Best 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary for First-Time Visitors (2024)

Planning a trip to Naxos, Greece? Our perfect 4 Days in Naxos itinerary will help you unlock all the secrets of Naxos. Having recently visited Naxos during our Cyclades island-hopping trip, we understand the challenges of crafting a Naxos itinerary that captures the highlights of the largest island of the Cyclades in only a few days.

But we’ve got you covered! Our Naxos travel guide includes everything from the top things to do to the most beautiful beaches in Naxos to mind-blowing ancient archaeological sites – all in just 4 days. Join us as we explore the multifaceted beauty of the Greek island of Naxos!

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Naxos Itinerary – Quick Tips

Dive right into my top picks for hotels, tours, places to visit, insider tips, and more, and make the most of your 4 days in Naxos, Greece. Your journey starts here!

Best Places to Stay | Naxos DownTown Suites, Naxos Pantheon Luxury Apartments, Mirabelle Luxury Villas, 18 Grapes Hotel

Best Time to Visit | May – September

How to Get Around | Rental Car, Private Minibus Driver, Taxi, Bus

Top Places to Visit | Chora, Portara, Agia Anna, Demeter Temple, Halki, Filoti, Apeiranthos

Insider Tips | Alyko Peninsula, Hawaii Beach, Cave of Zeus, Koronos

Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Best Experiences & Tours

✨ Naxos Highlights Tour

🌅 Naxos Castle Walking Tour with Sunset at the Portara

🍷 Naxos Town Food Tour Including Tastings and Wine

🥘 Naxos Half-Day Cooking Class

🛥️ Naxos Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch

⛵ Koufonisi Cruise

Keep reading for my complete Naxos travel guide!

How to Get to Naxos

Naxos is the largest and one of the most popular islands of the Cyclades. Therefore, getting to Naxos is fairly easy.

If you’re starting your journey in Athens, the capital city serves as a perfect gateway to Naxos. From Athens, you can take a short flight (around 45 minutes) to Naxos Airport (JNX), which is located around 3 km from Naxos Town.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Athens to Naxos Port. The ferry ride takes between 3 hours and 30 minutes to 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the ferry type.

Tip: I highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Athens if you want to combine your trip to Naxos with visiting the capital city.

If you’re island-hopping within the Cyclades, you can also reach Naxos by a short ferry ride from any of the neighboring islands like Paros, Mykonos, Ios, or Santorini.

Make sure to book your ferry tickets well in advance to secure the best prices.

How to Get Around in Naxos

While public transportation offers a convenient way to travel around the island by bus, I highly recommend renting a car if you only have a few days in Naxos.

Opting for a rental car unlocks the freedom to discover all the hidden gems at your own pace, from the picturesque villages to the remote beaches. Driving in Naxos is very easy and we absolutely loved exploring all the scenic routes around the island.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to navigate the roads yourself, consider hiring a private driver for the entire day.

Another option is to join a guided tour including transportation to explore the island.

➡️ Check out this organized Naxos Highlights Full-Day Tour, which includes the Temple of Demeter, Damalas, Halki, Apeiranthos, and the Kouros of Apollonas, and this amazing Half-Day Naxos Tour, which takes you to the Demeter Temple, Halki, Panagia Drosiani, the Kouros of Melanes, and an olive oil museum.

Best Time to Visit Naxos

The best time to explore Naxos is from late spring to early autumn (May – September). During these months, Naxos has perfect weather with glorious sunshine, offering ideal conditions for beach days, village explorations, and uncovering ancient ruins.

However, if you want to avoid the crowds and the scorching summer heat, you should avoid visiting Naxos in July or August.

We visited Naxos at the end of September and had the perfect weather for exploring Naxos’ mountain villages, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. The crowds had already left, which was a big bonus for enjoying the island without too many people around.

Where to Stay in Naxos

When staying in Naxos, you can choose between the bustling charm of Naxos Town and the serene beauty found in other corners of the island. Naxos Town, with its labyrinthine streets, waterfront tavernas, and vibrant nightlife, is an optimal choice if you crave a lively ambiance and easy access to key attractions.

On the contrary, venturing beyond the town unveils a different allure – secluded beaches, traditional villages, and a more tranquil atmosphere. Choosing accommodation outside Naxos Town allows for a peaceful retreat surrounded by the island’s natural beauty.

If you are looking for some inspiration on where to stay during your 4 days in Naxos, I have compiled a list of some of the best places to stay in Naxos for you:

• Naxos DownTown Apartments & Suites ($) – great location in Naxos Town, modern, boho-style rooms
• Princess Mare Hotel – Adults Only ($) – great location in Naxos Town, close to everything, modern rooms
• Naxos Pantheon Luxury Apartments ($$) – luxurious apartments with wonderful views
• Mirabelle Luxury Villas ($$) – Cycladic villas with private pools
• 18 Grapes Hotel ($$$) – close to the beautiful Agios Prokopius Beach, lovely pool area
• Villa Faros ($$$) – lovely rooms at the stunning Alyko Peninsula

Not quite what you are looking for?

4 Days in Naxos Itinerary Overview

Below, you can find a breakdown of our Naxos itinerary.

Day 1 in Naxos: Naxos Town

• Stroll through Chora
• Discover Naxos Castle (Kastro)
• Visit the Portara at the Temple of Apollo
• Have dinner at Chora’s seafront

Day 2 in Naxos: Naxos Island Road Trip

• Pay a visit to the Dionysus Temple
• Snap a picture of the windmills in Vivlos
• Admire the Temple of Demeter, Sangri
• Explore Halki village
• Wander around Filoti village
• Hike to the Mount Zas Cave (Cave of Zeus)
• Visit the charming village of Apeiranthos
• Stop by Koronos
• Check out the Kouros of Apollonas
• Walk around Apollonas Village
• Optional: Visit the Kouros of Flerio Melanes
• Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Naxos Town

Day 3 in Naxos: Discover the Best Beaches in Naxos

• Agios Georgios Beach
• Alyko Peninsula and Alyko Beach
• Hawaii Beach
• Glyfada Beach
• Mikri Vigla Beach
• Plaka Beach
• Agia Anna Beach
• Agios Prokopios Beach

Day 4 in Naxos: Visit the Nearby Islands of Koufonisia

• Swim in the beautiful bays of Kato Koufonisi
• Explore the charming island of Ano Koufonisi
• Relax at the best beaches in Ano Koufonisi
• Swim at the Rina Cave in Naxos

If you only have one day in Naxos:

If you find yourself with just one day in Naxos, start your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming alleys of Naxos Town, immersing yourself in the island’s rich history and culture. Next, explore the ancient wonders at the Portara, a monumental gateway offering panoramic views. Indulge in local cuisine at a seaside taverna for lunch, savoring the flavors of the Aegean.

Afterward, spend your afternoon unwinding at one of the beaches near Naxos Town, such as Agios Georgios Beach, Agios Prokopios Beach, or Agia Anna Beach. As the day draws to a close, treat yourself to a sunset dinner by the beach or at the seafront of Naxos Town.

If you have 5, 6, or 7 days in Naxos:

If you have 5, 6, or 7 days in Naxos, I highly recommend spreading the activities planned for days 2 and 3 of our Naxos itinerary across additional days to enhance your Naxos experience with a more leisurely pace. This will also provide some time to relax between activities.

You could also explore some more hidden gems, like the small village of Moni and the church of Panagia Drosiani, the oldest Christian church in Naxos.

Another option is a captivating day trip or tour around Naxos. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the island’s hidden corners and unique activities. Make sure to check out the following top-rated tours in Naxos:

• 🍷 Naxos Town Food Tour Including Tastings and Wine
• 🥘 Naxos Half-Day Cooking Class
• 🛥️ Naxos Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Lunch
• 🤿 Scuba Diving in Naxos

In the following, you can find our detailed 4-day Naxos itinerary, including the best beaches in Naxos, the most beautiful mountain villages, and what to do in Naxos in 4 full days.

Complete 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary

Day 1 in Naxos: Naxos Town

On the first day of our 4-day Naxos itinerary, you will explore Chora (Naxos Town), including the Kastro and the iconic Portara at the Temple of Apollo. In the evening, you will have a traditional Greek dinner at Chora’s seafront.

Stroll through Chora

Start the first of your 4 days in Naxos by delving into the history and culture of Chora, also known as Naxos Town. The bustling capital boasts a rich heritage, with its labyrinthine alleys showcasing a blend of Venetian, Frankish, and Cycladic influences.

As you wander through the charming streets of the old town, you’ll encounter white-washed buildings with vibrant bougainvillea, creating a picturesque setting. Dive into the local atmosphere, discovering lovely cafes, quaint shops, and hidden gems that unfold the island’s authentic character.

I really loved the lively ambiance and unique vibe of Naxos Town.

Discover Naxos Castle (Kastro)

Now, ascend to the summit of the old town, where the 13th-century Venetian Castle of Naxos, known as Kastro, awaits your exploration. Marvel at the remnants of medieval architecture, discover the treasures housed in the Archaeological Museum, and wander through the atmospheric streets flanked by ancient mansions.

Visit the Catholic Cathedral of the Presentation of the Lord and encounter the Tower of Glezos, the sole surviving structure of the original twelve towers.

An interesting fact: The Kastro served as a strategic stronghold against pirate invasions during the island’s tumultuous history, a testament to Naxos’ enduring resilience.

💡 Insider Tip: I recommend booking this Naxos Castle Walking Tour with Sunset at the Portara to learn more about the past of Naxos.

Visit the Portara at the Temple of Apollo

Next, cross the causeway to the islet of Palatia, where the iconic Portara stands proudly against the azure backdrop. This colossal marble doorway, part of the unfinished Temple of Apollo, dates back to the 6th century BC.

Despite the temple’s incomplete state, the Portara has stood resilient for over two millennia. Dedicated to the god Apollo, it once marked the entrance to the sacred sanctuary.

Nowadays, the Portara is a popular tourist attraction and a fantastic sunset watching spot. So, if you like, you can stay here to watch the sunset before heading to dinner at the seafront promenade of Naxos Town.

Have dinner at Chora’s seafront

Wrap up your first day in Naxos with an enchanting dinner at one of the charming tavernas lining Chora’s seafront promenade. This idyllic setting offers the perfect place to savor authentic Greek food, immersing yourself in the local culinary delights.

Indulge in local favorites such as moussaka, souvlaki, Naxian cheeses and other Naxian specialties like the island’s famous potatos and kitron, a unique citrus liqueur.

Insider Tip: Be sure to leave room for dessert and savor the delicious Loukoumas (Greek honey donuts) at Rendez-Vous Café.

Day 2 in Naxos: Naxos Island Road Trip

The second day of your Naxos itinerary is an island road trip filled with adventures, from ancient historical sites to picturesque mountain villages to breathtaking views – you will experience Naxos’ diverse beauty.

Please note that you will have to start your day early in the morning to fit all of the below highlights into one day and still be able to enjoy enough time at each place. If you have more than 4 days in Naxos, I recommend spreading the below itinerary across two days.

Pay a visit to the Dionysus Temple

Start your second day in Naxos by visiting the remains of the Temple of Dionysus, situated approximately 3 kilometers from Naxos Town. The temple and the small museum open at 8:30 AM and the entry is 3 euros. The Dionysus Temple is dedicated to the Greek god of wine and revelry and offers a glimpse into Naxos’ history.

While the Dionysus Temple is a relatively small ancient site, requiring only a short visit, its historical charm may appeal more to avid history enthusiasts. If ancient history isn’t your passion, you might consider skipping this temple. Personally, I find the Temple of Demeter to be more captivating and worth exploring.

Snap a picture of the windmills in Vivlos

On the way to the Temple of Demeter, make sure to stop in Vivlos, also known as Tripodes, a charming traditional village located just 8 kilometers from Naxos Town. Here, picturesque houses line narrow paved streets, painting a quaint image of Greek island authenticity.

The main landmark of the village are the three characteristic traditional windmills gracing a small hill at the village’s entrance. Vivlos is a perfect stop for capturing some quintessential Greek island pictures.

Admire the Temple of Demeter, Sangri

Close to the serene village of Sangri, the Temple of Demeter stands as a testament to ancient Greek devotion. This well-preserved temple, dating back to 530 BC, pays homage to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture.

Explore the sacred grounds and marvel at the Doric columns that once framed this sanctuary dedicated to fertility and harvest. Adjacent to the temple, the Archaeological Museum of Gyroulas at Sangri unveils a treasure trove of historical finds, providing deeper insights into the history of this ancient site.

Both the temple and the museum open at 8:30 AM, with an entry fee of 4 euros.

Explore Halki village

Located in the heart of Naxos, Halki village, also known as Chalki or Chalkio, boasts a rich history as the island’s former capital. Wander through its narrow streets lined with neoclassical houses, which are a testament to its historical significance.

The village exudes timeless charm: As you explore Halki’s enchanting streets and picturesque corners, soak in the ambiance of a village steeped in centuries of Naxian history, once a thriving hub of commerce and culture. Make sure to walk by the imposing Barozzi-Gratsia Tower and visit the lovely Byzantine Church of Saint George Diasoritis.

Wander around Filoti village

Nestled against the backdrop of Mount Zas, Filoti is a charming Naxian mountain village with a character all its own. Its traditional houses and winding alleys reflect authentic Cycladic architecture. Filoti is, in fact, comprised of several smaller villages, collectively forming the largest village in Naxos and the Cyclades.

At the heart of Filoti lies Panagia Filotitissa, a striking white church with a vibrant blue dome. Close by, you will also find the Tower of Barozzi.

Embrace the local atmosphere at the village’s tavernas, shops, and cafes. Filoti captivates with its authenticity, offering a genuine Naxian experience. It’s one of my favorite villages in Naxos!

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Hike to the Mount Zas Cave (Cave of Zeus)

Embark on an adventure to the Zeus Cave atop Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades. This exhilarating hike unveils panoramic views and leads to the mythological cave where Zeus, the king of the gods, was said to be raised.

Mount Zas, standing at 1,004 meters, offers a challenging ascent rewarded by breathtaking landscapes. You will need proper shoes, water, and sunscreen for this hike. In scorching summer heat, you should tackle the climb early to evade midday temperatures. If you visit Naxos in the low or shoulder season, like we did, it’s absolutely fine doing this hike in the middle of the day.

The hike to the summit of Mount Zas takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, while the hike to the Cave of Zeus only takes 20 to 30 minutes from the beginning of the trail.

The trailhead can be reached by a winding mountain road and you can park your car on the side of the road when reaching the trail.

Due to our packed itinerary, we decided to only hike to the cave, but the views were spectacular nonetheless.

Visit the charming village of Apeiranthos

Situated in the heart of Naxos, Apeiranthos is a captivating hilltop village rich in cultural heritage. Also known as the “Marble Village”, its cobblestone streets wind through a labyrinth of white-washed houses. Most of the alleys and steps are made of beautiful marble.

If you like, you can immerse yourself in Apeiranthos’ history by exploring the Archaeological Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Geological Museum.

Alternatively, just stroll through the quaint streets or enjoy a coffee or a late lunch in one of the lovely restaurants of the village offering amazing views of the island’s mountains. Apeiranthos undoubtedly has some of the best views of Naxos!

Stop by Koronos

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Naxos, Koronos is one of the island’s oldest settlements. This lesser-known village consists of seven neighborhoods and is built up on two opposite mountain sides. With its traditional architecture and stone-built houses, Koronos unveils a timeless charm.

Get lost in Koronos’ narrow alleys, climb the countless flights of stairs, and discover the village’s historic gems and hidden corners. The mountainous village of Koronos offers a tranquil escape off the beaten path.

Check out the Kouros of Apollonas

Naxos is famous for its Kouros statues scattered around the island. One of these statues is located near the quaint village of Apollonas. Carved from Naxian marble, this colossal male figure represents an unfinished feat of ancient sculpting, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past.

Approximately 10.45 meters tall, this enigmatic Kouros dates back to the 6^th century BC and lays testament to the island’s rich artistic heritage. The lying statue is unfinished, probably due to an accident during transportation.

Walk around Apollonas village

Next, head to Apollonas, a picturesque fishing village on the northern coast of Naxos. With its serene ambiance and a backdrop of rolling hills, Apollonas offers a lovely seaside escape.

Apollonas was once the export port for the famous Naxian marble. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, where traditional houses, cafes, and local tavernas create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Take in the scenic beauty of the coastal surroundings, and if you fancy a moment of relaxation, there’s a small beach in the village.

This article may also pique your interest: 3 Days in Ios, Greece

Optional: Visit the Kouros of Flerio Melanes

Close to the village of Melanes, there are two other colossal male Kouros statues dating back to approximately the 6^th century BC. The impressive statues are around 5 – 6 meters tall. You can visit them on your way back to Naxos Town.

One of the statues, the Kouros of Flerio Melanes, lies in a rustic garden. Unfortunately, transportation mishaps left this monumental piece incomplete.

Nearby, another Kouros, known as the Kouros of Faragi, rests halfway up a 300-meter-high marble outcrop. It can be reached by a short, scenic walk from the Kouros of Flerio Melanes.

Visiting the Kouros of Naxos is one of the best free things to do in Naxos.

Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Naxos Town

Conclude your second day in Naxos with a romantic rooftop dinner at Naxos Town’s Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant. We personally chose this place and can wholeheartedly recommend it.

The authentic rooftop restaurant has incredible views of Naxos Town and the Aegean Sea. Every dish we sampled was absolutely delicious, offering an interesting blend of traditional Naxian cuisine with modern touches. It was the perfect way to wrap up an exciting day in Naxos.

This article may also pique your interest: 3 Days in Tinos: Travel Guide & Best Things to Do

Day 3 in Naxos: Discover the Best Beaches in Naxos

On your third day in Naxos, you will explore the island’s most beautiful beaches. Naxos’ beaches are known for their crystal-clear, turquoise waters and soft, golden sands. Therefore, including a beach day in your Naxos itinerary is a must-do!

In general, the Greek islands boast some of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever encountered in Europe. Alongside the captivating beaches of Naxos, I equally loved the unique beaches in Paros, the pristine beaches on the charming island of Syros, and the scenic beaches on the popular island of Rhodes.

Agios Georgios Beach

Start your third day by visiting Agios Georgios Beach (Saint George Beach). Agios Georgios Beach is the town beach of Naxos and, therefore, one of the island’s most popular and bustling beaches. The beach features soft sands and beautiful, shallow waters.

Agios Georgios Beach stretches for kilometers and is fully equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, beachfront tavernas, cafes, beach bars, and water sports facilities. The southern end of the beach is a hotspot for windsurfing enthusiasts.

Alyko Peninsula and Alyko Beach

The second stop of our beach hopping adventure is the picturesque Alyko Peninsula, just a 30-minute drive from Naxos Town. The secluded cape of Alyko, in the southwest of Naxos island, is renowned for its beautiful coves and beaches.

Alyko Beach, nestled on this idyllic peninsula, boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters and powdery golden sands, inviting you to unwind in its tranquil beauty. It’s one of my favorite beaches in Naxos.

Next to the beach, in the heart of the peninsula, you can find a hidden gem waiting to be discovered: a long-abandoned and uncompleted resort complex, which is now a unique open-air gallery.

The ruins are decorated with mesmerizing murals created by street artists from around the world, making the abandoned hotel ruins of Alyko a captivating landmark and one of the top hidden attractions on the island.

Hawaii Beach

Another hidden gem on the Alyko Peninsula’s opposite bay is Hawaii Beach. Hawaii Beach maintains an unspoiled charm, free from commercialization. Its distinguishing feature is the striking cliffs of irregular shapes, forming a stunning backdrop against the turquoise sea.

For me, it’s the best beach in Naxos when it comes to the natural setting. We absolutely loved spending time there!

To reach this secluded paradise, just park your car beside the road and take a scenic walk across the sand. Then, descend through the narrow path carved between the cliffs.

Glyfada Beach

Next, head to Glyfada Beach, which is situated between Alyko and Kastraki. As one of the longest beaches on the island, Glyfada remains pleasantly uncrowded, with most people favoring the nearby Alyko Beach.

The sandy shores of Glyfada Beach are framed by expansive sand dunes. Given Naxos’ characteristic winds, Glyfada Beach is a haven for windsurfers and kitesurfers. There is also a kitesurfing club.

Mikri Vigla Beach

Mikri Vigla Beach is only a short drive from Glyfada Beach and boasts two incredible beaches, divided by a distinctive hill.

The northern beach captivates with golden sands and pristine waters, benefiting from the Meltemi winds, making it an international hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The southern beach is more sheltered from the winds and offers a beautiful sandy beach with stunning turquoise waters. Personally, I found the southern Mikri Vigla Beach particularly enchanting.

Take a moment to relax amidst this incredible backdrop before venturing to the next beach.

Plaka Beach

Plaka Beach undoubtedly belongs to Naxos’ best beaches. This popular beach stretches for approximately 4 kilometers, featuring organized sections with umbrellas and sunbeds. But even during the high season, Plaka remains a quieter alternative to Agios Prokopios or Agios Georgios Beach.

On calm days, when the winds are gentle and the sea is tranquil, Plaka offers an ideal setting for snorkeling right from the beach. It’s also a wonderful spot to relax and bask in the sun, immersing yourself in the serenity of the beautiful Naxian coastline.

Agia Anna Beach

Agia Anna Beach is only a few kilometers from the heart of Naxos Town. This lovely organized beach is renowned as one of the busiest and most popular beaches on the island and features a vast tourist infrastructure with umbrellas, sunbeds, tavernas, hotels, and beachfront cafes and bars.

The sandy beach, complemented by calm, azure waters, also has a small port with charming fishing boats, adding a picturesque touch to the scenery. I really loved the vibe of this beach!

Agios Prokopios Beach

The iconic Agios Prokopios Beach is located right next to Agia Anna Beach. This beautiful beach, repeatedly honored with the prestigious Blue Flag Award, also belongs to Naxos’ most popular beaches and is consistently celebrated among the best beaches in Greece and Europe.

Agios Prokopios Beach features an endless stretch of golden sands and mesmerizing turquoise waters. You can also find sunbeds, beach clubs, water sports, and other fun beach activities at this fully-organized beach. It’s the epitome of a holiday haven!

💡Agios Prokopios is also a fantastic place to try scuba diving. Check out this beginner-friendly Scuba Diving Experience!

If you are looking for a Naxos beach to stay from sunrise to sunset, Agios Prokopios Beach is the perfect choice! We watched a mind-blowing sunset at this beach!

Day 4 in Naxos: Visit the Nearby Islands of Koufonisia

On your last full day in Naxos, you will embark on an unforgettable day trip from Naxos to Koufonisia, a hidden gem in the Cyclades. Koufonisia is part of the Smaller Cyclades and consists of two main islands: Kato Koufonisi and Ano (Pano) Koufonisi.

Koufonisia is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, laid-back atmosphere, and postcard-worthy landscapes. Be ready to explore secluded coves, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this enchanting Greek island in the heart of the Aegean Sea.

We visited Koufonisia as part of a day trip and can highly recommend this amazing tour! It was hands down one of the absolute highlights of our Naxos trip! The tour starts in the small port of Agia Anna.

(Please note that the cruise as well as the itinerary are subject to weather conditions.)

Swim in the beautiful bays of Kato Koufonisi

After a picturesque boat ride along Naxos’ enchanting eastern shore, you will reach the uninhabited island of Kato Koufonisi. There, you will anchor in a lovely bay with crystal-clear, turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim before having a delicious Greek BBQ lunch on board, complemented by local wine.

The natural beauty of this island totally blew my mind! I wish we could have explored more of the island itself, but swimming in its stunning bays was definitely a fantastic start!

Explore the charming island of Ano Koufonisi

The next stop is the inhabited island of Ano Koufonisi. Ano Koufonisi is a true hidden gem, which is still off the radar for many tourists. The picturesque island offers a delightful blend of traditional Greek vibes and unspoiled landscapes. I loved wandering through the main village’s narrow alleys with the typical white-washed houses and quaint cafes.

Ano Koufonisi radiates a laid-back atmosphere and authentic charm, which invites you to immerse yourself in the simplicity and beauty of the Cycladic island life. We completely fell in love with Ano Koufonisi and definitely plan to stay there for a few nights during our next Greek island hopping trip.

Relax at the best beaches in Ano Koufonisi

As avid beach lovers, we couldn’t resist exploring some beaches during our time in Ano Koufonisi. The most popular beach in Ano Koufonisi is Ammos Beach, the village’s main beach. The beach boasts crystal-clear, turquoise waters and a picturesque backdrop with the iconic white houses of the village.

After Ammos Beach, head to Julias Beach and Treleo’s Beach. These natural pebble beaches, surrounded by steep cliffs, can only be reached by walking down a steep trail to the bay (located at Julias Beach). We loved spending time at this stunning bay, basking in the sun and dipping into the azure water.

Finally, make sure to visit Ludiko Beach, which is close to the port of Ano Koufonisi. It’s a lovely bay with a small pebble beach that is perfect for relaxing and swimming.

As we only had limited time on Ano Koufonisi during our day trip, we definitely need to return to check out more of the island’s beautiful beaches. We’re already counting down the days!

Swim at the Rina Cave in Naxos

On the way back to Naxos, you will stop at the enchanting Rina Cave on the south coast of Naxos, a hidden aquatic gem waiting to be explored. Dive into the clear waters surrounding the cave, where you can swim and snorkel.

The cave not only boasts captivating marine landscapes but also serves as a unique habitat for bird nests. As you swim into the cave, its interior reveals a spectacle of stalactites gracing the roof, providing shelter for both birds and bats.

Discovering the cave above and below the surface was such an amazing experience.

After visiting the Rina Cave, we sailed back to Naxos and witnessed a magical sunset. Doing a day trip to Koufonisia definitely was a fantastic way to end our stay in Naxos.

I hope you enjoyed reading our comprehensive Naxos guide, discovering the island’s hidden gems, and immersing yourself in its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Naxos, with its mountain villages, ancient sites, and beautiful beaches, offers a diverse experience for every type of traveler.

As you plan your Greek island hopping adventure, also consider exploring other Cyclades treasures like Syros, Mykonos, Tinos, Paros, Ios, and the iconic Santorini. Embark on a journey to uncover the unique charm of each island. Whether you’re drawn to the lively atmosphere of Mykonos, the serene landscapes of Paros, or the romantic allure of Santorini, the Greek islands promise an unforgettable island-hopping experience.

FAQ – 4 Days in Naxos Itinerary

Want to explore more of Greece? Check out my other Greece travel guides for the best travel tips!

• Perfect Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary
• 2 Days in Athens Travel Guide
• 5 Days in Rhodes Itinerary
• 4 Days in Santorini Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Paros Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Mykonos Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Ios Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Tinos Travel Guide
• 2 Days in Syros Travel Guide
• Best Photo Spots in Mykonos

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