Greece · 2026 itinerary
Naxos 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Naxos: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
A massive marble doorway and the island's symbol, standing on the islet of Palatia at the harbour entrance. The unfinished temple dates to 530 BC.
🕐 Open 24 hours
Free entry💡 Go at sunset for the best light and a clear view of the sun dropping through the frame. Early morning is quietest.
Hotels near Portara (Temple of Apollo) →Small whitewashed chapel on a rocky hill north of the old town, with a single bell tower and an icon of the Virgin Mary. Offers panoramic views of the harbour and mainland.
🕐 Usually open daylight hours (unlocked during services Wed & Sun 5pm)
Free entry💡 Climb the 60 steps from the main road. Combine with a walk to the neighbouring Venetian tower ruins. No crowds – locals use it for quiet prayer.
Hotels near Church of Panagia Myrtidiotissa →Flisvos Beach Cafe · ££
Scirocco · ££
Deeper Into Naxos
A quiet pebble beach with calm water, plus the remains of ancient marble quarries and a submerged ancient city visible on calm days.
🕐 Open 24 hours (swimming any time)
💡 Bring water shoes. Kayak rental near the beach costs €15/hour but you can swim over the ruins for free. Best visibility before 11am.
Free self-guided walk through narrow marble-paved alleys with Venetian mansions, Orthodox churches, and local shops. No entry fee to the district.
🕐 Accessible at any time
💡 Download the free 'Naxos Walking Tour' PDF from the municipal website. Start at the Cathedral and follow the blue signs to the Venetian Museum.
Heaven's
Perama
Final Favourites & Departure
Small museum in the Venetian castle housing Cycladic figurines, pottery, and ancient inscriptions. Well-curated with English labels.
💡 Entry costs €6. Buy a combined ticket with the castle for €12 and save a few euros. Allow 45 minutes.
La Trattoria
Blue Fin
Getting Around Naxos
Airport bus stops every 2 hours. Take bus to Chora (€1.80, 10 mins), transfer to the Panormos bus—buy ticket at the Chora kiosk. Quickest option only if you time two connections perfectly.
The bus drops you on the main road, then a 10-minute walk downhill. Buses are infrequent after 18:00—check the timetable at KTEL's Naxos Town office.
If arriving by ferry, walk 100m to the main taxi rank—don't take one from the inner port or you'll pay a surcharge.
Pre-book with Naxos Taxi for a set rate. Avoid drivers who quote higher at arrivals without a meter. Cash only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Naxos?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Portara (Temple of Apollo) and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Naxos?
See our full best time to visit Naxos guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Panormos, Virtú Suites, Milos. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.