are sure to find an activity that suits you.
If you want a different perspective from the usual beach but without the hassle, you can join one of the many daily catamaran or motor boat cruises that are organised by local tour operators. Boat excursions to nearby islands are also available.
If you only have one day to dedicate to Naxos, a bus tour will take you to the main attractions of the island: you will visit the temple of Demeter, the villages of Damalas, Halki, Apiranthos and the centre of Chora, the statue of Kouros and much more.
You cannot leave Naxos without tasting Kitron, the island’s typical liqueur made from a particular variety of lemon. The best place to taste it is the historic Vallindras distillery in the main square of Halki, which has been producing kitron since 1896.
Naxos may not boast the legendary nightlife of the neighbouring island of Mykonos, but there is no shortage of bars and disco-pubs open until late, so the Pearl of the Cyclades is the ideal location for people who want to combine a beautiful sea with fun nights.
The nightlife in Naxos is concentrated in the Chora, the historic part of the main town, and in particular in the marina area: a long succession of traditional bars and tavernas perfect for pre- and post-dinner drinks, plus a couple of disco-pubs with music until 5am. Other areas for nightlife entertainment on Naxos are the most popular beaches, where you can find several beach bars, some chic and trendy others much more chill out.
The discos in Naxos generally play international hits and often also Greek music. Don’t expect the latest dance trends: for techno, house and electronica better to head elsewhere, but if you are looking for a night of carefree fun with drinks and music Naxos will not disappoint.
There is a small airport on the island of Naxos that has no direct connections to Europe. The easiest thing is to fly to the neighbouring island of Mykonos and from there take a ferry to Naxos.
If air connections are reduced to just a few domestic flights, the situation is completely different for ferries: Naxos has plenty of sea connections with other Greek islands, including Crete.
Naxos Chora is the most versatile choice, with boutique hotels in the old town and traditional guesthouses near the harbour. Here you’ll have restaurants, shopping and nightlife on your doorstep, plus the convenient beach of Agios Georgios for a morning dip.
The area of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna is perfect for those who prioritise the sea, with beachfront resorts and family flats just a few metres from the crystal-clear waters. Prices are slightly higher but the quality of the facilities is excellent.
Plaka Beach offers the best value for money with mid-range hotels and holiday homes surrounded by nature, ideal for families and couples seeking tranquillity.
For an authentic experience, consider the hinterland such as Halki or Apiranthos, where small traditional guesthouses will let you experience the real Greek atmosphere.
We have selected a number of establishments that are ideal for your holiday in Naxos: visit the page with all the advice on where to stay in Naxos or use the search engine below. Book 2-3 months in advance for the summer, when Naxos fills up with travellers attracted by its authenticity.
We offer a selection of hotels at Naxos to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Naxos, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Naxos. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Naxos are in high demand.
Have you ever wondered where the expression ‘to plant’ comes from? It is a contraction of ‘planting in Naxos’ and refers to the mythological events of Ariadne, the maiden who helped Theseus escape from the Minotaur’s labyrinth.
After escaping from Crete together with her, Theseus abandoned the maiden on the island of Naxos, but the poor wretch soon had her revenge: falling in love with her and wanting to marry her was none other than Dionysus, the god of wine.
With such a beautiful island we wouldn’t mind being planted on Naxos at all…
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