Naxos Half Day History and Culture Guided Tour

Go on a guided tour of the best sites in Naxos. Learn about the island’s history, visit iconic monuments, such as Demeter's Temple and Panagia Drosiani and explore the villages of Damalas and Chalki.

Meet your guide at Naxos Bus Transfer Office, right outside Naxos Port and drive directly to your first stop, Demeter’s Temple. Admire the impressive restored sanctuary, take amazing pictures and visit the small on site museum.

Continue to the charming village of Damalas, a tiny community of about 100 residents nestled among the olive groves of Tragea. Here, local potter Manolis will welcome you into his workshop, demonstrate his traditional techniques on the wheel, and share the secrets of his craft.

Your next destination is Chalki, the island’s former capital and once its main commercial center. Enjoy approximately 60 minutes of free time to wander its colorful alleys, shop for unique handmade souvenirs, visit the historic Vallindras Kitron Distillery, or simply relax with a coffee in one of the village’s cozy cafés.

The tour continues through ancient olive groves toward Panagia Drosiani, a church of exceptional architectural significance dedicated to the Virgin Mary—considered one of the oldest in the Balkans. Make a brief stop for photos and, if the church is open, step inside to admire its remarkable frescoes.

Outside Kinidaros village you will make a short stop by the road to photoshoot the contemporary marble quarries before you reach Flerio valley. Walk through its lush gardens and meet the Kouros Statue, one of the most striking examples of Naxian marble art.

*On Tuesdays and on the 1st of May the Temple of Demeter is closed and instead you will visit the pottery workshop at Damalas village.

Useful information:

• On Tuesdays and on the 1st of May the Temple of Demeter is closed. Instead you will visit Filoti Village.
• The Demeter's Temple closes early (noon) in case of predicted heat wave. In that case, the tour that departs in the afternoon (13.15) visits Filoti Village.
• You will have to climb steps and walk uphill in order to visit the Temple of Demeter
• The tour guide is not licensed and thus not allowed to guide you inside Demeter's Temple and Panagia Drosiani Church. You will get all the information about the monuments before you enter.
• This tour will take place rain or shine
• The tour begins and ends right outside Naxos Port. Luggage storage is provided for the participants free of charge.
• Pick up service is included only for the morning departure of 08.30. Drop-off is not included.
• It is customary upon the visit to a church to donate a small amount of 1€-5€. These money are used for the operational costs of the church and many times for donations on behalf of the church to people/ families of the community that are in need.

Pick up spots and times for the morning departure of 08.30

PLAKA BEACH

• Plaza Beach Hotel - Main Road: 07.50
• Plaka Camping: 07.50
• 3 Brothers Restaurant: 07.50
• Yazoo Summer Bliss: 07.50

MARAGKAS

• Maragkas Super Market: 07.50
• Paradiso Tavern: 07.50

AGIA ANNA

• Agia Anna Port: 07.55
• Margaritis Market: 07.55

AG. PROKOPIOS

• Nikos Restaurant: 07.55
• Birikos Hotel: 07.55
• Lagos Mare Hotel: 08.00

STELIDA

• Naxian Emerald Hotel: 08.00
• Lianos Village: 08.00
• Naxos Palace Hotel: 08.00
• Golden Sun Hotel: 08.00

NAXOS TOWN

• Naxos Camping: 08.05
• Princess of Naxos Hotel: 08.05
• Koutelieris Supermarket (Porto Naxos Hotel): 08.10
• Naxos Bus Transfer Office: 08.15