Naxos Weather & Time to Visit

What is the best time to visit Naxos? Most tourist facilities start operating in mid May and do not close until the end of October, although it is possible to find accommodation options and places where you can eat during the winter.
Thanks to the Mediterranean climate that guarantees a hot summer season every year, the winters in Naxos are relatively mild, offering to all off-season visitors the opportunity to experience an authentic side of the Cyclades.

Best time to visit Naxos

Naxos is predominantly seen as a summer destination for many reasons.
The summer season starts in June and continues well into mid September, with the peak season being from mid July to early September.
The biggest advantage of visiting Naxos during the summer season is the warm and sunny Mediterranean weather, with the temperature reaching 30°C or more.

Throughout the summer season, there are around 10 daily ferry crossings, connecting Naxos to Athens and other popular islands, including but not limited to Paros, Santorini, Mykonos and Crete.

All the hotels, restaurants and other local facilities are bustling with life and many cultural events or festivals take place.
The least busy summer month is June, which is probably the best time to visit Naxos, since the island is has some life but not overcrowded.

As far as the peak season is concerned, keep in mind that hotel prices reach their highest point and availability is limited due to the increased demand.
If you are planning to visit during this time of the year, booking your hotel as early as 3 or 4 months in advance is required in order to find lodging suitable for your needs.

For the travellers who are into kitesurfing and windsurfing, the best time to visit Naxos to practice your skills is from mid July until the end of August, when the summer wind known as Meltemi is strong all over the Aegean Sea. Plan your trip for a minimum of 7 days.

 

The Orthodox Easter week, usually in April or May, is one of the most lively times of the year to visit Naxos and other islands, as well as the Greek countryside.
On the occurrence of the Easter celebrations, many religious feasts take place and this is a great time to get to know the local customs and traditions.
Each village in Naxos may have its own way to celebrate, with unique traditions and locally prepared dishes that are one of a kind.

Another plus is the excellent spring weather at around 20°C, making this time of the year ideal for long hikes on the Naxian mainland.
Your days spent in Naxos will be sunny and the Cycladic nature will have just bloomed.
Although going to the beach is not recommended as the waters will not be warm enough yet, it is possible to go for a swim if you can tolerate colder temperatures.

It is worth mentioning that prices are much lower compared to the summer season, but numerous hotels and restaurants will be open and prepared to welcome you.

 

September and October are quite popular months for those who want to skip the peak season but are not that interested in seeing the island during the winter time.
With the weather still being hot and the sea waters remaining warm, the early autumn months feel more like late summer in Naxos.
Most of the hotels are open until the end of October and the room prices drop significantly, while the island’s beaches become way less crowded as soon as the summer is over.
Visiting Naxos in September or October is definitely recommended, especially to those who want to experience the Cycladic landscape at its most tranquil state, without having to skip going to the beach due to the weather.

 

Although the island of Naxos is not considered a winter destination, the winter months are characterized by mild temperatures from 7 to 15°C and barely any rainy days.
Ferry connections to Athens may take place on a daily basis but most of the hotels shut down, even though a minority of accommodation facilities is still available in winter.
A big number of restaurants and taverns remain open as well, especially the ones mostly visited by locals.
The number of tourists who pick Naxos as a winter destination is relatively small but it tends to increase during the carnival season, when many folklore traditions take place and revive the island.