Private Tour / 5 Hours / Morning Half Day
Treasures of Naxos
An Insider’s guide to the Art, History & Local Culture
This island tour touches the heart of Naxos linking the treasures of past with present in an enlightening journey through art, myths, history and culture –as well as, its delicious local products. Designed for art and history lovers, as well as for fans of authentic local culture, your expert certified guide highlights the merging of cultural treasures on the island through the ages.
Our tour begins with a visit to the sanctuary of Dimitra, goddess of fertility, whose marble temple predates the Parthenon. Situated on a hill overlooking the fertile plains of Sangri, you will discover the mysteries surrounding the rituals honoring the goddess and connect with Persephone’s myth of the changing seasons. Traveling to Apollo’s colossal unfinished statue at the foot of Melanes marble quarries, discover the significance of Naxian marble in the ancient art of sculpture. The rich legacy of Byzantine Naxos flourishes on the island with tiny churches and monasteries. We visit Naxos 1000-year old Byzantine church with authentic religious frescoes and hand painted icons getting acquainted with amazing Βyzantine art and architecture. We continue our drive to the Naxian countryside to reach Kaloxylos, an off beaten path, non touristy village. After a leisure walk through timeless olive tree orchards, we visit the 100 years old olive press for an olive oil presentation and tasting with local treats. End your day with a visit to quaint Halki village, with its stunning bougainvilleas for a sip of kitro, a local liquor still produced at the over 120- year- old distillery!
- English speaking Professional Licensed Guide
- Colossal Archaic Kouros statue at Melanes
- Temple of ancient goddess Demetra
- Byzantine church
- Kaloxylos village with old olive press & olive oil tasting
- Chalki village with 120 years old distillery & “kitron” liquor tasting.
*The tour is not available on Tuesdays as archaeological sites are closed.
- Personal expenses
- Tips for your Guide and Driver
Payment must be completed prior to delivery of our services, either by bank wire transfer or secure online credit card payment link.
Cancellations received within less than 24 hours before departure and no shows are non-refundable. Cancellations received up to 48 hours prior to tour departure are subject to 50% cancellation fee. Full refund is provided to cancellations received earlier than 48 hours before the delivery of our services. Cancellation notice must be submitted in writing.
They said after this tour
Will never forget this experience!
An INCREDIBLE experience!! Right away Katia felt like family and was so knowledgable and fun to be around! We went on this tour expecting to just learn more about Naxos and its history, but Katia really takes it to another level! The experience was immersive, educational, really intriguing and fun! I would highly recommend any of Naxos' Cultural Tours because of their attention to detail and the deep historical knowledge. Can't wait to go on another tour!
BeckyG – MN United States
November 1, 2021A must on your next visit to Naxos
It was our fourth time visiting Naxos for family vacations and decided this time to learn more about the history of the island. We regret that we hadn’t done it earlier! Katia’s depth of knowledge and lively spirit brought the myths to life. The grandchildren enjoyed the tour so much and asked for a Greek mythology book!
Greg- AZ United States
August 30, 2021Excellent tour!
Our guide Katia made me fall in love with the island of Naxos. We saw the countryside, villages, and farmland, and enjoyed lots of delicious snacks and cheeses on their Treasures of Naxos. We were able to visit places we would never have found without this tour and experience Naxos culture. Katia's knowledge of the island and its history helped us thoroughly enjoy everything Naxos has to offer. I would highly recommend to tour with Naxos Cultural Tours if you are visiting!