Wondering Where to Stay in Naxos without a car? In this article, we will look at the best areas to stay in Naxos without a car (include map), how to get around without a car, and the best hotels in Naxos without a car for all budget visitors.
Naxos is a beautiful island located in the Aegean Sea in Greece. It is the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago and is well-connected with other islands and its mainland by flight and ferry.
The island is served by Naxos Island National Airport. You can fly directly to Naxos from Athens. Flight durations are around 45 minutes.
You can also reach Naxos by ferry from Athens’ main port, Piraeus. The ferry journey from Piraeus to Naxos takes approximately 3-5 hours, depending on the type of ferry. There are also ferry connections from other Cycladic islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Paro, or Ios.
Is it easy to get around Naxos without a car?
Yes, it is relatively easy to get around Naxos without a car as the island offers various transportation options, including walking, local buses, taxis, bicycles, scooters, or guided tours.
Naxos Town (Chora) is compact and easily walkable. You can easily explore its charming streets, visit attractions like the Kastro and Portara, and enjoy the local shops and restaurants on foot.
The island has a a well-developed bus network that connects major towns, villages, and beaches. The central bus station is in Naxos Town, and buses operate regularly.
You can also use taxis in Naxos Town, near the port, and in major towns. Ensure that the taxi meter is used or agree on the fare before starting your journey.
You can also rent a bicycle to explore the island as it has several cycling routes, including coastal roads and scenic trails. Joining guided tours or excursions also often include transportation.
Where to stay in Naxos without a car?
The best areas to stay in Naxos without a car are Naxos Town, Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka Beach, and Stelida. These areas are easily accessible, walkable, well-connected to public transportations, and have plenty of tourist amenities.
I recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days in Naxos to explore Naxos Town (Chora), visit popular sites like the Temple of Apollo (Portara), explore the picturesque villages of Apiranthos and Chalki, and enjoy the beautiful beaches such as Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka.
Overviews of best areas to stay in Naxos without a car
Here is an overview of recommended areas to stay in Naxos for car-free travelers:
| Best areas in Naxos without a car | Why should you stay in this area? |
|---|---|
| Naxos Town | is the main town and port of Naxos, offering easy access to amenities, restaurants, shops, and the beach. It’s a great base for exploring historic sites, such as the Portara, Naxos Castle, and the Archaeological Museum. |
| Agios Georgios | Located just a short walk from Naxos Town, Agios Georgios offers a quieter atmosphere and a long sandy beach. Easy reach Naxos Town on foot or by bus. |
| Agios Prokopios | Situated about 6 km south of Naxos Town, Agios Prokopios is known for its stunning beach. You can find a good selection of restaurants and shops within walking distance. |
| Agia Anna | popular tourist area with a long sandy beach next to Agios Prokopios. It has restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby. |
| Plaka Beach | a scenic beach located just south of Agios Prokopios. Plaka offers a tranquil setting. You’ll find a few beachfront tavernas, and loungers for relaxing. |
| Stelida | is a quiet area situated on a hill overlooking Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna. Although it’s a bit more secluded, there are a few hotels and villas available. Stelida offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. |
6 Best areas to stay in Naxos without a car are:
1. Naxos Town
Naxos Town, also known as Chora, is the best overall area to stay in Naxos without a car because it’s the capital city and the transport hub of the island. The town is easily accessible from the island’s domestic airport by a short bus or taxi ride.
Additionally, it is home to the island’s main port, where ferries arriving from the mainland, as well as a bus station, allowing you to explore other towns and beaches on the island without the need for a car.
Finally, the town is compact and walkable, you can easily explore tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, and shops on foot. Naxos Town is a vibrant and charming town with a rich history and a variety of attractions to explore.
The iconic Portara is a huge marble gate that stands on a small islet connected to Naxos Town by a causeway. It is the remains of an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo and offers panoramic views of the town and the Aegean Sea.
You can explore the medieval heart of Naxos Town by wandering through the narrow streets and alleys of the Venetian Castle, known as Kastro. You’ll find quaint shops, restaurants, and ancient sites like the Catholic Cathedral and the Archaeological Museum.
Stroll through the Old Market (Agora) of Naxos Town, a lively area filled with artisan shops, cafes, and traditional tavernas. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and sample delicious Greek cuisine.
While Naxos Town itself doesn’t have a beach, you can easily access several beautiful beaches nearby. Agios Georgios Beach is within walking distance, and you can also take a short bus ride to the beautiful beaches of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna.
Naxos Town offers stunning sunset views, especially from the promenade and the Temple of Apollo – Portara. Watching the sun sink into the horizon while casting its warm glow on the town and the sea is a memorable experience.
Naxos Town serves as a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island, as it has excellent transport connections, including buses and taxis. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, lively nightlife, or simply enjoying the charming atmosphere, Naxos Town has plenty to offer visitors.
Best places to stay in Naxos Town without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Nissaki Beach Hotel, 5-star hotel, located right on the beach of Agios Georgios, within walking distance from Naxos Town and port.
- Mid-range ($$): Argo Boutique Hotel, a family-run hotel, in a quiet area of Naxos Town, easy walking distance from the beach.
- Budget ($): Portara Seaside Luxury Suites, great seafront accommodation, located within easy walk from the port, Naxos Castle, and Church of Panagia Mirtidiotisa.
2. Agios Georgios
Agios Georgios Beach is a popular long sandy beach located just a short walk away from Naxos Town. It offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside tavernas where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.
Agios Georgios is conveniently close to Naxos Town, making it an ideal area to stay if you want to be within walking distance of the town’s amenities, shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You can easily explore the charming streets of Naxos Town while enjoying the beachfront location of Agios Georgios.
Agios Georgios Beach provides opportunities for various water sports activities such as windsurfing and paddle boarding. The beach is suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Agios Georgios offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You’ll find modern beachfront hotels, family-run guesthouses, and apartments in the area, allowing you to choose the type of lodging that best suits your needs.
Staying in Agios Georgios provides the convenience of having amenities within walking distance. You can easily access supermarkets, shops, bakeries, and other essential services in the vicinity.
Additionally, Agios Georgios is well-connected to public transportation. The bus station in Naxos Town, which is nearby, offers regular bus services to other areas of Naxos. This makes it easy to explore the island without needing a car.
Whether you’re looking for a beach-focused vacation, proximity to Naxos Town, or a combination of both, Agios Georgios offers a convenient and enjoyable stay on the island of Naxos.
Best places to stay in Agios Georgios without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Nissaki Beach Hotel, 5-star hotel, conveniently located close to both Naxos Town and Agios Georgios Beach.
- Mid-range ($$): Alkyoni Beach Hotel, 4-star hotel, located on St. George’s Beach and only a 10-minute walk from Naxos Town. It’s surrounded by beachfront cafés and bars.
- Budget ($): Galaxy Hotel, traditional Cycladic architectural style hotel, located in the South-West part of Naxos town, within easy walk from sandySaint George Beach.
3. Agios Prokopios Beach
Agios Prokopios Beach is one of the most popular and stunning beaches on the island, located about 5 km south of Naxos Town.
Agios Prokopios Beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach offers a picturesque setting with its soft sand and clear blue sea, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water activities.
Agios Prokopios Beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation, which signifies its cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. The beach is well-maintained and offers facilities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, and beachside tavernas.
Agios Prokopios Beach provides various water sports like windsurfing, kiteboarding, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Equipment rental and lessons are available for those who want to try their hand at these exciting water sports.
Agios Prokopios Beach is well-suited for families with children. The shallow and calm waters make it safe for kids to swim, and the beach offers ample space for playing and building sandcastles. Additionally, some areas of the beach have lifeguards on duty in summer.
While Agios Prokopios is slightly outside Naxos Town, it is easily accessible by public transportation. Regular bus services operate between Agios Prokopios and Naxos Town, making it convenient to visit the beach even if you are staying in the town.
Agios Prokopios Beach is a popular destination for beach lovers, offering a combination of natural beauty, water sports opportunities, and nearby amenities.
Best places to stay in Agios Prokopios:
- Luxury ($$$): Naxos Island Hotel, 5-star hotel, located right next to Agios Prokopios Beach. It has a rooftop pool with a restaurant, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
- Mid-range ($$): Margaret of Naxos, great guest house, providing bike hire and car hire. The area is popular for horse riding, as well as watersports such as snorkeling, windsurfing and diving.
- Budget ($): Ostria Hotel, 2-star hotel, located in Agios Prokopios Village, easy reach from the beach.
4. Agia Anna Beach
Agia Anna Beach is a picturesque coastal area located on the western coast of the island, south of Agios Prokopios. The beach offers a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, making it an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Agia Anna Beach is suitable for families, as it provides a safe and child-friendly environment. The water is shallow and calm, making it ideal for kids to swim and play.
The beach also offers a range of amenities and facilities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside tavernas where families can relax and enjoy refreshments.
Agia Anna features a charming beachfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s a delightful place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the picturesque views of the sea.
Agia Anna is well-connected to Naxos Town, the main town of the island. Regular bus services operate between Agia Anna and Naxos Town, providing convenient transportation for visitors who want to explore the town’s attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Agia Anna Beach offers a peaceful and scenic setting, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed beach getaway. It provides a family-friendly environment, water sports activities, and proximity to amenities.
Best places to stay in Agia Anna without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Avgoustos Suites Naxos, 5-star hotel, located close to Agia Anna Beach, Agios Prokopios Beach, and Plaka Beach.
- Mid-range ($$): Iria Beach Art Hotel, 4-star hotel, located just a few steps from spectacular Agia Anna Beach, one of Naxos’ most popular sandy beaches.
- Budget ($): Agia Anna Studios, great accommodation, close to the famous sandy beach Agia Anna.
5. Plaka Beach
Plaka Beach is a stunning coastal area located on the western coast of Naxos, south of Agia Anna Beach. Plaka Beach is a long stretch of soft, golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
Plaka Beach provides breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, with its azure waters stretching as far as the eye can see. The beach is framed by rolling sand dunes and tufts of dune grass, creating a picturesque and serene setting.
Plaka Beach is one of the longest beaches on Naxos, extending for several kilometers. This allows for ample space to find a peaceful spot to unwind, even during the peak tourist season.
Plaka Beach offers opportunities for water sports enthusiasts like windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding. Equipment rental and lessons are available for those interested in trying out these exhilarating water sports.
Along the beach, you’ll find a selection of tavernas and beach bars where you can enjoy delicious Greek cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Plaka Beach is known for its peaceful and less crowded ambiance compared to some other popular beaches on the island. If you’re seeking a more secluded and serene beach experience, Plaka is an excellent choice.
Plaka Beach offers incredible sunset views over the sea. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky and water, is a magical experience that should not be missed.
Best places to stay in Plaka Beach without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Ammothines Cycladic Suites
- Mid-range ($$): Archon Seaside Retreat
- Budget ($): Amodari studios on the beach
6. Stelida
Stelida is a picturesque and quiet area located between Naxos Town and Agios Prokopios Beach. Stelida offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, Naxos Town, and the surrounding landscapes.
Stelida is known for its peaceful and serene atmosphere. The area offers a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds, making it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The area is home to Stelida Beach, also known as Kleftonisia Beach, located right next to the beaches of Saint George and Agios Prokopios, as well as a water park for families, Aqua Fun.
Stelida is located just a short distance from Naxos Town, allowing for easy access to its amenities, including shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The town can be reached by a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk.
Stelida offers a range of accommodations, including luxury hotels and private villas. The area provides a more secluded setting compared to the bustling Naxos Town, allowing for a peaceful and private stay.
Stelida is an excellent starting point for hiking and nature walks. The area is surrounded by scenic trails that wind through the hills and offer stunning views of the coastline and the countryside.
Best places to stay in Stelida without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Kavuras Village, Located in a traditional building with beautiful gardens in Stelida, and offering panoramic views of the blue sea and sandy beaches of Naxos.
- Mid-range ($$): Kavos Boutique Hotel Naxos, great accommodation that has an outdoor swimming pool with panoramic sea view.
- Budget ($): Naxos Magic Village, 3-star hotel, located within walking distance from the beautiful, sandy Stelida Beach.
See more:
- Where to stay in Naxos First Time
- Where to stay in Naxos for couples
- Where to stay in Naxos with family
In conclusion, Naxos Town, Agios Georgios, Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka Beach, and Stelida are the best places to stay in Naxos without a car. Naxos Town suits those seeking a bustling atmosphere and easy access to amenities.
Agios Georgios provides a convenient beach location near the town center. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are ideal for beach lovers. Plaka Beach offers tranquility, while Stelida offers a peaceful hillside retreat.