Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos

A Refreshing Taste of Naxos: Citron Tasting and Distillery Tour

If you’re visiting Naxos and want an experience that’s both informative and delightfully indulgent, the Citron Tasting and Distillery Tour offers a fantastic glimpse into the island’s unique spirit-making traditions. For around $69, you spend about an hour exploring a family-run distillery that has been perfecting its craft since 1915. Led by Sofia, a warm and engaging guide, this tour takes place at the charming Promponas Distillery, just a short drive from the island’s main sites.

What makes this tour truly stand out are two key features: first, its focus on Kitron, an exclusive Naxian citron liqueur** that you can’t find anywhere else, and second, the personalized attention offered by a small group (maximum six people). You’ll walk through lush citrus orchards, learn traditional distillation methods, and enjoy tasting sessions paired with delicious local Greek snacks.

A potential consideration is that the tasting experience can get quite boozy—some reviews mention spending up to two hours on this tour—and thus, it might not be ideal if you prefer a more subdued or brief activity. Also, booking well in advance (about 37 days ahead on average) is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy authentic local flavors and family stories, as well as those keen on tasting Greek spirits like ouzo, rakomelo, and citron-based liquors in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Key Points

• Exclusive Naxian Spirit: The tour highlights the island’s only locally produced citron liqueur, Kitron.
• Authentic Family Business: Run by a family with roots dating back over a century, offering a personal touch.
• Tastings & Pairings: Includes multiple local spirits combined with Greek appetizers like figs, olives, and marzipan, making it a flavorful education.
• Educational & Fun: Guides like Sofia bring warmth and insight, making the process accessible and engaging.
• Small Group Advantage: Limited to six guests, ensuring more interaction and tailored experiences.
• Suitable for All: Most travelers, including families with babies, are welcomed, with special care taken to include everyone.

A Deep Dive into Naxos’s Citron Spirit Experience

When we think about the essence of a small Greek island like Naxos, it’s often the family stories, local flavors, and craft traditions that stay with us. This citron distillery tour offers just that—an authentic peek into a family legacy that has been crafting spirits for over 100 years.

The Setting and the Itinerary

The tour begins in the outdoors of the Probona Distillery, situated beside a beautiful citrus garden. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted with homemade lemonade and Greek appetizers, setting a warm, inviting tone. The outdoor patio is an ideal spot to start, with lush greenery and fragrant citrus trees creating a peaceful ambiance.

From there, your host (Catalina during our visit, as reviews confirm Sofia’s warmth) takes you into the citrus orchard. This is more than just a walk; it’s a chance to see how Naxian citrus trees are cared for and to understand their importance to the local economy. You might find yourself tasting fresh citrus fruits and traditional Naxian marzipan, covered in dark chocolate—simple, tasty, and perfectly paired with the spirits you’ll sample later.

Inside the Distillery

Inside, you’ll find walls decorated with photos of the founder and family, anchoring the experience in tradition. The distillery process is explained clearly, with Sofia or Catalina sharing stories about how the family business began in 1915. The process of distilling citron is fascinating, especially since Kitron is produced exclusively on Naxos—meaning it’s a true local treasure.

The Tasting Experience

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the sampling session. You’ll try a variety of spirits including Naxian ouzo, raki, and three different kinds of citron liquer, distinguishable by their colors and sweetness levels. The accompanying snacks—candied citron, figs, olives, dark chocolate—are thoughtfully chosen to complement each spirit, enhancing the tasting experience.

In reviews, guests praise the generous servings and the fact that they often end up a bit tipsy, which can be quite fun. For example, one reviewer mentions, “the servings are wild. Very easy and affordable way to get the party started.”

Personal Touch and Family Stories

What truly elevates this tour is the personal warmth of the guides. Sofia, or Catalina, makes everyone feel like family. Their warmth, combined with their knowledge, turns what could be a simple tasting into a memorable cultural exchange. Several reviews mention how Sofia’s storytelling and hospitality make the experience special, with one describing her as “an amazing representative of her family’s distillery.”

One touching story from a reviewer involves Sofia treating an infant with kindness, and even giving candied citron leaves free of charge. These moments of genuine care and friendliness underscore why this isn’t just a tasting; it’s a personal connection to Naxos’s traditions.

The Value and Why It’s Worth Your Time

At $69.14, this tour offers excellent value for the depth of experience. You’re not just tasting spirits; you’re learning about a local craft, hearing family stories, and enjoying regional snacks—an all-around taste of Naxian culture. The small group size ensures you get individual attention, making it easy to ask questions and savor each moment.

The duration—about an hour—is perfect for travelers who want a meaningful yet relaxed activity without taking up half a day. Plus, the ability to select from several time slots adds flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy learning about traditions, and love delicious food and drinks. Families with children (including babies) will appreciate the hospitality and relaxed pace. Foodies and spirits enthusiasts will find the tastings particularly satisfying, especially since they are paired with authentic Greek snacks.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Naxos Souvenir

If you’re looking for a memorable, interactive, and delicious family experience on Naxos, this citron distillery tour fits the bill. It’s more than a tasting—it’s a chance to connect with the island’s heritage, enjoy some fantastic local spirits, and savor authentic Greek snacks in a welcoming setting.

While it does involve quite a bit of sampling, which might leave you a little tipsy, that’s part of the fun and charm. With Sofia’s friendly guidance, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve made new friends and gained a deeper appreciation for Naxos’s local flavors. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a genuine taste of Greece, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that’s well worth the price.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or babies?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the reviews indicate that Sofia and the team are very accommodating, even including infants. Expect friendly handling and some gentle tasting of citron leaves for kids.

How long does the tour last?
The distillery tour and tastings take approximately 60 minutes, but guests often find themselves lingering over drinks and snacks—some reviews mention spending up to two hours enjoying the experience.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the distillery, tastings of multiple spirits including citron, ouzo, and raki, and several Greek appetizers like figs, marzipan, and candied citron.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 37 days ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons, as the tour is popular and places fill quickly.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Promponas Distillery in Naxos and finishes back at the same location.

Is the tour family-run?
Absolutely. The distillery has been family-operated since 1915, and the guides share stories that add a personal touch to the experience.

Is there a dress code or any specific requirements?
No specific dress code, but comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended for walking in the orchard and distillery.

Can I buy the spirits afterwards?
Yes, a small gift shop on-site offers bottles of the spirits tasted, as well as other local products.

What if I book and can’t attend?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, so you can reschedule or get a full refund if needed.

Is the experience worth the price?
Most reviews agree that it is. You get an authentic, personalized insight into Naxian traditions, plus generous tastings and tasty snacks, making it a good value for a memorable cultural activity.

This citron distillery tour blends education, hospitality, and flavorful fun into a compact experience that will leave you with more than just a souvenir bottle—you’ll take home stories and tastes to remember. Perfect for those who want a taste of local life in a relaxed setting, it’s a highlight for many visitors to Naxos.