Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands, offers a captivating sunset tour that showcases its Old Town, historic Castle, and the iconic Portara. Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors can explore the winding streets, uncover mythological tales, and learn about the powerful medieval dukes who once ruled the island. As the sun dips below the horizon, the tour culminates at the Temple of Apollo, where travelers can witness a breathtaking display of colors across the Aegean Sea. But the experience doesn’t end there – the island’s rich history and stunning natural beauty are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- The Naxos Old Town, Castle & Portara Guided Sunset Tour is a 2-hour walking tour that explores the historic streets, castle, and temple of Naxos.
- Visitors will discover the ancient streets of Naxos Town, learn about its mythological ties, and ascend to the Castle for stunning sunset views.
- The tour includes guided commentary on the castle’s history and the powerful medieval dukes who once ruled from its fortified walls.
- One of the highlights is witnessing the breathtaking sunset from the viewpoint at the Temple of Apollo.
- The tour includes a professional licensed guide but excludes food, drinks, and tips.
Overview of the Tour
The Naxos Old Town, Castle & Portara Guided Sunset Tour is a 2-hour walking tour through Naxos Town and its historic Castle, led by a professional licensed guide.
Guests will discover the ancient streets of Naxos bathed in the setting sun while listening to mythological stories about monsters, gods, and heroes. They’ll also learn about the medieval dukes who lived in the walled forts.
One of the tour’s highlights is catching the stunning sunset from the viewpoint at the Temple of Apollo. The tour includes the guided walking tour, but excludes food, drinks, and tips.
Meeting at the big marble Sphinx statue in front of Naxos Town Hall can be a bit tricky due to the narrow streets, so it’s best to ask a local for directions.
Exploring Naxos Town
Visitors begin their exploration of Naxos Town by strolling through its ancient streets, which wind through the historic buildings and shops. The narrow alleyways are lined with whitewashed houses and charming tavernas, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.
As the tour progresses, the guide regales travelers with mythological stories about the island’s ties to Dionysus and Ariadne, bringing the past to life.
The group then ascends to the Castle, a fortified medieval settlement that once housed the ruling dukes of Naxos. From this vantage point, they can admire the picturesque town below and the stunning sunset over the Aegean Sea.
Discovering the Castle
As the tour progresses, the group ascends to the Castle, a fortified medieval settlement that once housed the ruling dukes of Naxos.
From this vantage point, they can admire the picturesque town below and the stunning sunset over the Aegean Sea.
The guide shares captivating stories about the powerful dukes who lived within these imposing walls, painting a vivid picture of the island’s rich history.
Visitors learn about the architectural features and strategic importance of the Castle, gaining a deeper understanding of Naxos’ role as a center of power during the Middle Ages.
This intimate tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and take in the island’s captivating past.
Mythological Stories and Legends
As the group ascends to the Castle, the guide captivates them with mythological stories and legends about Naxos’ rich history. They’ll hear tales of monsters, gods, and heroes that have shaped the island’s identity over the centuries.
One famous story is the wedding of Dionysus and Ariadne, who found refuge on Naxos after her abandonment by Theseus. The guide shares how Naxos is intricately linked to this mythological romance.
Visitors are also enthralled by stories of the medieval dukes who once ruled from the walled forts, governing the island with both power and intrigue. These legendary tales bring the island’s past vividly to life, captivating the group as the sun sets over the ancient Castle.
Life of the Medieval Dukes
The medieval dukes who ruled Naxos from the island’s walled forts governed with an iron fist, using both power and intrigue to maintain control over the region.
These noble families, such as the Sanudo dynasty, would often engage in fierce battles and political machinations to expand their influence.
Visitors to Naxos’ Old Town and Castle can glimpse the grandeur and opulence that these medieval rulers once enjoyed, with ornate architecture and lavish living quarters.
However, the dukes’ actions weren’t without consequence, as their heavy-handed rule sometimes provoked uprisings from the local populace.
Today, the legacy of these medieval lords lives on in the island’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Witnessing the Stunning Sunset
One of the tour’s highlights is the chance to catch the stunning sunset from the viewpoint at the Temple of Apollo, where visitors can bask in the warm glow as the sun dips below the horizon. As the tour reaches this captivating spot, the guide shares insights into the temple’s history and mythology, adding depth to the experience. The sunset itself is a breathtaking sight, with the vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple painting the sky in a mesmerizing display. Visitors can pause to appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder, creating lasting memories of their time in Naxos.
| Time | Sky Condition | Temperature | Lighting |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6:30 PM | Clear | 72°F | Warm, golden glow |
| 6:45 PM | Partly Cloudy | 70°F | Vibrant, pink hues |
| 7:00 PM | Mostly Cloudy | 68°F | Soft, purple tones |
| 7:15 PM | Overcast | 66°F | Subtle, fading light |
Meeting Point and Directions
Visitors can meet the tour guide at the prominent marble Sphinx statue situated in front of Naxos Town Hall.
Using Google Maps to reach the meeting point can be challenging due to the narrow streets, so it’s advised to ask a local for more precise directions if needed.
The tour explores the ancient streets of Naxos bathed in the setting sun, with the guide sharing mythological tales about the island’s history and connection to Dionysus and Ariadne.
The highlight is catching the stunning sunset from the viewpoint at the Temple of Apollo.
With a duration of 2 hours, this guided tour offers an immersive experience of Naxos’ Old Town, Castle, and the iconic Portara.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a professional licensed guide who will lead the walking tour through Naxos Town and the Castle. Excluded from the tour are food, drinks, and tips.
The tour provides the following inclusions and exclusions:
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Guide | Food |
| Walking tour | Drinks |
| Tips |
Visitors can expect an informative and engaging sunset exploration of Naxos’ historic Old Town and Castle, guided by an expert who will share the island’s mythology and medieval history. However, any personal expenses like meals and gratuities are not covered in the tour price.
Recap
Naxos’ Old Town, Castle, and Portara Guided Sunset Tour offers a captivating journey through the island’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes.
Visitors will explore the picturesque town, explore mythological tales, and witness the stunning sunset over the Aegean Sea.
This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to uncover the island’s medieval past and bask in the warm glow of the setting sun.
