Things to do in
Naxos Town

Our most recommended things to do in Naxos Town

Naxos: Highlights Bus Tour with Free Time for Lunch and Swim

1. Naxos: Highlights Bus Tour with Free Time for Lunch and Swim

Explore the wonders of Naxos island on this guided bus. Visit the valley of Gyroula and the marble quarries of Apollonas. Stop at the villages of Chalki, Apiranthos, and Damalas along the way. Start with a pickup from a variety of locations on Naxos and first travel to the green valley of Gyroula. You will visit the marble temple of the Goddess Demeter, one of the most important ancient monuments on the island. The next stop will be the tiny village of Damalas. Learn everything about the old procedures of olive oil production at a restored olive press museum. Afterward, visit a traditional workshop of a third-generation potter and know the secrets of his art dating back to ancient Greece. Continue to Chalki, an ancient commercial center and a place of beautiful Venetian architecture. You will have approximately 50’ free time to explore by yourselves. Don’t miss the oldest distillery of the island – Vallindras distillery - located right in the middle of the village, the sophisticated ceramic art galleries and the cozy shops with souvenirs and local products. Next, make a long stop (approx. 1,5 hours) at the famous village of Apiranthos located at the foot of Fanari mountain. Admire the beautiful views of Venetian Towers, marbled alleys, cozy tavernas, verandas, and traditional shops. Here, you will have free time for lunch – it is highly recommended to taste the local recipes of “rosto” and “kalogiros”. Driving past Koronos village and the famous emery mines, you will reach Apollonas. Get free time at the picturesque fishing village to go for a quick dip and enjoy a coffee or desert by the seaside. End your tour with a visit to the infamous “Kouros”, an unfinished marble Statue of 11 meters, lying in the same spot for more than 2500 years! Drive along the west coast, one of the most beautiful routes on the island with an amazing view of the ocean, and be returned to your pickup point.

Naxos: Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern

2. Naxos: Half-Day Cooking Class at Basiliko Family Tavern

Learn about the traditional cuisine of Naxos, Greek food, or satisfy you passion for cooking with a traditional cooking course at a rural village. All dishes are made from local and fresh ingredients and with pure organic products. Learn all the secrets of herbs and aromatic plants. At the end, the cooking lesson turns into a feast as you enjoy the dishes you have prepared, along with local wine and traditional music. The lessons will take place in small or large groups, in couples and families, upon agreement, at the times and days you choose. If you choose to, walk along the river and get to know some of the beauties of the village. Make the most of more than a simple cooking lesson, but a rich experience, as you cut vegetables and fruits from the garden or even make cheese together with the villagers!

Naxos: Highlights Full-Day Tour by Bus

3. Naxos: Highlights Full-Day Tour by Bus

The first stop is Demeter temple, a spectacular recently restored ancient temple from 530 BC. Apart from the impressive monument, you'll have the chance to visit the archeological museum located in the same area, and to check out some findings from the site. Continue the tour to Damalas, a cute little village in the heart of Tragea Valley where you'll enjoy a demonstration at the only remaining traditional pottery workshop and the traditional restored olive press. Then drive to Chalkio, a neoclassical village where you can walk in picturesque alleys, visit the traditional citron distillery/museum, and have an espresso while taking in the classy atmosphere. Head then to the famous village of Naxos, Apiranthos, the “marble village," and stroll down marble cobbled streets and take loads of photos. Drive towards the north part of Naxos island to end up on the northeast edge in Apollonas, a small typical Cycladic village. Have a swim or just relax at one of the cafes by the sea. On the way back, stop by the impressive Kouros, a colossal unfinished statue from the 6th century BC, before returning to Chora, taking in gorgeous views along the way.

Naxos: Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling with Lunch & Drinks

4. Naxos: Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling with Lunch & Drinks

Embark on a full-day catamaran tour starting from the port of Naxos. Enjoy lunch with drinks on board and visit the highlights of the Aegean Sea. Swim and snorkel at an island beach or relax on the pristine shores. Meet our friendly crew at Naxos Port and board your catamaran for the day. The cruise sets sail at 8:30 AM and heads to the first stop of the day. As you glide along the water, admire stunning views of the Naxos coastline and enjoy a complimentary hot or cold drink and a snack. After 2-hours of sailing, arrive at the first stop, which is one of the most famous landmarks of Naxos Island. Spend some time exploring then cool off from the heat in the crystal clear waters of a secluded beach. You can also go snorkeling in search of colorful marine life, or chill out in the shade. Head to the next stop of the day where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up epic views. The exact location depends on the day’s weather and passengers’ preference. During the 30-minute sail to the island, sunbathe on deck and sip on a refreshing beer or wine to keep you cool. Once you have worked up a bit of an appetite, dine on a delicious, freshly-prepared Greek lunch. Spend some free time relaxing after lunch then visit the final destination of the day for more water activities. At the end of an unforgettable adventure, enjoy fruit and coffee onboard whilst marveling at the last of the coastal view as you sail back to Naxos Port.

From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

5. From Naxos: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip

Sail across the Aegean Sea from Naxos and visit the uninhabited island of Delos to explore the most sacred of all the Greek islands from ancient times. Get 3 hours of free time to wander around the ruins and see the excavated artifacts in the small museum. Hire a private professional guide upon arrival if you wish to upgrade your experience, or join one of the guided groups formed on the spot upon landing. Then, cruise to the jetsetter island of Mykonos for a further 3 hours of free time. Use the time to explore Mykonos Town and stroll the pretty alleys of the romantic Little Venice district.  Climb the hill to see the famous windmills up close and get spectacular views of the surroundings. Sail back to Naxos in the early evening at the end of an amazing day at leisure.

Naxos: Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

6. Naxos: Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

Start the sailing adventure from the port of Naxos and discover the wonders of Aegean sea. Sit down to a delectable lunch full of authentic Greek flavors. Stop to swim and in turquoise waters. Relax with fresh fruit, snacks, and drinks. Meet your crew at the Naxos Port and board the yacht in the morning. Admire stunning views of the Naxos coastline and enjoy a complimentary hot or cold drink and a snack on the way. Stop at breathtaking costal paradise and have some free time to explore or jump into the water and snorkel through schools of sliver fish. Sunbathe on the deck or sip on a beer or wine on the way to small idyllic island where you can swim, snorkel, and soak up coastal views. Once you have worked up a bit of an appetite, dine on a delicious, freshly-prepared Greek lunch. Spend some free time relaxing after lunch before visiting the final stop of the day for more fun in the sun. Have fruit and coffee onboard while enjoying the views on the way back to to the port of Naxos.

From Naxos: Round day trip to Mykonos Island

7. From Naxos: Round day trip to Mykonos Island

Depart from Naxos port in the morning and after approximately 2 hours of sailing, arrive at Mykonos Island, one of the top must-see destinations in the world. On arrival, enjoy 6 hours of free time on the cosmopolitan island. At Mykonos Town, you can begin your exploration from the picturesque old harbor, a great area with many restaurants and cafes right next to the sea. Continue with the winding alleys of the town and take pictures of the whitewashed houses with their blue windows and colorful bougainvillea. Walk to the neighborhood of Matogiannia, home of chic shops and bars. Discover wonderful jewelry, leather goods, pieces of art and the most famous designer labels on the market. Don’t miss the archaeological museum, one of the most photographic iconic buildings on the island and of course don’t leave without enjoying a cocktail while admiring the magnificent view from Little Venice. You can also rent a vehicle or use the local bus to visit one of the island’s beaches, famous for the golden sand and crystal clear waters. You can also head directly to the beach bars, such as Super Paradise and join the never-ending party. In both cases, don’t forget to keep an eye on the time and make sure you are back at the boat 15 minutes prior to the departure time.

From Naxos: Full-Day Boat Trip to Santorini

8. From Naxos: Full-Day Boat Trip to Santorini

Set sail from the small port in Naxos Town and cross the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Cruise to the romantic island of Santorini, known for its trademark blue and white houses and an amazing volcanic landscape.  Admire stunning views of the caldera cliffs as you sail into Athinios Port. Board a bus on arrival and take a tour of the island's most beautiful sights. Head to the colorful village of Oia, hanging on the slopes of the caldera at the island's northen tip.  Have some free time to stroll the paved alleys of the village and admire its charming architecture. Continue to Fira and get some free time in the island's capital to ride the cable car or discover the largest gold market in Greece on Ypapantis street. Visit a museum, or just enjoy a meal or glass of Santorini wine at one of the many restaurants and cafés. Get driven back to Athinios Port in the afternoon for the return boat trip to Naxos.

Naxos: Naxos Town Food Tour with Included Tastings and Wine

9. Naxos: Naxos Town Food Tour with Included Tastings and Wine

Immerse yourself in the culture of Naxos through its cuisine on this guided food tour. Walk through quaint old alleyways and aromatic markets while sampling some local treats. Meet your guide in front of the town hall to start your tour. Walk through the narrow alleys of the Venetian Old Town on your way to the local food markets. Pass by colorful fruit stands and take in the bustle of the marketplace. Catch the scent of herbs and spices wafting from the food stalls. Stop and sample some local delicacies. Savor some Naxian cheese with a glass of wine. Try a traditional potato dish and a variety of phyllo pastries. Learn about the local food, culture, and history from your guide. Finish off your tour at the foot of the Temple of Apollo, where a stunning Aegean sunset awaits you.

Naxos: Catamaran Cruise with Swim Stops, Food, and Drinks

10. Naxos: Catamaran Cruise with Swim Stops, Food, and Drinks

Cruise from Naxos and visit some of the most beautiful secluded beaches and coves. Your captain will choose the best route for the day depending on weather conditions. During the cruise, stop for swimming, snorkeling, coffee, and snacks, with your crew providing snorkeling equipment for everyone to use. At one of the stops, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared on board with local products, accompanied by cold refreshments including beer, raki, and wine. Our catamarans Danae, Rena, Anassa and Steve π are spacious and comfortable, and also come equipped with a shaded aft lounge and large deck areas that are perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. At the conclusion of your day of cruising, you will be returned to your port of origin.

All activities

Frequently asked questions about Naxos Town

What top attractions are a must-see in Naxos Town?

The must-see attractions in Naxos Town are:

What are the best day trips and excursions from Naxos Town?

The best day trips and excursions from Naxos Town are:

Mykonos

Other Sightseeing Options in Naxos Town

Want to discover all there is to do in Naxos Town? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Naxos Town

Overall rating

4.4
(1,470 reviews)

Everything was delightful, walking through the village, learning about the history of Naxos, Anastasia was informative and engaging! The cooking class was more than I had hoped for, we laughed, learned and enjoyed the amazing food we made. The cheese & liqueur tasting completed a perfect day in Naxos. Highly recommend this - bucket list worthy!

We enjoyed the family feel to the cooking class, the instructor, and the fresh veggies we got to pick from their garden. They were so welcoming and served delicious food and wine. Plus a fun Greek dance to end the class!

nice to see other parts of the island. we'll done. Angelica was knowledgeable and answered our questions and Vasili handled the bus like a champ!

Covered thehighlightsofNaxos with great guide -Alex &wonderful skilled driver.A great day

Very complete excursion, with good guide and explanations. In English, as advertised.