Naxos: The Fertile Giant of the Cyclades
Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades, a place of towering mountains, fertile valleys, and endless sandy beaches. Unlike its more arid neighbors, Naxos is a self-sufficient agricultural powerhouse, famous for its potatoes, cheeses, and Citron liqueur. In 2026, Naxos remains the top choice for families and foodies, offering a mix of massive ancient monuments and a landscape that feels more like a small continent than an island.
Things to know about Naxos
Geographically, Naxos is dominated by Mount Zas (Mount Zeus), the highest peak in the Cyclades. Historically, it was the center of the Cycladic civilization and later a powerful Venetian Duchy. An ideal trip length is at least 6-7 days, as the island’s interior is vast and filled with traditional villages. It is famous for the Portara (the massive gate of an unfinished temple), its Venetian towers, and having some of the longest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean.
Top attractions in Naxos
The Portara (Temple of Apollo)
As you enter the harbor, you are greeted by the Portara, a colossal 2,500-year-old marble doorway. It is the only remains of a temple intended to honor Apollo. It is the iconic sunset spot of the island, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.
Naxos Old Town and the Kastro
The Chora of Naxos is a medieval fortress. The Kastro (Castle) was built by the Venetian Marco Sanudo in the 13th century. Walking through its dark tunnels and narrow alleys, you’ll find the Catholic Cathedral, the Ursuline Convent, and the boarding school where Nikos Kazantzakis studied.
Agios Prokopios Beach
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in Europe, Agios Prokopios features 1.5km of thick golden sand and turquoise water that looks like a swimming pool. It is well-organized but large enough to find a quiet spot even in peak season.
Mount Zas (Mount Zeus)
According to mythology, Zeus was raised in a cave on this mountain. Hikers can reach the summit (1,004m) for a view that encompasses nearly every island in the Cyclades. The trail is well-marked and passes by the Aria Spring.
The Village of Apeiranthos
Known as the ‘Marble Village,’ Apeiranthos is located in the mountains and has a distinct character. Its streets are paved with marble, and its residents speak a unique dialect similar to Cretan. It is home to five small museums and incredible stone architecture.
The Kouros Statues
Naxos is home to three massive, unfinished marble statues (Kouroi) lying in ancient quarries. The Kouros of Apollonas is over 10 meters long and dates back to the 6th century BC, providing a fascinating look at ancient sculpting techniques.
Plaka Beach
A continuation of the island’s western coastline, Plaka is a vast stretch of sand dunes and crystalline water. It is more relaxed than Agios Prokopios and is perfect for long walks and watching the sunset over the neighboring island of Paros.
Temple of Demeter at Sangri
Built in the 6th century BC entirely of white Naxian marble, this temple is located in a fertile valley. It is one of the most important precursors to the Parthenon and has been beautifully restored, including a small on-site museum.
Chalki Village and the Vallindras Distillery
Chalki was once the commercial center of the island. It is home to the Vallindras Distillery, which has been producing the local ‘Kitron’ liqueur since 1896. You can tour the distillery and taste the different varieties of this unique citrus spirit.
Panagia Drossiani
This is one of the oldest and most important Byzantine churches in Greece. Located near the village of Moni, it features unique cone-shaped roofs and frescoes dating back to the 6th century, offering a glimpse into early Christian art.
Island-hopping from Naxos
Naxos is the primary gateway to the ‘Small Cyclades’ (Koufonisia, Donoussa, Schinoussa, Iraklia). The legendary ‘Express Skopelitis’ ferry runs this route daily. Naxos also has frequent connections to Piraeus (3.5 – 6 hours), Paros (30 mins), Ios (45 mins), and Santorini (1.5 hours). It is a central hub for those exploring the central and southern Cyclades. Naxos Airport (JNX) provides several daily flights to Athens.
