Naxos Highlights Bus Tour | Temple of Demeter, Apiranthos & Apollonas

Discover the most authentic side of Naxos on this full-day sightseeing bus tour. Travel through traditional mountain villages, explore ancient monuments, learn about local crafts and enjoy spectacular landscapes as you visit some of the island's most famous attractions, including the Temple of Demeter, Chalki, Apiranthos, Apollonas and the impressive Kouros statue.

Perfect for visitors who want to experience the culture, history and natural beauty of Naxos in a single day, the Naxos Highlights Bus Tour combines guided visits, free time for exploration and breathtaking scenery across the largest island in the Cyclades.

Visit the Temple of Demeter

Your journey begins in the fertile valley of Gyroula, home to the remarkable Temple of Demeter. Built entirely of Naxian marble and dedicated to the ancient Greek goddess of agriculture, this archaeological site is one of the most important ancient monuments in Naxos and offers a fascinating insight into the island's rich history.

Discover Traditional Crafts in Damalas

Continue to the small village of Damalas, where local traditions remain alive. Visit a restored olive press museum and learn how olive oil was produced in past generations. You'll also meet a fourth-generation potter and discover techniques that trace their roots back to ancient Greece.

Explore Chalki, the Historic Heart of Naxos

Next, enjoy free time in Chalki, one of the most picturesque villages in Naxos. Once the island's commercial center, Chalki is known for its elegant Venetian architecture, charming alleyways, artisan shops and local products. You may also visit the historic Vallindras Distillery, famous for producing the traditional Naxian citron liqueur.

Free Time in Apiranthos

The highlight of the tour for many visitors is Apiranthos, often considered the most beautiful mountain village in Naxos. Built with local marble and surrounded by stunning landscapes, Apiranthos features narrow stone streets, Venetian towers, traditional cafés and spectacular views. You'll have approximately 90 minutes of free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure, with the opportunity to taste local specialties such as rosto and kalogiros.

Visit Apollonas and the Giant Kouros

Passing through the mountainous interior of Naxos and the historic emery mining region, you'll arrive at the seaside village of Apollonas. Relax by the waterfront, enjoy a coffee, dessert or a refreshing swim, and soak up the atmosphere of this charming fishing village.

Before departing, visit one of Naxos' most famous landmarks: the Kouros of Apollonas. This unfinished marble statue, measuring over 11 meters in length, has remained in its original location for more than 2,500 years and is one of the island's most intriguing archaeological attractions.

Scenic Drive Along the West Coast

On the return journey, travel along the spectacular west coast of Naxos, enjoying panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island's beautiful coastline before returning to your pickup location.

Useful Information:

• On Tuesdays and on the 1st of May Temple of Demeter is closed and instead you will have more free time in Apeiranthos and Apollonas Villages.
• This tour is not appropriate for people with mobility impairments.
• The tour will take place rain or shine - small changes to the itinerary may apply in case of rough weather.
• A big part of the trip is through winding, mountainous roads. Please carry travel sickness pills in case you feel uneasy.
• The tour guide is not licensed and thus not allowed to guide you inside Demeter's Temple. You will get all the information about the monument before you enter the gate.
• Changing booths and shower facilities are available at Apollonas beach

Pick up options:

08:35 from the main road in front of Plaza Beach Hotel

08:35 from the main road in front of Three Brothers Restaurant

08:35 from the main road in front of Aegean Land Hotel

08:35 from the main road in front of Yazoo Summer Bliss

08:40 from the main road in front of Maragkas Super Market

08:40 from the main road in front of Paradiso Tavern in Agia Anna

08:45 from the bus stop at Agia Anna Port

08:45 from Margariti's Market at Agia Anna

08:45 from the bus stop in Agios Prokopios (in front of Nikos Restaurant)

08:50 from the main road in front of Lagos Mare Hotel (Ag. Prokopios)

08:50 from the main road in front of Naxos Palace Hotel (Stelida)

08:50 from the main road in front of Kavouras Village Hotel (Stelida)

08:50 from the main road in front of Naxos Golden Sun Hotel (Stelida)

08:55 from the main road in front of Princess of Naxos Hotel

09:00 in front of Koutelieris Supermarket (St George area-opposite Porto Naxos Hotel)

09:00 in front of the entrance of Naxos Hospital (Naxos Town)

09:05 in front of Orasis shop (Sokratous Papavasileiou)

09:10 Naxos Bus Transfer Office, right outside Naxos Port - final meeting place