Bus Tour Around the island of Naxos

The Bus Tour Around the island of Naxos offers an engaging way to see some of the most notable sights on this beautiful Greek island. Priced at $35 per person and lasting 8 hours, this tour is designed for those who want a rundown of Naxos without the hassle of self-driving. The tour departs from key locations including Naxos Town, Stelida, Ag Prokopios, Ag Anna, and Plaka, making it accessible from many popular areas.

A standout feature of this tour is the visits to Demeter’s Temple, the remarkable Kouros statue, and charming villages like Chalki, Damalas, and Apeiranthos. The experience is led by a multilingual guide, ensuring you receive informative commentary throughout the day. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 12 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the variety of stops. While the tour does not include entrance tickets or food, it offers excellent value and flexibility, especially with the option to reserve now and pay later.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a well-rounded introduction to Naxos in a single day, combining cultural sights, picturesque villages, and coastal relaxation. It’s important to note that some stops, like Chalki and Apeiranthos, may feel a bit rushed for those wanting to explore in greater depth. The overall experience balances sightseeing with leisure comfortably.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: Only $35 for an 8-hour guided bus tour around Naxos.
• Highlights include Demeter’s Temple and the Kouros statue, plus visits to charming villages like Chalki, Damalas, and Apiranthos.
• Expert guidance: A multilingual, knowledgeable guide makes the history and stories lively.
• Ideal for a broad overview: Perfect for visitors wanting a quick yet varied look at the island’s key sites.
• Flexible booking: Reserve without immediate payment, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Starting Point: Convenient Pick-up Locations

The tour departs from several central points, including Naxos Town, Stelida, Ag Prokopios, Ag Anna, and Plaka. This makes it simple to join from different parts of the island. The pick-up and drop-off service ensures a smooth experience, taking the stress out of transportation logistics.

Since the tour includes a live multilingual escort, you’ll enjoy engaging narration in English. The guides are praised for their friendliness, helpfulness, and storytelling skills. This personal touch enhances understanding of the island’s history, culture, and legends, adding depth to the sightseeing.

Visiting Demeter’s Temple and the Archaeological Museum

The tour kicks off with a visit to the spectacular Demeter’s Temple, a recently restored ancient monument from 530 BC. The temple’s impressive ruins, combined with scenic surroundings, make for excellent photo opportunities. Next to the temple sits the archaeological museum, where you can see artifacts uncovered from the site.

This site provides insight into Naxos’ ancient past and its spiritual significance. The guided explanation helps visitors appreciate the craftsmanship and historical context, making it a highlight for history buffs and casual explorers alike.

Exploring Damalas Village and Traditional Pottery

The next stop is Damalas, a small village located in the Tragea valley. Visitors can enjoy a demonstration at the traditional pottery workshop, which remains the only such workshop on the island. Here, you see skilled artisans creating ceramics in age-old styles.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to a restored olive press, giving a glimpse into traditional agricultural practices. Damalas offers a peaceful atmosphere, with its narrow streets and authentic charm, perfect for a short stroll and photo capturing.

Discovering Chalki Village and Citron Distillery

In Chalki, a neoclassical village, visitors can walk along picturesque alleys lined with historic buildings. The visit includes a stop at a traditional citron distillery/museum, where you learn about local lemon products and perhaps sample some.

Enjoying an espresso in Chalki provides a chance to relax and soak in the refined yet laid-back ambiance of this village. The architecture and scenic views make Chalki a favorite among visitors who appreciate authentic Greek village life.

More Great Tours Nearby

Apiranthos: The Marble Village

Apiranthos is the most famous village on Naxos, known as the marble village because of its cobbled streets and marble architecture. Visitors get time to stroll through its marble-paved roads and take photos of scenic vistas.

This village’s charming atmosphere is ideal for leisurely exploration, with plenty of opportunities to admire local crafts and enjoy panoramic views. It’s the most popular village stop, allowing enough time to appreciate its unique character.

Ending at Apollonas Village and the Kouros Statue

The tour concludes at Apollonas, a small Cycladic coastal village. Visitors can relax at seaside cafes or take a swim in the clear waters. The village offers a calm setting for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.

On the drive back, the guide stops at the impressive Kouros statue, an unfinished colossal figure from the 6th century BC. The statue’s size and historical mystery make it a compelling photo stop, rounding out the island tour with a touch of ancient Greek artistry.

Scenic Drive Along the North Coast and Views of the Cyclades

The return journey follows the North-Northwest coast of Naxos, offering scenic views of Agia Tower and the North Cyclades islands. This leisurely drive provides a perfect backdrop for taking in the natural beauty of the coastline and capturing memorable photos.

The route is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a gentle pace, ensuring everyone can enjoy the vistas without feeling rushed.

Logistics and What’s Included

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off services at key locations, making it simple to join without extra transport arrangements. A multilingual guide is included to enhance understanding, and the full-day itinerary balances cultural sites with leisure stops.

However, travelers should note that entrance tickets, food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included. This allows flexibility for those who prefer to explore eateries or visit sites independently.

How the Tour Compares to Similar Options

This tour stands out for its value, given the low price of $35, and its focus on showing a variety of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights. Reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the well-paced schedule, which includes time for photos, exploration, and relaxation.

It’s similar to other Naxos bus tours offering free time for lunch and swimming, but this particular route emphasizes visiting Demeter’s Temple, the villages, and the Kouros statue, making it especially appealing for those interested in history and traditional villages.

Final Thoughts on the Naxos Island Bus Tour

This 8-hour Naxos tour offers a solid introduction to the island’s most notable sights, charming villages, and scenic coastline. The affordable price combined with expert guides makes it a practical choice for first-time visitors or those wanting to maximize their day.

While some stops may feel brief, the variety of locations and the engaging commentary compensate well. The tour suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of culture, nature, and relaxing seaside moments. Those interested in history, authentic village life, and stunning vistas will find plenty to enjoy here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance tickets?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the tour price.

Can I reserve my spot without paying immediately?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is lunch or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local eateries at your own pace.

What is the typical group size?
The information suggests a guided experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide, but specific group sizes are not detailed.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves walking through villages and sites, but no specific physical requirements are mentioned, making it generally accessible for most visitors.

This detailed overview highlights the strengths of the Bus Tour Around the island of Naxos, focusing on its notable stops, scenic beauty, and practical details, making it a reliable option for exploring this captivating Greek island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby