NAXOS

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and has a rugged, mountainous landscape, and long sandy beaches. In fact, Naxos beaches are considered some of the best beaches in Europe.

Naxos has one main town, Chora, and many people see this as an advantage for Naxos as the port, airport, main town and good beaches are all close together. While it’s a great idea to hire a car to explore some of the more remote parts of the island it does mean that you can have a perfectly nice vacation without one too.

There is a lot to see and do and its proximity to a number of other beautiful islands makes it a firm favourite with families, couples and solo travellers year after year. Many people have returned each year for decades!

April - November

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4-5 days

Cyclades

What to expect

The largest of the three with wide beaches, farmland, villages and loads of space. Activities lean toward hiking, history, food and relaxed beach time rather than nightlife.

Costs are generally lower than in Paros, portions are famously generous, and the island feels local and welcoming. Popular, but never frantic.

Language: Greek, but most people in tourist areas speak English ( and more)

Currency: Euro

Credit Cards and ATMs: You can find ATMs all over Greece. Every major town and city has them, even in mini marts, travel agencies and some hotel lobbies.  Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, and in fact, it is illegal for taxis, hotels and any business working in tourism not to accept them.

Plugs: The plugs in Greece are Type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. For many people, appliances and devices will work fine, but if you are from the USA, you will need a dual-voltage styling iron or hair dryer.

Best time to visit Naxos

The season runs between Easter and Late october

How long to go for

At least 3 nights, but it’s a big island and can easily use 5 or more.

How to get around Naxos

The bus system works well, but things are spread far and wide, so it really is a good idea to hire a car, at least for a day or two

Where to stay in Naxos

We always stay in Chora, the main town with absolutely everything, including beaches. This is best place for first timers too.

 

Naxos or Paros?

While similar in many ways, these islands are quite different too, despite being so close together.

Ultimately, Naxos is much bigger and therefore has many more amazing beaches, as well as mountain villages.

Paros is better for nightlife and shopping and is more sophisticated.

More here.

What are the top things to do in Naxos?

Being such a big island there is a lot to see and do.

The main attractions are:

  • Beaches
  • Chora town
  • mountain villages
  • farms & agriculture
  • history & archaeology

See activity guides for these and more, below

What are the best day trips from Naxos

Due to its proximity, Naxos is one of the best islands to do day trips to other Cycladic Islands. Paros and the Small Cyclades are the closest and easiest, but there are others too.