Naxos Bucket List: 10 Best Places to Visit in Naxos Island, Greece

The beautiful and historical town of Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades known for its centuries-old structures and stunning beaches. Apart from this, there are many best things to do in Naxos, Greece, from museum trips to exploring quaint villages. If you plan to head to Greece soon, check out our list of the 10 best things to do in Naxos, Greece.

Portara

Located on the small island of Palatia, Portara is one of the historical and iconic landmarks in Naxos. It is a monumental marble frame built in the 6th century BC of the unfinished temple of Apollo. Today, the iconic doorway has become a tourist spot featuring a fantastic sunset view and is perfect for taking pictures.

Chora

Often frequented by tourists, Chora, also known as Naxos City, is the best place to get acquainted with local life. Built on a hill, the town is a must-visit to deeply explore the island, offering a good selection of local restaurants, bars, and boutiques selling souvenir jewelry and Cycladic figurines.

Archaeological Museum of Naxos

A worthwhile place to visit for history enthusiasts, the Archaeological Museum of Naxos features historical pieces from different centuries, reaching back to 3000 BC. The museum is located in a Venetian building built around 1600 to 1800 and houses Early Cycladic artifacts and sculptures from all periods of Naxos history.

Apano Kastro

The strongest castle of Naxos back in the Middle Ages, Apano Kastro or Upper Castle, was built in the 13th century by Venetian Duke Marco II Sanudo. If you are into hiking, head to the top of Chora’s hill to explore the ruins of Naxos ancient castle. The majestic view above features Mount Zas and Naxos Old Town.

Mount Zas

The towering Mount Zas or Mount Zeus was referred to as the place of Zeus’s childhood in Greek mythology. It is also the highest peak in the Cyclades, the perfect destination for tourists into hiking. The hike is a 7 km round trip and reachable through Aghia Marina and Aria Spring.

Geological Museum of Apeiranthos

Originally established in 1964 and re-established after the Greek dictatorship in 1987, the Geological Museum of Apeiranthos features a rare exhibit of Manolis Glezos collection of rock formation and fossils. The exhibit’s collection dates back 70,000 years ago and includes emery, local dark marble, meteorite, and fossils.

Agios Prokopios Beach

Situated next to Saint George beach and five kilometers south of Naxos Town, Agios Prokopios Beach is a must-visit for beach-loving tourists. The beach’s breathtaking crystal clear blue waters and golden sand attracts many visitors and are often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Apeiranthos

Another must-see when in Naxos is the beautiful mountainous village of Apiranthos, also known as “Plenty of Flowers Village.” Explore the most visited village of Naxos by walking through marble-paved pathways and Venetian architecture. The village is also known for its pottery and four museums, including the Geological Museum, Archeological Museum of Apeiranthos, Museum of National History, and Museum of Folk Art.

Church of Panagia Drosiani

Constructed in between the 6th to 7th centuries, the Church of Panagia Drosiani is an ancient stone Greek Orthodox Church with three apses, a dome, and an iconic bell tower. The church also has a cemetery, a monastery for nuns, historic carvings and paintings, encapsulates history and religion.

Della Rocca-Barozzi Venetian Museum

Located on an 800-year-old house, on a former Venetian military headquarters, and also serve as an administrative building during the Ottoman period, the Della Rocca-Barozzi Venetian Museum is another must-see to explore into Naxos deep history. The private museum features Venetian period artifacts dates back from the 13th to 16th centuries, such as jewelry, sculptures, and ceramics.

References

• 15 Best Things to Do in Naxos (Greece), The Crazy Tourist
• Julie, (2021), 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN NAXOS, GREECE, Earth Trekkers
• Tsirmpas, (2017), The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Naxos, Greece, Culture Trip

Our Top Hotel Picks for Naxos

• Nissaki Beach Hotel – Nissaki Beach is a unique 5-star hotel in Naxos Town that offers everything you would expect in the Cyclades Islands of Greece. Nissaki Beach Hotel is situated on the sandy shore of Saint George Beach on Naxos Island.
• Argo Boutique Hotel – Argo Hotel is a small family-run hotel situated in a quiet area of Naxos Town. Ideally located just 100 m from the beach, the hotel also offers a free internet corner and a swimming pool for your total relaxation.
• Naxos Beach Resort Hotel – Located just 2 km away from the airport, this hotel is also close to the Naxos’ main attractions such as Flisvos Sport Club Cycling, Flisvos Sport Club Windsurfing, and Cine Astra.

Searching for the best hotels, resorts, tour packages, and affordable flights in Naxos Island and nearby cities? Check out our list of affordable Naxos hotels and resorts via Agoda and Booking.

Naxos Travel and Tour Packages

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Also read: 15 Best Tropical Vacation Destinations Around The World.