18 Amazing Things to do in Naxos, Greece (Travel Guide + Tips)

Naxos is one of those islands I keep going back to. I've visited more than five times now, and each trip has been very different. Some visits revolve around long days at the beach, while others are spent wandering through mountain villages or lingering in the old town well into the evening.

What I really love about Naxos is the variety. You get wide sandy beaches, a lively but not overwhelming town, and quieter corners that still feel untouched. Over multiple visits, I've found myself returning to my favourite spots while also discovering new ones each time.

If you are planning to go to Naxos as part of a wider trip, check out our guide on 10 Best Places to Visit in Greece (Islands, Ancient Sites & Hidden Gems).

Things to do in Naxos, Greece

The best way to experience Naxos is to start in the main town and then work your way outward. The island is easy to explore in layers, from the old town and harbour to the beaches and inland villages. Here are my top recommendations.

1. Walk the Winding Streets of Naxos Old Town (Chora)

Naxos Old Town, also known as Chora, is one of the top spots. Located just behind the harbour in Naxos Town, this is where the island feels most alive. The streets form a maze of narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and small passages that seem to lead somewhere new with every turn.

As you wander deeper into the Old Town, you'll notice the atmosphere changes from busy to quiet within minutes. Some lanes are lined with small shops and cafés, while others are more residential, with doorways left open and locals going about their day. It's easy to lose track of time in Naxos Old Town!

2. Explore Naxos Castle (Kastro)

Just a short walk uphill from Naxos Old Town, Naxos Castle (Kastro) sits at the highest point of the town and is one of the most historic areas to explore. Built in 1207 by the Venetians, Naxos Kastro is a historic castle that houses the Archaeological Museum of Naxos.

Inside the castle walls, you'll find small courtyards, old residences, and hidden viewpoints looking out across the harbour. It's not a large area, but taking the time to wander here lets you see how Naxos has evolved over the centuries.

3. Visit the Archaeological Museum

Located inside Naxos Castle, the Archaeological Museum is an easy stop while exploring the old town. It's not massive, which I actually appreciated, as it gives you just enough context without taking up too much time.

Inside, you'll find a collection of ancient sculptures, pottery, and everyday artefacts that trace the island's long history. 

4. Visit the Portara at Sunset (Temple of Apollo)

One of the most recognisable landmarks in Naxos is the Portara, the iconic marble gate that remains from an unfinished temple of Apollo, built in the 6th century BC. It stands on a small islet just off Naxos Town, connected by a short causeway, and is one of the first things you'll notice as you arrive on the island by ferry.

I found sunset to be the best time to visit this amazing place. Crowds gather quietly, and the view back towards Naxos Town becomes even more striking as the sun sets.

5. Shop in Naxos Chora

Shopping in Naxos Chora, the island's capital, is something I found myself doing almost without planning to. As you wander through the old town, small shops appear one after another, tucked into corners and along the cutest streets in the area.

Some sell handmade jewellery and ceramics, while others sell local products such as olive oil, herbs, woven goods, souvenirs, and even sweets.

6. Learn the Island's History at the Venetian Museum

Also located within Naxos Castle, the Venetian Museum offers a different perspective on the island's past. Set inside a historic mansion, it focuses on the period when Venetian families ruled parts of the Greek islands, including Naxos.

I found it interesting to see how this influence shaped the architecture and layout of the old town. The rooms are filled with antiques, family heirlooms, and historical details that give a more personal look at life during that time.

7. Relax at Agios Prokopios Beach

If you're planning things to do on Naxos, spending time at the beaches is a good place to start. Naxos is known for its beautiful beaches, often regarded as among the best in the Aegean Sea. Agios Prokopios Beach is one of the easiest to reach from Naxos Town, and it quickly became one of my favourite spots on the island. There are plenty of taxis and a regular local bus service from Naxos Town.

The beach has soft sand, clear water, organised areas, and enough open space. It's one of those lovely beaches where you can easily spend a few hours swimming, reading, and doing very little else. Of all the best beaches on Naxos, this is the one I revisit each time.

8. Spend The Day at Plaka Beach

A little further down the coast, Plaka Beach is a quieter alternative while still being one of the most popular beach spots on the island. It's longer, more open, and less built-up than Agios Prokopios, which makes it easy to find your own space.

The sand stretches for miles, the water is clear, and the atmosphere is very laidback. Even though it's a popular beach, it never felt overcrowded, especially if you walk a little further away from the main access points.

If you're planning where to stay, we recommend browsing hotels in Naxos early, especially in summer when the best spots book out quickly.

9. Discover Other Stunning Beaches Around Naxos

Beyond the main stretches near Naxos Town, there are plenty of other beaches well worth exploring across the island. Each one feels slightly different, so it's worth setting aside time to visit a few if you can. This is where you start to see more of what to do in Naxos beyond the main areas.

• Agios Georgios Beach is the closest to Naxos Town and easy to reach on foot, with calm, shallow water that's ideal for a quick swim.
• Agia Anna Beach has a slightly lively feel (just down the road from Agios Prokopios) with beachfront tavernas and a more social atmosphere.
• For something more scenic, check out Mikri Vigla Beach. It is known for its clear water and steady winds, making it popular for water sports.
• Further south, there's Alyko Beach, sometimes called Hawaii Beach. It feels more remote and natural. Backed by striking red cliffs and surrounded by cedar trees, it's one of the more unique spots on Naxos and a good place to escape the busier areas.

10. Enjoy Water Sports Along the Coast

Naxos is known for its range of outdoor activities, and the coastline is a great place to get out on the water. Some of the beaches have ideal conditions for windsurfing and paddleboarding, especially on days when the wind picks up.

Agios Georgios Beach is one of the most popular spots for this, with places like Flisvos Sports Club, which rents equipment and provides lessons. You can try your hand at windsurfing or maybe rent a paddleboard.

11. Savour Some Local Food

One of the things I always look forward to in Naxos is the food. The island is known for its fertile lands, which produce a variety of local products, including potatoes, olives, and citrus fruits. You can taste the difference in even the simplest dishes.

I found that meals here felt more grounded and seasonal. From fresh salads and grilled meats to local cheeses and seafood, everything is simple but well-prepared. It's worth taking your time with meals, especially in smaller tavernas where the main focus is on quality.

12. Experience Some of the Top Naxos Restaurants

Dishes often feature Naxian potatoes, local cheeses like graviera and xinomyzithra, and simple ingredients prepared well. You will really notice how much care goes into traditional recipes, and it all comes together in genuinely delicious food.

There are plenty of great places to choose from, whether you prefer a casual taverna or an ultra-luxury dining experience. Family-run spots are easy to find and usually feel the most welcoming, especially in Naxos Town along the waterfront. 

I enjoyed places like To Elliniko for its traditional dishes and Lithos for a relaxed meal with local favourites. It's worth trying a few different restaurants during your stay, as the variety is part of what makes the experience so memorable.

13. Taste the Local Wine and Liquer

Trying the local wine and liqueur is something I'd definitely recommend making time for while in Naxos. The island has a long tradition of producing both, and you'll see local varieties featured on most menus.

One of the most distinctive drinks here is Kitron, a local liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree. It comes in three varieties: green, yellow, and clear, each with a slightly different flavour and strength. I visited the Vallindras Kitron distillery in Halki, where it's produced, and it gave me a better appreciation for how unique it is to Naxos. You can also stop by places like Saint Anna Winery where they offer tours to sample local wines in a more relaxed setting.

14. Visit Damalas Village and Discover Its Pottery Workshops

Heading inland to Damalas Village is definitely one of the best things to do in Naxos, Greece. It's a small village set among olive groves and farmland, and it has a very different vibe from the coastal areas. The pace here is slower, where you can experience everyday life on the island.

Damalas is best known for its traditional pottery workshops. You can see local artisans shaping ceramics by hand on your visit. I stopped by one of the family-run studios and really enjoyed watching the process up close.

15. Explore Halki Village

Halki was one of the most charming inland villages I visited on Naxos. Set in a lush valley, it's surrounded by greenery and feels noticeably different from the coastal areas. The village was once the capital of Naxos, and you can still see that in its neoclassical architecture, with elegant houses, quiet squares, and streets that are easy to wander at a slower pace.

As you explore, you'll notice those small details like classic Greek tiled floors in older buildings and touches of street art tucked into corners. Halki is also known for producing Kitron, and I highly recommend visiting the Vallindras Kitron Distillery. It's an easy place to reach by bus or car, and a great way to see a quieter, more traditional side of the island.

If you want to see the best of Naxos, I enjoyed the bus tour of the island, which includes a stop in Halki. Check out local tours below for a great way to see multiple villages in one day without worrying about transport.

16. Visit Filoti Village

Filoti sits at the foot of Mount Zas and is one of the largest villages on the island. But it still has a local character, with cafés, bakeries, and small shops spread around a central square.

From here, you can also continue exploring the mountain areas, which have a completely different atmosphere compared to the beaches along the island's western coast.

17. Go Hiking in the Naxos Countryside

Naxos is one of the best islands in Greece for hiking, especially if you want to see more than just the coastline. It's also one of the best ways to explore the Naxos mountain villages and see a different side of the island.

The inland areas are filled with well-marked trails that pass through valleys, small villages, and open landscapes, all of which feel far removed from the busy beach areas.

One of the most popular routes leads up to Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. You can also book a guided experience for this hike. Even if you don't go all the way to the top, the trails themselves offer a different perspective of Naxos that most visitors don't see.

18. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Greek Islands

If you're still deciding what to do in Naxos, exploring beyond the island is well worth it. Naxos is in a great location for visiting other islands in the Cyclades as well as Athens and Crete with regular ferries throughout the day.

From here, you can reach places like Koufonissi Paros, Syros, Mykonos, and Santorini, all within a few hours. It's a good way to experience more of the Greek islands without needing to change your base, especially if you're short on time but still want to see more than one destination.

Quick Tips

When to Visit

The best time to visit Naxos is during the shoulder seasons, from late April to early June and again from mid-September to October. The weather is warm, the island feels less crowded, so it's easier to enjoy the beaches and inland areas.

During the peak summer months, Naxos can experience the Meltemi wind, which can be quite strong at times. It doesn't stop you from enjoying the island, but it's something to keep in mind, especially if you're planning beach days or water activities.

Getting There + Arrival

Naxos is easy to reach, but it does require a little planning as the island doesn't have many direct flights from outside Greece. Most travellers arrive from Athens, either by flying into Naxos Airport or taking a ferry. Flights from Athens take around 30 to 40 minutes and operate year-round.

Ferries are another popular option, especially if you're island hopping. Routes connect Naxos with nearby islands like Mykonos and Santorini, as well as Athens. I found it easiest to check schedules and book tickets through apps like Ferryhopper. Arriving by ferry brings you straight to the main ferry port in Naxos Town.

How Long Do You Need?

For a first visit, I'd say three to four days is a good starting point. That gives you enough time to explore Naxos Town, spend time at a few beaches, and fit in a couple of inland experiences without having to rush.

If you have more time, Naxos is perfect for slowing down. You can stretch your days between beach mornings, long lunches, and short trips into the countryside. It's also a great base if you're planning to visit other nearby islands, so staying a little longer can work well if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Getting Around

Getting around Naxos is fairly easy, and I found the local bus system to be reliable and easy to use. Buses connect Naxos Town with the main beaches and inland villages, making it possible to explore quite a bit without needing a car. Tickets are affordable, usually costing around €1.80 to €2.50 depending on the route.

If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a great option. It's easier to get to quieter beaches, remote mountain villages, and places that aren't as well-connected by public transport. It is especially useful when you want to explore the island at your own pace rather than sticking to bus schedules.

Final Words: Things to do in Naxos Greece

If you're still wondering, is Naxos worth visiting? For me, the answer is always yes. After visiting the island several times, I must say it's one of the few places I love to keep coming back to without hesitation. It has a way of balancing everything, from long sandy beaches and historic sites to mountain villages and fantastic food. 

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like:

Parikia Paros Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Beaches & Where to Stay

Is Rhodes Worth Visiting for a Week?

Return to Greece Destination Page >>>