Naxos on a Budget
Naxos, Greece
Traveling to Naxos on a budget is entirely feasible and rewarding. Accommodation options range from affordable hostels to budget-friendly guesthouses, especially in the off-peak season. Consider staying in family-run hotels or Airbnb rentals in Naxos Town (Chora) for great deals. Eating out can be inexpensive if you opt for local tavernas over more tourist-centric restaurants. Try traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, and gyros, which are both delicious and affordable. Visit during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October) for lower prices and fewer crowds. Also, take advantage of free activities such as hiking, beachcombing, and visiting historical sites like the Portara and old town.
Sights
Naxos is brimming with historical and natural sights that captivate visitors.Naxos Old Town (Chora) is the largest town on the island, and has a ferry port. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the gorgeous town featuring Venetian architecture, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The town is mainly white with traditional Greek architecture, and offers plenty of photo opportunities. The Kastro (castle) area is a must-visit for its medieval charm and panoramic views.
Also, check out the Portara, the iconic marble gate of the ancient Temple of Apollo, which stands on the islet of Palatia, near Naxos Town. It offers stunning views, especially at sunset??.
The Temple of Demeter, located in Sangri, is an ancient temple and testament to Naxos's rich history. It's an impressive site dedicated to the goddess of harvest and fertility and offers an interesting insight into the ancient history of the island.
Finally, don't miss the many beaches around the island. The gorgeous water and clean sand is one of the main attractions here. Plenty of snorkeling spots can also be found around the island.
Activities
Naxos offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests. The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka Beach are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and golden sand. You can find plenty of restaurants, hotels, and shops around these beach areas, too.If you're interested in hiking, explore the island's rugged terrain and scenic beauty through its numerous hiking trails. The route from Filoti to Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, offers breathtaking views. But if you're looking for something that is easier to access, check out the trail leading north from Agios Prokopios around and up the hill. It's quite easy and offers nice views over the beach and surrounding sea.
Naxos is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are popular activities, particularly at Mikri Vigla Beach, known for its perfect wind conditions. Snorkeling and scuba diving are available, too. Plenty of boat trips journey around the island and make for terrific day activities if you want to get out on the water.
Food and Dining
Naxos is a haven for food lovers, offering a variety of local dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.Some local specialties include Kalogeros, a delicious dish of beef with eggplant and cheese; kitron, a local citrus liqueur that is a must-try; and Naxian Cheese with unique flavors including graviera and arseniko.
Naxos town offers plenty of terrific as well as touristy restaurants. The stretch right by the port offers a dozen or so establishments with reasonable prices and mixed quality. Check out the Rendez-Vous Cafe and Pikantiko Grill House if you're looking for something very close to the port. Otherwise, explore the town on foot to find plenty of nice and affordable places for lunch and dinner. A few lively bars can be found in town, too, especially during the busy summer season.
Transportation
The island is served by ferries (docking at the main town in the northwest of the island) and an airport (close to the main town). Ferryscanner is a great place to see schedules and prices for the ferries. Ferries will connect to Naxos to and from the other major destinations such as Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Ios, and Crete.The local bus service is reliable and connects Naxos Town with major villages and beaches. It's a cost-effective way to explore the island. Most routes are around 2 to 3 Euros each way. The buses come and go from a point directly in front of the main ferry terminal in Naxos town, and you can inquire about tickets and schedules at the KTEL office in a small rectangular building at this spot (near the walkway up to the temple of Apollo). Check out the website for schedules (summer season), too.
Taxis are another good way to get around. A taxi from the ferry to Agios Prokopios will run around 20 Euros, and Plaka around 50 Euros.
Plenty of guided tours are also available.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
This is a more low key island than some of the more popular Greek islands, so it's easy to find a deal and have an authentic experience.