Most visitors choose Agios Prokopios, but Plaka is ideal if you prefer something quieter.

Yes, Naxos is known for its long sandy beaches, unlike many other Cyclades islands.

Not always, but having a car makes it much easier to explore different beaches at your own pace.

Agios Prokopios is the safest choice for families, the water is shallow, calm, and the beach is well organised with sunbeds and facilities nearby.

The main organised beaches like Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna have toilets and showers. Quieter beaches like Plaka and Kastraki may not, so it's worth planning ahead.

Organised beaches charge for sunbeds and umbrellas. Plaka and Kastraki have long stretches of free, unorganised beach where you can lay your own towel.

The rockier coves around Mikri Vigla and Orkos have clearer water and are great for snorkelling. Bring your own gear as it's not always available to rent.

Yes, Mikri Vigla is one of the best windsurfing spots in the Cyclades and attracts riders from across Europe. Even if you don't surf, it's a great beach to visit.

Naxos is famous for its graviera cheese, fresh local potatoes, and kitron, a liqueur made from citron fruit grown only on the island. You'll also find excellent fresh seafood and traditional Greek mezedes everywhere.

In peak summer months, yes, especially for popular spots in the evenings. We recommend booking a day in advance for the restaurants we suggest above.

Greeks eat late. Most restaurants open around 7pm but really come alive after 9pm. Don't be surprised to find families dining well past midnight, it's part of the culture.

Tipping is not mandatory but always appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% for good service is common practice.

Yes, Greek cuisine is naturally vegetarian-friendly. Dishes like fava, gigantes, horiatiki salad, and stuffed vegetables are staples on most menus and genuinely delicious.

The market street in Naxos Town near the port has several shops selling graviera cheese, kitron, local honey, and thyme. It's worth picking up a few things before you leave, the graviera in particular travels well.

Head to the port area in Naxos Town, there are several cafés along the waterfront that open early and serve Greek coffee, fresh pastries, and spanakopita. A perfect way to start a beach day.

Definitely. Naxos has more to offer than any other Cycladic island, ancient ruins, mountain villages, hiking trails, local food markets, and a rich Venetian history. You could easily spend a week here without touching the beach.

Ideally 5–7 days to explore properly. Three days is enough for beaches and the town, but you'd need more to discover the interior villages and hidden corners of the island.

Sunset, without question. The ancient marble gate faces west and frames the sun as it drops into the Aegean, it's one of the most memorable sights on the island. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to find a good spot.

The Portara and the kastro area of Naxos Town are free to explore. Some archaeological museums and sites charge a small entry fee, usually between €3 and €8.

Yes, there are several rental shops in Naxos Town. A scooter or ATV is a great way to reach smaller beaches and villages that are tricky by car. Just be cautious on the mountain roads, they can be narrow and winding.

Yes, Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, a rewarding half-day hike.

Plenty. Beyond the beaches, there are boat trips around the island, horse riding near Agia Anna, and the old town of Naxos is very easy and enjoyable to explore on foot with kids.

Yes, especially inland. The mountain villages of Halki, Apiranthos, and Filoti are largely untouched by mass tourism and give you a completely different side of Naxos, one most visitors never see.

The best way is by renting a car. Some spots are accessible by scooter too, but a car gives you the freedom to stop anywhere and take your time on the mountain roads.

Halki is about 20 minutes by car, Apiranthos around 30 minutes. Both are well worth the drive and easy to combine into a single half-day trip through the island's interior.

Kitron is a liqueur made from the leaves of the citron tree, produced only on Naxos. It ranges from dry to sweet and comes in three varieties. You can taste and buy it at the Vallindras Distillery in Halki, which has been producing it since 1896.

Yes, Greek village panigiri festivals take place throughout the summer, usually around saints' name days. They feature live traditional music, dancing, and local food in the village square. Ask us when you arrive and we'll let you know if any are happening during your stay.

It really is. The elevation of the villa and the lack of light pollution in Glinado means the night sky here is spectacular on clear evenings.

The east-facing coast around Moutsouna and Lionas is beautiful at dawn, and the view from the summit of Mount Zas at sunrise is unforgettable if you're up for the early start.