Naxos Sights & Attractions

Portara is the trademark of Naxos. It is the first sight of the island that the eye catches as the ferry approaches the port. It comprised the doorway of a massive temple that would be dedicated to Apollo.

Kastro (Castle) is the most picturesque quarter in Chora. It comprised the Town of Naxos when the island was under Venetian rule. The modern town is constructed around it. There is an elevator that takes you to the highest point.
Not to miss: Castle walking tour and sunset at Portara

The ancient temple dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, dates back to the 6th century BC, yet was discovered in 1949. The remains of a small church dedicated to Saint John stand next to the temple.

The giant statue of a young man (Kouros) is situated outside the village of Melanes. It lays on the site where it was unearthed.

The Kouros of Apollonas dates from the 8th century BC and is laid down on the site it was discovered. Archaeologists believe that it depicts a young man or Dionysus, the god of wine.

Built upon the steep rock, the whitewashed chapel of Agios Sozon attracts many visitors as it shines brightly under the sun.

The Archaeological Museum is situated in the quarter of Kastro, Naxos Town. It is housed in a superb 17th-century Venetian mansion, which used to be the Jesuit School of Commerce before. It is a really interesting museum that exhibits a collection of objects and artworks dating from the late Neolithic period until the early Christian times.

The church of Panagia Drossiani is standing near Moni village. It is one of the oldest churches on the island, dating back to the 6th- 7th century. Beautiful murals decorate the interior of the structure.

Mount Zas is the tallest mountain in Naxos and all the Cyclades islands. It is interwoven with mythology, while its slopes are home to dozens of plant and animal species.

The Cave of Zas is located on the western side of Mount Zas, at an altitude of 600 meters. According to Greek mythology, Zeus was raised there, and the inhabitants named the cave and mountain after him to honor him.

The Monastery of Christ Fotodotis is located on top of a hill and offers marvelous sea views. It was established in the 6th century BC, and its architecture is similar to that of a fortress.

The Jesuit Monastery of Kalamitsia is located at a distance of 2 km dirt road from the village of Melanes. The monastery is deserted today but worthy of a visit for the wonderful nature surrounding it.

Agios Mamas is one of the oldest churches of Naxos, dating back to the 9th century. The church of Agios Mamas is famous for its fine cross, sculptures, and murals. It is dedicated to Saint Mamas, the patron saint of shepherds.

The Fasolas project focuses on restoring and reviving small businesses for the new generations and the visitors of Naxos to see how everyday local life was a few decades ago.

Routsouna waterfall, a spectacular 20-meter plunge, is the result of two streams that run north and south of Keramoti. You need a 40-minute hike to reach the spot.

Rina cave is a beautiful sea cave located at the beach of the same name. It can be accessed by boat from Panermos beach or from a day cruise from Naxos port.

This traditional watermill lies in a lovely location on the banks of a small river. It is worth the visit to see the landscape and a walk following the river's path is a must.

The ancient temple of Dionysus is located close to Glinado village, in the area of Iria. According to the myth, Naxos was the residence of the god Dionysus; hence, it comes as no surprise that there is such a temple on the island.

Vallindras is a distillery in the mountainous village of Halki, the old capital of Naxos. The distillery was established in 1896, with the namesake family still running the business. Nowadays, it serves as a museum, too.

Bazeos Tower is a site of historical interest that now hosts the Naxos Summer Festival annually.