A Solo Journey Through Naxos: Exploring Greece's Hidden Gem

A Day Among Gods and Myths

Today marked the beginning of my Naxian adventure, and what a start it has been! I traded the familiar streets of Heidelberg for the sun-kissed shores of Greece, eager to delve into the island's storied past. My first day was a whirlwind of ancient temples, archaeological wonders, and the kind of Greek hospitality that makes you feel like you've come home.

The journey here was smooth, a flight from Frankfurt to Athens, followed by a smaller plane to Naxos. As the island came into view, I could already feel the pull of its history. The weather in Naxos in October is pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 22°C during the day and dropping to about 19°C at night. A light jacket was definitely needed as the wind picked up.

My first stop was the iconic Temple of Apollo, or Portara, as the locals call it. This massive marble doorway stands proudly on the islet of Palatia, connected to Naxos Town by a causeway. Legend has it that this is where Theseus abandoned Ariadne after slaying the Minotaur. Standing before the Portara, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The structure dates back to the 6th century BC when the tyrant Lygdamis began constructing what was intended to be the grandest temple in all of Greece. Sadly, it was never finished, but the imposing doorway remains, a testament to the ambition of its creators.


Iconic marble gate of an unfinished temple, offering stunning sunset views and a glimpse into Naxos's ancient past.

The views from the Portara were breathtaking. The Aegean Sea stretched out before me, shimmering under the October sun. I could see the outline of other Cycladic islands in the distance, and the town of Naxos nestled below. It was easy to imagine the ancient Naxians gathering here, watching for ships and paying homage to Apollo, the god of light and music.

The stones whisper stories of gods and mortals, a timeless saga etched in marble and memory.

After soaking in the majesty of the Temple of Apollo, I made my way to the Archaeological Site of Yria Naxos, a sanctuary dedicated to both Apollo and Dionysus. Located in the lush Livadi valley, Yria offers a fascinating glimpse into Naxos's religious practices from the 14th century BC through the Roman period.


Discover the ancient sanctuary of Yria on Naxos: a journey through Greek history, mythology, and architectural marvels. Explore temples and votive offerings.

The site itself is a collection of temple ruins, the most prominent being the Temple of Dionysus, considered the oldest Ionic-style stone temple in Greece. Although in ruins, the remains provide valuable insights into ancient Greek architecture and religious life. As I wandered through the site, I imagined the ancient worshippers offering their prayers and sacrifices to the gods. The on-site Archaeological Collection of Yria displayed artifacts discovered during excavations, including architectural fragments and votive offerings, helping to paint a vivid picture of the sanctuary's past.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Doukato Restaurant. Nestled in a charming courtyard, the restaurant offered a tranquil escape from the midday sun. I savored traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist, like the swordfish souvlaki, which came highly recommended. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home. It reminded me of the warmth I feel when Hans prepares a traditional German meal for us in Heidelberg, a comforting blend of cultures.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Doukato Restaurant in Naxos - where every dish tells a story of tradition and quality.

In the afternoon, I ventured into Naxos Town to visit Tereza’s Greek Concept Store. This charming shop, owned by a local Naxian woman named Tereza and her husband, Spyros, is a treasure trove of Greek artistry. I found unique, locally sourced merchandise, from handcrafted jewelry to beautiful textiles. I picked up a delicate silver necklace as a memento of my trip, a small piece of Naxos to bring back home to Sofia.


Shop at Tereza's Greek Concept Store in Naxos for unique gifts, fashion, and accessories that celebrate Greek culture and style.

For breakfast, I enjoyed a delicious meal at OASIS RESTAURANT. The staff were friendly and the food was delicious, setting a positive tone for the day. For lunch, I had the pleasure of dining at Doukato Restaurant, a spot known for its exceptional food and cozy atmosphere. Finally, for dinner, I treated myself to a culinary experience at Antamoma DeliCuisine, where I savored the flavors of Naxian cuisine.


Experience the best of Greek cuisine at Antamoma DeliCuisine in Naxos - where every meal is a celebration of flavors and tradition.

As the sun began to set, I found myself drawn back to the Portara. The sky was ablaze with color, and the marble doorway stood silhouetted against the fiery horizon. It was a magical moment, one that I will cherish forever.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the beaches of Mikri Vigla and Kalamitsia [if it's not too windy], hoping to soak up some of the island's natural beauty. I might even stop by The Rum Bar for a cocktail in the evening, a perfect way to end another day in paradise. Though the weather will be cooling down this month, I am hoping for some more warm sunshine to enjoy the beaches.

Naxos has already captured my heart. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, where the beauty of nature meets the richness of culture. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Perhaps I'll find a Rakizio, where locals distill raki. It would be an authentic experience to learn about local Naxian culture!

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. This solo journey is exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with myself, to explore new horizons, and to share my experiences with all of you.

Until tomorrow, keep exploring!