Chalkio is a fantastic base for exploring Naxos, thanks to its strategic location and access to a variety of tours that showcase the island’s diverse attractions. Whether you’re interested in uncovering ancient ruins, tasting local products, or enjoying nature, the options here are both plentiful and well-curated. We especially like how some tours combine cultural sites like the Temple of Demetra with authentic village strolls, giving a well-rounded experience of Naxos. One standout is the Highlights of Naxos Island in 6 hours — a quick but comprehensive snapshot of the island’s best in just half a day.
For those who want to see more, the Discover Naxos in a full day tour takes you across a larger part of the island, hitting all the major highlights. Nature lovers will appreciate the Herbalism and Wildlife small group experience, which offers an intimate look at Naxos’s flora and fauna. No matter your interest or travel style, Chalkio offers a solid range of adventures that make exploring Naxos both easy and memorable.
1. Highlights of Naxos Island in 6 hours
At number 1 on our list, this tour packs the essentials of Naxos into a 6-hour window. Perfect for travelers short on time, it offers a snapshot of the island’s most iconic sights. Starting with free entrance to the Temple of Demetra, you’ll get a quick history lesson on this ancient site, built in the 6th century BC, set in a scenic valley. Then, the tour heads to the island’s oldest pottery workshop, where you can see artisans creating traditional ceramics — a great chance to pick up a unique souvenir.
Next, you’ll visit the most colorful, Instagram-worthy village, where citron tasting is included, giving you a taste of local flavors. The highlight for many is a stroll around Apiranthos, a mountain village with narrow alleyways and stone houses that seem frozen in time. This tour’s greatest strength is its efficiency; in just six hours, it hits key highlights without feeling rushed. The price of $549 for a group up to three makes it a good value for travelers wanting a quick but rich experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re short on time but still want to see Naxos’s highlights, this tour is a well-paced introduction to the island’s history, culture, and scenery.
2. Discover Naxos in a full day tour
At number 2, this full-day tour offers a more comprehensive exploration of Naxos, perfect for travelers who want to see the island’s diverse landscapes and villages. Covering 8 hours, it’s slightly longer but still manageable and packed with memorable stops. It begins with the Temple of Demetra, where the guide shares stories about this ancient Greek site. Then, you’ll visit the oldest pottery workshop, seeing artisans craft traditional pieces firsthand, which makes this tour particularly appealing to arts and craft lovers.
A highlight is a walk through Apiranthos, renowned for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The tour also includes time to explore Halki and Filoti, two of Naxos’s most picturesque villages, with a chance to sample local products and enjoy the scenery. For added flavor, you’ll visit the Eggares Olive Oil Museum, learning about the island’s olive oil production, a key part of Naxos’s agricultural identity. The $779 price for up to three people reflects the personalized experience, making it attractive for those seeking depth.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who want a full day of diverse experiences, combining culture, scenery, and local flavors into one seamless adventure.
$779 per group up to 3
3. Herbalism and Wildlife (Small group experience)
For nature enthusiasts, the Herbalism and Wildlife experience ranks high at number 3. This 4-hour excursion is designed for those eager to connect with Naxos’s natural environment. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore olive groves and oak forests, discovering the local flora that sustains the island’s ecosystem.
A key feature is the local plants herbarium and the use of a portable microscope, allowing close-up views of herbs and plants. You’ll also visit Ergostasio Olive Press to learn about traditional olive oil production and sample freshly pressed oils — a delicious way to understand how the island’s agriculture shapes its cuisine. The tour also features visits to churches like Ag. Isidoros and Panagia Drosiani, adding cultural depth to your nature experience. With a 5/5 review rating, participants praise the guide’s expertise and the hike’s beauty.
Bottom Line: This experience is best suited for active travelers interested in ecology, botany, and authentic local industries, offering a peaceful, hands-on outdoor adventure.
$102 per person
4. Naxos: Must-see sites in half a day
At number 4, this 4-hour tour is ideal if your schedule only allows a quick exploration of Naxos’s highlights. Starting with free entrance to the Temple of Demetra, it’s a compact version of the island’s cultural core. You’ll also visit the oldest pottery workshop, where artisans continue traditional craft techniques, and walk through the most colorful village, tasting fresh citrons along the way.
What sets this tour apart is the visit to one of Naxos’s oldest remaining olive mills, giving insight into local agriculture and history. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the island’s history and scenery without committing a full day. The $395 price for a group up to three makes it an accessible option for those on a tighter budget. The reviews consistently praise the tour for its concise, well-organized itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a quick yet rundown of Naxos’s top sites.
$395 per group up to 3
5. Naxos Private Full Island All Day Tour
Finally, at number 5, this private full-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Naxos’s most iconic landmarks. The flexible 8-hour itinerary includes the Temple of Demeter, a trip to a traditional pottery workshop in Damalas, and visits to the charming villages of Halki, Filoti, and Apeiranthos. You’ll also learn about olive oil production at the Eggares Olive Oil Museum, gaining an appreciation for local agriculture.
A standout feature is the visit to the Kouros of Apollonas, an unfinished ancient statue in its quarry, which provides a fascinating glimpse into Greek sculptural history. This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a personalized experience and want to explore at their own pace. The private nature offers more flexibility and deeper insights, especially for those interested in history and craftsmanship. Prices vary, but the value is evident in the customized attention and access to less-trodden sites.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want an exclusive, tailored tour experience with the comfort of a private guide, ideal for history buffs and culture seekers.
How to Choose Your Naxos Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. Short on time? The Highlights of Naxos in 6 hours offers a quick taste, but if you want a broader perspective, the full-day Discover Naxos provides more depth. Nature lovers should look into the Herbalism and Wildlife for a hands-on outdoor experience, while history aficionados might prefer the Full Island Private Tour for a personalized deep dive.
Practical tips: book early during high season — especially for popular full-day or private tours — and check availability for your preferred dates. If your time is limited, the half-day tour is a reliable way to see the best without feeling rushed.
Exploring Naxos from Chalkio offers a range of options, each with its own charm and focus. If you’re short on time, the Highlights of Naxos is an excellent introduction. For a more detailed visit, the full-day discovery or the private full island tour provide deeper insights. Nature lovers will appreciate the Herbalism and Wildlife, making for a well-rounded experience of Naxos’s rich environment. Whatever you choose, booking early guarantees a spot on these memorable adventures.