Portara, the landmark of Naxos island
Naxos Sights & Attractions
The Venetian Castle of Chora
The Temple of Demeter in Sangri
Discover the Best Sights in Naxos!
Due to its long history, this is an island with many interesting sites and monuments.
The Marble Gate of Portara, the statue of Kouros of Melanes and the temple of Demeter are some of the most important monuments from ancient times. Other important sights are the Kastro of town (castle) and the Church of Panagia Drossiani.
You can see the best Sights in Naxos below: Ancient sites, Museums, Churches, Castles and more points of interest. You can filter all attractions by category and location.
After seeing all the sights, don't skip checking out All Things to Do in Naxos (best beaches, villages, restaurants and more)
Portara
Ancient SitesPortara is the trademark of Naxos. It is the first sight of the island that the eye catches as the ferry approaches the port. It comprised the doorway of a massive temple that would be dedicated to Apollo.
Kastro
CastlesKastro (Castle) is the most picturesque quarter in Chora. It comprised the Town of Naxos when the island was under Venetian rule. The modern town is constructed around it. There is an elevator that takes you to the highest point.
Not to miss: Castle walking tour and sunset at Portara
Temple of Demeter
Ancient SitesThe ancient temple dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, dates back to the 6th century BC, yet was discovered in 1949. The remains of a small church dedicated to Saint John stand next to the temple.
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Melanes Kouros Statue
Ancient SitesThe giant statue of a young man (Kouros) is situated outside the village of Melanes. It lays on the site where it was unearthed.
Apollonas Kouros Statue
Ancient SitesThe Kouros of Apollonas dates from the 8th century BC and is laid down on the site it was discovered. Archaeologists believe that it depicts a young man or Dionysus, the god of wine.
Agios Sozon chapel
ChurchesBuilt upon the steep rock, the whitewashed chapel of Agios Sozon attracts many visitors as it shines brightly under the sun.
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Archaeological Museum
MuseumsThe Archaeological Museum is situated in the quarter of Kastro, Naxos Town. It is housed in a superb 17th-century Venetian mansion, which used to be the Jesuit School of Commerce before. It is a really interesting museum that exhibits a collection of objects and artworks dating from the late Neolithic period until the early Christian times.
Panagia Drossiani
ChurchesThe church of Panagia Drossiani is standing near Moni village. It is one of the oldest churches on the island, dating back to the 6th- 7th century. Beautiful murals decorate the interior of the structure.
Hiking on Mount Zas
Outdoor ActivitiesMount Zas is the tallest mountain in Naxos and all the Cyclades islands. It is interwoven with mythology, while its slopes are home to dozens of plant and animal species.
Cave of Zas
OtherThe Cave of Zas is located on the western side of Mount Zas, at an altitude of 600 meters. According to Greek mythology, Zeus was raised there, and the inhabitants named the cave and mountain after him to honor him.
Monastery of Fotodotis
ChurchesThe Monastery of Christ Fotodotis is located on top of a hill and offers marvelous sea views. It was established in the 6th century BC, and its architecture is similar to that of a fortress.
Monastery of Kalamitsia
ChurchesThe Jesuit Monastery of Kalamitsia is located at a distance of 2 km dirt road from the village of Melanes. The monastery is deserted today but worthy of a visit for the wonderful nature surrounding it.
Agios Mamas
ChurchesAgios Mamas is one of the oldest churches of Naxos, dating back to the 9th century. The church of Agios Mamas is famous for its fine cross, sculptures, and murals. It is dedicated to Saint Mamas, the patron saint of shepherds.
Fasolas Project
OtherThe Fasolas project focuses on restoring and reviving small businesses for the new generations and the visitors of Naxos to see how everyday local life was a few decades ago.
Rock Formations
OtherRoutsouna Waterfall
OtherRoutsouna waterfall, a spectacular 20-meter plunge, is the result of two streams that run north and south of Keramoti. You need a 40-minute hike to reach the spot.
Rina Cave
OtherRina cave is a beautiful sea cave located at the beach of the same name. It can be accessed by boat from Panermos beach or from a day cruise from Naxos port.
Drillis Watermill
OtherThis traditional watermill lies in a lovely location on the banks of a small river. It is worth the visit to see the landscape and a walk following the river's path is a must.
Temple of Dionysus
Ancient SitesThe ancient temple of Dionysus is located close to Glinado village, in the area of Iria. According to the myth, Naxos was the residence of the god Dionysus; hence, it comes as no surprise that there is such a temple on the island.
Vallindras Distillery
MuseumsVallindras is a distillery in the mountainous village of Halki, the old capital of Naxos. The distillery was established in 1896, with the namesake family still running the business. Nowadays, it serves as a museum, too.
Bazeos Tower
Cultural CentresBazeos Tower is a site of historical interest that now hosts the Naxos Summer Festival annually.