The island of Naxos
Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades islands in Greece, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture. The island was an important center in ancient Greece, with notable archaeological sites like the Portara, the massive marble gateway to the ancient Temple of Apollo. Naxos combines mountainous landscapes with fertile valleys, offering diverse activities from hiking to exploring charming villages. Naxos Town (Chora), features a Venetian castle, narrow alleys, and a lively harbour. The island is also famous for its local products, including cheeses, potatoes, and the citrus-based liqueur Kitron.
The lessons of the 1-week Greek Language course in Naxos takes place in the castle of Naxos town.
During the afternoons students can explore the island, with or without Omilo.
Click on the video below to get a better idea.
Or listen to the feedback of a student
Greek Language and Culture Course (1 week) taking place in Naxos :
One Week Course, in October:
Wednesday October 1 – Wednesday October 8, 2025
More information and possibility to register, from January 2025.
First time on the island of Naxos: (at least) 6 things to visit
Here are some must-visit places when visiting Naxos for the first time:
1. Portara – The iconic marble gateway of the ancient Temple of Apollo, offering stunning views, especially at sunset.
When you arrive in the harbour, it is probably the first thing you will see, and very easily accessible
2. Naxos Castle (Kastro) –
A Venetian fortress in Naxos Town, with charming narrow alleys, museums, and panoramic views.
The Omilo school is located within the castle
3. Agios Prokopios/ Agia Anna Beaches –
One of the island’s most popular and long beaches, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.
4. Apiranthos Village
A picturesque mountain village with marble-paved streets, traditional architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.
5. Temple of Demeter
An ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Demeter, located in the heart of the island’s countryside.
6. Chalki Village and Kitron Distillery
Explore this beautiful village and visit the distillery that produces the traditional Kitron liqueur.
This is just a small list, but of course there are many more things to be explored,…
Click here to watch a small video to get a better idea.
Cultural Life
Naxos Chora, the island’s vibrant capital, is a hub of cultural life, blending ancient history with a lively modern atmosphere. The Venetian Castle (Kastro) at its heart is a key cultural landmark, surrounded by narrow, winding streets lined with art galleries, museums, and traditional tavernas. The area hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances, often held in historic venues like the Ursuline School or the atmospheric open-air settings within the castle walls. The fusion of Venetian, Byzantine, and Greek influences makes Naxos Chora a rich cultural experience for visitors.
Gallery
Click to enlarge photos
Travel information
Please remember!
- When booking a course , you are expected to make your own travel arrangements to Greece and the Omilo school in Naxos island, close to the harbour.
- It is necessary to arrange for a valid passport and insurance covering “your stay in Greece”. The Omilo course fees do NOT include medical coverage, neither cancellation insurance.
- Making your holiday arrangements is exciting, but is often a lot of work. That’s why we are happy to give you information on how you can plan your trip. The information below is based on the 2024 prices and travel information. We do not accept responsibility for any errors or changes. Please check the latest available info on the internet.
- When you have registered, Omilo will send you an info letter three weeks before the start of your course with the latest details about the course along with practical information.
Accommodation on Naxos island
Note, for booking accommodation on Naxos island, the most practical location is in the Chora or castle, so you can walk to the school in the castle, where your Greek lessons takes place. You can search for hotels and book one with the search button below.
Extra tips also on the info page for NAXOS, click here
From Athens to Naxos island
By plane
You can contact a travel agency to book a flight from Athens to Naxos. From Naxos airport you can then travel by taxi to the Chora / harbour. (+/- 10 km)
By boat
Most participants book a flight from their country to Athens and then travel by boat from Athens to Naxos, which takes 5 hours by normal boat, or 3 hours by fast boat. You can take a boat from Piraeus Harbour to Naxos (there are usually two boats per day):
Blue Star Ferries
To Piraeus harbor By express bus
Line X96 connects the Airport with Piraeus Harbor. Tickets cost +/- € 6,00. The bus leaves about every 25 minutes and the trip to Piraeus takes +/- 70 minutes.
To Piraeus harbor By metro
Since 2023 the blue metro line is now completen, and from the Athens airport, you take Metro Line 3 directly to Piraeus Station (+/- € 10,00).
The whole trip takes around 1 hour.
From Mykonos or Santorini island to Naxos
It is also possible to book a charter flight to the island of Mykonos or Santorini (there are still several options the beginning of October) and then take the boat from Mykonos or Santorini to Naxos.
(for boat schedules: www.ferryhopper.gr).
