Located near Paros, Naxos is the largest and highest island of the archipelago. It is considered one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades. The largest city and main port is Náxos, also called Chora (6,500 inhabitants). Its rich history is still very visible. According to tradition, Dyonisos was born in Naxos, Zeus would have spent his childhood there and Ariane would have been abandoned by Theseus.

Many of the island’s buildings are of Venetian style. The port of Naxos is a fairly extensive and lively city. It is dominated by the door of the temple of Apollo which can be seen from afar when approaching the island. A maze of cobbled alleys and vaulted passages leads up to the Venetian Kastro, dominating the city. From the top of these 1,001 meters of altitude, Mount Zaas offers a 360 ° view of the entire coastline and the surrounding islands.

Combining both the sea and the mountains, Naxos is a multi-faceted island. The back country of Naxos allows the visit of many villages like that of Apiranthos, Filoti, Moutsouna or Apollonas. The Byzantine churches and monasteries are very numerous on the island.

Beaches:

– Agios Georgios: Very frequented but ideal for children

– Agios Prokopios is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Clear sand and clear waters. 

– Agia Anna: is the extension of the previous one.

– Plaka: At the end of Agia Anna. Much less frequented. Nudism is still often practiced.

– The beaches of Mikri Vigla and Aliko are pretty and uncrowded.

– In the south of the island, the beaches of Kalandos, Psili ammos and the small cove of Panormos with their environment remain very wild.

Do not miss:
The old town, the beaches of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna, the village of Apiranthos, the view from Mount Zas.