Naxos: Highlights Bus Tour With Free Time for Lunch and Swim

Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands, offers a wealth of cultural and natural wonders. The Highlights Bus Tour provides an immersive eight-hour experience, allowing visitors to uncover the island’s ancient temples, witness traditional crafts, and indulge in the charming villages. With stops at the Temple of Demeter, an olive mill, and the picturesque towns of Chalkio and Apiranthos, the tour promises a well-rounded introduction to Naxos’ rich heritage. But the highlight may just be the refreshing swim at Apollonas beach and the chance to capture the iconic Kouros statue. This comprehensive tour leaves little to the imagination, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to make the most of their time on the island.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best Lunch Experiences In Naxos.

Key Points

• 8-hour excursion showcasing diverse attractions on the island of Naxos, including a 6th-century BC temple, an olive mill, and a pottery workshop.
• Free time for shopping and sightseeing in the charming village of Chalkio, as well as a longer stop in Apiranthos for lunch and exploration.
• Guided tours provide insight into the island’s rich history, cultural heritage, and traditional production methods.
• Opportunity to visit the impressive 6th-century BC Kouros statue and spend time at Apollonas beach for swimming.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus with multiple pickup options across Naxos.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Naxos Highlights Bus Tour offers an 8-hour excursion that showcases the island’s diverse attractions, including ancient temples, traditional olive mills, and picturesque villages.

Priced from $32.67 per person, the tour is available in both Greek and English. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is provided from various locations around Naxos, with approximate times listed.

The comprehensive itinerary features guided visits to the 6th-century BC Temple of Demeter, an olive mill, and a pottery workshop, as well as free time for shopping, swimming, and exploring the charming village of Apiranthos.

Travelers rate the tour highly for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value.

Itinerary Highlights

Highlighting the tour’s key stops, visitors first explore the 6th Century BC Temple of Demeter, embarking on a guided tour of this ancient sanctuary.

They then venture to an olive mill for a guided tour and insight into olive oil production, followed by a visit to the Pottery Limpertas Manolis workshop.

The tour also includes free time for shopping and sightseeing in the charming village of Chalkio, as well as a longer stop in Apiranthos for lunch and exploration.

Concluding the day, travelers get to enjoy free time for swimming and relaxation at Apollonas beach, along with a photo stop and guided visit to the impressive Kouros Statue.

Key Stops

The tour’s key stops showcase a diverse range of Naxos’ cultural and natural attractions, from ancient sanctuaries to traditional artisanal workshops.

Visitors will explore the Temple of Demeter, a 6th-century BC sanctuary with a guided tour, and gain insights into olive oil production at a local olive mill.

The tour also includes a visit to the pottery workshop of Limpertas Manolis, where travelers can observe the intricate craft of traditional pottery making.

Plus, the ancient Kouros statue, a massive marble sculpture, provides a photo opportunity and guided visit.

In the picturesque village of Chalkio, guests enjoy free time for shopping and sightseeing.

The long stop in Apiranthos allows for a leisurely lunch and exploration of this charming mountain town.

Temple of Demeter

Visitors start their exploration of Naxos’ cultural heritage at the 6th century BC Temple of Demeter, where a guided tour provides insight into the ancient sanctuary’s historical significance.

The temple, dedicated to the goddess of agriculture, was an important religious center and has been remarkably well-preserved over the centuries.

During the tour, travelers learn about the temple’s architectural features, the rituals and festivals that took place here, and the role it played in the lives of the ancient Naxians.

With an entrance fee of €4, the guided visit to the Temple of Demeter offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich history and deep-rooted connection to its natural environment.

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Olive Mill

After exploring the ancient Temple of Demeter, the tour then takes visitors to an olive mill, where they can gain insights into the production of the island’s renowned olive oil.

At the mill, guests are guided through the process, learning about:

• The traditional methods used to extract the oil from the olives

• The importance of olive oil in Naxian cuisine and culture

• The quality control measures to ensure the oil meets strict standards

This stop provides a fascinating glimpse into the island’s agricultural heritage and the dedication required to craft the exceptional olive oil that Naxos is known for.

The tour-goers depart the mill with a deeper appreciation for this local culinary treasure.

Chalkio and Apiranthos

Next, the tour heads to the charming village of Chalkio, where passengers get 45 minutes of free time to explore the quaint streets, browse the local shops, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Chalkio is known for its traditional architecture and serves as a hub for local artisans.

After the stop in Chalkio, the tour moves on to the picturesque village of Apiranthos, where guests enjoy a longer 1.5-hour break for lunch and further exploration.

Apiranthos is nestled in the mountains and boasts narrow cobblestone streets, unique Naxian marble buildings, and stunning views.

Visitors can wander the lively town center, sample local cuisine, and enjoy the authentic Naxian culture during this extended stop.

Apollonas and Kouros Statue

The tour then heads to the coastal village of Apollonas, where passengers get 45 minutes of free time to swim and relax at the beach.

Following the stop in Apollonas, the group makes a brief 15-minute photo stop at the impressive Kouros statue, a large unfinished monumental sculpture from the 6th century BC.

The Kouros statue is:

• Over 10 meters tall
• Situated on a hillside with sweeping views
• An iconic example of ancient Greek sculpture

The guide provides insight into the statue’s historical significance and invites travelers to capture memorable photos before the tour continues on to the next destination.

Transportation and Logistics

For the Naxos Highlights Bus Tour, participants are transported in a luxury air-conditioned bus to and from central pickup locations near their hotels, with 41 different options available across the island.

The tour operates rain or shine, though some minor itinerary changes may occur due to weather conditions. Pickup and drop-off times are approximate, so travelers are advised to be ready at their designated location.

The transportation provided ensures a comfortable and convenient experience throughout the day’s activities.

With a range of pickup points, the tour caters to the diverse accommodations of visitors, making it accessible from various parts of Naxos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour does not specify the group size. However, as it is a bus tour, the group size is likely large enough to fill a full-sized bus, typically ranging from 20 to 50 passengers.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounted rates for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors over 65 get a 10% discount off the standard adult ticket price.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary can’t be customized. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate special requests, like more time at certain stops, if communicated in advance. Travelers should inquire about any flexibility when booking.

Is There an Option to Join the Tour at a Different Location?

Yes, the tour offers multiple pickup locations, allowing travelers to join at a more convenient spot. The itinerary details list 41 different central locations near hotels where guests can be picked up and dropped off.

Can I Purchase Additional Activities or Experiences During the Tour?

The tour does not offer additional activities or experiences to purchase during the excursion. However, travelers can explore on their own during the free time allotted at certain stops along the itinerary.

Recap

The Naxos Highlights Bus Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s cultural and historical treasures.

Travelers can enjoy the ancient Temple of Demeter, witness traditional olive oil production, and stroll through charming villages.

The tour also includes a refreshing swim at Apollonas beach and the chance to capture stunning photos of the iconic Kouros statue, all while traveling in comfort on an air-conditioned bus.

You can check if your dates are available here: