Discover the best things to do in Naxos with this handy guide to the most underrated Greek island.
Naxos: an island where ancient history intertwines with breathtaking landscapes, where crystal-clear waters lap against golden sands, and where charming villages offer a taste of authentic Greek life.
With its idyllic beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a tapestry of experiences waiting to be uncovered, Naxos promises an adventure like no other.
The Best Things to do in Naxos
- Visit the Temple of Apollo
- Explore the (Many) Sea Caves
- Hike to the Top of Mount Zas
- Go Scuba Diving Off the Coast
- Take a Day Trip to Santorini
- Rent a Bike and Cycle Around the Island
- Chill Out on a Hidden Beach
- Admire the Temple of Demeter
- Explore Chora’s Historic Streets
- Visit Naxos Castle
- Go Kite Surfing on Naxos’ Stunning Beaches
- Where to Stay in Naxos
Best Things to do in Naxos
Visit the Temple of Apollo
Visiting Naxos without hitting up the Temple of Apollo is like skipping the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the Cyclades, where the impressive Portara (Great Door) stands proudly against the sky.
This massive marble doorway, built in the 6th century BC, is all that remains of the temple dedicated to the god Apollo. For a truly magical experience, visit the Temple of Apollo at sunset. The sight of the sun dipping below the horizon, framed by the ancient Portara, is nothing short of spectacular.
Read Next: The Ultimate 10 Day Cyclades Itinerary
Explore the (Many) Sea Caves
Naxos is home to numerous sea caves, each of them ripe for exploration. Which is why we recommend booking a sea cave kayaking tour during your trip.
The mesmerising Rina Cave is one of the most popular, tucked away around the corner from a secluded beach. As part of a tour, you’ll also get to go snorkelling nearby. Dive into the vibrant underwater world, then continue exploring the enchanting sea caves that whisper ancient secrets.
Hike to the Top of Mount Zas
Hiking to the top of Mount Zas is an absolute must when visiting Naxos. As the highest peak in the Cyclades, Mount Zas offers an exhilarating hike with breathtaking views.
According to Greek mythology, Mount Zas (also known as Mount Zeus) is the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods. It’s said that he spent his early years hiding in a cave on this very mountain to escape his father, Cronus.
There are two main routes to the summit of Mount Zas: one starting from the village of Filoti and the other from the Agia Marina Spring. The Filoti Route is the more challenging of the two, starting from the picturesque village of Filoti. The trail is well-marked and takes around four hours there and back.
Or you could opt for the easier Agia Marina Route. Starting from the Agia Marina Spring, this route is shorter and less steep, taking about three hours on a round trip. It’s perfect for those looking for a less strenuous hike while still experiencing the beauty and history of Mount Zas.
Go Scuba Diving Off the Coast
Scuba diving is a popular activity in the Cyclades. Just off the coast of Naxos has some of the best spots, whether you’re a total newbie looking for your first dive or a seasoned scuba-lover.
The warm Aegean waters surrounding Greece are filled with abundant marine life, from colourful schools of fish to graceful sea turtles. As you descend, marvel at the graceful movements of octopuses and other marine creatures that call these waters home.
Take a Day Trip to Santorini
While Naxos itself is brimming with charm and beauty, a day trip to the iconic island of Santorini is a must for anyone visiting the Cyclades. Known for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed buildings, and stunning sunsets, Santorini offers a completely different yet equally captivating experience.
Several high-speed ferries operate daily between Naxos and Santorini, making the journey quick and easy. The journey takes around 2-3 hours each way. Or you can opt for a guided day trip to help you get the most out of your visit.
While we recommend spending at least three days in Santorini, it’s possible to fit a lot in a day trip. Make sure to explore Santorini’s charming capital, Fira, where an abundance of shops, cafes, and museums await. Likewise, the hike to Oia treats you to impressive views of the island.
Santorini’s beach clubs are on another level (Nikki Beach Club is one of the most popular). Plus, no visit to Santorini is complete without a visit to the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, where an ancient Minoan city is buried under volcanic ash, similar to Italy’s Pompeii.
Read Next: The Best Adventure Tours in Santorini
Rent a Bike and Cycle Around the Island
Exploring Naxos by bike is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the island’s diverse landscapes and adorable villages. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Chora – we recommend RealBike. One of the best routes is the coastal ride from Chora to Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka Beach.
We love that it’s relatively flat and whisks you along some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, where you can stop for a swim or a refreshing drink at a seaside taverna. For more experienced cyclists, the route from Chora to the village of Filoti and up to the base of Mount Zas offers a challenging (but incredibly rewarding) ride.
Chill Out on a Hidden Beach
Every few days, after heading out on some more strenuous adventures, we love nothing more than chilling out. That’s why Naxos is near-perfect; it’s renowned for its stunning beaches and secluded coves.
Agios Georgios is the most popular beach on the island, but we recommend heading off the beaten track towards the likes of Sahara, Stelida or Kastraki Beach. These are quieter and, dare we say it, even more picturesque.
Admire the Temple of Demeter
Nestled in the lush countryside of Sangri, the Temple of Demeter is another testament to Naxos’ rich ancient heritage. This 6th-century BC sanctuary was dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of grain and fertility, reflecting the island’s agricultural history.
If you have more time, Zeus’ Childhood Cave is another landmark closeby. We recommend either cycling or renting a car to travel between spots in Naxos.
Explore Chora’s Historic Streets
While in Naxos, make sure to spend some time exploring Chora. The island’s main town offers up a delightful maze of narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant bougainvillaea.
Look out for the impressive Venetian mansions and archways that add a touch of elegance to the town’s rustic charm. Make sure to stop for a sundowner with views overlooking the ocean and Portara – The Naxos Apothecary is our top choice.
Visit Naxos Castle
Dominating the town of Chora is the imposing Naxos Castle, a mediaeval fortress built by the Venetians in the 13th century. Climb to the top of the castle walls for breathtaking panoramic views of Chora, the surrounding countryside, and the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Meanwhile, within the castle walls, you’ll find a lively cultural hub with museums, art galleries, and historic homes. The Archaeological Museum of Naxos, housed in the former Jesuit School, is a treasure trove of artefacts that span centuries of Naxian history.
Go Kite Surfing on Naxos’ Stunning Beaches
One of the more unique things to do in Naxos is kite surfing. This is a pretty popular sport all across the island, though it’s most popular on the Plaka, Mikri Vigla, and Amitis beaches.
For the uninitiated, kite surfing is a fun blend of surfing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, and paragliding. A large kite is attached to a board and the surfer then harnesses the power of the wind to travel across the ocean. We think Naxos is a great place for beginners to test out this sport.
Where to Stay in Naxos
Wondering where to hit up in Naxos? Staying in the capital, Chora, is ideal as it’s where the majority of hotels and hostels are located. Plus, you’re only a stone’s throw away from the island’s top sites.
