Naxos: A Greek Island Paradise
Naxos, the queen of the Cyclades, captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Cycladic charm.
Located in the heart of the Cyclades, near Paros, Naxos offers a captivating blend of ancient ruins, charming villages, pristine beaches, and delectable cuisine.
History and Culture:
- Portara: The monumental entrance to the unfinished Temple of Apollo, dating back to the 6th century BC, stands majestically on an islet in the harbor of Chora.
- Naxos Acropolis: Perched atop the hill above Chora, the Acropolis features remnants of ancient temples, houses, and fortifications, offering panoramic views.
- Naxos Castle: A 13th-century Venetian castle built upon a Byzantine fort, featuring picturesque alleyways, churches, and museums.
- Delian Apollo: An archaeological site with ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Demeter and Athena, and a theater.
- Naxos Museum: Houses artifacts from the island's rich history, spanning from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
Exploring Naxos:
- Chora: Wander through the Chora's charming streets, admire the Venetian architecture, and visit the Metropolis and the Castle.
- Villages: Naxos boasts 59 villages. Immerse yourself in the authentic Cycladic atmosphere by visiting picturesque villages like Apeiranthos, Melanes, Chalki, Koronos, Filoti, Apollon, Agios Arsenios, and Komiaki.
- Churches: Naxos is adorned with numerous churches, showcasing impressive architecture and frescoes. Notable ones include Panagia Monastiriotissa, Agios Nikolaos, and the Holy Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni.
- Windmills: Discover the traditional windmills that grace the landscape, a testament to the island's rich agricultural heritage.
- Beaches: Naxos is renowned for its stunning beaches. Enjoy fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and ample space for relaxation. Notable beaches include Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Maragas, Plaka, Mikri Vigla, Alyko, Pyrgaki, Agiasos, and Panermos.
Culinary Delights:
Naxos Gastronomy: Embark on a culinary adventure savoring Cycladic specialties like rosto (slow-roasted meat), melitzanosalata (eggplant salad), louza (cured pork), and the renowned Naxos graviera cheese. Indulge in local wine, honey, and spoon sweets.
Nightlife and Entertainment:
Vibrant Nights: Naxos boasts a lively nightlife, with bars, clubs, and beach bars catering to all tastes. Relax on the beach with a coffee or cocktail at the many beach bars.
Accommodation:
Diverse Lodging Options: The island offers a variety of accommodation options, from hotels and rental rooms to charming traditional lodgings.
Ferry Connections:
Port of Chora, Naxos: Ferries arrive and depart, connecting Naxos to Athens ( Piraeus and Rafina), Heraklion (Crete), Andros, Syros, Tinos, Mykonos, Paros, Ios, Santorini, Thirasia, Anafi, Donousa, Iraklia, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos, Sikinos, Schinoussa, Kythnos, Amorgos (Aegiali & Katapola), Astypalaia, Folegandros, Kea, Kimolos, Koufonisia, and other Greek islands.
The website www.Ferries.gr is the perfect way to find information on all ferry routes from / To Naxos. You can search for routes based on the date of departure and destination, and learn about all the companies that depart and the prices of tickets.
