Half-Day Naxos Old Town, Castle and Apollo Temple Private Tour

Discover the charming island of Naxos on this immersive half-day private tour. Explore the Old Town’s winding Cycladic streets, marvel at the imposing Venetian Castle, and stand in awe of the iconic Portara – the grand entrance to the Temple of Apollo. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, uncover the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. This personalized experience promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to dive deeper into Naxos’ captivating allure.

Key Points

• Explore the charming Naxos Old Town, featuring traditional Cycladic architecture and whitewashed buildings.
• Climb to the hilltop Venetian Castle for panoramic views of the island.
• Visit the Portara, a symbolic gateway to the ancient Temple of Apollo.
• Discover the impressive scale and historical significance of the Temple of Apollo ruins.
• Enjoy a personalized private tour experience with a licensed guide to gain insights into Naxian history.

Tour Overview

The half-day Naxos Old Town, Castle and Apollo Temple Private Tour allows visitors to explore the rich history and culture of this picturesque Greek island.

Accompanied by a licensed tour guide, travelers will discover the charming Naxos Old Town, the impressive Venetian Castle, and the iconic Portara, the ruins of the Temple of Apollo.

The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, where guests can explore at their own pace and gain unique insights into Naxian life.

With convenient meeting and end points, this tour provides an immersive and memorable glimpse into the highlights of Naxos.

Key Attractions

Naxos Old Town beckons visitors to discover its local history and culture.

Wander through the charming streets, lined with traditional Cycladic architecture and whitewashed buildings.

Marvel at the Venetian Castle, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the island.

The iconic Portara, the ruined entrance to the ancient Temple of Apollo, stands as a symbolic gateway to the island’s rich past.

Admire the impressive scale and grandeur of this architectural wonder, a testament to the island’s significant role in Greek history.

Explore the remnants of this ancient temple and learn about the captivating story of Naxos.

Tour Logistics

The tour meeting point is at the Naxos Central bus station located at the Port of Naxos. From there, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

The tour operates Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, between June 30, 2021, and March 10, 2026. Guests should confirm the exact start time with the local provider before the experience.

The private tour ensures only your group participates. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Guests must have a moderate level of physical fitness as the tour involves some walking.

Discovering Naxos Old Town

Upon reaching the Naxos Central bus station, guests embark on a journey through the captivating Naxos Old Town.

Winding cobblestone streets unveil charming Cycladic houses, quaint shops, and lively tavernas. The guide shares insights into the town’s rich history, from its Venetian influences to its role as a commercial hub.

Visitors explore the heart of the old town, admiring the striking architecture and seeing the vibrant local culture.

Along the way, they discover hidden gems, such as traditional artisan workshops and picturesque churches.

The Naxos Old Town offers a glimpse into the authentic essence of the island.

Exploring the Venetian Castle

Ascending the winding streets, guests reach the hilltop Venetian Castle, which offers panoramic vistas over the island.

The castle’s architectural features showcase its Venetian heritage, including:

1. Imposing stone walls and towers that once protected the settlement.

2. A central courtyard that served as the heart of the castle.

3. Remnants of the former palace and administrative buildings.

Wandering through the castle grounds, visitors can imagine the castle’s past glory and the lives of its former inhabitants.

The stunning views from the castle’s elevated position make it a highlight of the tour.

Visiting the Portara and Temple of Apollo

Leaving the Venetian Castle, the tour continues towards the iconic Portara, the imposing marble gateway that stands as the symbol of Naxos.

The guide leads visitors through the remains of the ancient Temple of Apollo, explaining its history and significance.

The Portara, standing over 26 feet tall, provides stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s rugged landscape.

Visitors can wander among the temple’s ruins, imagining the grandeur of the original structure and the important role it played in Naxian culture.

This iconic site offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich past.

Highlights of the Private Tour

The private tour of Naxos Old Town and the Temple of Apollo offers a multifaceted exploration of the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. Guests embark on a journey through the winding streets of the old town, discovering local life and architecture.

The tour then ascends to the hilltop Venetian Castle, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The finale is the iconic Portara, the grand marble entrance to the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, an enduring symbol of Naxos.

This private experience allows for a personalized and immersive encounter with the island’s captivating past.

Key highlights of the tour include:

1. Exploring the charming alleyways and quaint shops of Naxos Old Town.

2. Admiring the impressive Venetian Castle and its breathtaking views.

3. Visiting the majestic Portara and the remains of the Temple of Apollo.

Positive Traveler Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the private tour of Naxos Old Town and the Temple of Apollo enthusiastically praise the informative and enjoyable nature of the excursion.

With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the tour receives glowing feedback highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guide who provides valuable insights into Naxian history and culture.

Guests appreciate the personalized experience and the opportunity to explore the key landmarks at their own pace.

The overall consensus is that the tour offers an immersive and enriching way to discover the highlights of Naxos, making it a must-do activity for visitors to the island.