Naxos, the largest and highest island in the Cyclades, is packed with places to visit, beautiful beaches, charming villages and mountain walks. Whether in the island’s main town of Chora, near the beaches or in the mountains, here are some good addresses and tips to eat in Naxos, drinking and sleeping in Naxos.
See also our articles :
Where to sleep in Naxos?
Being a large island, Naxos offers a wide range of accommodation options. Hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and studios are concentrated near the port and airport. Further south, east and in the mountains, you’ll also find more isolated (and therefore quieter) houses and villas.
Accommodation in Naxos Chora, the main town
In Naxos Chora, the town offers two distinct accommodation options: within the old town itself or a short stroll away from Chora, near the expansive sandy shores of Agios Georgios—an ideal choice, particularly for families. The latter option boasts a delightful neighborhood ambiance, conveniently situated within easy reach of shops, restaurants, bars, and, naturally, the beach. For travelers without access to a vehicle, we recommend lodging in Naxos Chora, where ferries dock, facilitating seamless access to the beach, dining establishments, and the charming sights of Chora.
There are plenty of hotels, B&Bs and studios to rent. Here are a few addresses:
- Hotel Argo A small, family-run hotel in an excellent location 100m from the beach. A warm welcome and tastefully renovated modern rooms. We usually recommend it to our friends when they go to Naxos, as it’s a safe bet.
- The boutique Hotel Korali, close to shops and the beach. Rooms, large studios or apartments with a separate bedroom. The apartment on the top floor has a beautiful terrace with a wonderful sunset.
- Hotel Anixis The Anixis hotel, very well located in relation to the port and the old town, offers good value for money (** hotel).
- If you want to treat yourself to a superb hotel overlooking the sea and Apollo’s Gate, don’t miss the Portara Seaside Luxury Suite. Portara Seaside Luxury suite .
- The Nissaki Beach Hotel is another top-of-the-range hotel in an excellent location right on the beach. The high prices are justified by the superb location and the quality of service and accommodation.
- Thomais Studios Thomais Studios: modern, well-equipped, clean studios just a few steps from Agios Giorgos beach. very good value for money.
- You can also find character accommodation on AirBnB and Booking
From Agios Prokopios to Plaka
Located a few kilometers south of the airport, this bay boasts several large sandy beaches with turquoise waters: Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka.
This coast boasts numerous hotels and accommodation facilities. There are also a number of campsites, including Maragas Beach Camping, very close to the beach. Concentration is high and some areas may seem a little too dense. If so, opt for the south of these large beaches towards Plaka.
The coast is well served, with bars, tavernas, restaurants and small supermarkets all within easy reach. It’s also the ideal spot for kite-surfers and windsurfers. The beaches are right next door.
Sleeping in Naxos, where it’s quieter…
If you’re looking for more peace and quiet, we recommend you head further south (Kastraki, Pirgaki, Agiassos). Accommodation is less expensive and much quieter. On the other hand, you won’t have access to all the city’s facilities. And it’s better to have a vehicle
- Paradise studios, literally on Agiassos beach. Ideal if you want the sea, the beach will be your children’s garden.
- The Aeraki studios also have a family atmosphere. A small swimming pool, the beach at the end of the garden, the accommodation is simple and inexpensive.
A different atmosphere in the mountains in the villages of Aperanthos and Filotei . It’s a bit much to stay for a whole week, but it’s a real change of scenery to stop here for a few days, especially if you’re into hiking.
Lastly, the north (Appolonas) and east of the island are home to a handful of very isolated dwellings, which generally enjoy a particularly peaceful environment. But there’s a downside to sleeping in peace and quiet: you’ll need a car to eat in Naxos.
You will also find many houses and villas for rent on Airbnb .
Now that you know where to sleep, here are our top tips for eating and drinking in Naxos.
Where to eat and drink in Naxos
In Naxos Chora
- The Typografio restaurant: good food, on a small terrace high up away from the crowds. The cuisine is a little out of the ordinary, using local produce. What’s more, it’s a kid-friendly restaurant. Not only is the children’s menu delicious, but there’s no danger if they want to leave the table, since they can play in the pedestrian street.
- Nissaki, a waterfront restaurant serving original fish and seafood dishes. Laure loves it, it’s her favorite.
- 520 bar: A lovely bar where you can enjoy signature cocktails. What’s more, the view of the harbour is pleasant at sunset. Young, trendy atmosphere. Laure’s second favorite.
- Kitron Bar: a classic, a must for a taste of the local liqueur
- Doukato, a good classic tavern in the Chora, where you can dine in the peace and quiet of a flower-filled courtyard.
- Waffle house: Ideal for a gourmet breakfast or a sweet snack during the day. Avoid crowded evenings.
- Mezze2: located on the port, this is a 150-cover terrace. So if you’re looking for a romantic atmosphere, skip it. On the other hand, service is fast and efficient, and traditional dishes are well executed. Special mention for the octopus croquettes.
- Caramella, for little gourmets. In fact, it’s a confectioner. Children love it all the more, as they can watch the lollipops being made and then taste them while they’re still warm.
On the beach
- Mikri Vigla: an unpretentious tavern with checked tablecloths and blue chairs, right on the beach of the same name.
- Island Bar in Agia Anna: a festive, relaxed atmosphere for this beach bar in Agia Anna.
- Yazoo Summer Bliss in Agia Anna: a cocktail bar and restaurant in one. The restaurant is quite trendy, and offers fusion cuisine. A good place to end a day on the beach.
In the mountains
- In the village of Filloti: To palio cinema, a small restaurant on the way up to the village, along the staircase. Delicious cool terrace.
- Rotonda on the road to Aperanthos: a great restaurant with an incredible view of the island. Nothing transcendent on the plate (in fact, it’s very average), but the place is worth the detour for the view, if only for a coffee.
- Taverna Calliope: an incredible restaurant in the middle of nowhere. We followed a sign and got a nice surprise. In the shade of a splendid century-old tree, mountain cuisine. We particularly recommend their speciality of scrambled eggs with Naxos cheese and tomato.
——————————-
And don’t hesitate to share with us your good places to sleep, eat and drink in Naxos, by commenting at the bottom of this article.
Sophie B.
