The 7 Best Day Trips You Can Take from Naxos, Greece

Featuring mountainside villages, whitewashed villas and 120km (75mi) of coastline, Paros Island is a Greek paradise. It’s most famous for its watersports, sandy beaches and snorkelling. Less than an hour boat ride from Naxos, visitors are dropped off in Parikia, the main capital. It’s here you can stop off at Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a beautiful church that supposedly has 100 doors (the 100th being a secret entrance that, it’s said, will only reveal itself when the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul becomes Orthodox once more). Recommended by local insider Ellie Dumper

Santorini – know for its pretty white buildings and magnificent caldera – was built on myth. According to the legend, Euphemus (son of Poseidon) dreamt of making love to a nymph, who told him she needed a safe nursery to give birth. After throwing a clod of earth into the sea, a fully-formed island – named Santorini – emerged. It’s here that bougainvillea-clad cottages and seafood restaurants sit clustered together in squares. It’s the perfect setting to sink your teeth into the island’s specialties: moussaka, sea bass filet and lemon-drizzled octopus. Recommended by local insider Ellie Dumper

Known as the fairest of all Greek islands, Amorgos is a spot where there’s no sign of cruise ships or wild nightlife. Dozens of subterranean caves have been carved into cliff sides, and there are plenty of important archaeological ruins – dating back to the Early Cycladic era – to sink your teeth into, none more impressive than the monastery of Hozoviotissa, built in 1017. All that fresh air is bound to build up an appetite, so try the courgette croquettes and delicate pastries served in the town’s many cafés. Recommended by local insider Charlie Bush

Known as the Mykonos of the Cyclades, Koufonisia is growing in popularity thanks to its astounding six beaches. Rather than squeezing yourself onto a packed bus to tour the island, your best bet is to hire a bike and see it on two wheels. Rural villages with flocks of sheep, goats and cows beckon, as well as clumps of woodland and rocky coastal walks. Recommended by local insider Ellie Dumper

Mykonos is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and world-class nightlife. During the summer months thousands flock here to party and explore the island’s illustrious history and culture. The iconic whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, particularly in the capital of Chora, are a particular highlight, but don’t forget to make time to soak up the sun on the sandy shores of Paralia Megali Ammos, then stop off at NOA Greek restaurant for the best breadcrumbed steak and grilled calamari you’re ever likely to have. Recommended by local insider Charlie Bush

Hop on this boat tour to experience the best of Naxos’ surrounding areas. You’ll spend the day sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on this all-inclusive tour to the small Cyclades. After boarding at Naxos’ main marina, enjoy a light breakfast en route to the islands. Snorkel in crystalline water, feast on a barbecue lunch with a fresh salad, and take a refreshing swim along Naxos’ west coast. Take home high-quality downloadable photos provided by the crew. Explore the Small Cyclades on an all-day sailboat cruise with a small group Enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch included in the tour price Watch for dolphins, relax with a refreshing swim, and snorkel in clear water Get professional-quality photos of your outing as a complimentary souvenir

Head out to Rina’s Cave, a stunning natural feature in the surrounding area of Naxos. This tour starts from Kalantos leaving behind the gold sand, heading East to Rina’s cave. You’ll be invited to paddle and swim in a relaxed pace exploring the interesting geology of the area, the pure Cycladic scenery and the fresh turquoise water. Along the way you’ll stop off at small beaches ideal for swimming, snorkeling and cliff jumping away from the crowds, and enjoy the personalized attention of the guide on a small-group tour. The whole tour will last approximately five hours, two and a half hours of total paddling and another two and a half hours on the beaches, swimming, snorkeling and having snacks and coffee. Later in the evening, after a day of making incredible memories and enjoying the landscape, you will return to the starting point to soak up one final swim.