One of the largest islands in the Cyclades, Naxos is a great springboard for an island-hopping experience. It’s also one of the less polished islands, with a real sense of authentic community in traditional hill villages as well as bustling Naxos Town. Chosen for their sense of style, location and amenities, our pick of the best places to stay in Naxos are clustered around Naxos Town and along the coast, well-suited to a whole host of tastes and budgets.

Naxos Town is right in the heart of the action. The site of the island’s main port, this is a hill town of narrow lanes lined with whitewashed houses, boutiques, galleries, cafés and bars. Stroll through both the Kastro neighbourhood, once home to the Roman Catholic community and site of the Archaeological Museum, and the Bourgos district, where Orthodox Greeks have lived for centuries. You’ll find excellent seafood eateries clustered along the harbour, and two great beaches — one for swimming or sandcastle-building with the little ones, and the other for more adventurous water sports.

Venture to the fishing village of Apollonas for a quieter experience. Pick a perch at a seaside taverna after marvelling at the half-finished giant statue of Dionysus in a nearby quarry. Head up into the hills to striking Apiranthos, admire Byzantine-era buildings at Halki, and tour the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. Naxos’ mountainous interior will delight hikers and cyclists, who can discover winding paths which have connected villages for centuries. There are groves of fig, citrus and olive trees, too, as well as grapes ripening on tangled vines. Delve into this side of Naxos with tours and tastings at vineyards, or an afternoon at the Eggares Olive Press Museum. Finally, return to your choice of the best places to stay in Naxos to feast on flavoursome fresh fare: the island’s Greek cuisine is sensational.

The Best Places to Stay in Naxos

For Great Value

• Chateau Zevgoli, hidden in the maze of alleyways that make up Naxos Town, is a welcoming and inexpensive little spot, with nine cosy bedrooms featuring antique furnishings and curios. The flower-filled courtyard is an inviting communal space for big breakfasts, whilst sunset drinks on the roof terrace are very special.
• Nastasia Village Hotel has spacious, comfortable rooms decorated in classic white, with sage green-painted window frames. The sunny courtyard garden is the perfect spot for lazy afternoons after an in-room massage or game of tennis on the hotel court. A romantic yet affordable gem.

For a Beach Break

• Finikas Hotel is a rejuvenating retreat on a quiet stretch of coastline south of Naxos town. White-on-white interiors are smart and contemporary, and there's a relaxing swimming pool and spa for restful, restorative holidays. You're also right on the beach!
• Nissaki Beach Hotel has light, airy and spacious rooms just steps from a sheltered beach on the edge of Naxos Town. Great for those seeking to combine sightseeing with beach time, this little hotel also has family suites, a swimming pool and a top-notch Mediterranean restaurant.

For a Tranquil Escape

• Naxian Collection is a gorgeous selection of private villas with elegant interiors in white and cream tones. Each villa has its own kitchen, sitting room, terrace and private pool, making this a sublime spot for a tranquil escape as a couple or with family and friends. Don't forget the spa!
• Hotel Kavos offers a collection of suites, studios and apartments, some of which are well-suited to families or groups of friends. Expect classic whitewashed walls and sea green woodwork, as well as lush grounds with a swimming pool, bright flowers and impressive sea views. Self-catering but with a great restaurant for relaxed evenings out, and near to the beach.
• Mitos Suites is just five minutes' walk from beautiful Agios Prokopios Beach. A chic boutique hotel, this white-painted bolthole has a swimming pool and children's playground for young families, as well as a romantic feel for couples seeking to unwind in style. Wonderful.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens, or catch a connecting flight to Naxos Airport. Alternatively, travel by ferry from Paros or Santorini if you're island-hopping in the Cyclades.
• There's plenty to see beyond Naxos' main towns! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 28°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay on Paros.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Cyclades.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Naxos