Visiting Naxos, Greece
We loved Naxos. This is such a laid-back and welcoming island; we wish we had spent more time here. We visited Naxos after Santorini, and although they are close, they are vastly different. We still recommend Santorini as part of your Greek holiday, but we encourage you to spend more time in Naxos (or any other islands). If you’re dreaming of a Greek island that blends beach life, ancient ruins, charming villages, and some of the best food in the Cyclades – without the crowds of Santorini or Mykonos- let me introduce you to Naxos.
First Impressions of Naxos, Greece
Stepping off the ferry in Naxos, the Temple of Apollo and white-washed downtown welcomed us. We immediately felt relaxed, no rushing around, just casual strolling down the pier. It felt like stepping into a postcard—it’s a main street with several restaurants and bars lining the dock area. To the left of the pier is the Portara, one of the main sites in Naxos—quite the way to begin our Naxos adventure
Hailing a cab, with dubious directions, we set off to our hotel. When we were investigating where to stay, we opted to stay outside of the downtown area. Honestly, we were not sure if we had chosen wisely. Still, we ended up only 20 minutes from Chora, but within easy walking distance to the beaches of Agios Prokopios, Alyko, Kastraki, Mikri Vigla, and Plaka. Only a short 5-minute walk to the beach, our hotel was smaller, lovely, and with excellent service and a design aesthetic. It would be best to have a car in this area, but we managed to figure out the buses and walking to most places. You can check out our hotel to see if it’s for you.
Why Naxos?
Naxos is greener than the other Cyclades islands, and despite being the largest, it somehow feels smaller and more relaxed. It’s not overrun with tourists; if you’re chasing parties and nonstop action, this island isn’t for you. But if you savor the simple joy of sitting on a beach, wandering bougainvillea-lined streets, and moving at a slower pace, Naxos is perfect. Families flock here, and it’s easy to see why — many return year after year, charmed by the island’s calm rhythms.
The magic of Naxos lies in its unassuming nature. It doesn’t try too hard. There are no wall-to-wall influencers, no overstated gimmicks — just laid-back beaches, charming alleyways, and locals who seem genuinely happy to have you here. Naxos feels like a hidden gem, a place to slow down, soak in the sun, and savor the timeless pleasures that make Greece unforgettable.
Things to do in Naxos?
Let’s start with what most people come for — the beaches. And Naxos delivers in spades. From the golden sands of Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach to the quieter coves of Alyko, there’s a stretch of coastline for every mood. Many beaches are shallow and calm, perfect for families or long, lazy float sessions. Feeling more adventurous? Kite surfing is a popular option here. Bonus: most beaches are lined with seaside tavernas, where grilled octopus is always a good idea. The beaches aren’t just beautiful — they feel almost otherworldly. Photos don’t quite capture the surreal, captivating sensation of being there.
But Naxos has more to offer than sun and sand. The Chora, the island’s main town, is a labyrinth of winding alleyways, each turn revealing a little surprise. Tucked inside are cafés, art galleries, and shops selling handmade local goods — perfect for an afternoon that drifts seamlessly into dinner. Perched above the town is a castle, a remnant of the Venetian era in the 1200s, long before the Ottomans arrived. Many of those Venetian buildings still stand today, lending the town a timeless charm. Wander up to the Kastro district, then lose yourself in the maze of whitewashed streets below; every corner seems to hide a secret waiting to be discovered.
History & Mythology in Naxos
Like all of Greece, Naxos is steeped in myth. The most famous tells that Zeus himself grew up on the island, hiding from his father until he was gifted the lightning bolt. Mount Zas, the island’s highest peak, carries his name and still exudes a sense of ancient energy. Dionysus, the god of wine, is also said to have been born here, credited with the island’s lush, fertile lands. Everywhere you go, these myths linger, blending seamlessly with Naxos’s natural beauty. History is just as present: prehistoric remnants dot the island, and the Portara — a massive marble doorway greeting visitors as the ferry pulls in — stands as the hauntingly beautiful frame of an unfinished temple to Apollo. It’s also one of the most magical spots to watch the sunset.
Final thoughts on Visiting Naxos
Whether you’re strolling along sun-drenched beaches, exploring winding alleyways, tracing the footsteps of ancient gods, or simply savoring a quiet moment in a seaside café, Naxos has a way of lingering in your memory. It’s a place where the pace slows, the senses awaken, and even the simplest moments feel extraordinary. For those seeking beauty, history, and a touch of myth — all wrapped in an unpretentious, relaxed atmosphere — Naxos isn’t just a stop in the Cyclades. It’s a destination you’ll never forget. Naxos is perfect for slow travel or for travelers over 50.
Excited to put Naxos on your travel plans. Read our perfect itinerary using our PACE Method and plan your perfect escape. New Here? Read our PACE Method for traveling after 50.
Have you been to Naxos? What are your favorite things to do? Share in our comments.
