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Naxos Old Town & Kastro

4.5
·878 reviews·Naxos, Greece

Explore the ancient Venetian Kastro and charming maze-like streets of Naxos Old Town, a historic gem with artisan shops and stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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View of the fort

Naxos Old Town & Kastro

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the ancient Venetian Kastro and charming maze-like streets of Naxos Old Town, a historic gem with artisan shops and stunning views.

4.5
(878 reviews)

"It's fun to walk through the ancient streets and discover the shops, art gallery and cafes."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are everywhere. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The maze-like alleys are part of the charm. Don't stress, just enjoy the discoveries!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Venetian Kastro

The Venetian Kastro

Naxos Town

Explore the ancient Venetian castle, a maze of alleys and historic architecture designed to ward off pirates.

Old Market Streets

Old Market Streets

Naxos Old Town

Wander through charming, narrow streets filled with artisan shops, galleries, and cafes.

Naxos Archaeological Museum

Naxos Archaeological Museum

Kastro

Discover artifacts and learn about the history of Naxos within the former boarding school.

Temple of Apollo (Portara)

Temple of Apollo (Portara)

Near the port

Iconic marble gateway offering stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Labyrinth

Naxos Old Town and Kastro are a maze of narrow, winding streets. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to get a little lost – that's part of the charm! Many visitors recommend exploring early or late to avoid the midday sun and crowds.

Restoration in Progress

Significant restoration work is underway in the Kastro. While this means some areas might be temporarily inaccessible, it also offers a unique glimpse into ongoing preservation efforts and the historical architecture.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon/Sunset
Why
Golden hour light, beautiful views
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-season (April, May, Sept, Oct)
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Greece can take all my money #naxos #greece #greekisland #traveldiscover
@thelittlebasketco
119.8K likes • 938.2K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are everywhere. You'll be doing a lot of walking! Instagram

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The maze-like alleys are part of the charm. Don't stress, just enjoy the discoveries! Instagram+1

perhaps one of the best things to do in Greece #cat #naxos #greece #travel #catsoftiktok
@mcjsalad
113.4K likes • 682.5K views
my favorite old town out of all the old towns I visited on my greece tour 🥰😆. • • • • • • #naxosoldtown #oldtownnaxos #oldtown #summerstroll #stroll #oldmarketstreet #islandhopper #naxosgreece #naxos #naxosisland #greecetravel #exploregreece
tiwis
0 likes • 2.5K views

☀️ Beat the Midday Heat

Explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun and biggest crowds. TikTok

🏛️ Check Restoration Status

Some areas of the Kastro are under renovation, but it's still worth exploring. Reddit

AMEN NIGHT CLUB // OLD TOWN NAXOS ISLAND OPEN EVERY NIGHT WITH SPECIAL EVENT AND FAMOUS DJ FROM ATHENS / MYKONOS / ABOARD DOORS OPEN 00:00 / CU ON THE DANCE-FLOOR H O L Y N I G H L I F E #naxos #naxosisland #naxosgreece #club #night #nightlife #nightclub #cyclades #greece
amen_nightclub
53 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential

Cobblestone streets and uneven paths are everywhere. You'll be doing a lot of walking! Instagram

🗺️ Embrace Getting Lost

The maze-like alleys are part of the charm. Don't stress, just enjoy the discoveries! Instagram+1

☀️ Beat the Midday Heat

Explore early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun and biggest crowds. TikTok

🏛️ Check Restoration Status

Some areas of the Kastro are under renovation, but it's still worth exploring. Reddit

🛍️ Shop for Local Crafts

Discover unique jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs in the old market streets. Instagram

🐱 Friendly Felines

You'll likely encounter many friendly cats lounging around the old town. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(878 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Naxos Old Town and Kastro for its charming, labyrinthine streets, rich history, and authentic atmosphere, often comparing it favorably to more crowded islands. The ongoing restoration is seen as a positive effort to preserve its heritage, though it can lead to temporary closures.

"It’s fun to walk through the ancient streets and discover the shops, art gallery and cafes. There’s is a lot of restoration happening at the moment which is nice to see. One worker let us peak our heads inside a door and see the gigantic beautiful room they were restoring. You can get a feel for what it was like back then and pretty amazing to imagine how they lived. The museum is nice and can see the old boarding school that it later became with some photos and brief history. Lunch on the roof top cafe was fabulous- food and service !"

Lisa Cefalu

"The town was built around the castle as a maze to fend off pirates. There are tiny doors and windows as you walk around the castle and some ruins to show how they protected their belongings and is fascinating to walk around."

j lai

"Great place to visit in Naxos. I went here at the recommendation of a friend and it’s a sprawling area with some little shops and a museum and cute little alleyways. Up some amount of stairs but not difficult to get to at all."

Sarah Chou

What People Like

Charming maze-like streets
Historic Venetian Kastro
Authentic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Restoration closures
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Naxos Old Town and Kastro are located right in Naxos Town, adjacent to the ferry port. If you arrive by ferry, it's a short walk. Taxis are also readily available from the port to take you to the entrance of the old town. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity, especially during peak season. It's often recommended to park a short walk away and explore on foot. TikTok

Naxos Airport (JNX) is small. Taxis are the most convenient way to get from the airport to Naxos Town and the Old Town/Kastro. TikTok

Naxos Town, including the Old Town and Kastro, is best explored on foot. The streets are narrow and often pedestrianized. TikTok

While buses serve the wider island, Naxos Town itself is very walkable. If arriving from another part of the island, buses will likely drop you near the port, which is a short walk away. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Naxos Old Town and the Kastro itself is free. You can wander through the streets and explore the exterior architecture without purchasing a ticket. Instagram

The Kastro is an open area and can be explored at any time. However, individual shops, cafes, and the museum within the Kastro will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. Reddit

Yes, there is a small entrance fee to visit the Naxos Archaeological Museum located within the Kastro. Check current prices upon arrival. Reddit

While not as common as in larger cities, you might find local guides offering tours, especially during peak season. It's also easy to explore independently. Instagram

The Kastro is accessible at night, and it can be a magical experience with fewer people. However, be mindful of lighting and ensure you have a flashlight if exploring very late. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can wander through charming alleys, discover artisan shops and galleries, visit the Naxos Archaeological Museum, and enjoy rooftop cafes with stunning views. The Kastro offers a glimpse into medieval architecture. InstagramReddit+1

The Kastro is a Venetian castle built in the 13th century to protect residents from pirate raids. It's a maze of narrow streets, tiny doors, and historic buildings, offering a unique historical experience. InstagramReddit

Yes, the old market streets are lined with numerous shops selling local crafts, jewelry, clothing, souvenirs, and art. Instagram+1

It can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season and midday. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds. TikTokInstagram

Naxos Old Town is known for its many resident cats, often seen lounging in sunny spots. They are generally friendly and accustomed to people. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are many tavernas, cafes, and restaurants scattered throughout the Old Town and Kastro, many offering rooftop seating with great views. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Many rooftop cafes and restaurants offer fantastic views of the town and the Aegean Sea, especially beautiful during sunset. TikTokReddit

You'll find traditional Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, and local Naxian specialties. Many places offer a charming dining experience. TikTok+1

Yes, numerous cafes are perfect for a coffee break, a refreshing drink, or a light snack while exploring the old town. Reddit

Certainly! Several bars are located within the Old Town, offering a great atmosphere for evening drinks, some with live music or DJs. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

The narrow, winding alleys, the Kastro's architecture, colorful doorways, and the Portara at sunset are all incredibly photogenic. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden glow. Sunset at the Portara is a must-capture moment. TikTokInstagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Be respectful when photographing private residences or inside museums. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow streets and expansive views. A zoom lens can be useful for details within the Kastro. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas, especially over historical sites or residential areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Naxos Old Town and Kastro can be a fun adventure for families. The maze-like streets of the Kastro can feel like a real-life treasure hunt for children, encouraging exploration and imagination. Reddit The numerous shops offer visual stimulation, and the friendly cats are always a hit with younger visitors. TikTok+1

Consider visiting the Naxos Archaeological Museum for a brief educational stop, though it might be more engaging for older children. The open spaces within the Kastro and the nearby waterfront provide areas for kids to move around. Pack plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for uneven terrain. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Naxos Old Town and Kastro are very welcoming for solo travelers. The compact nature of the area makes it easy to navigate and explore independently. Instagram+1 You can spend hours wandering the alleys, discovering hidden gems, and enjoying the local atmosphere at your own pace. Instagram+1

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can comfortably dine alone, perhaps enjoying a rooftop view or people-watching. The friendly cats also provide some charming company. TikTok+1 The safety of the area is generally high, making it a comfortable destination for solo exploration. Instagram

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Naxos Old Town and Kastro are a dream. The narrow, winding alleys with their whitewashed walls and colorful accents offer endless compositional possibilities. Instagram+1 The Venetian architecture of the Kastro provides a rich historical backdrop, with unique doorways, arches, and textures to capture. Instagram

Don't miss the Portara at sunset for iconic shots. TikTok The Old Market Streets are also fantastic for capturing vibrant scenes of local life, shops, and the ubiquitous cats. TikTok+1 Visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon will yield the best light. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Venetian Kastro

The Kastro in Naxos Old Town is a fascinating remnant of Venetian rule, dating back to the 13th century. It was strategically built as a fortified settlement to protect residents from pirate attacks. As you wander through its labyrinthine alleys, you'll notice the unique architecture designed for defense, including tiny doors and windows. Many of the buildings within the Kastro have been converted into homes, shops, and the Naxos Archaeological Museum. InstagramReddit

While much of the original structure remains, significant restoration efforts are currently underway. This means some areas might be temporarily closed, but it also provides a unique opportunity to witness the preservation of historical sites. Visitors can still get a strong sense of the Kastro's past, imagining life within its walls centuries ago. The museum offers a deeper dive into the island's history, showcasing artifacts found within the Kastro and beyond. Reddit

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven and steep in places. The Kastro is best explored at a leisurely pace, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden corners. Instagram

The Charm of Naxos Old Town Streets

Naxos Old Town, also known as the Old Market Street, is a delightful area to get lost in. Unlike the more structured Kastro, the Old Town is a vibrant network of narrow, whitewashed alleys that open up into small squares and courtyards. This area is brimming with character, featuring a variety of artisan shops, boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafes. It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs, local handicrafts, and enjoy a leisurely stroll. Instagram+2

Many visitors describe the Old Town as having a similar charm to Mykonos or Santorini but with significantly fewer crowds, especially outside of peak season. This makes it a more relaxed and authentic experience. You can find everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to clothing and local delicacies. The atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, inviting you to linger and explore at your own pace. Instagram

Don't miss: Keep an eye out for the many friendly cats that call the Old Town home; they often add to the picturesque scenes. TikTok+1 The area is also home to several churches, such as the Church of Pantanassa and Saint Triada, adding to its historical and cultural appeal. Instagram

Sunset at the Temple of Apollo (Portara)

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