If you’re wondering where to stay in Naxos, choosing the right area can make a huge difference in your trip. From lively beach towns like Agios Prokopios to the charming streets of Naxos Town (Chora) and quiet villages in the mountains, each part of the island offers a completely different experience.
After spending time on the island, I’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Naxos based on your travel style—whether you’re visiting for the first time, prioritizing beaches, or looking for something more local and peaceful.
This guide will help you quickly figure out where to base yourself, plus share the best places to stay in each area.
Quick Guide: Best Areas to Stay in Naxos (Best Areas at a Glance)
- Best for first-timers: Naxos Town (Chora) and Agios Georgios
- Best for beaches areas: Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka
- Best for families: Agios Georgios Beach
- Best for quiet: Mikri Vigla, Moutsouna, Alyko
- Best for authenticity: Mountain villages like Apeiranthos, Filoti and Halki
Naxos Town (Chora) and Agios Georgios Beach
If it’s your first time visiting Naxos, Chora—the island’s main town—is the most convenient place to stay. Here you’ll find a mix of history and modern amenities. The Venetian castle and winding alleys of the Old Town are perfect for wandering. The Portara (Temple of Apollo) offers a magical sunset view.
Agios Georgios (Saint George) is the beach area of Naxos Town. The beach is an ideal spot for families. It is shallow far out. The northern end is protected from the wind. The walk to town is only about five to ten minutes from here.
- Pros: Central location, plenty of restaurants and shops, nightlife, and easy bus connections.
- Cons: Can be busy in high season, limited beach access compared to other areas.
- Best for: First-time visitors, those without a rental car, and travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Hotels
Naxos Center Houses – These traditional houses in the center of Chora offer a great option for families or large groups. Each apartment has a small kitchen, and some have great views of the castle. They are on a quiet street in town but still close to restaurants and a short walk to the beach.
Infinity Apartments – The apartments are located right on Agios Georgios beach, just behind a small beach bar. This offers excellent access to the family-friendly beach. It is also a short walk to town from here.
Central Cycladic Cove – While this one-unit property is small, it is perfect for a solo traveler or couple. The bed is very comfortable. The location is excellent, being a short walk to Chora and to Saint George beach. The kitchen is well equipped to cook simple meals.
Nissaki Beach Hotel – This hotel is one of the few luxury hotels located on Saint George beach. It is at the shallow well-protected end, making it a great option for families. Hotel amenities include a pool, a beachside restaurant, breakfast and room service. It is close to a public parking lot and within walk distance to town.
Alpha Studios – Alpha Studios is an adult-only hotel. Each room has a kitchenette for cooking. The location is great as it is between the beach and town. It has fantastic wifi, so if you need to work remotely, this is a great choice!
Agios Prokopios & Agia Anna
These two neighboring beach towns are just a short drive from Chora. They are among the most popular places to stay in Naxos. Agios Prokopios is renowned for its long, sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Agia Anna offers a slightly smaller, more laid-back vibe.
- Pros: Beautiful beaches, lively tavernas and bars, easy access to Chora.
- Cons: Can get crowded in peak summer months.
- Best for: Beach lovers, couples, and those who want nightlife close by without staying in the main town.
Hotels
Liana Beach Hotel & Spa – A truly beachfront property on one of the best beaches in Naxos. Liana Beach Hotel & Spa offers a variety of rooms with a modern Cycladic feel. The amenities are many, featuring a pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Breakfast is available, and some rooms can be booked with half board as well.
Elisso’s Philoxenia – This traditional Greek Hotel is just steps from Agios Prokopios but more budget-friendly than some options. This makes it a great choice for the budget-conscious traveler. The studio room options include a kitchenette, allowing you to prepare light meals. You can walk to many restaurants nearby, and the bus stop is also a short walk away.
18 Grapes Hotel – The ultimate in luxury on Naxos. This is one of the few five-star hotels on the island. It is a bit further away from the beach, but there is a pool with a sea view. Amenities include a fine dining restaurant, bar, spa and tours of the local winery (for an extra fee). This is a great choice for couples who want a luxury vacation in Greece without the Mykonos prices!
Santana Beach – This beachfront property offers great views of the sea and is directly on the beach. It has a beach bar and restaurant, and some units have kitchens. Breakfast is offered, and some rooms have a hot tub.
Lista Studios – Lista Studios has an excellent location right by the sea with stunning views and easy beach access. The location and the kitchenette amenity make it a good choice for families. There are restaurants within walking distance.
Plaka Beach
Stretching for kilometers, Plaka is one of Naxos’ most beautiful beaches. It’s quieter and longer than Agios Prokopios, making it ideal for families and couples who want to relax in a serene environment. There are many cafes and restaurants all along the beach, and many of them will be walkable from your hotel.
- Pros: Family-friendly, spacious beach, relaxed vibe.
- Cons: Fewer nightlife options.
- Best for: Families, couples, and travelers seeking a peaceful beach stay.
Hotels
Villa Veranda – This luxury hotel is located a short walk from the stunning Plaka Beach. There are several room options available, all of which include a kitchen. Breakfast is available for purchase, and most rooms offer outdoor space to relax in after a day out exploring or for your morning coffee.
Keti Kapri – Featuring a beautiful garden and sun terrace, you may not want to leave the hotel. Thankfully, the beach isn’t far away, so you can enjoy both easily. There is a mini market on site, so you can easily prepare breakfast in your kitchenette. Given the amenities and location, this is a great choice for anyone wanting to stay on Plaka Beach.
Plaza Beach Hotel – This hotel is located at the far end of Plaka beach, making it a great choice for those who want a very quiet stay. The hotel has a large pool, a gym and breakfast is included. One perk of staying here is that it is the last stop on the bus route, so you can easily get to town and not have to worry about which stop is yours on the way back!
Almiriki Naxos Beachside Living – The name says it all. You could live here. The beachside location is great, and each room has a kitchenette. Some rooms feature a hot tub as well. Restaurants are close by, and water sports are also nearby.
Mikri Vigla & Alyko
If you’re looking for something more remote, head to the southwest coast. Mikri Vigla is famous for its strong winds, making it a hotspot for kite and windsurfing. Alyko, nearby, is quieter and surrounded by cedar forests and hidden coves.
- Pros: Secluded, natural beauty, great for water sports.
- Cons: Limited dining and nightlife, best with a rental car.
- Best for: Nature lovers, adventure travelers, and anyone seeking tranquility.
Hotels
Mikri Vigla Hotel Beach Resort – This place is a true resort offering so much that you don’t have to leave. (Although I recommend you explore Naxos!) The hotel has a large pool, beachfront access, and a full-service restaurant. You have the option to book all-inclusive as well. There is no direct bus access here, so you will need to rent a car, but they have plenty of parking.
Orkos Beach Hotel – Located across from the beach, this hotel offers many amenities. There is a pool, a spa, and in the spa is a hamam and hot tub. A buffet breakfast is offered and there is a playground on the hotel grounds, making it an excellent place for families.
Diamantis Studios & Apartments – These rooms are not on the beach, but are a short walk away. This means quiet and peace for those seeking it. There is a pool, and breakfast is offered. The hosts make it feel like home away from home.
Mountain Villages (Apeiranthos, Filoti, Halki)
For a completely different side of Naxos, consider staying in one of the mountain villages. Apeiranthos is known for its marble-paved streets and traditional charm, while Filoti is lively with tavernas and a central square. Halki, the old capital, offers Venetian architecture and local shops.
- Pros: Authentic local culture, traditional food, cooler mountain air.
- Cons: No beach access, quieter evenings.
- Best for: Cultural travelers, hikers, and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Hotels
Traditional Inn Pirethron – This charming house in Apeiranthos will make you feel like you live in a Greek mountain village. You have access to the entire house, making it a great option for a group of friends. You can easily walk from the parking area and the restaurants are outside your door!
Giannakis Filoxenia – Located in the heart of Filoti, this hotel offers you a central location in the village. There is on-site parking available, and several rooms offer balconies.
Traditional House in the Center of Naxos – Another beautiful traditional house in Halki. It is a ten-minute walk into the village. It offers village life and peace. However, due to the stairs, this might not be the best option if you have small children in your group.
Other Notable Areas
- Stelida: Close to both the airport and Agios Prokopios, with luxury resorts and quieter surroundings.
- Moutsouna: A remote fishing village on the east coast, perfect for those who want to disconnect completely.
Hotels
Blue Sea Naxos – Located on the edge of Agios Prokopios and Saint George beach, this hotel offers great views of the beach and town. You can also walk to Agios Prokopios beach if you want. If you stay in Stelida, you will likely want to rent a car as it is not on the bus route.
Ostria Inn – This luxury hotel in Moutsouna offers everything, which is great since Moutsouna is on the quiet side of the island. Rooms with sea views are available, and there is a pool as well. You will love staying here with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
Tips for Choosing Where to Stay in Naxos
- Transportation: If you’re relying on buses, staying in Chora or along the west coast beaches is easiest. For more remote areas, a rental car is recommended.
- Length of stay: Short trip? Stay in Chora or nearby beaches. Longer stay? Consider splitting time between the town and a village or a remote beach.
- Budget: Naxos offers everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury beachfront resorts—decide what fits your style best.
Getting to Naxos
Naxos can be reached by ferry or plane. Ferry options include departures from Piraeus and Rafina ports. Depending on which port and type of ferry you take, the ferry ride is anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. It is my preferred way to travel in Greece. Naxos port is in Chora (Town), and the main bus terminal is less than a ten-minute walk from where the ships dock.
Getting to Naxos by plane is a good option if you want to get off your flight and go directly to Naxos. The flight is very short, and several airlines serve the island. Do keep in mind that the airport in Naxos is very small, and there is no bus service to it. You should arrange a transfer before your arrival, as there are limited taxis on the island.
Naxos has a place for every type of traveler, whether you want lively nightlife, peaceful beaches, or authentic village life. If you’re visiting for the first time, either Naxos Town or the west coast beaches are a great starting point. For a deeper experience, consider spending part of your trip in a mountain village or a quieter coastal area. Wherever you choose to stay, Naxos’ mix of history, culture, and natural beauty will make your trip unforgettable.