About Naxos

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Naxos – The Island of Abundance and Tradition

Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades, stands out for its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and distinctive gastronomy. It’s a land where history, nature, and tradition meet in perfect harmony, offering visitors a complete and authentic island experience.

Geography & Landscape

Located in the heart of the Cyclades, Naxos covers an area of about 430 sq. km, making it the largest island in the group.
Its terrain combines fertile valleys, coastal plains, and impressive mountains — including Mount Zas (1,004 m), the highest peak in the Cyclades.

Thanks to its fertile soil and abundant water sources, Naxos is remarkably self-sufficient in agricultural production — something rare among the Aegean islands.

History & Culture

Inhabited since prehistoric times, Naxos was a major center of the Cycladic civilization. In antiquity, it was known for its wealth and its remarkable monuments, the most famous being the Portara — the monumental marble gateway of the ancient Temple of Apollo, now the island’s iconic landmark.

During the Middle Ages, Naxos became the capital of the Duchy of the Aegean, and the Castle (Kastro) in Chora still reflects that era, with its Venetian mansions and winding alleys.

Folk traditions remain alive through festivals, local crafts, music, and dance, as well as the enduring art of pottery and weaving.

Natural Beauty & Beaches

Naxos boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean:

• Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna – golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

• Plaka – long and relaxed, ideal for endless strolls by the sea.

• Mikri Vigla – famous for kite and windsurfing.

• Alyko and Pyrgaki – tranquil, unspoiled, and surrounded by dunes.

Beyond its coastline, the island’s mountainous landscapes, gorges, and trails invite exploration and hiking.

Villages & Settlements

The main town (Chora) combines medieval and Cycladic architecture — a maze of white alleys, stone archways, and the Venetian Kastro overlooking the port.

Other must-visit villages include:

• Apeiranthos – the “marble village,” known for its unique architecture and small museums.

• Filoti – nestled on the slopes of Mount Zas, famous for its hospitality and tradition.

• Halki – the island’s former capital, home to the historic Vallindras Distillery, where the local Kitron liqueur is produced.

• Koronos and Koronida – authentic mountain villages with a timeless feel.

Gastronomy

Naxos is a culinary paradise, famous for its high-quality local products:

• Naxos potatoes (PGI) – renowned across Greece.

• Cheeses: Arseniko, Graviera Naxou (PDO), and Xynomyzithra.

• Local meats and sausages, thanks to its thriving livestock farming.

• Kitron of Naxos – a traditional liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree.

The island’s cuisine reflects its earthly abundance and authenticity, making every meal a celebration of local tradition.

Activities & Tourism

Naxos offers endless experiences for all tastes:

• Water sports: kitesurfing, windsurfing, diving.

• Hiking: ancient trails linking temples, castles, and villages.

• Cultural visits: archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, museums.

• Local festivals: vibrant celebrations of music, dance, and food that keep the island’s spirit alive.

An Island for All Seasons

Unlike most Cycladic islands, Naxos is not just a summer destination.
With its strong agricultural life, living traditions, and welcoming communities, it remains vibrant all year round.

Naxos is a place where travelers discover the true essence of the Cyclades — authentic, fertile, and deeply connected to its roots.