Where Should You Go on Naxos Island?
Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades, combining beautiful beaches and remote villages at the slopes of Mt Zas, the highest mountain in the area. These are our favourite five places you should visit on Naxos island!
Chora of Naxos, 4 km north of the airport
The Chora of Naxos is also the main harbour of the island. Park your car at the public parking areas and walk up to the residential neighbourhood of Kastro (Castle). Stroll along the cobbled alleys and the Venetian 13th-century stone buildings with tall arches and enjoy the view overlooking the port. Visit the Byzantine Museum at the Tower of Krispi or Glezos and the Archaeological Museum at the top of the castle with the impressive marble statue collection.
Orientation map of the Castle, Chora. Photo by Zde, licensed.
At the port's north side is the small island of Palatia, or Vakchos island. There stands the Portara (Great Door), a marble gate remaining of an unfinished temple built in 6th BC in honour of Apollo. According to the myth, this is where Thisseas abandoned Ariadne, the daughter of king Minos, on his way back from Crete, where he killed the Minotaur. Following Athina's orders, Thisseas left Ariadne in Naxos. However, Dionisos fell in love with her and married her.
The long sandy beach of Agios Prokopios. Photo by Carlo Pelagalli, licensed.
Agios Prokopios beach, 6 km southwest of Chora, Naxos
Agios Prokopios is a long sandy beach ideal for all tastes. One part of the beach is organised with sun beds and water sports, while the other is quieter. Also, Agios Prokopios is ideal if the day has solid northern winds. If you decide to stay there during your holiday, there are various rooms and restaurants.
Mikri Vigla beach, 16 km south of Chora, Naxos island
Mikri Vigla is a sandy beach with two sides separated by a small hill. The northern side, with stronger winds, is a popular destination for wind and kite surfers. The southern beach is protected and more suitable for those who want to relax and enjoy the beach and the crystal waters.
The sandy beach of Mikri Vigla, 16 km south of Chora, Naxos. Photo by Frank Manolas, licensed.
Apollonas village, 35 km northeast of Chora, Naxos
Apollonas is a small fishing village with a sandy beach and lovely tavernas for a quiet lunch by the sea. The famous Naxian marble from the local quarry was shipped to the rest of Greece and other Mediterranean destinations. Rent a car in Naxos Chora and drive to Apollonas through Eggares, or if you feel more adventurous, you can take the long road through Kanakari and Mount Fanari, close to Apeirnathos village. Once you get there, visit the nearby archaeological site with the 10m famous statue of Kouros dating back to the 6th century BC.
The 10.7 meters tall unfinished Kouros of Apollonas is made of Naxian marble. Photo by Heiko Gorski (Moonshadow), licensed.
Apeiranthos village, 26 km east of Chora
Like the rest of Greece, Naxos island is much more than a beautiful coastline. Apeiranthos is a mountainous village at an altitude of 650m which has kept its authenticity and traditional architecture using stone and marble. Getting there will allow you to see much more Naxos than if you stick to the coast. First, drive to the top of the village and walk via the main street to the impressive church of Panagia Apeirathitissa. Then, visit the Archaeological museum or the Museum of Folk Art to learn more about the history and local culture. The locals have a strong connection with the Cretans and share the same accent as the inhabitants of the mountainous villages of Crete.
Apeiranthos is a mountainous village which has kept its authenticity and traditional architecture. Photo by Zde, licensed.
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Featured image by Navin RajagopalanFollow, licensed.