Naxos Travel Guide: The Best Things To Do, Beaches, Food & More (2026)

 It’s been a decade since my family and I first island-hopped around the Cyclades, and we finally made it to the one island we missed on that original trip: Naxos.

And boy, did we miss one of the most historical, beautiful, delicious, and mountainous islands I’ve ever visited. In fact, I’d almost compare it to Crete! We spent three days exploring Naxos’s beaches, villages, and surrounding seas, and it quickly became one of my favorite Greek islands. Three days was nowhere near enough time, but it gave me a great introduction to the island, and I can now completely understand why so many of my clients love it.

If there are two things Naxos is especially known for, it’s sailing and its beautiful, unique villages. But there is so much more to discover, from incredible beaches and local tavernas to mountain villages and historic sites.

Number of Days to Stay: 3-5 Days

Expense: $$-$$$

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Where to Stay:

Chora (Naxos Town) – Chora, also known as Naxos Town, is where you’ll find most of the island’s nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and main transportation. It’s a popular choice for first-time visitors, especially if you’re arriving by ferry, since the port is right in town.

The biggest downside? Traffic and parking. Chora can get extremely busy during the summer, and parking is limited. If you’re renting a car, I recommend prioritizing a hotel with parking or considering private drivers for your time on the island. We struggled to find parking the one evening we went into Chora!

The good news is that Naxos Town is incredibly walkable. You can easily explore the winding streets, shops, restaurants, and waterfront on foot, and the famous Temple of Apollo and Portara are just a short walk from town.

Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife, restaurants, shopping & convenience

Plaka – Plaka is for travelers who love the beach and don’t mind being a little farther from the crowds. Plaka Beach is one of the nicest beaches in Naxos, with beautiful stretches of sand, beach bars, and Greek tavernas with gorgeous outdoor seating right along the water. There are plenty of places to spend the day at the beach, but keep in mind that only select hotels are directly on the beach. If your ideal Greek island stay involves slow mornings, long beach days, and dinner overlooking the water, Plaka is a great option.

Best for: Beach lovers, couples & travelers looking for a quieter stay

Agios Prokopios – This is where I stayed during my trip to Naxos, and it’s also an area I love recommending to my clients. Agios Prokopios is only about a 15-minute drive from Naxos Town and roughly five minutes from the airport, making it an incredibly convenient home base. It’s also home to one of my favorite beaches on the island.

There are plenty of hotels in the area, many of which offer parking or shuttle services to the beach. Agios Prokopios also tends to feel quieter and more relaxed than some of the other popular areas while still having plenty of restaurants and amenities nearby. For me, it offers one of the best combinations of beautiful beaches, convenience, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Best for: Couples, beach lovers & travelers who want convenience

Mikra Vilgia – Located about 30 minutes from Naxos Town on the southern coast of the island, Mikri Vigla is perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds and spend more time by the water. The area is especially popular for wind and kitesurfing, making it a favorite among active travelers and water-sports enthusiasts. The beach is also less crowded than some of Naxos’s more famous coastal areas, which makes it a great option if you want a quieter side of the island.

There are several hotels in the area, including properties that offer shuttle services to and from the beach. And if you’re looking for a more upscale or secluded escape, Mikri Vigla is home to some beautiful luxury properties. If you want to wake up, grab your beach bag, and spend the day away from the crowds, this is an area worth considering.

Best for: Water sports, beach lovers & luxury escapes

Where to Eat:

One of my favorite things about Naxos is how much the island’s food is tied to its local culture. Between the farm-to-table restaurants, family-run tavernas, fresh seafood, and locally made cheeses, you really can’t go wrong when it comes to eating your way around the island.

Here are the restaurants I personally tried, restaurants my clients rave about, and a few that are still at the top of my list for my next trip.

• Nikos & Maria Restaurant ($$), Plaka Beach – One of the most beautiful sunset and dining experiences I’ve had in all of Greece, and my clients agree! We kicked off our shoes, dined with our toes in the sand, and enjoyed some of the most authentic Greek food of our trip. For the table, we ordered a Naxos salad, kolokithokeftedes (zucchini balls), which were the best I’ve ever had, and horta topped with cheese. The main dishes were just as delicious. With the sunset, beachside setting, and incredible Greek food, it was the perfect way to start our first night in Naxos.

• Hurmas Bistro ($$), Naxos Town  – One of the best sunset views in Naxos Town, paired with a modern twist on Greek cuisine. My family and I really enjoyed dining at Hurmas, and they were able to accommodate us without a reservation. The restaurant itself is beautiful, with several different seating areas, including outdoor tables overlooking the harbor and balcony seating. We ordered horta and a Naxos salad to start; the local Naxos cheese is seriously addicting! For our mains, we tried rooster, fish, souvlaki, and an orzo dish. The service, views, drinks, and food did not disappoint.

• Flamingo ($$), Naxos Town – This restaurant was recommended to us by a fellow passenger on a boat cruise, and although we only stopped in for drinks, we quickly learned that Flamingo is the place to be if you’re looking for live music and a fun Greek night out. My sister and I even got up and joined other restaurant-goers for a Greek dance over the smashed plates! It was such a fun experience and definitely one of those nights that becomes a favorite travel memory.

• Doukato ($$), Naxos Town – One of the most famous seafood restaurants in Naxos, and sadly, one I missed on this trip! Doukato is definitely on my list for my next visit. If you’re having trouble reaching them by phone, reservations can also be requested through their social media. And for my vegetarian and vegan travelers, there are options for you here too!

• Apostolis Taverna ($-$$), Naxos Town – If you’re looking for romantic ambiance, lanterns overhead, and delicious traditional Greek food, Apostolis needs to be on your list. We passed this tucked-away taverna while walking into town, and it immediately caught our attention. It’s hidden in a little corner, but the restaurant was packed, and just as charming in person as it looked online. They also offer vegetarian options, making it a great choice for groups with different dietary preferences

• To Elliniko ($-$$), Naxos Town – Located just outside the main part of Naxos Town, To Elliniko is one of the island’s most well-known tavernas, loved by both locals and visitors. Make a reservation! This restaurant fills up quickly, especially during the summer. It was at the top of my list to try during this trip, but unfortunately, we didn’t make it there. One thing that caught my attention was their vegetarian moussaka, which can be surprisingly hard to find in Greece.

• Rotonda Bar Restaurant ($-$$) – One of my clients’ favorite restaurants in Naxos, Rotonda is a true hidden gem tucked high in the mountains. We decided to skip it on this trip simply because we needed more time, but it’s already on my list for my next visit. The food is known for being incredibly fresh, but the real draw is the mountaintop sunset views overlooking the villages and Aegean Sea. If you’re exploring the mountain villages, make time for this one!

• Scirocco ($-$$), Naxos Town – Naxos is known for its farm-to-table culinary scene, and Scirocco is a great example of that tradition. The restaurant has been serving fresh, locally inspired food since 1995 and even uses its own family-made olive oil in its dishes. This was high on our list during the trip, but unfortunately, we didn’t make it there. It’s also a great option for travelers with dietary restrictions, with vegan and vegetarian choices available. And with its fresh Greek food at a reasonable price point, it’s easy to see why it continues to be a popular choice.

• Ostria ($$), Agia Anna – Missed the famous napkin party in Mykonos or Paros? You can still experience the fun in Naxos! Ostria is located right on the beach and serves traditional Greek dishes in a lively atmosphere. It’s also open until midnight, making it a great option if you want a later dinner by the water.

• Giannoulis ($-$$), Agia Anna – A family-run taverna in the heart of Agia Anna, Giannoulis is the kind of place to visit when you want traditional, authentic Greek cooking in a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re staying around Agia Anna or spending the day at the beach, this is one to keep on your list for dinner.

• Amorginos ($-$$), Apeiranthos – I passed this restaurant while wandering through the streets of Apeiranthos and immediately had to write it down. The views from inside the restaurant are incredible, and the courtyard seating is absolutely adorable. If you’re exploring Apeiranthos, this is one restaurant that caught my eye just from walking by, and sometimes those are the best finds!

• Tradizionale Caffè Ristorante Galanis ($), Chalki – We ate here during our village tour through Naxos, and the food was fresh, simple, and grilled to perfection. We had horiatiki salad (Greek village salad), grilled meats including lamb, chicken souvlaki, and sausage, fried potatoes, and yemista (stuffed peppers and tomatoes). Everything was served underneath a beautiful building surrounded by trees. You could tell this was a local favorite, with people gathering together over food and enjoying each other’s company. We didn’t get to try it, but they’re also known for their galaktoboureko, so save room for dessert!

• PARAVAS ($), Chalki – PARAVAS has a really interesting history in the village of Chalki. The building was once a general store owned by Giannis Paravas and became a legendary gathering place in the village. It was eventually purchased and transformed into a restaurant while keeping much of its original structure and layout. Today, this family-run restaurant serves warm, home-cooked meals and souvlaki while still honoring the building’s history. You can even see photographs of the previous owners inside, and there’s a plaque outside the entrance explaining the history before you sit down to eat. It’s the kind of place where the story behind the restaurant is just as special as the food.

• Tanines Restaurant ($$-$$$), Agios Prokopios – If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience with a creative twist on Greek cuisine, make sure to add Tanines to your list. The restaurant offers rooftop seating and beautiful views, making it a great choice for a special evening. And while you’re there, don’t skip one of their signature cocktails! Perfect for a more elevated dinner, date night, or travelers looking for a modern take on Greek cuisine.

Vegetarian/Vegan Recommendations:

• Hug Me Naxos ($), Naxos Chora – Great for Brunch
• Boulamatsis ($), Naxos Chora
• Gemma Naxian Bistro ($-$$), Naxos Chora
• AVATON 1739 ($-$$)
• Taverna Axiotissa ($-$$)
• ELaiolithos ($-$$) – This is actually a hotel in Moni that caters to all dietary types!

What to Do:

Beaches

Naxos is known for having some of the best beaches in the Cyclades, and after spending a few days island-hopping around the coast, I can see why. Whether you want a lively beach club, a quiet stretch of sand, or a spot that’s perfect for water sports, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.

• Agios Georgios – Agios Georgios is the beach closest to Naxos Town, making it one of the most convenient options if you’re staying in Chora. Some hotels even have direct beach access, so you can easily combine a day of sightseeing with some time in the sand. There are several beach bars where you can reserve sunbeds, but there’s also plenty of free beach space if you’d rather throw down a towel and relax without spending anything. Because of its proximity to town, Agios Georgios is one of the most popular beaches on the island. If you don’t want to travel far for a beach day, this is an easy choice.

Best for: Convenience, families & first-time visitors

• Agios Prokopios – One of the highest-rated beaches in Naxos, and one of my favorites from our trip. The water was incredibly crystal clear and calm, with hardly any waves during our visit. There are also plenty of beach bars to choose from, and I found the pricing to be very reasonable compared to some of the more upscale beach destinations in Greece. This is also one of the reasons I love Agios Prokopios as a place to stay. You can easily spend the entire day at the beach without needing to travel far.

Best for: Crystal-clear water, beach clubs & an easy beach day

• Agia Anna – Agia Anna is one of the smaller beaches in Naxos, but don’t let its size fool you; it’s a great option if you’re looking for more of a beach-club atmosphere.

Santana is one of the standout beach clubs here, with major Mykonos vibes, good food, and a lively atmosphere. We were close to spending the day here during our trip but unfortunately couldn’t get a reservation.

If you want your beach day to include music, cocktails, good food, and a little more energy, Agia Anna is worth checking out.

Best for: Beach clubs, couples & a lively atmosphere

• Plaka – Plaka has one of the longest stretches of golden sand in Naxos, and it’s lined with beach bars and restaurants, so you can easily find a spot that fits your style. We spent an entire day here and absolutely loved the beach. Many of the restaurants associated with the beach clubs are located along the main road, with beach seating and sunbeds directly across from the road near the water.

One thing I will note from my personal experience: quite a few beach peddlers were walking around offering massages or trying to sell different items. It could have just been the particular section of Plaka where we were, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a completely uninterrupted beach day.

We spent our day at Nomad Beach Club and loved the service, food, and music.

Other Plaka beach clubs worth knowing about:

• Savaya – A popular beach club with a lively atmosphere.
• Tortuga – A great option for food, drinks, and a relaxed beach day.
• Caya – One to look at if you want more of a DJ/beach-party atmosphere. One note on Caya: when we looked into spending the day there, the pricing was around€100 per set with a €100 minimum spend per person, so we decided to pass. Prices can change, so definitely check the current rates before booking.

• Mikri Vigla – Mikri Viglia is famous for its windsurfing and water sports, but it’s also a great option for travelers who simply want to escape the crowds. There are fewer beach clubs and tourist amenities along this part of the coast, which I actually think helps preserve the natural beauty of the area.

I was sad that we didn’t have enough time to visit Mikri Vigla during our trip, but my clients who have stayed and spent time here have had nothing but great things to say about the beach and how beautiful and peaceful it is. If you’re looking for a more relaxed beach experience away from the busier beach-club scene, put Mikri Vigla on your list.

Best for: Windsurfing, water sports & escaping the crowds

Activities & Sightseeing

Naxos is so much more than beautiful beaches. One of my favorite things about the island is how much history, culture, food, and adventure you can experience in one trip. From exploring the marble mountain villages to sailing around the Aegean, there is something for just about every type of traveler.

The Portara (Temple of Apollo) – The Portara is probably the most famous sight in Naxos and one of the first things you’ll see when arriving by ferry. The massive marble gateway is part of an unfinished Temple of Apollo located just outside Naxos Town. The most popular time to visit is sunset, when the sun lines up perfectly through the portal and creates an incredible view over the Aegean. Because it’s free and one of the island’s biggest attractions, sunset can get very crowded.

My family and I decided to visit in the morning before heading to the beach, and there were only a handful of people there. It was peaceful, beautiful, and gave us an amazing view back toward Naxos Town. If you visit, please respect the archaeological site and do not cross the barriers or take pieces of marble. Enjoy the view from behind the gate and leave the site exactly as you found it!

• Explore Naxos Town – You could easily spend a few hours wandering around Naxos Town. Between the waterfront, restaurants, shops, port, and castle, there is plenty to explore on foot. One of my favorite parts of Chora, besides the waterfront and sunset views, is the Old Market, where you’ll find unique shops tucked into the winding streets. One stop to add to your shopping list is Pagonis Sandals, where handmade Greek leather sandals are crafted right in front of you. It’s such a fun souvenir to bring home because you can choose from different styles and have something made specifically for you.

• Mountain Village Tour – If there is one activity I would highly recommend adding to your Naxos itinerary, it’s a mountain village tour. Naxos has some of the most unique mountain villages in Greece, each with its own history, food, crafts, and traditions. We originally planned to rent a car and explore them ourselves, but a local recommended that we take a private guided tour because we would miss so much by driving around on our own.

He was absolutely right. Our tour took us through several of the main villages and included dinner, museums, tastings, and local experiences we probably would not have found on our own. And I’ll be honest: driving through the Naxos mountains is not for the faint of heart. I’m very comfortable driving in Greece, but some of these roads are extremely narrow, winding, and high up in the mountains. Having someone else drive while we enjoyed the scenery was definitely the right decision for us.

• Damalas – Damalas is known as the pottery village of Naxos and is one of the first villages you’ll encounter as you head into the mountains. There isn’t quite as much to explore here as some of the larger villages, but if you love pottery and Greek craftsmanship, it’s absolutely worth a stop.

• Limpertas Manolis Pottery – Make sure to stop at one of the generational pottery shops in Damalas. We got to watch a live demonstration of how traditional clay pieces are made, including the techniques used to create unique designs and finishes. The shop had everything from clay plates, bowls, cups, vases, and pots to decorations and smaller souvenirs. If you see something you love but don’t want to risk taking it home in your suitcase, they also offer shipping through DHL, which makes shopping for larger pieces much easier.

• Chalki – Chalki is often described as one of the more aristocratic and gastronomic villages of Naxos, and it was one of my favorite stops on our village tour. We spent time wandering through the local shops, visited a famous distillery, and ended our time in the village with dinner.

• Kitron Distillery – Naxos has its own local liqueur called Kitron, made from the leaves of the citron tree. During our visit, we toured the distillery, learned how Kitron is produced, and tasted three different types of the liqueur. You can also purchase bottles in different sizes to take home. If you’re looking for a uniquely Naxian food or drink experience, this is a fun one to add to your itinerary.

• Kaloxylos – Surrounded by olive groves, Kaloxylos is exactly where you’d expect to find one of Naxos’s most interesting olive oil experiences.

• Olive Mill Tasting & Cafe Kaloxilos – This olive oil mill was probably the highlight of our village tour. We learned how olive oil was traditionally pressed before electricity and about the history of the mill and its founder. The tasting was just as memorable; we tried different types of olives, olives paired with cheese, olive spreads, and several varieties of Greek olive oil. Of course, we all ended up buying olive oil to bring home. Naxos olive oil is just too good!

• Moni – Moni is a small mountain village known for its traditional weaving craftsmanship. Local women continue to create beautiful textiles on traditional looms, making this a great stop if you’re interested in seeing traditional Greek crafts and supporting local artisans.

• Panagia Drosiani – Located near Moni, Panagia Drosiani is one of the oldest Byzantine churches in the Balkans. Unfortunately, it was closed by the time we arrived, but the church is known for its historic and breathtaking frescoes. If it’s open during your visit, it’s worth adding to your village itinerary.

• Apeiranthos – Apeiranthos was the village I was most excited to see, and it absolutely lived up to the hype. The village is famous for its extensive use of Naxian marble throughout its buildings, streets, and architecture. As you walk through the village, you’ll find beautiful marble details everywhere. I loved wandering through the streets and discovering the different views, churches, shops, and tavernas. You’ll even notice architectural details that reminded me of Crete and its history. I just wish we had more time to explore Apeiranthos because there was so much more I wanted to see!

• Temple of Demeter – Located near the village of Sangri, the Temple of Demeter is one of the most beautiful ancient sites on Naxos and was constructed almost entirely from marble. The sanctuary dates back to around 530 B.C. and is dedicated to Demeter, the ancient Greek goddess of agriculture and harvest. Admission was €4 and there is parking available nearby.

• Naxos Highlights Tour – If everything above sounds amazing but you’re not comfortable driving through the Naxos mountains, this is a great alternative. This private tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and stops at many of the villages and historical sites mentioned above, along with lunch in Apeiranthos. The tour is approximately six hours and is private, so it’s just you and your group, your driver, and a full day of exploring Naxos. For couples, families, or anyone who wants to see a lot of the island without worrying about navigating the mountain roads, this is an option I would absolutely consider.

• Eggares Olive Oil Museum – If you don’t make it to Kaloxylos, the Eggares Olive Oil Museum is another great way to learn about Naxos’s olive oil history. This traditional olive oil press dates back to 1884 and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about how olives were historically pressed and produced. You can also sample olive oil and shop for local products. One of the best parts? Admission to the museum is free. The museum and tours are seasonal from March to October, so check their current hours before visiting.

Boat Tour Around Naxos or to Koufonisia – I truly believe the best way to experience Naxos is to see both its villages and its coastline. We originally wanted to visit Koufonisia because we had heard how beautiful the island was, but the wind had other plans, and we weren’t able to dock there. Instead, we visited Kato Koufonisia and stopped at a gorgeous hidden swimming spot that is only accessible by boat. We also visited Rhenia Cave, which is connected to Greek mythology, enjoyed lunch on the boat, and stopped at another swimming spot off the coast of Naxos. There were only eight of us on the boat, so the experience felt incredibly intimate—almost like having our own private boat day. There are also plenty of sailing trips that stay along the Naxos coastline, making this a perfect way to spend a half or full day swimming in the Aegean and seeing beaches that you simply cannot reach by car.

• Ferry Day Trip to Koufonisia – If you have a little extra time in Naxos, consider taking a full-day trip to Koufonisia. There are ferries from Naxos Port, but schedules can be limited, so you’ll want to plan. Pack a small beach bag with everything you’ll need for the day and be prepared to spend most of your time exploring the island on foot.

• Hike to Mount Zas – Mount Zas is the highest peak in the Cyclades, making it one of the most popular adventures for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Naxos. The mountain is also steeped in Greek mythology. According to legend, Zeus spent his childhood in the cave on Mount Zas, which you can explore as part of the hike. Experienced hikers can tackle the mountain independently, but I always recommend a guide if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain. You’ll learn more about the island and mythology while also having someone experienced with you on the trail. There are several different hiking routes, and I’ll just have to return to Naxos to try one myself, preferably not in the middle of the summer heat!

• Marble Workshop – Naxian marble is famous throughout Greece, so what better way to experience it than by creating your own souvenir? This approximately three-hour experience takes place in the late afternoon and is a semi-private workshop where you can get hands-on with a local instructor and create your own piece of marble art. It’s a particularly fun option for travelers who want to take home a souvenir that is more meaningful than something purchased in a gift shop.

• Farm to Table Cooking Class – One of the best ways to experience Naxos is through its family-run farms and local food traditions. At the Perivoli Farm Experience, you can learn about the farm, pick ingredients, prepare a traditional Greek meal, and then sit down and enjoy what you made. This is one I frequently recommend to clients who want a more immersive culinary experience in Naxos. And while I grew up cooking Greek food, I would absolutely still take this class just for the farm experience and the opportunity to learn more about traditional Naxian cooking.

• Wind Surfing Lessons – Naxos is one of Greece’s top destinations for windsurfing, attracting everyone from beginners to experienced riders. One of my clients had some beginner experience before their trip and wanted to try windsurfing again while in Naxos, so I booked them a private lesson with Ride With The Gods. They had nothing but great things to say about Alfred and their experience, so this is definitely one to consider if you want to get out on the water and try something different.

• Wine Tasting – One thing about Greece and its islands: they make some incredible wine. And where better to experience wine than Naxos, an island closely connected to Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine? At Saint Anna Winery, you can tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process and its history, and taste several of their homemade wines paired with local cheeses, vegetables grown on the farm, and other snacks. If you’re a wine lover, this is a great way to experience a different side of Naxos beyond the beaches.

• Kayak Tour of Rhenia Cave – Naxos is an incredible island for water sports, and kayaking is another great way to explore the coastline. If you want to explore Rhenia Cave, you can reach it by kayak and combine the experience with snorkeling and a homemade lunch afterward. I personally explored the cave by swimming, and it was definitely cold and dark inside, so kayaking would be a fun alternative if you want to explore more of the cave without spending as much time in the water.

Nightlife

Naxos isn’t known for its party scene the way some of its Cycladic neighbors are, but that doesn’t mean the island goes quiet after sunset. Naxos Town has a great selection of cocktail bars, while some of the beach towns come alive at night with lively bars, music, and beachside parties.

I visited Naxos right after Mykonos, so I actually appreciated the slower pace. It was the perfect place to catch up on sleep, enjoy a few cocktails, and have more relaxed nights after several days of partying.

Naxos Chora:

• The Rum Bar cocktails & Spirt – The Most popular bar in Naxos Town
• On The Rocks Bar – One of the more livelier bars
• naxos café – Hidden gem in the old market
• Notos Art Club – Has a hidden rooftop garden
• Cherry Naxos – Bar to dance!
• AMEN CLUB – The only club in chora
• Babylonia Bar
• 8o’clock The Bar
• MBEBEKA
• Honey & Cinnamon
• CANORA
• Prime Bar

Beach Towns :

• Santana Beach Club , Agia Anna
• Island Bar, Agia Anna
• Yazoo Summer Bliss, Plaka
• dunes ~ secret beach, Plaka
• Caya Beach Naxos, Plaka

Transportation:

Getting To Naxos

Getting around Naxos is relatively easy, but how you choose to travel will depend on how much of the island you want to explore. If you’re staying mostly around Naxos Town and the west coast beaches, buses can get you pretty far. If you want to explore the mountain villages, hidden beaches, and more remote parts of the island, I highly recommend having your own transportation—or booking a private tour.

Airplane – Naxos has one of the smallest airports I’ve ever seen in Greece, but yes, it is a real, functioning airport! You may have seen the airport’s tiny conveyor belt on social media, and I can confirm: it really is that small. Flying is not the most popular way to reach Naxos, as most travelers arrive by ferry while island hopping around the Cyclades. Naxos Airport is not an international airport and has limited daily service, primarily connecting with Athens and occasionally other Greek islands. If you’re already in Greece and want to save time, flying from Athens can be a convenient option. If you’re island hopping, however, the ferry will usually make more sense.

Ferry – For most travelers island hopping through the Cyclades, the ferry is going to be your easiest and most convenient option for getting to Naxos. Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets are two of the most popular ferry companies serving the Cyclades. SeaJets is the faster option, and this is the ferry I took from Mykonos to Naxos. Our journey was only about 40 minutes, which made getting between the islands incredibly easy.

However, there is one important thing to keep in mind when taking ferries during the summer: wind.

The Aegean can get very windy, and high winds can make the ride on a fast ferry feel pretty rough. If you are prone to motion sickness, I would recommend choosing a larger, slower ferry such as Blue Star Ferries when your schedule allows—and packing some Dramamine just in case. Weather can also cause ferry delays or cancellations, so I always recommend checking your ferry status before heading to the port.

You can purchase tickets directly through:

• SeaJets
• Blue Star Ferries
• Ferryhopper
• Direct Ferries

Tip: Ferry schedules are typically displayed using the 24-hour clock, so make sure you double-check whether your departure is in the morning or evening.

If you’re traveling to Naxos from another island, you can also purchase tickets from a travel office at the port or from a local travel agency. Personally, I wouldn’t wait until you arrive at the port during high season, especially if you have a specific ferry or departure time in mind. Popular routes can sell out.

While in Naxos

Public Transportation – Naxos has a pretty good public bus system connecting Naxos Town with many of the popular beaches along the western side of the island, as well as different villages. If you’re staying around Chora and want to visit places like Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, or Plaka, the bus can be a very convenient and affordable option. The main bus station in Naxos Town is located near the port, making it easy to find after arriving by ferry. You can find current routes, schedules, and other information through KTEL Naxos.

One thing to remember: If you’re venturing into the mountain villages, you may need to transfer between buses, so make sure you check the schedule carefully before heading out.

Taxi – Taxis are available throughout Naxos, but they wouldn’t be my first choice if you’re trying to explore a lot of the island. I’d primarily use a taxi for shorter trips around Naxos Town or between nearby beach towns rather than relying on taxis for full-day island exploration. Like many Greek islands, availability can be limited during peak season, so I wouldn’t build an entire itinerary around being able to grab a taxi whenever you need one.

Renting Cars/ ATVs / Scooters – If you really want to explore Naxos, having your own transportation is the best way to do it. A rental car, ATV, or scooter gives you the freedom to visit the mountain villages, hidden beaches, local tavernas, and other places that are much harder to reach by bus. That said, I want to give you a very honest warning: Naxos is not the easiest island to drive.

I’ve driven in Greece many times and felt comfortable behind the wheel, but some of the mountain roads on Naxos are narrow, steep, and extremely winding. Depending on where you’re going, you’ll be driving through some pretty serious mountain terrain. If you’re comfortable driving on narrow roads and navigating mountains, you’ll be fine, just take your time and don’t rush.

If that sounds stressful, don’t force yourself to drive. There are plenty of private tours and drivers available, and this is exactly what we chose to do for the mountain villages. Even though my family and I had rented a car, we booked a private village tour and let our guide handle the mountain driving. Honestly, it was the right decision for us because we could sit back, enjoy the scenery, and learn about the villages instead of worrying about navigating the roads ourselves.

My Recommendation

If you’re staying for 3 days, you can absolutely get around using a combination of buses, taxis, and a private tour. If you’re staying 4–5 days or longer, I’d strongly consider renting a car or ATV, so you have more flexibility to explore. And if you’re nervous about driving in the mountains? Book the private tour. Naxos has too much to see to spend your vacation stressed behind the wheel.

Although I’ve planned Naxos for countless clients who have always raved about the island, I didn’t quite know what to expect when I finally made it there myself. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I loved it, and how quickly I started planning my next trip back.

I was especially impressed by the food (and the olive oil deserves its own shoutout; I brought home two different kinds!), the depth of the island’s history, and how much of that history is still woven into everyday life. I’m also so glad I had visited Crete the summer before because it gave me a deeper appreciation for the historical and cultural connections between the two islands.

But what makes Naxos truly special to me is how unique it feels. Its history, agriculture, mountain villages, incredible food, and beautiful beaches all come together to create an island that feels distinctly Naxian. And despite its growing popularity with tourists, you can still feel how much pride the locals have in their home.

From the history and food to the people, charming villages, and impossibly blue Aegean waters, Naxos has officially become one of my favorite Greek islands. I honestly can’t believe it took me this long to finally get there.

Now, I’m already looking forward to my next visit, and this time, I’m bringing more friends along so they can experience everything Naxos has to offer, too.

Always yours,

Naxos