14 BEST Things to do in Naxos, Greece

Looking for the best things to do in Naxos? I’ve got you covered!

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, but it feels much more local and laid-back than places like Santorini and Mykonos. It has beautiful beaches and mountain villages to explore, as well as some of the best food I had in Greece. In fact, I loved it here way more than I expected to.

I went to Naxos to try out the island’s top activities for myself, and I had the best time exploring everything from ancient ruins to beach bars. And now, to help you plan your trip, I’ve put together this guide to the best things to do in Naxos. Let’s get into it!

Naxos at a Glance

Before we get into the full list, here are a few things that are good to know before visiting Naxos. This island feels much less touristy than Santorini or Mykonos, but it’s still lively during the summer months, especially around Naxos Town and the main beach areas.

There’s more than just beaches: One of the things I loved most about Naxos is that traditional culture still feels really alive here, especially in the mountain villages. It’s not just beaches and boat trips, although there are plenty of those too! The landscape is really varied, with golden beaches along the coast and mountains inland, where it can actually get quite chilly sometimes.

Getting around is easy: Naxos Town, also called Chora, is very walkable, lots of tours include pickup, and the public bus system is really good. When you do need a taxi, just bear in mind that numbers on the island are limited, so you can’t really flag one down. There’s no Uber or ride-hailing apps here either, so I organized taxis through my hotel, or you can use the taxi rank by the port.

Stay in Naxos Town: I highly recommend staying in Naxos Town. It has a beach, the harbor, loads of restaurants, plenty of hotels, and easy access to buses and tours. If you’d rather stay somewhere beachier like Plaka, I’d suggest renting a car so you can explore more easily.

How I Would Spend 3 Days in Naxos

Three days is a great amount of time for your first visit! I would have happily stayed for an extra day or two, but three days gave me enough time to see the mountain villages, explore Chora, eat a LOT of amazing food, and enjoy a glorious day cruising out on the water! So if you’re wondering how to fit everything in, here’s how I’d spend 3 days in Naxos!

Day 1: Start with a full-day island tour to get a feel for Naxos beyond the main town, without the hassle of renting a car. This is the easiest way to visit traditional mountain villages and the ancient Temple of Demeter. Afterward, head to Agios Georgios Beach for drinks and a spectacular sunset.

Day 2: Spend the day sailing around Naxos, Paros, and the Small Cyclades on a luxury catamaran cruise. The water around Naxos is insanely pretty, and this was one of my favorite things I did in Greece! After the cruise, have dinner by the marina, and walk over to the Portara for golden hour or sunset.

Day 3: Spend the morning relaxing at the beach, then do some shopping in the Old Market before rounding off your trip with a farm-to-table cooking class in a Naxian village kitchen. This was such a wholesome final-night activity, with food, wine, family stories, and plate smashing. Opa!

For even more detail, check out my full 3-day Naxos itinerary!

Things to do in Naxos, Greece

1. Sail along the Aegean Sea on an all-inclusive catamaran cruise

This catamaran cruise was one of my favorite experiences not only on the island, but in the whole of Greece! The water around Naxos is some of the clearest and prettiest I’ve ever seen – and yes, that includes the Maldives!

The cruise leaves from the marina in Naxos Town, so it’s super easy if you’re staying in Chora. The boat was lovely and modern, and our captain, Akis, was hilarious. He had everyone laughing throughout the day, which made the whole experience feel really fun and relaxed.

This isn’t a big, rowdy party boat, but there are all-inclusive drinks on board, so it still has a very fun, holiday feel. We stopped just off Paros, where the water was so calm that I swam all the way to shore just so I could say I’d been to Paros! There were also plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and just enjoy being out on the Aegean.

I really liked the food, too. We had bread and dips in the morning, then moussaka with bread and salad for lunch, followed by fruit and cake later in the day.

I thought 7 hours might feel like a long time, but it absolutely flew by, and I really didn’t want it to end. Just make sure to bring your own towel, and don’t forget it on the boat as I did!

I really think that this is the way the Cyclades were meant to be experienced, so be sure to book this incredible full-day tour before it sells out.

Related Read: Find out why this was my absolute favorite experience in my detailed Naxos catamaran cruise review.

2. Discover Naxos’ top historic sights – Temple of Demeter, ancient kouros statue, and more

Naxos is much bigger and more varied than many people expect, so a full-day island tour is a great way to see more of it without renting a car. I loved staying in Naxos Town, but there’s so much more to the island than Chora, and this tour made it really easy to experience a totally different side of Naxos.

I did this tour on my first day in Naxos, and it was an amazing way to get acquainted with the island. I learned about ancient history, visited cute mountain villages, and explored a scenic beach town. It would have been tricky to piece it all together myself, even with a car, but the tour made it super easy!

One of the first stops was the Temple of Demeter, which was a beautiful historical site with a small museum. We also visited a ceramics workshop, where we learned about the Pythagoras cup, which drains if you pour yourself too much wine!

Chalki was another lovely stop, with pastel buildings, local products, and a much more traditional feel. Then there was Apeiranthos, a picturesque mountain village on the edge of a valley, with winding streets and lots of old buildings. I really enjoyed having time for lunch here.

The tour also included Apollonas, a pretty seaside town where I grabbed homemade lemonade and a snack, and of course had to take photos by the big blue-domed church.

All in all, this is such a good way to understand Naxos beyond the beach. It was the ideal way to kickstart my time on the island and visit some of the harder-to-reach spots. And I’m not the only one who loved it – you can read over a thousand 5-star reviews here!

3. Learn how to cook Greek food in a traditional village

This authentic cooking class was one of the most wonderful experiences I’ve ever had on my travels, so I can’t recommend it enough. It takes place at a family farm in Naxos, where almost all of the ingredients are grown right there, and it gives you such a lovely glimpse into a more traditional, rural way of life on the island.

The experience started with a tour of the farm with our instructor, Jack. I couldn’t believe how lush and beautiful it was, and there’s even an old Venetian tower on site. Along the way, we met Pandora the donkey, and we were accompanied by Gracie the French bulldog, who kept interrupting because she wanted us to throw sticks for her. She was a bit of an icon!

Then we headed back to the kitchen to start cooking. Jack taught us family recipes step by step, and the wine was flowing throughout. And yes, it’s all made right there on the farm! I also highly recommend trying their homemade lemonade, as it was so refreshing.

When dinner was served, we had all of the dishes we helped prepare, and more. My favorite was the stuffed banana peppers, but the pork shoulder, tzatziki, and omelet were also amazing. For dessert, Jack brought out loukoumades with honey from the farm, which tasted incredible.

Then, when we had all finished eating, Jack took us outside for traditional Greek dancing and plate smashing. I was absolutely delighted because I’ve always wanted to do that! I did this on my last night in Naxos, and I couldn’t have asked for a better end to my trip.

4. Relax at one of the beautiful beaches

Naxos has some seriously beautiful beaches, so make sure you leave time for a sunbathing session while you’re here! 

Agios Georgios Beach, also known as St George Beach, is right in Naxos Town, so it’s the easiest option if you’re staying in Chora. It’s a fairly long, clean beach with golden sand and calm water, with several beach bars around. I went to Paradise Beach Bar for sunset, which was just lovely, and they also have sunbeds for guests to use during the day, with no minimum spend.

Agios Prokopios is another gorgeous option, and it’s really easy to reach by bus from Chora Station in Naxos Town. The journey only cost me €2.30 each way, and it was super straightforward. Golden Beach Cafe is a top spot here, with delicious food and yummy desserts made with lots of local fresh fruit, and they have plenty of comfy sun loungers.

If you want somewhere a little quieter, Agia Anna is only about a 10-minute walk from Agios Prokopios, although you can just stay on the bus for one extra stop if you don’t fancy walking. It’s another really pretty beach, but it felt a bit calmer, so it’s a lovely option if you want something slightly more peaceful.

Related Read: Planning a trip to Naxos can be challenging. Luckily, we’ve made it easy for you with this expert 3-day itinerary that visits all the best spots and hidden gems! And if you’re planning to visit more of Greece, check out my two-week Greece itinerary for the full route.

5. Try out scuba diving in the Aegean Sea

For a more adventurous way to experience Naxos, a private scuba diving tour is such a cool option. The island is beautiful above the water, of course, but the Aegean is so clear that it would be a shame not to see what’s going on underneath it too.

This tour works for both beginners and people with some diving experience, so you don’t need to be a pro to give it a go. Before getting in the water, your instructor will walk you through the equipment, safety basics, and what to expect, which is ideal if you’re feeling a little nervous.

The dive goes down to around 6 meters, or 20 feet, so it’s a gentle introduction rather than anything too intense. You’ll get to explore the rocky seabed, spot fish, and experience that amazing weightless feeling that makes scuba diving so addictive.

I also like that this is a private tour, because it means the instructor can tailor the experience to your comfort level. That makes a huge difference, especially for first-time divers or anyone who wants a bit more reassurance.

Naxos’ calm, clear water makes it a lovely place to try scuba diving, and this is a great activity if you want something more exciting than another beach day.

6. Taste your way around Naxos Town

Food is a huge part of experiencing Naxos, so this food tour is a great way to make sure you’re trying the good stuff, not just the touristy fare. Naxos is especially known for its cheese, potatoes, local products, and huge portions, so if you love Greek food, this is definitely one to consider!

This is an evening food tour which takes you through Naxos Old Town, so it works as both dinner and a fun activity! I always think food tours are more fun when they include a bit of context too, and this one sounds like a lovely way to learn more about the Venetian Old Town while tasting some of the island’s best local specialties.

You’ll stop at local spots to try things like Naxian cheeses, honey-sweet pasteli, mezedes, and the island’s famous potatoes. I respect any place that takes its potatoes seriously. There’s also an olive oil tasting along the way, where you’ll learn how to distinguish the good stuff from deceptively labeled, lower-quality products, and sip plenty of Naxian wine and spirits along the way.

I also love this tour because the guides are so friendly and welcoming, and really help the group to bond over food. As someone who frequently travels solo, that’s something I always really appreciate! And I’m not the only one – lots of the glowing reviews mention the wonderful guides, too.

7. Go sea kayaking in Rina Cave

If you want to see a quieter, wilder side of Naxos, this small-group kayaking tour is such a fun option. Naxos has beautiful beaches, but getting out on the water lets you reach places that are much harder to access on foot, including hidden coves and sea caves!

The tour starts from Kalantos Beach, and from there, you’ll paddle along the coastline with a guide who knows the area well. I like that it works for both beginners and more experienced kayakers, so you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it. Plus, because it’s a small-group tour, it should feel much more relaxed and personal than a big boat trip.

The main highlight is Rina’s Cave, which looks absolutely gorgeous. You’ll get to kayak there, hop out, swim beneath the cliffs, and snorkel in the clear water. Between the cave, the rocky coastline, and the bright blue sea, it’s a very memorable way to experience Naxos’ natural beauty.

The tour also includes a stop at a secluded beach, where your guide prepares a homemade meal with local cheese, vegetables, and other snacks. Honestly, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and then eating delicious local food on a quiet beach sounds like a pretty perfect day to me!

8. Walk to the Portara

The Portara is Naxos’ most famous landmark, so it’s definitely worth walking over while you’re in town. It’s a huge marble doorway that once formed part of the Temple of Apollo. The rest of the temple is pretty much gone now, but the Portara itself is still remarkably intact, and it has become the symbol of Naxos.

One of the best things about visiting the Portara is how easy it is. It sits on a little islet right opposite the port, and you get there by walking across a narrow causeway from the waterfront. It’s only a couple of minutes from Naxos Town, so you can easily fit it in before dinner, after a wander around the Old Market, or just whenever you happen to be nearby.

There’s no admission fee, and you don’t need long here, but it’s such a pretty spot. From the islet, you get beautiful views of the sea, the port, and Chora’s whitewashed buildings. Sunset is especially popular, but it’s worth visiting at any time of day!

9. Hike up Mount Zas (aka Mount Zeus)

As well as gorgeous golden beaches, Naxos has a whole mountain range in the middle of the island, and Mount Zas, also known as Mount Zeus, is the highest peak of them all. In fact, it’s the tallest mountain in the Cyclades, and according to Greek mythology, it’s where Zeus himself was raised! However, the hike isn’t the easiest, and the conditions can be unpredictable, so unless you’re super experienced, I’d definitely recommend going with a guide on this tour.

The trail is around 3.5 miles, or 5.6 kilometers, out and back, and it’s considered moderate. There are rocky paths and some steeper sections, but I wouldn’t describe it as grueling. It’s very doable as long as you’re with someone in the know!

And your efforts will certainly be rewarded. From the top, you get incredible views over Naxos and the surrounding islands, so this is a really special way to appreciate just how varied this island is.

This tour makes life so easy, and I definitely recommend opting to include hotel pickup, as taxis in Naxos are limited and using the local bus can leave you waiting for a while! After the hike, the morning wraps up with a classic Greek picnic, which is the ideal way to refuel.

10. Customize your day of sightseeing on a private island tour

If you want to see more of Naxos but don’t love the idea of joining a big bus tour, this private half-day tour is a great option. Naxos is much bigger and more varied than a lot of people expect, and having a private guide makes it much easier to explore the island’s villages and ancient sites without feeling rushed.

One of the biggest benefits of a private tour is that you won’t be arriving at each stop with a huge group of people. Some of the villages and historic sites in Naxos are pretty small, so when a tour bus pulls up with 40 or 50 people, they can suddenly feel crowded. A private guide will usually know the bus schedules and can help time your stops so you get a quieter, more relaxed experience.

This tour includes places like the Temple of Demeter, Chalki, Filoti, and a restored olive mill, so you still get a lovely mix of ancient history, mountain villages, and local food traditions. But because it’s private, you’ll also have more freedom to ask questions, move at your own pace, and get local recommendations along the way.

I think this is a great choice if you want something a bit more personal than a standard island tour. If you value authenticity and insider tips, I’m confident that you’ll love this!

11.  Explore Chora and the Old Market

Chora, also known as Naxos Town, is such a lovely place to explore. It’s the main town on the island, but it still has lots of traditional charm, especially once you head into the Old Market, a maze of narrow streets that sits at the base of the Venetian Castle – aka Kastro.

Best of all, you don’t really need a plan here! I just loved following the little lanes and seeing where I ended up. (Spoiler alert: in a lot of cute boutiques and hidden bars!) 

If you’re looking for souvenirs here, then you’re in for a treat. I saw so many stores selling handmade leather sandals, jewelry, local honey, and citron, which is a traditional Naxian liqueur. I honestly wished I had checked luggage to take home – my suitcase would have been full to the brim with goodies! 

And since the Old Town is built around the Venetian Castle, if you keep heading uphill, you’ll soon reach the castle area. You can also visit the Archaeological Museum if you want to learn more about the island’s history, and see the Trani Porta gate or the Roman Catholic Cathedral.

12. Go wine tasting at a historic vineyard

How dreamy does wine tasting in the Naxian countryside sound? Pretty dreamy, if you ask me! This tour is a super idyllic way to spend an evening in Naxos, especially if you want to see a quieter and more rural side of the island.

The winery is only about a 12-minute drive from Naxos Town, but it feels much further removed from the busier waterfront and Old Town. Since the winery is outside of town, I’d recommend arranging a taxi through your hotel. It’s also worth getting the driver’s WhatsApp number, or asking them to come back for you at a set time.

I love the idea of heading out into the countryside and learning more about how wine is made here before sitting down for an in-depth tasting. And I mean in-depth – you’ll get to try up to 9 different wines!

The experience usually includes a look at the winemaking process, with photos and videos to help explain how everything works, before you head outside to see the vines for yourself. Then, of course, comes the best part: the wine! You’ll get to try a generous range of local wines, paired with simple Greek snacks like tomatoes and peppers, as well as plenty of Naxian cheeses, of course.

I think that this is a great way to get a feel for the island’s wine scene. If you’ve already been wine tasting somewhere else in Greece, such as Santorini, this is a great chance to see how Naxos does things differently.

13. Grab a Drink with a View at Avaton1739

There are a handful of rooftop bars in Naxos where you can enjoy a drink with a view, and Avaton 1739 was my favorite. It’s tucked away in the Old Castle, so it’s a little bit hidden, but it’s well worth making the effort to find!

The bar feels quite upscale, with a big open space, stylish seating, and gorgeous views over the town and island. I went during the day, which was lovely, but I think it would be truly spectacular at sunset.

I also loved the cocktails here. I ordered an apple-flavored one that came garnished with a sour sweet, which was fun and a bit different! This is a great place to go if you want a break from wandering around the Old Market, or if you fancy something a bit more polished than one of the more casual waterfront tavernas.

14. Take a Day Trip to Paros

If you don’t have time to stay in Paros, the good news is that you can still hop over for the day from Naxos! The two islands are very close, so this is an easy day trip, especially if you’re staying in Chora. Ferries leave from the main port, and the slower one takes around an hour, while the faster boat can get you there in about 30 minutes. 

I recommend using SeaJets to find a route that gets you there and back in the same day, as the site is super easy to use. During peak season, you’re probably looking at €60 to €75 for a fast return ferry with good timings. I’d suggest departing at around 9 am and then booking the boat home for around 6 pm to give you the full day in Paros.

Once you’re in Paros, I suggest spending the morning exploring Lefkes, a beautiful mountain village with whitewashed streets and lots of charm. Chrisoula is a lovely outdoor restaurant here with gorgeous views, so it would be a great lunch spot. Then, in the afternoon, head to Kolymbithres Beach or Golden Beach for some sea and sun before catching the ferry back to Naxos.

Related Read: If you’re continuing your travels in Greece beyond Naxos, make sure you check out our 18 favorite things to do in the entire country here!

Where to Stay in Naxos, Greece

When planning a trip to Naxos, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference! Whether you want a luxury retreat, a mid-range stay near the action, or a budget-friendly spot by the beach, Naxos has fantastic options for every traveler.

To help you decide, I’ve rounded up my top hotel picks, all in great locations and perfect for exploring everything this beautiful island has to offer!

Luxury – $$$

Spiros Hotel is a chic hotel built in that classic Cycladic style, with bright white walls and lots of arches. It has a lovely outdoor pool and a gorgeous spa with a hot tub, sauna, and hammam for when you’re craving some rest and relaxation. 

The location couldn’t be better, either! It’s just a minute’s walk from Agios Georgios beach and a 10-minute walk from the waterfront and the Old Market.

Rooms here start from around €300 per night. Check availability and book your stay here! 

Mid-range – $$

Argo Boutique Hotel is a charming mid-range stay in Naxos Town, just a short walk from the beach, restaurants, and historic sites. The stylish rooms and suites feature a blend of traditional and modern decor, with some offering private balconies, spa baths, and even hot tubs! Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, relax in the spa area, and have a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant to refuel after a day of exploring.

Prices usually start at around €200 per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Georgia Mare is where I stayed in Naxos, and I would definitely stay here again! It’s a fairly simple property, but it’s spotlessly clean and very well-maintained. It was honestly the owners who really made it special, though.

The hotel is run by Spiros and his daughter Georgia, and they’re incredibly kind and welcoming – they really showed me true Naxian hospitality. The hotel breakfast was also incredible, and I always wanted to eat more than I was physically able to! 

Rooms at Georgia Mare start at around €120 per night, including breakfast. Read the amazing reviews and book your stay here!

For even more options, check out all the hotels in Naxos here!

Related Read: For even more great hotel options and a full breakdown of the best areas to stay in Naxos, check out our detailed Where to Stay guide!

Thanks for reading!

Thanks so much for checking out my guide on Naxos! Whether you’re looking to sail on the Aegean or dive into mythology at Mount Zas, this island has something for every traveler. I hope these experiences will help you make the most of your time on this stunning Greek island.

If this is only the start of your travels, have a look at all my blogs on Greece! I cover the must-do tours, hotel recommendations, and travel inspiration to help you plan the best trip.

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