Sightseeing in Naxos - what to see. Complete travel guide

Ancient Greek city, Naxos is full of picturesque meadows and mountains. This place attracts visitors by its nature and splendor of ancient churches and castles. The city began to grow even in the prehistoric era, when it already was a famous cultural and shopping center. In 1537 Naxos became part of the Ottoman Empire; starting from 1829 the city is a part of Greece.

One of the main attractions is Zas (Zeus) Mountain, on which, according to Greek mythology, lived the god Zeus. In close proximity is located another architectural place of interest connected with ancient myths of Greece. It is Apollo Temple, which building was finished in the 6th century BC. Today only a part of the foundation and gates have remained from that magnificent building.

Venetian fortress is the most famous architectural complex of Naxos. On its territory was built a Franciscan school that was later replaced by the school for nuns and Archaeological Museum. A beautiful cathedral is also located here. Don’t forget to visit laying statues named Kouroses that are very unusual and beautiful. The statue of Dionysus is ten meters tall, and a statue of Apollo reaches the height of 6 meters. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Besides visiting historical places of interest the tourists who have come to Naxos are able to get magnificent rest on white sandy beaches. The biggest is the beach of the region is Agios Georgios, which length exceeds one kilometer. On these beaches you can also participate in numerous discos that are organized under the open sky. There are also night clubs on the beaches, the most popular of which is called "Bikini". When you are hungry, go a bit away from the beaches as best restaurants of the town are located there. You may enjoy such restaurants as "Notos", "Vegerra", "Ecstasy" and "Jam." If you are a shopping lover, go straight to the markets of Naxos. Here you will find large selection of jewelry, clothing and perfume, as well as great choice of products in food pavilions.

If you want to relax from bustling tourist areas, go on a trip to the village of Halki. Once upon a time, this city was one of the largest and richest on the island, but today it is home to only about 500 people. Extraordinary neoclassical buildings, several beautiful Byzantine-style churches, and other preserved historic buildings are reminiscent of old times. Many tourists come to this town for the sole purpose of visiting the historic Vallindras Distillery that was opened back in 1896. The Kitron Naxou Liquor has been produced here since its foundation.

The village of Filoti located in a very beautiful mountain area offers a variety of interesting attractions as well. The town's busiest place is the central square surrounded by magnificent age-old plane trees. The village is notable for its religious buildings, such as Church of Panagia Filotitissa dating back to 1718 and Holy Trinity Church that was erected more than 300 years ago. In the vicinity of the village, there is a great choice of interesting places for walking.

In the north-eastern part of the island, you'll find one of the oldest and most picturesque villages - Koronos. All its territory can be considered a unique architectural complex. The village has miniature houses with whitewashed walls that form a complex labyrinth of narrow and winding streets. The central Platsa square accommodates several traditional taverns. Also, guests of the village will have the opportunity to visit interesting handicraft shops.

A unique medieval atmosphere has been preserved in the ancient village of Apiranthos where you can also admire many centuries-old stone and marble buildings. Here you can find one of the island's oldest churches, Apiratitsissa Church, which was built in the middle of the 17th century. The village has its own Archaeological and Natural History museums.

Fans of natural attractions will have the opportunity to visit Donousa Island located 16 km east of Naxos. Although this island cannot offer any tourist infrastructure, it is attractive for its deserted beaches as well as pristine natural beauties. Tourists can reach the island by ferry to visit its several miniature villages.