Naxos

The Common Wanderer

Part of the recommended western beach strip, combining golden sand with access to tavernas and beach amenities.

Chasing the Donkey

The author's recommended beach for visitors seeking a party atmosphere on Naxos.

The Common Wanderer

A beach for relaxed sunset drinks; the authors' first evening here with a Naxian Spritz helped win them over to the island.

Chasing the Donkey

A convenient beach near Chora, recommended for a swim even on a short island visit.

The Common Wanderer

A leading choice for a beach-focused trip, with white sand, turquoise water and beach facilities. It also makes a convenient coastal base.

Chasing the Donkey

This lively seaside village offers a relaxing family base, a pleasant promenade and easy bus connections to Chora.

The Common Wanderer

An extraordinary mountain village with marble-paved lanes and Venetian heritage. The authors loved its enduring everyday traditions, including deliveries by mule.

Chasing the Donkey

Explore this striking marble-built village for its museums and authentic local cooking.

The Common Wanderer

Housed in a former Jesuit school, the museum is especially recommended for its exceptional collection of ancient Cycladic marble figurines.

Chasing the Donkey

This museum within the old town walls introduces Cycladic art and the island's history stretching back to the Neolithic period.

The Common Wanderer

Enjoy Naxian cooking in a beautiful old-town courtyard. The author recommends the octopus and booking ahead because tables fill quickly.

Hand Luggage Only

The author loves the outdoor seating area and recommends ordering the moussaka.

The Common Wanderer

A particularly beautiful Venetian-era village surrounded by olive and citrus groves. Its ceramic studios and shaded square make it appealing for an unhurried visit and lunch.

Chasing the Donkey

Explore this peaceful mountain village for traditional island life and access to Naxos's inland scenery. It pairs well with a visit to Apeiranthos.

The Common Wanderer

The authors' quiet favourite among the mountain villages, appreciated for its sleepy, local character and lack of visitor crowds. Pause in the church square or at the village taverna.

Chasing the Donkey

This traditional village is recommended for its charm and a glimpse of the island's cultural heritage beyond the beaches.

The Common Wanderer

A cosy balcony above the old harbour serves creative cocktails to a local crowd. It's a quieter choice for pre-dinner drinks than the busiest sunset rooftops.

Hand Luggage Only

A small, cosy bar with a lively atmosphere, recommended for an evening out with friends.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended particularly for windsurfing along Naxos's southwest coast.

Chasing the Donkey

Recommended as the beach to choose for windsurfing on Naxos.

The Common Wanderer

Climb the Cyclades’ highest peak for sweeping island views; check the guide for the route and preparation.

Chasing the Donkey

Hike the highest mountain in the Cyclades on marked trails for sweeping views of the sea and neighboring islands. The peak is also associated with the childhood of Zeus.

The Common Wanderer

A rewarding day trip from Paros with greener mountain scenery, rich history and excellent beaches.

Hand Luggage Only

Recommended for a varied mix of independent restaurants, bars, countryside and beaches.

The Common Wanderer

A long sandy shore with clear water, beach clubs and quieter stretches.

Chasing the Donkey

Singled out as one of Greece's best beaches in the discussion of Naxos's sandy shores and clear water.

The Common Wanderer

An island landmark the authors put on their don't-miss list, especially at sunset. Its appearance from the approaching ferry is another memorable sight.

Chasing the Donkey

A must-visit landmark associated with the unfinished Temple of Apollo and the island's rich mythological heritage.

The Common Wanderer

A family member guides visitors through a historic mansion filled with furnishings, clothing and paintings from Venetian noble life. The author considers it an especially interesting Cycladic museum experience.

Chasing the Donkey

Visit this historic mansion in the castle area to understand the old fortifications and taste wines produced by the family that owns it.

The Common Wanderer

The author's favourite cocktail spot has a rooftop terrace overlooking the port and Kastro. Try the smoked negroni or Naxos-inspired signature drinks, and arrive early or reserve for sunset.

Hand Luggage Only

Recommended for pristine swimming water; wear plenty of sunblock even when strong winds make it feel cool.

The Common Wanderer

The author's top accommodation pick offers thoughtfully designed apartments and a rooftop pool, with Chora's attractions within walking distance.

Chasing the Donkey

This quiet northern fishing village is a relaxing escape from the capital, with a beach and nearby archaeological sights.

The Common Wanderer

This historic mountain spring sits beneath a leafy plane tree and makes a welcome stop on the longer summit route. The authors recommend refilling water bottles here before continuing toward the cave.

The Common Wanderer

Set atop the castle walls in a former monastery, this all-day café turns into a wine and cocktail bar with superb views. Order the Avaton Spritz with local herbs; an elevator provides access without the stairs.

The Common Wanderer

A locally recommended spot between the town centre and Agios Georgios serving excellent Naxian food. Seafood is a strong choice, and the stuffed eggplant also earns particular praise.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended as a first-time visitor's base, with excellent restaurants and nightlife. Allow time to explore it rather than treating it merely as a ferry stop.

The Common Wanderer

Seek out this Orthodox church tucked into the Kastro walls as a contrast to the nearby Catholic cathedral.

The Common Wanderer

The author's favourite Chora restaurant pairs excellent Italian cooking with harbour sunset views. The fresh ravioli di magro with butter and sage was a standout meal.

The Common Wanderer

Suggested as an additional accommodation option for a stay in Chora.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended for good cocktails and a quieter setting when the harbour strip feels overcrowded.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended for its distinctly local atmosphere, with residents gathering along the leafy main street and farm trucks passing through. It felt notably untouched by tourist performance.

The Common Wanderer

A long-established harbourfront bar recommended as a dependable, conveniently located choice.

The Common Wanderer

The authors stayed here and describe the experience as rewarding, alongside their other coastal accommodation choices.

The Common Wanderer

The authors praise the patient instruction, enthusiastic staff and sociable beach atmosphere. Try windsurfing in the shallow lagoon or paddleboarding along the coast when the wind drops.

Chasing the Donkey

This beach near town is recommended for snorkeling, with submerged ancient settlement remains to explore.

The Common Wanderer

A personal favourite for its wild, secluded beauty, with burnt-orange cliffs and a cedar-forest setting.

The Common Wanderer

Included as another accommodation option worth considering when staying in Chora.

The Common Wanderer

Breakfast and coffee are the main reasons to visit, although its long opening hours also make it convenient for later meals and drinks.

Chasing the Donkey

A picturesque Cycladic-style accommodation option recommended for its proximity to Agios Georgios Beach and the capital.

The Common Wanderer

The author's favourite part of Chora combines quiet marble lanes, historic Venetian buildings and views over the rooftops. Explore its courtyards and galleries early or late in the day for the best atmosphere.

The Common Wanderer

The guide's accommodation pick for travellers on a budget.

The Common Wanderer

This traditional store is packed with island produce and household goods. Taste the Naxian cheeses, especially graviera, and look for homemade marmalades and local olive oil.

Chasing the Donkey

An affordable central base within walking distance of old-town sights, restaurants, bars, the Portara and marina.

The Common Wanderer

A tucked-away old-town bar recommended for its Greek wine selection and relaxed atmosphere that encourages lingering.

The Common Wanderer

In Koronas: a traditional no-menu taverna serving fresh plates and local wine beneath a grapevine.

The Common Wanderer

The guide describes a mountain taverna with no menu, serving home-cooked Naxian dishes.

The Common Wanderer

The Cyclades' highest peak offers panoramic views across Naxos and the surrounding islands, with sunset ranking among the authors' favorite island experiences. Their preferred ascent starts at Agia Marina Chapel and takes 3–4 hours return; bring sturdy shoes and a torch for a sunset descent.

The Common Wanderer

Villas and suites with private pools on Naxos.

Chasing the Donkey

Recommended for its terraces and impressive Aegean views near Agia Anna Beach.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended as a mid-range place to stay on the island.

The Common Wanderer

Recommended for its tempting baked goods, particularly breakfast pastries and snacks to take to the beach.

The Common Wanderer

Modern, well-equipped apartments in a central location, about 400 metres from Agios Georgios Beach.

The Common Wanderer

An enjoyable place for an evening stroll, with waterfront activity and views back toward the glowing Kastro. The southern end has particularly good restaurant and bar options.

The Common Wanderer

This winding market offers original crafts, jewellery, clothing and art at relatively reasonable prices. The author prefers its relaxed shopping atmosphere to markets on several neighbouring islands.

Chasing the Donkey

These cozy small units offer a relaxed atmosphere and lovely sea views at a budget-friendly price.

Chasing the Donkey

The marina has numerous bars and tavernas, with a few clubs nearby. Its nightlife leans toward relaxed sunset cocktails rather than all-night partying.

The Common Wanderer

The authors returned for what they considered the best loukoumades of their Cyclades travels. Order the warm doughnuts for their crisp exterior, soft centre and quality local honey.

The Common Wanderer

Watch craftspeople make traditional leather sandals at this family-run shop and workshop. Custom designs are a memorable souvenir, but order early because they take at least three to four days.

The Common Wanderer

A recommended stop in the old market for contemporary ceramics and art that particularly impressed the authors.

The Common Wanderer

This peaceful 13th-century cathedral has Venetian families' coats of arms set into its marble floor and rarely attracts crowds.

Hand Luggage Only

Head into the countryside for this beautiful waterfall, roughly a 45-minute hike from Keramoti.

Chasing the Donkey

Visit for a winery tour and wine tasting, included among the recommended island experiences.

The Common Wanderer

An unpretentious, affordable taverna particularly recommended for seafood. The dakos salad and fresh local mackerel offer excellent value.

Hand Luggage Only

An important archaeological landmark overlooking the harbour, easily reached on foot from the old town.

The Common Wanderer

The monumental marble doorway on Palatia is a striking landmark when arriving by sea.

Chasing the Donkey

The author calls this temple dedicated to the goddess of agriculture and fertility a must-visit.

The Common Wanderer

A casual backstreet restaurant whose cooking impressed the authors. Try zucchini fritters, fried cheese or homemade pie, with fresh sea bass their top choice.

Chasing the Donkey

This historic distillery has produced Kitron since 1896. Discover the distinctive local spirit made with citrus leaves and zest.

The Common Wanderer

Traditionally associated with Zeus's childhood, this atmospheric cave provides a cool respite along the mountain trail and sweeping valley views from its entrance. Bring a torch to explore beyond the entrance chamber and take care on the uneven floor.