Naxos, the undisputed titan of the Cyclades Islands, came fashionably late to the tourism party, only turning heads after the year 2000. A verdant paradise, this island straddles a mountain range that infuses life into its every nook and cranny. From the northern tip to the southern coast, every crevice of the island is touched by the nurturing waters streaming down from the mighty peaks of Za or Drios. As a result, the landscape thrives with bountiful fruits, hearty vegetables, and olive groves that stand as testament to nature’s munificence.
A fascinating montage of history and culture adorns Naxos. Echoes from the Byzantine era, the period of the Franks, and the epoch of the Venetians resound within its confines. An eclectic medley of time-worn monuments, archaeological treasures, and sacred edifices imparts a distinct character to the island, one that’s steeped in lore and history.
Scattered across Naxos like gems embedded in a royal diadem, are quintessential Cycladic villages, pastoral farmsteads, and a cuisine that teases and tantalizes with every bite. The coastline is a display of nature’s craftsmanship, where pristine beaches, kissed by powdery white sands, meet the azure embrace of the sea.
Naxos unfurls a diverse palette of accommodations, offering everything from pastoral hamlets, waterfront resorts to popular tourist locales. To make your choice a stroll in a fragrant olive grove, I’ve curated the best destinations for your stay in Naxos.
1. Chora, The Capital - A Haven for Nocturnal Revelers
Chora, the pulsating heart of Naxos, lies cradled on the island’s western shore. Here, the largest port of the island opens its arms to passenger-laden ships, giving voyagers their first taste of Naxian charm. Chora, with roots in the pre-Venetian era, is a labyrinth of cobblestoned streets nestled between sun-kissed, white-washed houses.
Historical footprints are everywhere, from the towering Portara gateway, a tribute to Apollo built in the 6th century BC, to the stalwart Glezos Tower – the lone sentinel from the dozen fortifications of the medieval era. You will also find fascinating pieces of history in the Sanudo Castle, Della Rocca Barozzi Tower perched at the entrance of the castle, Ursulines School, and the Jesuit Commercial School that came into being during the 17th century.
The Protodikeio Square, Chora’s vibrant commercial epicenter, offers a smorgasbord of shops, cafes, bars, taverns, guesthouses, and hotels. As twilight shrouds the island, the harbor sparks into a symphony of lights, providing a stunning backdrop to private yachts and sailboats that bob gently in the Aegean tide.
For those who wish to experience the vibrant nightlife of Naxos, Chora is the place to lay your hat. It’s a corner of Naxos that stays awake, a city that dances in the moonlight while you create memories for a lifetime.
Best Hotels in Chora of Naxos
- (€€) Argo Boutique Hotel
- (€€) Emery Hotel
- (€) Galazia Studios
2. Agios Georgios: A Pristine Beach with Sand Near the Capital
A stone’s throw away from the town of Naxos, approximately a five-minute walk, lies Agios Georgios beach. A pristine expanse of white sand stretching for two kilometers, the beach is a haven of tranquility. Its shallow, turquoise waters are a delight for families, with conditions ideal for children to splash around safely.
The majority of the beachfront is well equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. The beachside promenade is dotted with shops, tavernas, and restaurants to cater to your needs.
For those drawn to the thrill of windsurfing, Agios Georgios provides an excellent spot. There are also instructors available for those wanting to learn this exhilarating water sport.
As a place to stay, Agios Georgios offers substantial benefits. You will be close to everything—the sea, bars, taverns, and restaurants. Moreover, it provides a good range of accommodations, some of which are within easy reach of the town.
Best Hotels in Agios Georgios
- (€€€) Nissaki Beach Hotel
- (€€) Astir Of Naxos
- (€) Ilion Hotel
3. Plaka: Where to Stay in Naxos with Kids and Family
Plaka, a seaside resort, is home to a sandy beach that has been honored with the Blue Flag award. Spanning four kilometers along the western coast of Naxos, Plaka beach is a popular destination. Sand dunes and lush green areas form a picturesque backdrop to hotels and vacation rentals that are scattered across the landscape.
Plaka, a seaside resort, is home to a sandy beach that has been honored with the Blue Flag award. Spanning four kilometers along the western coast of Naxos, Plaka beach is a popular destination. Sand dunes and lush green areas form a picturesque backdrop to hotels and vacation rentals that are scattered across the landscape.
The northern part of the beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, ensuring comfort for families with children. Meanwhile, the southern end invites you to spread out your towel on the sand and enjoy the sea, as it lacks these kinds of amenities.
In terms of dining and entertainment, the area offers a good selection of tavernas, bars, shops, and restaurants, where you can enjoy relaxed evenings with your family. When it comes to accommodations, Plaka has a strong offering, primarily comprising apartments, boutique hotels, and villas.
Best Hotels in Plaka
4. Agia Anna, a small fishing village in Naxos
Agia Anna is a sufficiently developed tourist spot to stay in Naxos. Located in the middle of the west coast of the island, it is essentially a fishing port that is a popular destination for relaxing vacations.
The beach is sandy with shallow waters, suitable even for small children. The only thing that requires attention is crossing the road.
Some parts of the beach are equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a few water sports. Along the beach, there are shops of all kinds, taverns, restaurants, bars, and cafes, which will meet your needs during your stay there.
As for accommodations, you have the option to choose between cheap hotels and apartments that are located by the sea or even on the other side of the road.
Best Hotels in Agia Anna
- (€€€) Avgoustos Suites Naxos
- (€€) Iria Beach Art Hotel
- (€) Summer Dream II
5. Agios Prokopios, staying on a virgin beach and a traditional village in Naxos
On the west coast of Naxos is another resort, Agios Prokopios, which has a beach and a village. The beach with golden sand extends over a large area and is ideal for sand games. The waters are shallow and safe for small children.
The beach is equipped with all the tourist comforts, except for water sports which are somewhat limited. In the past, before transforming into an organized resort, the beach was a spot for nudists. Now, few nudists choose Agios Prokopios.
Although most tourist shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants are located along the beach, it is worth visiting the village as well. There you will find local-style taverns with local food.
In Agios Prokopios, you will find an excellent selection of accommodations, from rented rooms and studios to hotels and luxury resorts with spas.
Best Hotels in Agios Prokopios
- (€€€) 18 Grapes Hotel
- (€€) Erato Inn
- (€) Katerina Hotel
6. Mikri Vigla, where to stay in Naxos for kite-surfing and windsurfing
Many visitors travel to Naxos to do kite-surfing and windsurfing, as there are excellent conditions for these sports. If you fall into this category, you should stay in Mikri Vigla. Located 12 km southwest of Chora, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
The beach is divided by a large hill covered with trees and offers beautiful turquoise waters and shimmering white sand. If you want to simply enjoy the sun and the sea, it is advisable to relax on the southern side of the hill, as there is almost always a breeze on the north side.
The evenings are quite quiet in the area and you can simply enjoy the local bars and taverns. For something more active, you should head to Chora.
To stay in Mikri Vigla, you have the option to choose between apartments and hotels that are located both in front and behind the beach.
Best Hotels in Mikri Vigla
7. Abram Beach & Campos: Your Secluded Refuge for Blissful Unwinding in Naxos
Tucked in the northwest corner of Naxos, there lies a secret haven that goes by the name of Abram Beach. Nestled in a snug cove, Abram is a fascinating palette of sandy browns and pebble grays, melting into the irresistible allure of the underwater realm. A playground for windsurfers and a sanctuary for those who crave serene vacations, Abram has something for every soul.
Abram is unspoiled, holding onto its rustic charm. There’s a lone taverna in the vicinity offering rooms for rent. Any other amenities you might need are a short drive away in the nearby village of Campos. While there are no grand resorts or bustling beach bars, this desolate beach’s charm is that it remains unscathed by commercialization. Its relative solitude makes it an attractive retreat for those who seek tranquility and relaxation far from the maddening crowds.
Accommodation options are quite limited in Abram and Campos. So if this sounds like your kind of paradise, don’t dilly-dally, secure your booking early!
Best Hotels in Abram Beach & Campos
- (€) Blue Bliss
- (€) Petrino
- (€) Mikra Bay Vineyard Guesthouses
8. Alyko Beach: Nature's Unspoiled Canvas
On the southwestern shore of Naxos, nature unveils its masterpiece: Alyko Beach. Alyko is a shielded sanctuary with an aromatic cedar forest, creating a lush green curtain from the beach to the sand dunes. The beach itself is a vast expanse of the whitest sand you’ve ever seen, lapped by turquoise waters so clear, they could be mistaken for glass.
Alyko is nothing short of a paradise, untouched by the hands of commercial tourism. The silence here is only broken by the sound of waves gently kissing the shore and the rustle of cedar leaves in the wind. Your accommodation will be a little distance away from the beach, so having a car at your disposal is a good idea. That way, you can explore the surrounding area at your leisure without breaking the tranquil spell cast by Alyko.
If your dream vacation involves unwinding amidst nature’s splendor on a serene beach, Alyko should be on top of your list.
Best Hotels in Alyko Beach
- (€€) Finikas Hotel
- (€€) Phoenicia Naxos
- (€€) Sun and Moon Villas
9. Stelida: The New Kid on the Block in Naxos
Lying on the Northwestern coast of Naxos, just a stone’s throw from Chora, nestles Stelida. Stelida is like a wallflower at the grand ball of Naxos, offering a cozy pebbled and sandy beach devoid of grand frills. It’s like a budding flower in the tourist region, blooming with a fine array of apartments, hotels, and villas to pick from, for your stay.
Like a tranquil oasis surrounded by the hustle and bustle, Stelida wraps itself around the base of a hill, charmingly serene. The area is like a priceless antique piece, protected due to its archaeological richness. Numerous treasures have been unearthed here, making their way to the limelight in Chora’s Archaeological Museum.
Best Hotels in Stelida
10. The Village and Beach of Apollonas: Dipping Into Naxos's Ancient Pockets
Sitting on the Northeastern edge of Naxos is Apollonas, a quaint fishing hamlet that weaves a spell with its tales that run deep into the annals of history, far beyond the Medieval era. This is where the art of marble sculpture sprouted its roots, housing awe-inspiring landmarks like the Apollo’s Kouros, a gigantic 11-meter statue, unfinished statues, and voluminous marbles like the Naxos Melanes.
The village of Apollonas is a snapshot of typical Greek charm with whitewashed houses and narrow, spiral alleys. It’s like a hidden treasure chest that has only seen subtle development, primarily catering to visitors. Warm, welcoming cafes, bars, and taverns beckon you from every corner.
Just a hop, skip, and jump away lies the beach, a collage of sand and rock. The beach-side breathes a little more life, with a smattering of residences, bars, taverns, and shops. If you’re considering a stay in Apollonas, it’s advisable to book your lodgings ahead of time, as accommodations can be a scarce commodity.
Best Hotels in Apollonas
Best places to stay in Naxos
- Where to stay in Naxos for nightlife: The vivacious town of Chora, with its pulsating nightlife and an array of bars and clubs, is undeniably the go-to place in Naxos for night owls.
- Where to stay in Naxos for first time visitors: Naxos Town (Chora) is an ideal location for first-time visitors, brimming with historical sites, picturesque streets, and vibrant local cuisine, making it the perfect introduction to the island.
- Where to stay in Naxos for family with kids: Agios Prokopios, with its shallow crystal-clear waters and wide sandy beaches, provides a safe and enjoyable environment for families with kids.
- Where to stay in Naxos for young couples: Stelida is a hidden gem for young couples seeking tranquillity and romance, offering serene beaches and quaint accommodations, ensuring a memorable and intimate experience.
- Where to stay in Naxos for surfing & kite-surfing: Mikri Vigla, renowned for its consistent winds and large sandy beach, is the undisputed haven for surfers and kite-surfers in Naxos.
