Hillside Villages, Archeological Attractions, and Yummy Food on the Fertile Greek Island of Naxos
With the ancient Greek giant door (in Greek ‘Portara’, dating 530 BC) on a path-connected islet at the entrance of its main port, the largest and most fertile Cycladic island is a tourist destination of gastronomic and archaeological interest. In a little more than 3 hours from the port of Piraeus or 25-45 minutes from Paros, the fastest ferry will get you to Naxos. Beyond its many crowded and serene beaches, you will have to visit its many mountainous traditional villages that keep the Naxian culture and history alive and vibrant. Just rent a car and drive from place to place, and if you are into sports, do some hiking.
Accommodation in Naxos
Naxian Utopia. Extremely well-designed in organic minimalist forms, this boutique resort’s hillside private-pool suites and villas with luxury amenities (Jacuzzi, hammam, and/or other extras), plus a spa by internationally acclaimed Greek brand Apivita, is the most stylish summer retreat in the island.
Nissaki Beach Hotel. It is hard to find a 5-star beach hotel like this in Naxos, which means that it is coveted. Near the town and Agios Georgios beach, colorful sea-view suites are complemented with hotel amenities such as a swimming pool with a hydromassage area, a bar, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
Naxian Collection. Raw-material minimalist suites and villas, an organic vegetable garden, a wine cellar, private or semi-private pools, and a famous farm-to-table restaurant visited by the legendary chef Anthony Bourdain and other great foodies, are the treasures of this boutique hotel.
Naxian on the Beach. Naxian Collection’s sister hotel is a seaside complex with the same approach plus a beach club on the popular sandy paradise Plaka.
18 Grapes. Just a short stroll from the golden sands of Agios Prokopios, 18 Grapes is a refined boutique hotel that blends contemporary luxury with the laid-back charm of Naxos. With only eighteen thoughtfully designed suites—many featuring private pools or jacuzzis—it offers a peaceful and exclusive escape. The architecture follows clean Cycladic lines, softened by natural textures and warm tones that reflect the island’s landscape. Guests can unwind with creative Mediterranean cuisine, sip cocktails while watching the sunset from the rooftop bar, or indulge in wellness treatments inspired by nature.
Kavos Naxos. Just above the spectacular sandy beach of Agios Prokopios simply decorated sea view villas and suites, a pool with a bar, and a famous local kitchen restaurant equal vacay bliss.
Kambones. Tucked away in the countryside of Naxos, Kambones is a historic 17th-century Venetian estate that beautifully blends tradition, nature, and sustainability. Once a working olive farm with roots going back to 1615, the property has been thoughtfully restored, preserving its stone architecture, old olive press, and even a rare dual-faith chapel. Today, it serves as a peaceful retreat where guests can slow down and connect with the rhythms of island life—whether through intimate farm-to-table dinners, cultural events, or simply relaxing among the olive trees. With its emphasis on eco-conscious living and authentic Cycladic charm, Kambones offers a unique and soulful Naxian experience.
Things to Do in Naxos
Hillside villages Melanes, Filoti, and Apeiranthos (the last one with marble houses and many small museums) are among the oldest settlements on the island. Check the three ginormous unfinished Naxian marble Kouros statues (7th-6th century BC), one resting in a quarry near village Apollonas and the others outside Melanes. In the picturesque village of Chalki indulge in the local Kitron liqueur tasting experience at the traditional Vallindras Distillery. Enjoy the sunset from the Castle of Naxos, the best-preserved Venetian fortification in Greece. And make an effort to visit the Temple of Demeter or Temple of Sangri (village) from 6th century BC made of finest quality Naxian marble in one of the earliest examples of Ionic order (style). Swim at the bustling long sandy beaches mainly on the west coastline of the island including Agios Georgios (St George), Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna (check Island beach bar also for a night out, and Banana Nomad beach bar, and Plaka (check Tortuga beach bar). For a quiet romantic sunset, Mikri Vigla beaches are highly recommended.
Restaurants in Naxos
Axiotissa. It feels like being in the middle of nowhere in a Greek movie setting with the yummiest food on earth. Naxos is known for the finest meats, vegetables, and cheeses (Arseniko, Xinomyzithra, and Kopanisti) which are exactly among the things you are able to try in this jaw-dropping traditional eatery, coming directly from their farm next door. Every single dish from the extra-long menu (seafood, vegan, and meat) is executed to perfection based on traditional recipes.
Stou Vasilarakiou. Located in the picturesque village of Kinidaros on the island of Naxos, it is a beloved family-run tavern with deep roots dating back to 1931. What began as a simple café and butcher shop has evolved into a renowned meat-focused restaurant, now run by the third generation of the founding family. Known for its exceptional cuts of dry-aged beef, including strip-loin, ribeye, and picanha, as well as traditional Greek delicacies like kokoretsi and kontosouvli, the restaurant offers a truly authentic and hearty dining experience. Everything is grilled to perfection over charcoal, accompanied by hand-cut fries and local cheeses.
Lefteris. Located in the marble-made mountain village of Apeiranthos, this is a no-frills culinary gem serving the Naxian essentials such as masterfully grilled finest meats, pitas, cheeses, and Greek desserts.
To Petrino. Nestled right on the golden sands of Plaka Beach in Naxos, To Petrino captures the easygoing spirit of the island with its inviting, rustic charm. Built from stone and surrounded by leafy pergolas, it offers a peaceful retreat where the sound of the sea accompanies every meal. The kitchen focuses on traditional Greek cooking, serving dishes made with fresh island ingredients—grilled fish, tender meats, local cheeses, and garden vegetables—all simply prepared to let the flavors shine. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, ideal for unwinding over good food and the soft breeze of the Aegean.
Platia. Nestled in the quiet village of Galini on Naxos, Platia Tavern is a family-run gem where traditional Cycladic hospitality meets authentic local cuisine. With dishes crafted from home-grown produce—olive oil, fresh vegetables, cheeses, and herbs taken straight from their own farm—Platia offers a genuine farm‑to‑table experience. Visitors can not only savor hearty Greek meals in a warm, rustic atmosphere, but also participate in hands-on cooking sessions to learn time‑honored Naxian recipes before enjoying their creations alongside local wines and raki.
Apanemi. Tucked away on the seaside of Moutsouna in eastern Naxos, Apanemi is a hidden gem known for its exceptional commitment to freshness. What truly sets it apart is the tavern’s own traditional kaiki boat, which brings daily-caught fish directly to the kitchen—ensuring that every plate bursts with the authentic taste of the Aegean. Nestled right by the water’s edge under shading trees, diners can unwind in a serene, unpretentious atmosphere while savoring standout dishes like spaghetti with lobster and a variety of mezes celebrating the island’s seafood bounty. It’s the kind of place that transforms a meal into a gentle celebration of the sea and island life.