Authentic Naxos: Demeter temple, Apiranthos, Filoti & Chalki

Duration6h 30m

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesGreek, English

Group sizeUp to 49 travelers

Overview

Experience the very best of Naxos on a journey through the island’s most iconic sights and villages. This carefully designed excursion combines a visit to the Temple of Demeter or the Kouros Statue in Flerio, two of Naxos’ most remarkable ancient sites, with three of the island’s most popular and picturesque villages: Apiranthos, Filoti and Chalki.

Ideal for those who want to experience the authentic side of Naxos in just half a day, this journey takes you from ancient temples and marble-paved alleys to lively village squares, traditional tavernas and authentic local flavours. It offers a wonderful opportunity to discover the island’s rich heritage and timeless character beyond its famous beaches.

-Discover the ancient Temple of Demeter or the Kouros of Flerio.
-Wander through the charming marble streets of Apiranthos.
-Experience authentic village life and traditions in Filoti.
-Enjoy a relaxing stop in Chalki and optionally discover local Kitron.
-Choose to end your day by the sea

Options

With a stop at Kouros Statue

With a stop at Kouros Statue: Kouros Statue in Flerio - Apiranthos - Filoti - Chalki
The Temple of Demeter is closed.

With a stop at Demeter Temple

With a stop at Demeter Temple : Temple of Demeter - Apiranthos - Filoti - Chalki

What's included

Bottled water
English-speaking local tour escort (not a licensed tour guide)
Transportation by modern, air-conditioned bus
Pickup & dropoff from designated points in Plaka, Ag. Anna, Ag. Prokopios, Stelida & Naxos Town

Entrance fees for the Temple of Demeter to be paid in cash on the spot
Meals
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Entrance in the kitron distillery in Chalki (optional visit - 3€/person)

What to expect

Temple of Demeter
40m · Admission ticket not included

Your journey begins with a visit to one of Naxos' remarkable ancient monuments. Explore the Temple of Demeter, a 6th-century BC marble temple dedicated to the ancient Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility. Set among the fertile landscapes of central Naxos, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's ancient history and mythology.

On Tuesdays and 1 May, when the Temple of Demeter is closed, the itinerary includes a visit to the impressive Kouros Statue in Flerio instead, a 4.7-metre-long unfinished marble statue offering a fascinating insight into the ancient art of Naxian marble carving.
Apeiranthos
1h

Continue through the mountainous interior, passing Filoti and the imposing slopes of Mount Zas, the highest mountain in the Cyclades, before reaching Apiranthos. Often considered Naxos' most beautiful mountain village, Apiranthos is renowned for its marble-paved streets, traditional houses, Venetian architecture and authentic atmosphere. Enjoy approximately one hour of free time to explore its picturesque alleys, browse local shops or relax at a charming café.
Filoti
2h

Your journey continues to Filoti, the largest mountain village of Naxos, beautifully nestled at the foot of Mount Zas. Here, you'll step back in time as you wander through the village's lively central square, shaded by centuries-old plane trees where locals still gather to share stories over a coffee, just as they have for generations.

Visit the village's impressive church before strolling through the charming Fasolas neighbourhood, once the commercial heart of Filoti during the early 20th century. As you walk past traditional stone houses, the Venetian Tower and old family-run workshops, you'll discover traces of a bygone era and hear stories that bring the village's rich history and everyday life to life.

After your guided walk, enjoy free time for lunch at your leisure in one of the traditional tavernas, where you can savour authentic Naxian flavours in the heart of the village.
Chalkio
50m

The final village stop is Chalki, a charming former commercial centre known for its neoclassical buildings, traditional shops and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy approximately fifty minutes of free time to explore, shop for local products or enjoy a coffee and traditional sweet.

You can also optionally visit a traditional citron distillery and discover how Naxos' famous Kitron liqueur is produced. The visit is available for an additional €3 entrance fee per person.
Agios Prokopios
Pass by

On the return journey, follow the scenic coastal road past the famous beaches of Agia Anna and Agios Prokopios. If you wish to extend your day, you can choose to be dropped off at either beach instead of your original drop-off point, allowing you to go straight from the tour to the crystal-clear waters and golden sands of Naxos for a relaxing swim.
Melanes Kouros Statue
30m

On Tuesdays and 1 May, when the Temple of Demeter is closed, the itinerary includes a visit to the impressive Kouros Statue in Flerio instead.
Hidden among lush gardens and ancient marble quarries, this unfinished marble statue dates back to the 6th century BC and offers a unique glimpse into the craftsmanship of ancient Naxos. Learn about the history of these monumental sculptures and the important role marble played in the island's prosperity.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

09:45 Naxos Bus Transfer Office, right outside Naxos Port - final meeting place

Meeting point

09:45 on the main road in front of Naxos Green Village Hotel

Meeting point

09:40 in front of the entrance of Naxos Hospital (Naxos Town)

Meeting point

09:40 in front of Koutelieris Supermarket - opposite Porto Naxos Hotel (St George area)

Meeting point

09:35 from the main road in front of Princess of Naxos Hotel

Meeting point

09:35 from the main road in front of Naxos Camping (Laguna area)

Meeting point

09:30 from the main road in front of Naxos Golden Sun Hotel (Stelida)

Meeting point

09:30 from the main road in front of Kavouras Village Hotel (Stelida)

Meeting point

09:30 from the main road in front of Naxos Palace Hotel (Stelida)

Meeting point

09:25 from the main road in front of Lagos Mare Hotel (Ag. Prokopios)

Meeting point

09:20 from the bus stop in Agios Prokopios (in front of Nikos Restaurant)

Meeting point

09:20 from Margariti's Market at Agia Anna

Meeting point

09:15 from Gorgona Tavern in Agia Anna

Meeting point

09:15 from the main road in front of Paradiso Tavern in Agia Anna

Meeting point

09:15 from the main road in front of Maragkas Super Market

Meeting point

09:15 from the main road in front of Three Brothers Restaurant

Meeting point

09:15 from the main road in front of Nikos & Maria Restaurant

Meeting point

09:15 from the main road in front of Plaza Beach Hotel

End point

09:45 Naxos Bus Transfer Office, right outside Naxos Port - final meeting place

End point

09:45 on the main road in front of Naxos Green Village Hotel

End point

09:40 in front of the entrance of Naxos Hospital (Naxos Town)

End point

09:40 in front of Koutelieris Supermarket - opposite Porto Naxos Hotel (St George area)

End point

09:35 from the main road in front of Princess of Naxos Hotel

End point

09:35 from the main road in front of Naxos Camping (Laguna area)

End point

09:30 from the main road in front of Naxos Golden Sun Hotel (Stelida)

End point

09:30 from the main road in front of Kavouras Village Hotel (Stelida)

End point

09:30 from the main road in front of Naxos Palace Hotel (Stelida)

End point

09:25 from the main road in front of Lagos Mare Hotel (Ag. Prokopios)

End point

09:20 from the bus stop in Agios Prokopios (in front of Nikos Restaurant)

End point

09:20 from Margariti's Market at Agia Anna

End point

09:15 from Gorgona Tavern in Agia Anna

End point

09:15 from the main road in front of Paradiso Tavern in Agia Anna

End point

09:15 from the main road in front of Maragkas Super Market

End point

09:15 from the main road in front of Three Brothers Restaurant

End point

09:15 from the main road in front of Nikos & Maria Restaurant

End point

09:15 from the main road in front of Plaza Beach Hotel

Additional information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The Temple of Demeter is closed on Tuesdays and on 1 May. On these days, the itinerary includes a visit to the Kouros Statue in the Flerio area instead.
The tour guide is not licensed and thus not allowed to guide you inside the Temple of Demeter. You will get all the information about the monument before you enter the gate
The tour involves walking through villages and archaeological sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
The tour will take place rain or shine – small changes to the itinerary may apply in case of rough weather.
At the end of the tour, you can choose to be dropped off at one of the island's most famous beaches, Agios Prokopios or Agia Anna, and enjoy some time by the sea.
During the spring and autumn months, temperatures in the mountain villages can be 4–5°C (40–41°F) lower than along the coast. We recommend bringing a light jacket to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Not suitable for travellers with mobility impairments.
A big part of the trip is through winding, mountainous roads. Please carry travel sickness pills in case you feel uneasy.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (29)