About Naxos
Naxos, commonly referred to as Chora, is a city and a former municipality on the island of Naxos, in the Cyclades, Greece. The community has 8,897 inhabitants. It is located on the west side of Naxos Island in the Cyclades island group in the Aegean. It was an important centre of bronze age Cycladic culture and an important city in the ancient Greek Archaic Period. Since the 2011 local government reform it is part of the municipality of Naxos and Lesser Cyclades, of which it is the seat and a municipal unit.
Places to visit in Naxos
-
Portara
HistoricA huge marble doorway, the only remaining part of an unfinished temple of Apollo on an islet by the harbor. Walk across the causeway at sunset, when it frames the view and crowds gather for photos.
-
Naxos Old Town and Kastro
NeighborhoodThe main town of the island, with narrow lanes climbing to a Venetian castle quarter at the top. Wander uphill without a map, and look for the small museums tucked into the old mansions.
-
Temple of Demeter
Historic · 6 mi from centreA restored marble temple from the sixth century BC, set among farmland in the center of the island. A small museum on site explains the reconstruction, and it pairs well with a drive through the inland villages.
-
Mount Zas
Nature · 8 mi from centreThe highest peak in the Cyclades, linked in myth to the childhood of Zeus. The most popular trail starts near the village of Filoti, and you should bring plenty of water and start early in summer.
-
Kouros of Apollonas
Historic · 11 mi from centreA giant unfinished marble statue lying in an ancient quarry near the fishing village of Apollonas. Combine it with a seafood lunch in the village and a drive along the scenic northern coast road.
-
Apeiranthos
Neighborhood · 8 mi from centreA mountain village with marble-paved lanes, stone houses and a few small museums. Park at the edge of the village and explore on foot, ideally pairing it with a stop in nearby Filoti or Halki.
-
Archaeological Museum of Naxos
MuseumA museum inside a Venetian-era building in the castle quarter, with Cycladic figurines and pottery found across the island. It is compact, so plan a short visit as part of a walk through the old town.
-
Plaka Beach
BeachA long stretch of soft sand on the west coast, with calm water and a relaxed atmosphere. The southern end is quieter, and local buses from Naxos Town make it easy to reach without a car.
Top experiences in Naxos
Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 13 available.
Ferry from Naxos to Athens - One-way Ticket
From $63 per adult
Naxos Castle and Portara Sunset - Private Walking Tour
From $366 per adult
Naxos Highlights and his Culinary Heritage - Private Tour
From $981 per adult
European eSim Data Card
From $12 per adult
Where to stay in Naxos
Popular hotels in Naxos, out of 282 properties you can book.
Xenia Hotel
From $86 per night
Naxos Palace
Naxos Holidays
Sun & Moon
Annitas Village Hotel
Mare Naxia Hotel
Lagos Mare
Liana Beach Hotel & Spa
Sunny Beach
Kouros Art Hotel
Proteas Hotel & Suites
Euphoria Suites
Best time to visit Naxos
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Naxos is April to May and September to October, when average daytime highs are around 69–82°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Naxos weather forecast
- Wed 11 Nov 70° 61° 13%
- Thu 12 Nov 71° 66° 0%
- Fri 13 Nov 73° 66° 9%
- Sat 14 Nov 71° 66° 26%
- Sun 15 Nov 67° 56° 3%
- Mon 16 Nov 59° 54° 3%
- Tue 17 Nov 64° 53° 10%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)1 US dollar ≈ €0.89
- Language
- Greek
- Calling code
- +30
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- Europe/AthensUTC+2
- Capital
- Athens
Upcoming public holidays in Greece
- Christmas DayΧριστούγεννα
- St. Stephen's DayΣύναξις Υπεραγίας Θεοτόκου Μαρίας
- New Year's DayΠρωτοχρονιά
- EpiphanyΘεοφάνεια
- Clean MondayΚαθαρά Δευτέρα
- AnnunciationΕυαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Naxos
These are the airports closest to central Naxos. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- JNX Naxos National Airport "Apollon"2 mi (3 km) from the city centre
Naxos travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Naxos?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Naxos is April to May and September to October, when average daytime highs are around 69–82°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Naxos?
July is usually the warmest month in Naxos, with average highs of 91°F (33°C). February is the coolest, with average lows of 49°F (10°C). The wettest month is typically December, with about 77 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Naxos?
Naxos National Airport "Apollon" (JNX) is the closest airport, about 2 miles (3 km) from the centre of Naxos.
What currency is used in Naxos?
Naxos uses the Euro (EUR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ €0.89.
What time zone is Naxos in?
Naxos uses the Europe/Athens time zone (currently UTC+2). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
What are the best places to visit in Naxos?
Top sights in Naxos include Portara, Naxos Old Town and Kastro, Temple of Demeter and Mount Zas. A huge marble doorway, the only remaining part of an unfinished temple of Apollo on an islet by the harbor. Walk across the causeway at sunset, when it frames the view and crowds gather for photos.
What are the top things to do in Naxos?
Popular experiences you can book in Naxos include Ferry from Naxos to Athens - One-way Ticket, Naxos Castle and Portara Sunset - Private Walking Tour and Naxos Highlights and his Culinary Heritage - Private Tour. Destina Holidays offers 13 tours and activities here.
Where should I stay in Naxos?
Popular areas for hotels in Naxos include Naxos Town. Well-reviewed options include Xenia Hotel and Naxos Palace.
How many hotels can I book in Naxos?
Destina Holidays currently lists 282 properties in and around Naxos, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
