Thanks to the island’s pristine sandy beaches, archeological sites, and fertile agriculture – there are plenty of things to do in Naxos! Here’s some of our favorite activities:
Events in Naxos
If you’re traveling to Naxos, you won’t want to miss out on the many festivals and artistic events that take place every year. If you’re visiting in July, celebrate the feast of Agios Nikodeimos Agioritis, Naxos’ patron saint. This religious festival takes place on July 14th and includes a procession and street celebrations with local food and drinks. Other festivals in Naxos include the Dionysia Festival, which is held during the first week of September. This festival honors the Greek God Dionysus, symbolizing the wine harvest, festivities and pleasure. You can expect plenty of musical concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions.
Things to See in Naxos
Wondering what the best things to do in Naxos are? Let’s start with Naxos’ fabulous beaches. Whether you want to dip your toes in the Aegean sea’s warm waters, or just want to relax by the shore – there are plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from. Head to Agios Prokopios Beach, about a 10-minute drive from Naxos city, and soak up the pristine scenery. Other great beaches in Naxos include Plaka Beach or Alyko Beach, both about a 30-minute drive away from Naxos city. Next, no trip to Naxos would be complete without visiting some of its historical and archeological sites. The Temple of Apollo is a must-see landmark and the island’s emblem. This majestic marble gate dates to 530 BC and can easily be visited by foot if you’re staying in Naxos city. If you’re looking for a day trip from Naxos city, head to the Holy Paleochristian Church of Panagia Drosiani, Naxos’ oldest church dating to the 6th century. The drive takes around 30-minutes. Another option is to visit the Castle Kastro in Naxos city old town, a 13th century castle built during the Venetian sovereignty. Other great things to do in Naxos include visiting the island’s many farms and vineyards. You’ll learn how to make local cheese, cook recipes alongside locals, or discover the winemaking process.
Shopping in Naxos
Whether you’re looking for local produce, souvenirs, or handicrafts – you’ll find plenty of quaint shopping districts and charming little shops in Naxos. Kastro, Naxos city’s historic quarter, caters to all types of shoppers. Here, you’ll find fashion boutiques, ceramics workshops and small shops selling local delicacies and produce.
Naxos Food & Drinks
Greek cuisine is world-renowned, and the food in Naxos won’t disappoint. With its fertile soil and bountiful agricultural produce, Naxos produces some of the best olives, olive oil, and cheese in the country – so make sure to sample some kalamata olives and Naxos Graviera cheese. As for local dishes, try gemista, a dish of stuffed tomatoes and peppers; dakos, dried bread topped with tomatoes, cheese, and oregano; and taramasalata, a delicious dip made from cured cod roe. For those of you with a sweet tooth, try one of Naxos’ traditional desserts called melachrino, a walnut pie served with sheep’s milk ice cream. Finally, to quench your thirst, try one of Greece’s favorite non-alcoholic drinks, soumada, an almond-based syrupy soft drink. You can also learn about Naxos’ signature liqueur called kitron, made from the leaves and fruit of the citron tree.
Family friendly activities in Naxos
If you’re vacationing in Naxos, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of things to do for all ages, from water sports to hikes, and everything in between. Some of the best things to do in Naxos with your family include visiting the Laguna Beach Park Naxos, where you can learn how to windsurf, and the Aqua Fun Naxos Water Park. If you want to hike or cycle to a pristine beach, take the Plaka Mikri Vilga trail. This easy hike takes about two hours to complete and the reward is a refreshing dive by Plaka Beach Naxos!"
