While Naxos isn’t exactly off-the-beaten-path, it’s often overlooked for neighbor islands like Mykonos and Santorini. As the largest of the Greek Cyclades, there is no shortage of things to do in Naxos. Whether you have 3 days in Naxos or a full week, Naxos has a wide variety of things to do so you will never be bored.
How to Get to Naxos
Naxos is an easy add on if you’re already planning to spend a few days in Paros. The ferry from Paros to Naxos can be as quick as 25 minutes, making it easy to split a week and spend 3 days or more in Naxos. Ferries also run from other islands, though they are slightly longer journeys. From Santorini or Mykonos, the ferry will take anywhere from one to two hours. Flights run frequently between Athens and Naxos and take ~40 minutes.
How to Get Around Naxos
As the largest of the Cyclades, Naxos is widespread. Although it’s not completely necessary to rent a car in Naxos, having a car will allow you to explore beyond Chora and experience the best of the island. Cars are available for rental at the Naxos airport and near the ferry terminal. Reserve a rental in advance for easy pick up upon arrival to Naxos. Parking is relatively easy in the many free municipal lots around the island. Keep an eye out for the blue ‘P’ signs.
What to Do with 3 Days in Naxos
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset at Temple of Apollo – Portara
The absolute best place on the island to start or end one of your 3 days in Naxos is the Portara, a massive marble gate also known as the Temple of Apollo. This “great door” welcomes visitors to the port and provides a – literal – window into Naxos’s history, and its intersection with Greek mythology.
Although it was once connected to the main island, Portara is now accessed by a man-made isthmus. It is an easy walk from the port, but keep an eye on the waves that often crash onto the path. Portara is most picturesque at sunset, but expect crowds during peak season. For a similar experience without the crowds, go at sunrise.
Explore Apeiranthos Mountain Village
Apeiranthos is the highest village on Naxos, making the journey as scenic as the destination. Often considered the crown jewel of the island, Apeiranthos offers a calm and old school Greek charm that is a welcomed change from the lively streets of Chora. The village has well protected its distinct character, which can be felt in the marble archways and Venetian towers. Getting lost in the labyrinth of Apeiranthos’s winding village streets is one of the best things to do during 3 days in Naxos. Our favorite discovery was Φούρνος Απεραθου, a traditional wood-fire bakery, frozen in time within the alleys of the village.
Enjoy a Scenic Lunch at Rotonda
On your way down the mountain from Apeiranthos, stop at Rotonda for lunch with a view. Unlike any other restaurant on Naxos, Rotonda is a standalone oasis tucked in the mountainside. Aside from the parking alcove, Rotonda is easily missed when driving the winding roads towards Apeiranthos. As soon as you step through the garden entrance, you’re struck with sweeping views of the Naxos mountains. Enjoy a frappe or espresso freddo while taking in the breathtaking vistas from Rotonda’s balcony or enclosed patio. Although Rotonda is not your typical taverna, the traditional Greek food and Naxian specialties should not be overlooked. The standout dish was the mousaka, baked to order in an individual clay pot.
Take a Post-Hike Break in the Shade of Platanos, The Puressence Café
Many visitors of Naxos find themselves in the small mountain village of Filoti to start and end the hike to Mount Zas. Besides providing the access point to the highest peak in the Cyclades, Filoti is worth a stop in its own right. Platanos is aptly named for the outsized platanos tree that shades its vast patio. Relax in the shade and refuel after a long hike with Platanos’s traditional pizza, fresh lemonade, and a slice of homemade galaktoboureko. Take it from my Greek father, a self-proclaimed galaktoboureko critic, who proudly claimed it to be one of the best he’s ever had.
Charter a Boat to Swim in Hidden Coves and Rhina Cave
The best way to get to the remote coastline of the south and east side of Naxos is by boat. If you have a group, a half or full day charter will allow you to create your own itinerary. Even with just 3 days in Naxos, spending a day on the water is a must-do. We used Panteleos Naxos Yacht Charter, and spent a day aboard the Filitsa II, their 10 passenger, captained boat.
Our captain took us to secluded coves where we could swim and snorkel off the boat, and had the beach completely to ourselves. When it was time for lunch, we docked on the smaller neighboring Cyclade, Koufonisia. Koufonisia is lesser-known outside of Greece, though many Greeks choose it as their preferred holiday destination. Because of this, it has held onto its characteristic old-school Greek character. We had time to get lunch and explore the quiet village streets, before our last stop.
When we arrived at Rhina Cave, we had a few unspoiled moments of solitude before the larger tourist boats began anchoring and sending swimmers into the cave by the dozen. Despite the crowds at Rhina, it was a perfectly balanced day of tranquility, island hopping, and one very much on-the-beaten-path spot.
Explore the Best Beaches on Naxos
As the largest of the Cyclades, Naxos also has a vast coastline and variety of beaches. The best beaches are mostly concentrated on the west side of the island, making them easily accessible to those staying in Chora. Although there are no bad beaches, there are better options based on what you’re looking for in a beach.
Agios Prokopios is one of the best beaches on Naxos for families and travelers seeking umbrellas and restaurant access. The extensive white sand beach is one of the most popular on the island. At lunchtime, head to Lefto’s Souvlaki House for beachside gyros.
Marvel at the Temple of Demeter
If the temple of Apollo left you longing for more, continue your lessons in Greek mythology at the Temple of Demeter. The 6th century BC temple is built entirely from Naxian marble, and served as early architectural influence of the Parthenon in Athens.
Unlike Portara, there is a small entrance fee. The 4 euro will get you access to the ruins and the small museum. We skipped the museum, but it’s worth a quick stop to view archaeological items found at the site. There is not an organized parking lot; instead, cars and buses line the dirt road at the entrance. Go early in the day for easy parking and to avoid direct sun exposure. There is a 5-10 minute walk from the entrance to the ruins with limited shade.
Buy Memorable Souvenirs from a Second Generation Pottery Studio
For an authentic souvenir from Naxos, continue on a fifteen minute drive from the Temple of Demeter to Manolis Lybertas’ pottery studio. The family that runs Manolis Lybertas’ will take time to demonstrate how they’ve been spinning pottery for four generations. You could spend an hour wandering through the floors and shelves lined with bowls and vases before settling on the perfect one – or five, if you’re like me – to take home. Rest assured, if you don’t have room in your suitcase, they will ship your purchases home at a reasonable cost.
Sample a Taste of Naxos in Halki
Naxos is one of the most agriculturally rich islands in the Cyclades, especially compared to its volcanic neighbors. As a result, there are a number of unique Naxian foods, native to the island. Kitron is one example, produced exclusively on Naxos from the fruit of the native citron tree. For the best sampling, head to the sleepy village of Halki, home to Vallindras Distillery, the oldest kitron distillery on Naxos. For a family friendly or spirit-free alternative, head to Four Tastes for fresh juice and ice cream, both homemade from local Naxos produce.
While in Halki, also be sure to check out:
- Fish & Olive gallery and boutique for ceramics and jewelry
- The 9th century church Panagia Protothronos
- The 11th century Byzantine Church of Saint George Diasoritis
Have Dinner in the Alleys of Naxos Old Town
While some of the restaurants that line the port can be a bit touristy, there are gems worth seeking out deep within the alleys of the old town. Two of the best places to eat in Naxos old town are Metaxi Mas and Doukato Restaurant. Both are very popular, so we recommend you call in advance to make a reservation.
After dinner, take a stroll through the winding alleys and discover all the stores and boutiques within the storied backstreets. Make your way to the port and stop at Waffle House for homemade ice cream. Waffle House was a fixture of our nightly routine, and we began looking forward to sampling a new flavor from their wide range of unique combinations.
Planning a trip to Greece and have questions on the best things to do with 3 days in Naxos? Comment below!
