Sightseeing in Naxos - what to see. Complete travel guide

The first mention of the Greek island of Naxos dates back to the 8th century BC. It is the largest island of the Cyclades, which never ceases to attract fans of history and ancient architecture. In the early 13th century, it was the base of pirates, so enthusiastic travelers don’t stop to explore the grounds of the island as they hope to find priceless treasures.

Mount Zas is notable among natural attractions of Naxos. According to Greek mythology, Zeus was brought up on that mountain. Ruins of many ancient temples have survived on the island; the ruins of Apollo’s Temple are among the most visited sites.

More recent architectural monuments include the Venetian fortress, where noble dukes once lived. Nearby is the Franciscan school building that is now converted into the Archaeological Museum and the medieval Catholic cathedral. Perhaps the most symbolic and mysterious attractions of the island are koursoses, ancient male statues; a lot of interesting and romantic legends are associated with them. Length of Dionysus Kouros is more than ten meters; it is located near the village of Apollonas. Apollo Kouros has a length of about six meters and is situated in Melanes. It is believed that two boys were turned into those statues; each guide and local will tell a lot of versions of ancient legends. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another advantage of Naxos is its spacious sandy beaches; a total length of them is over 100 km. Agios Georgios in Chora is noteworthy; it will appeal to fans of outdoor activities. Those who want to stay in silence and have serene sunbathing are recommended to go to suburbs of Chora, to Agios Prokopios.

As for nightlife, fans of wild dances increasingly prefer open-air discos located at major beaches. Nearby you can find various bars and nightclubs; the most famous among them is the Opera bar. Foodies are recommended to visit Notos, Vegerra, Ecstasy and Jam restaurants located on the coast. Shoppers are simply enchanted by colorful markets of Chora, where you can buy everything from products and handicrafts to gemstones.

During the year, several interesting festivals are held on the island. They attract a lot of tourists. In Hora, the Easter Festival that goes hand in hand with food entertainments and fairs is annually held. Almost all the entertainments are organized in the open air in the city streets. You can enjoy them absolutely for free. On Easter, a lot of interesting sweets that can’t be tasted on other days are cooked. Tourists have also an opportunity to buy interesting gifts in Easter style.

Travelers who want to visit Naxos in June have an opportunity to visit the historical festival that is held in the Batheros Palace. It is dedicated to the national culture and traditions. Exciting performances, sports competitions and themed excursions are organized in the fortress. This festival is one of the longest holidays here. It lasts for several weeks and ends in August. Right after it, the music festival starts in Apeiranthos. It involves musicians not only from Greece, but also from other countries.

Besides sightseeing tours and beach entertainments, Naxos offers its guests excellent conditions for shopping. Every city has a market. The largest market is located in Hora. Here, tourists can buy a lot of hand-made items and gifts. Some of the most popular souvenirs are items of shells and pearls. The cities are notable for multiple jewelry stores unified with workshops. Here, you can find silver items in the national style. The jewelry shop will impress men, as well as women.

Tourists visit markets not only to find and buy interesting gifts, but also to taste popular national delicacies. Delicious thyme honey is produced on the island, and the jar of it will be an excellent gift for your loved ones. Special citruses, citrons, are also grown here. They resemble usual lemons but are distinguished by a milder taste. Very popular exquisite liqueur is cooked of citrons at the local factory. On the market, you can buy and taste delicious homelike cheese, different meat specialties, and olives.