Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands rich in culture, myths and even rooftop bars! Despite being the biggest island it only has only one main town but with its boujee beach clubs, ancient ruins and mountainous terrain makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking a variety of relaxation, education and activities. This wasn’t me so I did it on a day trip but now wish I had spent at least a night and so might you. So read on to discover what to do on this gorgeous Greek island.
Myth has it that Zeus, the god of the sky and weather grew up in Naxos and his son Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility made the soil of Naxos fertile for growing grapes for wine! So this island is a must for wine lovers. For those that seek sunbeds, champers and days filled floating in crystal clear waters then Naxos does not disappoint either.
Discover Naxos:
Should I choose Naxos or Paros?
Choosing between these breathtaking islands was not an easy choice and very much personal preference, if you can’t do both. But if you are only staying on one you can do a day trip to the other in 45 minutes. For my circumstances and inclination, I chose to stay on Paros but hop over for the day. This was based on a few things: Naxos only had the one town, I wanted to visit Antiparos which is cheapest and easiest from Paros (unless you have your own boat!) and I heard Naxos was more for families. If you are still undecided then I have created a pros and cons list here.
How to get to Naxos?
For a day trip from Paros then it’s an easy ferry ride away. It took about 45 minutes (though some were a lot longer). Frustratingly we wanted to take the car over with us so we could explore beyond the town but the first ferry that took cars arrived at midday and with the penultimate ferry back at 6pm, the timeframe felt too limited for our plans. So we went early on the passenger to maximise the time.
A top tip is to check last year ferry times if you are hoping for more to be added as this will give you an idea of what was avaiable and if likely to be more. Given the increasing popularity of these islands, it’s possible that future seasons may see busier crossings, but but for 2024 it was the same as 2023.
If you are choosing to visit Naxos direct from an international flight then, Naxos and Paros have the same options which you can read about in my Paros guide here.
How long should I go to Naxos for?
Depending on your budget and time I would say a couple of nights is all you need to stay on Naxos. If you wanted to base yourself here and visit neighbouring islands such as Paros, Syros, Milos, Antiparos and even Mykonos or Santorini then I would recommended 10 nights.
But if that is what you are planning then I would also recommended basing yourself in Paros. If you are planning a lazy break in Naxos then stay as long as you can endure someone bringing you drinks by the sea!
Where is the port in Naxos?
Conveniently the port in Naxos is right by the one and only main town, Chora. Here you will find taxi ranks, hire car offices and all the restaurants and bars you need.
How do I get round Naxos?
Naxos is vast and mountainous if you are going to explore then you will definitely need some form of transport. Though if you are a nervous driver many of the roads don’t have street lighting so ensure you are back by dark. The bus system is ok but not nearly as good as Paros however if you are staying close to the town then taxi’s are great for getting to and from.
What to do on Naxos Island?
Visit the Temple of Apollo
Based at the port, the Temple of Apollo is just a 10 minute walk from the ferry. Built in 530bc but never finished this statue is also known as the great door or Portara. Takes just 10 minutes to walk from the port up to it though you can’t actually get too close, like Stonehenge, it is cordoned off. But you can still get a good picture, if you angle it right! The views back to the town are also magical from this vantage point.
Potter in the Main Town
Wander through the picture perfect streets and get lost. Stumble across the ruins of the castle, sit and soak in the sites of the harbour or admire the street art.
The town may be small, but as you weave through the backstreets, you’ll discover a labyrinth of beautiful buildings and fun bars like one called ‘Hug me’!
Go shopping in Naxos Town
From silly souvenirs to chic boutiques, Naxos offers a small but select shopping experience. Venture up behind the port to uncover these hidden gems along stunning stone paved streets and traditional Greek buildings.
Drink Kitron
The Kitron liquor is made from the leaves of the Naxos signature fruit, the citron. Due to the scarcity of the trees, this digestive liquor is only available on this island – so stock up! There are two main distilleries that produce this famous local drink: Vallindras and Promponas. The latter is conveniently located about a 40-minute walk from the town or a quick 5-minute taxi ride, making it perfect for those short on time who want to do Kitron tasting.
Meanwhile, Vallindras, the older and more famous of the two, is nestled in the mountains and has been crafting this dangerous drink since 1896. And by dangerous it is 30-40% ABV! Choose from green, white, and yellow at one of these distillers for a guided tour and tastings. If you can’t get to one then As Kitron is unique to this island it makes it a must-try even if it is at a local bar and a great gift to bring home. You don’t have to trek to the distillery, just off the ferry is a shop filled with a variety of options.
Visit the Vineyard’s
As the god of wine chose this island to make fertile, the least we can do is sample local wine. If you have time then visit one of the vineyards. Saint Anna or Terra Grazia were high on my list but couldn’t make the timings work if not then sample in one of the many bars or restaurants in town.
Hang at the Beach on Naxos
As I was on a day trip, the beach wasn’t my priority that said we had wandered the streets, sampled the rooftop bars open, shopped and had several hours until our ferry. I had a beach club on recommendation from a local – so we hopped in a cab from the port and came to Santana Beach Club – a slice of paradise! Great service, food and cocktails.
Drink a cocktail at Santana Beach Club
The cocktails were so good that they are getting own section as a must do. I may even go so far to say they were some of the best cocktails I’ve ever had. The secret was the foam which was like a sorbet and mine, the ‘Sexy Santana Colada’ looked like the ocean!
Explore the Island and Greek ruins
If I had been able to take our car across or thought it was worth hiring one then I would have headed straight for the Rotunda for lunch (and if I had been staying on the island then would have been a sunset dinner plan!) On route there is also the Kirton distillery, vineyard and the famous Mount Zeus. Though the former two not so good for drivers! I would also have added in Temple of Dimitri ruins. But we didn’t!
Best rooftop bars in Naxos?
Even I was a little surprised at one small town having so many amazing rooftop bars and restaurants – I even questioned whether I should have stayed on the island for this reason. Plus many don’t open until after 6pm so I was going to miss some gems like Swing Bar. But there were still plenty to enjoy and if I had really wanted to, I could have caught the last ferry at 10.30pm BUT with so many warnings about ferry’s changing schedules due to the winds, I couldn’t risk it – why there wasn’t one at sunset baffled me! For those I did make it to click here.
Have Brunch at a Rooftop on and old Monastery
In the old monastery you can enjoy breathtaking views, the best egg white omelette all before midday. more on this rooftop bar here.
Final thoughts on Naxos?
I was initially torn about staying on Paros, but it was the perfect choice. If I could do it over, I’d add at least one night on Naxos to see the town come alive and rent a car to explore the charming villages and ancient ruins. Hope that helps you with your choices!