Naxos’ villages are the perfect destination if you want to get to know the island more intimately, and to appreciate its traditions and culture. There are more than 40 villages scattered throughout the island’s expanse.

Although many of them have but a few residents, the majority of the villages pulsate with an energy that opens the villagers’ arms warmly to their visiting guests, so that they may display their cultural identity and traditional hospitality. Quite a number of the villages have manifested a significant growth in tourism, even though they may have been unknown to the general public throughout previous decades.

In the inland villages, the character and customs of the island have been resurrected -- the holidays, the celebrations and the traditions that make up the integral elements of the residents’ daily lives. These villages are distinguished by their scenic splendors and natural beauty [the word “picturesque” simply doesn’t do them justice!]. And the visitor should definitely pay a visit to the stores that sell local and traditional products. The villages located approximately in the central inland area of the island (e.g., Apiranthos, Filoti, Halki), are of special interest inasmuch as they constitute the spiritual, commercial, and cultural center of the Naxian hinterland.

The beaches of the coastal villages are a drawing card for every traveler. On one hand, Naxos’ sea is clean and crystalline and truly enjoyable for aficionados of swimming; on the other hand, the visitor can sample fabulous “psaromezedhes” (tidbits of various fish), as well as traditional food at little “tavernas” (casual dining places somewhat akin to the Italian “trattoria”) that one finds right at the water’s edge. The villages just south of the Chora in particular, are considered to be the most popular tourist resorts on the island.

Distances by Kilometers
Local Transport