Four Days of Salty Hair and Naxos Air — Your Guide to a Cycladic Favorite

Day trip to Koufonisia

While you're in Naxos, be sure to take a day trip to Koufonisia. It’s absolutely worth it! We went on a tour that dropped us off at a beautiful beach, and they picked us up four hours later. The boats come by every hour, so it’s really convenient. Koufonisia offers pristine waters and a laid-back vibe, making it a must-see.

Explore Paros

Another great option is Paros, which many people visit for either a day trip or an overnight stay. Paros has a vibrant nightlife and is generally more affordable than Mykonos, offering a lively but relaxed atmosphere. We spent some time there and loved it — the island has a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches to excellent food.

Cooking class experience

While in Naxos, we also took a fantastic cooking class that I highly recommend. It was a fun way to immerse ourselves in the local cuisine and learn how to make traditional dishes — a memorable experience that I’d definitely do again!

Cheese tasting at Koufopoulos

If you're a cheese lover, make sure to visit Koufopoulos for a cheese tasting. The tasting is 100 euros, but trust me, you won’t need dinner after that! Koufopoulos has been around for over 100 years and is a place visited by many celebrities. It’s the perfect spot to try the island’s incredible cheeses and learn about their production.

Favorite beach: Agia Anna

Agia Anna was by far my favorite beach. Not only is it stunning, but it’s also where the boat tours depart, making it easy to combine a relaxing day at the beach with other activities.

Visit Naxos' villages

I highly recommend renting a car or taking a taxi to explore the beautiful villages of Naxos. The villages are rich in culture and history, with traditional architecture, charming shops and lovely cafes to enjoy along the way.

Try Kitron and Melopita

Don’t miss out on tasting Kitron, a traditional herbal liqueur unique to Naxos. Made from the citron tree’s lemon-like fruit, Kitron is infused with aromatic oils and herbs, making it a refreshing drink tied to the island’s history. And if you’re looking for something sweet, try Melopita, a honey pie that Naxos is known for — it’s delicious and a great way to end your meal!

Explore the castle at sunset

For a magical experience, make sure to visit the Castle of Naxos at sunset. The views from the top are breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding seas, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. It’s the perfect way to cap off a day of exploration.

Portara at sunset

Another unforgettable experience is visiting Portara, the Temple of Apollo’s iconic marble gate, at sunset. The sight of the sun setting behind the gate, casting a golden glow over the sea and the island’s skyline, is absolutely mesmerizing. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Greece, and for good reason — the views are simply spectacular.

For sunset hour and cocktails, head to Avaton. For an unforgettable meal, try To Elliniko, Flamingo Restaurant, Taverna Axiotissa and The Waffle House — don't miss their Dubai chocolate ice cream, it’s a must-try! Taverna Axiotissa offers amazing food with a unique twist on classic Greek dishes. Pigi Naxos in Ano Potamia has a beautiful location that’s a bit tricky to reach, but totally worth it — be sure to order the Kokoros Kokkinisto. Lastly, Platia in Gallini is a favorite of mine — incredible food, all prepared by the grandma using ingredients from their nearby farm. The stuffed onions are their specialty, but they run out fast, so we usually call ahead to reserve some!