Naxos is for you if you’ve visited Mykonos and Santorini and are feeling overpowered by the masses of tourists taking pictures on cruise ships. You may have a genuine Greek experience here.
Unquestionably, the biggest island in the Cyclades has a certain allure that hasn’t been impacted by widespread tourism yet. A true point of Hellenic and Byzantine culture, Naxos provides a brief glimpse into Greek life.
The picturesque harbor of Chóra
With only a few thousand residents, the “metropolis” of Naxos is a rather relative term. It is a picturesque harbor with blue Aegean boats, cobblestone streets, and happy merchants.
The island’s culinary customs originated here as well. At Fisherman’s Harbor, picture the newly caught octopus adorning the fillet. Or Irini’s Tavern’s rich yogurt topped with candied grapes, which is so creamy that it’s simple to hold a spoon up.
It also has a strong Venetian heritage. A flamboyant aristocrat may even arrange for a classical symphony to be held in an old dungeon.
Unlike the Bourgos, which was the Greek Orthodox section, the Kastro was originally the Roman Catholic quarter, and its steep, pedestrianized streets are dotted with lovely stores. A visit is worthwhile because of the fuchsia azaleas and the many cats that visit them.
The Temple of Apollo
The town’s historic center is within a short distance from Chóra’s topographical and touristic attractions.
The Temple of Apollo on the harbor peninsula, with its enormous arch that seemed to transcend space, is located on one side. On the other side is a huge mountainous region where time stands still and villages are hidden. It is difficult to visit Naxos and not ascend the few hundred meters to witness the sunset that illuminates the fertile hills of the hinterland and glitters on the sea.
pristine beaches
There is more to Naxos than just some of the Cyclades’ greatest cuisine and culture. It also has beaches! The sun, warmth, and, of course, the beaches are the main draws for tourists visiting Naxos.
Here, the beaches are separated into two groups: managed beaches and wild beaches. The former lack restrooms and furniture. The latter, on the other hand, are typically busier and feature a small pub with food and drink as well as restrooms.
In any event, tourists can anticipate nice waters and really fine golden sand.
The millennial settlements of Halki and Apeiranthos
Over 30 charming villages that have withstood the test of time are tucked away among the hills that house marble and emery quarries, two of Naxos’ most important exports.
The streets of Halki and Apeiranthos, both of which date back thousands of years, are lined with craftspeople whose joy is infectious. They sell figs, ceramics, olives, jewelry, textiles, honey (a Naxos specialty), and kitro, a liquor made from lemons.
The charming residents and the terraces shaded by holm trees are what make the two communities alike. They sit there, often elderly, playing dice, talking about anything, laughing at visitors who take pictures of themselves, and sometimes drinking a little glass of kitro to keep themselves hydrated.
Sometimes the village donkey, which carries food from the farms to the houses, may stumble along the stone pathways. An ordinary scene that takes place in Greece and is quite beautiful.
How to travel to Naxos
A ferryboat travels to the center Cycladic island three times a day from the two ports of Athens. Air travel is another option for getting to the island.
When guests arrive, they have two options. First, take a rental car and travel around the island. Second, reserve a villa in the Naxian Collection in Chora, then ride a motorcycle to get there.
Naxos sounds like a hidden gem in the Cyclades, offering a more authentic Greek experience compared to the more tourist-heavy islands like Mykonos and Santorini. The blend of Hellenic, Byzantine, and Venetian heritage makes it a unique cultural destination. The description of the culinary traditions, especially the octopus at Fisherman’s Harbor and the creamy yogurt at Irini’s Tavern, is mouthwatering. The contrast between the managed and wild beaches adds an interesting dynamic for visitors. The mention of the charming villages and the island’s natural resources like marble and emery quarries highlights its rich history and economy. I’m curious, though, how accessible are these villages for someone who isn’t familiar with the island’s terrain? Would you recommend hiring a guide or is it easy to explore on your own?