Naxos Halki (or Chalki)

General information

The village of Halki in Naxos (or Chalki) is located in the central area of the region of Tragea, the largest olive cultivation area of the Cyclades, 16 km from Naxos Town.
Halki has a long history and was once the capital of Naxos, as well as its main administrative and trade center.
The numerous neoclassical houses and buildings testify about the past wealth and power of the village.

Several well-preserved Venetian Towers and fine Byzantine churches lie in the area, including the 9th-century church of Panagia Protothrone, one of Naxos' oldest churches and houses beautiful Byzantine and post-Byzantine frescoes.

After parking or arriving by bus on the main street, you can make the short journey to Agios Georgios Diasoritis church, which is a great example of Byzantine design.
On the path, you will notice the olive groves on both sides, something the area is famous for. Going back into the main village, you should take a moment to observe the architecture and the handsome houses.

Gratsia Tower is well-signposted and constitutes an excellent example of a tower house. Built by an aristocratic family (notice the coat of arms), it was used as a lookout during periods of pirate raids. Unfortunately, you can't enter the tower, but you are able to admire it close up. Markopolitis Tower is another impressive building that lies in the area. It presents a one-of-a-kind architectural style since it was built by a Naxian resident and does not showcase the Venetian format.

The Vallindras distillery lies in the heart of the village and the entrance to it is free.
You are given a tour of where the famous Kitron of the area is made. It is interesting to see the workings up close. The tour guide shares plenty of interesting facts, not least that the liquid is made from Citron leaves. The tour ends with a sampling of the product.

Once in Halki, one of the must things to do is a visit to the Fish and Olive gallery with some amazing handmade works and don't miss to taste the amazing sweats at Dolce Vita cafe.

Things to See & Do in Halki

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Top Activities & Tours in Halki

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  • Best Seller

    Full day historical bus tour

    Category: Island, Day Trips, Shore Excursions

    This full-day bus tour takes participants around historical points of interest of Naxos, both ancient and more modern ones. It is the perfect opportunity to learn about the island’s culture and history in a comprehensive and fun way.

    8 hours Map
    from € 30.00
    Book now

Halki Map

Explore our interactive map of Halki.

Reviews

4.5/5.0
3 Reviews
  • Nicholas 26 Nov 2021
    Visit
    Brilliant. Superb. June 2019. Better each visit.
  • alexis 28 Jan 2011
    Great restaurant for italian food lovers
    Located in a the picturesque village of Halki, the "Il Basilico" restaurant is the place to visit if you are around and love the italian food.
    The restaurant, except from beeing realy good, also offers a realy pleasant atmosphere in its private yard. Recommended!
  • L_Kostanza 20 Dec 2006
    Good central location for excursions.
    Nationality: Italian

    Age: 51

    -How did you get to Halki: By car

    -Where is your accommodation located: Mili

    -How much time did it take you to reach Halki village: 5 minutes

    -What are the conditions of the roads that take you to the village: Good

    -Did you enjoy the trip to Halki village: Yes, we walked to Pano Kastro first. Nice contrast!

    -In order to get to Halki village were enough signs in order to find it: I stay in the area

    -Why did you choose Halki village: Recommended by friends

    -How would you describe the village: Authentic, beautiful surroundings, great atmosphere, archeological, historical. Good central base for many rural destinations

    -Can everything, one might need, be found in the village: Telephone, bank, mini market, restaurants, cafes, bars, clubs, shops, travel agencies, museums, internet cafes, hotels and other accommodations

    - Did the village meet your expectations? Yes Rate: 8/10

    - Favorite thing about the village: The tavernas and the small authentic houses

    - Is there anything that you don’t like about the village or things that should be done by the authorities to improve it or is something missing: No

    - Any recommendations/tips for future visitors: To come and let in this village

    - Other recommends villages? Apeiranthos and Mili

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