Get ready for plenty of art, food, and fantastic beaches.
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There are roughly 6,000 islands in Greece, more than 275 of which are inhabited.
You could spend a lifetime exploring them all, getting to know and love each one.
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But we’re here to tell you why you should start with Naxos.
“The island boasts some of thebest white-sand beachesthroughout all ofGreece.”
Colayera isn’t alone.
Courtesy of Villa Marandi Suites
Some are lively with beach bars, while others are untouched and serene.
The rooms here are as crisp, bohemian, and whitewashed as you’d expect on a Greek island.
However, where this hotel really shines is its location.
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The property is also home to a delicious on-site restaurant serving old family-style recipes using locally sourced products.
It’s also happy to teach you a thing or two in the kitchen with its hands-on cooking lessons.
That way, you could return home and share the Naxos food experience with your friends and extended family.
Courtesy of Villa Marandi Suites
Make time to explore the island’s main historical landmark the Temple of Apollo.
The massive marble structure, standing nearly 20 feet tall, is hard to miss.
It’s the last remaining piece of a temple built in 530 B.C.
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Visit the Old Town (Chora).
Spend part of your Naxos vacation wandering through the narrow, winding streets of Chora, a.k.a.
Relax on Plaka Beach.
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Naxos is home to plenty of beaches worth visiting, but none may be as spectacular as Plaka.
The soft white sand here gives way to glittering azure waters, making for a picture-perfect afternoon.
Hike Mount Zeus (Zas).
The 5.7-mile out-and-back trek is rated as “hard” onAllTrailsdue to its distance and elevation gain.
However, it rewards those who put in the effort with fantastic panoramic views of the island and sea.
Order the moussaka, stuffed Naxos vegetables, or the popular lamb chops to satisfy your hunger.
“The weather is nearly flawless warm but not scorching making it ideal for all sorts of activities.
However, as both Das and Colayera noted, autumn is a fantastic time to come as well.
“If June doesnt work out, September is a solid plan B,” added Das.
By Ferry:Another easy way to reach Naxos is by ferry.
Travelers can board a ship from Piraeus port or Rafina in Athens.
There are several direct trips that will get you there in about 3.5 hours.
There are also plenty of island-hopping ferries that take about five to six hours.
verify to visit the church of Panagia Protothroni, which has been continuously holding services since 1052.
Apeiranthos
Make your way to the mountains to experience the picturesque village of Apeiranthos.
In the town, travelers can walk along the marble-paved streets and view the traditional houses.
Visitors can also check out one of the many museums, including the Geological Museum.
It has plenty of cafes and taverns to fill you up pre- and post-trek.
Apollonas
Explore the island’s shoreline with a visit to the fishing village of Apollonas.
