This Tyko Music videos gives good footage of the Naxos monument. (Temple of Apollo) (Porta).
Naxos, the largest Cycladic island, is a vibrant destination blending rich history, stunning beaches, and authentic Greek cuisine, perfect for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. For food lovers, Naxos offers a culinary scene rooted in local ingredients, with specialties like Naxian cheeses (graviera and xinotyri), honey, and fresh seafood. Must-visit restaurants include The Greco’s Project in Chora (Leof. Andrea Siggrou 57), known for its traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki in a cozy, modern setting, and To Elliniko, celebrated for its hearty Greek classics and warm hospitality. For a seaside dining experience, Ammos Beach Bar & Restaurant in Agios Prokopios serves fresh fish and cocktails with stunning views. Don’t miss local tavernas like Ostria in Agia Anna for grilled octopus and affordable meze. Naxos’ food markets, like those in Chora, offer fresh produce and local delicacies, ideal for self-catering or sampling street food. Pair meals with local wines or kitron, a citrus liqueur unique to the island.
Check this FULL MAP OF GREECE and the GREEK ISLANDS for the exact information you need.
Naxos boasts some of Greece’s most beautiful beaches, catering to every preference. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are popular for their golden sands, crystal waters, and proximity to Chora, offering water sports, beach bars, and family-friendly amenities. Plaka Beach, a short drive south, is ideal for those seeking a quieter stretch of soft sand, perfect for sunbathing or long walks. For windsurfing or kitesurfing, head to Mikri Vigla, known for its consistent winds and vibrant beach scene. History buffs should visit the iconic Portara, a massive marble gate from an ancient Apollo temple, offering breathtaking sunset views. Explore Chora’s charming old town, with its Venetian castle and winding alleys, or venture to inland villages like Apiranthos for traditional architecture and local crafts. Ferries from Piraeus, Rafina, or nearby islands like Paros make Naxos accessible, with summer schedules offering daily connections. Book accommodations and ferries early in peak season (June–September), and expect warm weather (75–85°F) and lively crowds. Rent a car or scooter to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountainous villages, and check local event listings for festivals celebrating Naxian culture.
Ferry Routes for Naxos Greece
Ferry Routes to and from NaxosFrom Mainland Greece to Naxos
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Frequency: 5-7 daily crossings (high season)
- Operators: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets, Hellenic Seaways
- Travel Time: 3.5–6.5 hours (high-speed: ~3h 20m; conventional: 5–6h)
- Ticket Prices: €22–€115 (foot passengers), €16–€116 (vehicles)
- Rafina (near Athens airport)
- Frequency: 2-3 daily sailings (summer)
- Operators: Various (e.g., Seajets, Hellenic Seaways)
- Travel Time: 3–5 hours
- Ticket Prices: €22–€115 (foot passengers), €16–€116 (vehicles)
- Lavrio
- Frequency: Less frequent, mainly summer
- Operators: Various
- Travel Time: Up to 9 hours
- Ticket Prices: €22–€115 (foot passengers), €16–€116 (vehicles)
From Naxos to Other Islands
- Amorgos
- Frequency: Seasonal routes
- Travel Time: Varies (typically 1–2 hours)
- Operators: Small Cyclades Lines, others
- Crete (Heraklion)
- Frequency: Seasonal routes
- Travel Time: 3–4.5 hours
- Operators: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets
- Dodecanese (e.g., Rhodes, Kos)
- Frequency: Seasonal routes
- Travel Time: Varies
- Operators: Blue Star Ferries, others
- Ios
- Frequency: Daily (high season)
- Travel Time: ~1–2 hours
- Operators: Seajets, Hellenic Seaways
- Milos
- Frequency: Seasonal routes
- Travel Time: Varies
- Operators: Various
- Mykonos
- Frequency: Daily (high season)
- Travel Time: 35 minutes–1.5 hours
- Operators: Seajets, Hellenic Seaways
- Paros
- Frequency: Daily (high season)
- Travel Time: 25–30 minutes (high-speed)
- Operators: Seajets, Hellenic Seaways
- Santorini
- Frequency: Daily (high season)
- Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Operators: Seajets, Hellenic Seaways
- Small Cyclades (Koufonisia, Donoussa, Schinoussa, Iraklia)
- Frequency: Year-round (Small Cyclades Lines), more frequent in summer
- Travel Time: Varies (typically 1–2 hours)
- Operators: Small Cyclades Lines, others
Notes:
- Total Routes: Over 30 destinations, up to 42 daily departures (238 weekly) in peak season (June–September).
- Port: Naxos’ main port in Chora handles passengers and vehicles.
- Booking: Recommended in advance via platforms like Ferryhopper or Direct Ferries for real-time schedules and e-tickets.
- Seasonality: Schedules and routes vary by season; weather may cause delays.
- Amenities: Blue Star Ferries and Seajets offer cabins and vehicle transport on select routes.