Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades group. Its fertile land allows for agriculture to be the main source of income for the locals. You’ll find most of the shops and restaurants in Naxos Town (or simple “Hora”).

How to get to Naxos

You can get to Naxos by plane from Athens. The flights are operated by Olympic Air. One way tickets during the high season start at €90 per person.

The island of Naxos is linked to the mainland and to the other Greek islands by ferries. The normal ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Naxos takes almost 6 hours and the fastest about 3 hours. An economy seat costs €30.50 per person one way and you can book ferry tickets here.

The ferry from Santorinti to Naxos only takes 1 hour 25 minutes and an economy seat costs €29.70 per person one way.

Another possible ferry route from the Cyclades is Mykonos to Naxos. The ride takes 45 min and the ticket costs €20 per person, one way.

Read more about: Ferries from Naxos to Paros (and return)

Weather

Just like the other islands in the Cyclades group, Naxos is blessed with Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters with low rainfalls and hot, dry summers. The hottest months are July and August, when average daytime temperature reaches 26C.

Between the middle of July and the middle of August, the strong meltemi winds blow on the island. This makes the island ideal for windsurfing.

>>read more about Weather in Greece

What to do

The most important landmark in Naxos is the Portara, an iconic 6th century BC marble gate on the islet of Palatia in Naxos harbor. In its glory days it was part of the temple of Apollo

Other archaeological highlights on the island include the Kouros of Melanes and Apollonas, Dimitra’s Temple at Sangri and the Cheimarros Tower.

The Castro (old walled city) offers some incredible views of the harbor. It is perched atop a hill and is crossed by beautiful narrow alleys.

Beaches

The island of Naxos is very well known for its beaches, particularly suited for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The west coast is very popular for the long sandy beach and azure waters.

Nude sunbathing can be experimented in the southern beach communities that have sand dunes blocking the view from the access road. A good example is Plaka.

Diving off the island’s coast is also possible. There are some shipwrecks to explore, as well as beautiful marine life to see.

The food and drink

Due to its fertile lands, Naxos is famous for its potatoes, cattle and poultry. Greek specialties, such as like moussaka, souvlaki and feta are available in restaurants

Naxos is famous for producing its own liquor called kitron. This is made from an exotic fruit , kitron (can be compared to lemons). It is possible to visit distilleries on the island (and of course, taste the drink).

More popular among locals is Raki, made from pomace that were pressed for wine making. It is similar cu Italian grappa.

Photo credit:
Temple of Apollo
Kitron