5 things to do on Naxos island, Greece

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Naxos is one of the Cyclades Islands in Greece.  It’s the largest in the family of the popular islands and is visited by many tourists each year.  It’s known for being great for families due to its size and array of activities and things to do to keep children entertained.  Having been to Naxos twice — on a solo travel trip and on one with family, a teenager in tow – here’s my top 5 things to do on Naxos island.

1. Relax on Agios Georgios Beach

Just a 15 to 20-minute stroll from the main port on Naxos island, Agios Georgios Beach is a beautiful place to relax, soak up some sun and take a dip in the sea.  During the summer months, the beach can get really packed, so if you want to get a good spot, it’s best to go from early to mid-morning or late afternoon when many people will be starting to make their way back for lunch or an early dinner.

Agios Georgios Beach Naxos Greece_RiA Vistas
Agios Georgios Beach, Naxo, Greece

Getting yourself a sun bed and a parasol has become quite expensive these days so be prepared to pay anything from €20 (if you’re lucky) or from €30-40 for a pair of loungers depending on which location you choose.  Some restaurants use a row system — the front loungers are usually more expensive than the ones at the back.  

I tend to visit Greece out of season but for the first time I travelled during one of the busiest months, August.  So, this was more expensive than I’ve paid before.  However, post-covid a lot of things have increased.  Don’t worry they take card and cash!

2. Visit Portara at sunrise or sunset

Making a trip to Portara is one of the must-dos if you’re visiting Naxos but going up at sunrise (it’s a lot quieter!) or sunset is great.

 

You’ll either capture the area and view before it gets busy with the sunrise over the town or get a great shot later in the evening of the sunset behind Portara.  Going out at sunset will be very busy so be careful when walking up!

Portara - Temple of Apollo Naxos_RiA Vistas
Portara - Temple of Apollo, Naxos

3. Go on a b oat trip

One thing to do on Naxos island is to make time for a boat trip.  Whether it’s a trip around the island or to Paros, Santorini or Mykonos, one of the other islands nearby, it’s worth it.  I went on boat trip to Paros from Naxos for the day with Alexandra Cruises.

Alexander Boat Cruises at port - Naxos Greece_RiA Vistas
Alexander Boat Cruises at port, Naxos
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There are several boat trips departing daily from Naxos ports depending on where you want to go. Some go via more than one or two islands and depending on your trip you could either go with a tour operator like Alexandra Cruises or even take one of the major ferries.

Alexander Boat Cruises ticket to Paros - Naxos_RiA Vistas
Alexander Boat Cruises ticket to Paros

The Alexandra Cruise boat departs the smaller port in Naxos and no whatever time your boat leaves, you’ll need to arrive at least 15 minutes before that time.  Paros is only 30-40 minutes journey depending on conditions. 

Sailing over was actually quite choppy, so if you have any form of travel sickness, make sure you carry some tablets with you.

Onboard Alexander Boat Cruises Naxos_RiA Vistas

4. Rent a quad bike

While on Paros we decided to rent quad bikes (also called ATVs).  It was the easiest way to get around when visiting on a day trip and allows you to visit a few beaches and tourist hot spots. 

We used one of the hire places close to the port (don’t just go with the first one you see as there are a few and there are some cheaper than others.

Many will have a full tank or it will be partially full and you’ll have to return it with the amount you rented it with.  If it’s your first time renting a quad/ATV bike, you’ll find some handy tips on my post, 5 things to look out for with ATV rentals in Santorini.

5. Go for a swim at Aqua Fun

Located about a 15-minute drive away from Naxos port, is Aqua Fun.  It’s a small water park that’s great for kids and a relaxing (maybe) break for the adults.

Getting to Auqa Fun by car or bus is easy but if you’re going to take the bus make sure to check and double check the bus timetables before heading out.  You’ll find lockers and changing rooms as well as a cafe and pool bar.

There’s a children’s pool, adult pool and three water slides.

Aqua Fun entrance - Naoxs_RiA Vistas
Aqua Fun entrance - Naoxs
Aqua Fun entry braclet_RiA Vistas
Aqua Fun entry braclet
Aqua Fun's main water slides, Naxos
Aqua Fun's main water slides, Naxos
Childrens pool Aqua Fun - Naxos_RiA Vistas
Childrens pool Aqua Fun - Naxos
Large pool at Aqua Fun - Naxos_RiA Vistas
Large pool at Aqua Fun - Naxos

Cost

It’s €20 (at the tine of writing)and that’s for the whole day which is a good deal.  Entry includes use of the water slides, pools, beach umbrellas.  Children and infants under three are free and if you just want to stop by for a drink then it’s free entry and you just pay for your drinks and snacks.

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6. Visit another village

If you have time try to visit another village while on Naxos.

There’s always another area to explore and in Naxos you could try Moutsouna – a seaside village, Apollonas – a fishing village or Chalkio – a town which was once the capital of Naxos.

Moutsouna Beach and port - Naxos Greece_RiA Vistas
Moutsouna Beach and port - Naxos
Sea You Soon restaurant in Moutsouna - Naxos Greece_RiA Vistas
Sea You Soon restaurant in Moutsouna - Naxos

All of these villages are reachable by car and there’s are also public buses (long distance buses are actually coaches).  The coaches are not expensive.

Chalkio Chora Naxos - Cheece_RiA Vistas
Chalkio Chora Naxos
Church of Panagia Protothronos, Chalki, Naxos_RiA Vistas
Church of Panagia Protothronos, Chalki

For all other drinks you can order inside. If you opt for anything in a bottle, there’s a bottle deposit of €1 which when you return the bottle you get the deposit back. Great way to stop litter and recycle.

Check back for more things to do on Naxos island in Greece soon. If you want to look at other islands to visit, head to the Cyclades page.

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