Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and a major tourist destination in the Greek island chain. Whilst Santorini is popular for its stunning views and Mykonos for its nightlife, Naxos offers a peaceful alternative with some of the quietest beaches in the region. It’s also known for its greenery, offering some truly unique landscapes compared to the rest of the Cyclades.
Naxos is pretty well visited by tourists, but not as much as some of the more popular destinations in the area. This means it’s often left out of travel guides, making it hard to figure out where to stay in Naxos. There are various districts on offer, each offering something slightly different.
That’s where we come in! We’ve visited Naxos and have some tips on the three best places to stay on the island. We’ve also got hints from locals, tourism experts and traveller reviews to sum up what each destination has to offer.
Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax, soak up the unique Cycladic culture, or marvel at the scenery, we’ve got the place for you.
So let’s jump right in!
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Zoe Junior Apartment | Best Airbnb in Naxos
This apartment is our top pick for couples looking for a romantic escape, away from the tourist crowds. The interiors are somewhat basic, but the views from the patio are unbeatable. It’s also built within a traditional building, giving you a small slice of local life.
Windmill Naxos | Best Budget Hotel in Naxos
The Cyclades are among the most expensive destinations in Greece – but there are a few great hotels to help you save money. Windmill Naxos is a popular option for backpackers thanks to its extremely favourable rates. It sits in the heart of the island’s main city, which has some budget-friendly restaurants and attractions.
18 Grapes Hotel | Best Hotel in Naxos
It doesn’t get any more decadent than this five-star hotel right in the heart of Agios Prokopios! All of your needs will be fully catered to, with luxury extras like upscale toiletries and a relaxing private garden. It’s one of the best-reviewed hotels in Naxos, and guests can’t get enough of the breakfast spread provided every morning.
Agios Prokopios
Agios Prokopios is the most visited destination on the island thanks to its stunning beach! For first-time visitors, you’ll find Agios Prokopios is the easiest place to navigate, and it’s home to some great excursion providers during the summer seasons.
Chora (Naxos Town)
Chora is the main town in Naxos – it is the historic heart of the island, featuring attractions that date back centuries! As the main port on the island, this is also where supplies arrive first.
Plaka
It goes without saying that the best place for couples would be one of our favourite beaches in Greece! The nearby cliffs offer gorgeous sunset views that will make you never want to leave. The beach itself is pretty calm, as is the attached village from which it gets its name.
Naxos is one of the best places to stay in Greece. It’s a huge island with a lot to offer, but most of the tourist hotspots are on the western coast. This is also the most populous part of the island, where you will find some of the best cultural and historic attractions. If you want to visit the rest of Naxos, there are some fantastic tour companies offering round-trips, and driving is also pretty easy.
Chora (sometimes referred to as Hora or Naxos Town on maps) is the largest town in Naxos. If you want to rub elbows with locals and soak up a vibrant atmosphere, this is the place to be. It’s where the ferries all arrive, keeping you well connected to the rest of the Cyclades. As the largest town, it’s also a great spot for those visiting Greece on a budget, since eating out is a little bit cheaper here.
Agios Prokopios has long been a hotspot for visitors heading to the island and is the area most frequented by tourists. The area is home to a stunning small beach and isn’t far from the airport. It’s pretty close to Chora, so you can easily travel between the two towns throughout your stay.
Last but certainly not least, we have Plaka! It’s home to one of the best beaches in Greece, and makes an ideal destination for couples and families. Plaka is a super peaceful town, and the views are hard to beat.
Still unsure where to stay? We’ve got more detailed guides on all three areas below, as well as the top accommodation and things to do in each.
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Naxos’ Top 3 Places to Stay in
1. Agios Prokopios – Where to Stay in Naxos for your First Time
Agios Prokopios is the most visited destination on the island thanks to its stunning beach! For first-time visitors, you’ll find Agios Prokopios is the easiest place to navigate, and it’s home to some great excursion providers during the summer seasons.
You can easily reach Chora on public transport, and it’s also the closest town to the airport. If you’d rather skip the tourist crowds, the neighboring town of Agia Anna has similar vibes but offers more locally-owned attractions.
Aphrodite Deluxe | Best Apartment in Agios Prokopios
This spacious apartment has its own roof terrace and hot tub, giving you a peaceful location to enjoy the sunset every evening. Furnishings are bright and contemporary, with space for up to four guests. The beach is right on your doorstep with the main promenade running right by the front of the house, so you’ll never be far from a taverna.
Agia Anna Studios | Best Aparthotel near Agios Prokopios
If you’re on a bit of a budget, this backpacker-friendly hotel is a great choice for you. They offer a variety of different studios, and some fantastic social spaces where you can meet other guests. It’s located in Agia Anna – a smaller and quieter town just two minutes from Agios Prokopios by car.
18 Grapes Hotel | Best Hotel in Agios Prokopios
You’ll need to splurge a little, but this stunning five-star hotel is worth every penny. Perched on the hill behind Agios Prokopios, the hotel boasts a pool terrace with marvellous sunset views over the town. There’s also a separate dining terrace where you can book a romantic meal for two, making this a great option for couples visiting Naxos.
Things to See and Do in Agios Prokopios:
- Paralia Agios Prokopios is the main beach that takes up much of the southern edge of the town, perfect for sunbathing and watersports.
- Agia Anna is a quirky little town that you can reach on foot. It’s more local in atmosphere, giving you an authentic insight into life on Naxos.
- Aqua Fun is a small waterpark that is fun for the whole family with numerous slides and a tiki bar.
- Check out the area’s tavernas – we love Gorgona in particular, which offers stunning views and rustic cuisine.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Chora (Naxos Town) – Where to Stay in Naxos on a Budget
Chora is the main town in Naxos and the historic heart of the island, featuring attractions that date back centuries! As the main port on the Naxos, this is also where supplies arrive first. For budget travellers, this means it’s where you will find the most affordable restaurants on Naxos.
Accommodation is also pretty budget-friendly, especially since most tourists head to the more popular beach towns. Chora might not have the sweeping vistas of Plaka or Agios Prokopios, but it’s well connected by public transport. This means you can easily take day trips to the beaches without paying the extortionate living costs.
Naxos Cave | Best Airbnb in Chora
Stay in a traditional Cycladic Houses without breaking the bank! These buildings are known for their whitewashed walls, stone façades and cosy interiors. Rooms are pretty small, but this creates a cosy atmosphere. It’s also right in the heart of the town – perfect for hitting up all the main attractions.
Windmill Naxos | Backpacker-Friendly Hotel in Chora
This might be a hotel, but it comes with similar vibes as a hostel. There are plenty of social spaces and a common kitchen area – perfect for those who want to self-cater but can’t afford an apartment. Saint George beach is only a two-minute walk away from the front door.
Xenia Hotel | Best Hotel in Chora
Down a cobbled backstreet in Chora, this hotel has a romantic charm that makes it popular with couples visiting the island. The rooms themselves are somewhat basic, but come with plenty of space and views over the street below. Their buffet breakfast saves you even more money, and you can order meals to your room for extra privacy.
Things to See and Do in Chora:
- Take part in a historic craft in this unique marble carving experience hosted by a local artisan and historian.
- There are so many islands in the Cyclades that it’s impossible to visit them all in one go, but you can certainly tick a few off the list in this day-long sailing trip from the harbour.
- Portara is an imposing gate on the islet of Palatia and the last remnant of the Temple of Apollo – you can see this from the harbour.
- Take a walk around the Castro. This is Chora’s Old Town and dates back to Venetian rule over the Cyclades.
- Axiotissa is a popular restaurant just outside Chora. It is famous for its yellow façade, but the Greek-Turkish fusion cuisine is just as delightful.
3. Plaka – Best Area in Naxos for Families and Couples
It goes without saying that the best place for couples would be one of our favourite beaches in Greece! The nearby cliffs offer gorgeous sunset views that will make you never want to leave. The beach itself is pretty calm, as is the attached village from which it gets its name.
So why is this a great destination for families? For much the same reason, really! There are some great family-oriented accommodations here, and the laid-back vibes make it the ideal spot to base yourself with kids. If you visit Greece during the summer, there are also some great snorkelling areas within walking distance.
Zoe Junior Apartment | Best Apartment in Plaka
This one-bedroom apartment is built within a Cycladic house, giving you the chance to experience this iconic architectural style in person. The interiors are pretty basic, but have plenty of space filled with natural light. We love the terrace, which comes with al fresco dining, a hammock and gorgeous views across Plaka beach. It doesn’t get any more romantic than this!
Villa Agellos | Best Villa in Plaka
Families will love this roomy two-bedroom villa on the outskirts of the town. It comes with a huge terrace and stunning views, but the secluded location means you won’t be disturbed by noisy revellers on the beach below. That being said, you can easily reach Plaka beach on foot within five minutes. Just be prepared for the walk back up!
Ampelos Resort Hotel | Best Resort in Plaka
Get the best of both worlds in this sunny aparthotel right in the heart of Plaka! You will stay in your very own apartment whilst also enjoying the added benefits of a hotel. Rooms are bright and come with kitchenettes and sea views. A continental breakfast is offered every morning, and you can also request packed lunches to take to the beach with you.
Things to See and Do in Plaka:
- Pack your beach bags and head to Plaka Beach for a fun-filled day.
- Artos Bakery is a great spot for trying out Greek coffee and local baked goods at pretty great prices.
- Take a hike up to the many churches in the hills surrounding the area for insight into local tradition.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Naxos
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Naxos and where to stay.
What To Pack For Naxos
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Naxos
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Naxos
Naxos is a gorgeous destination right in the heart of the Cyclades. Despite being the largest island in the group, it’s also one of the most peaceful. This makes it ideal if you want to avoid the huge tourist crowds of Santorini and Mykonos. You’ll also have more opportunities to connect with local culture, making it the best place to stay in Greece for an authentic experience.
If we had to pick one place that really stands out for us, it would be Plaka! You’ll get to enjoy marvellous sunsets every evening, unique cultural attractions throughout the day and, of course, the inviting sands of Plaka Beach. It’s also really well connected to Chora and Agios Prokopios.
That being said, the best place for you really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. Chora is packed with historic attractions, cultural delights and hidden alleyways ready for explorers. Agios Prokopios, on the other hand, has a busier beach with plenty of bars and restaurants lining the promenade. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Greece.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Greece.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Greece instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Greece.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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