Explore The Most Beautiful Village on Naxos, Halki
Nestled in the hills of Naxos lies Halki, the most beautiful village on the Island.
This guide to Halki (Chalkio) showcases the best of the town, as well as when to visit, and how to get there.
Nestled amongst the high mountains and cultivated valleys, the citrus trees and olive groves lie perhaps Naxos’ most beautiful village, Halki (Chalkio).
Everywhere you turn in Halki you find history - in the famous Byzantine churches that dot the fields surrounding the town, in the neo-classical facades of centuries-old merchant villas, and in the time-worn marble roads that lead to the oh-so-Cycladic town square - it all makes sense then, to learn that Halki was once the island’s historic capital.
Now though, Halki is a sleepy village finding fame again after years of decay. There are galleries, jewellers, distilleries, and tavernas, all surrounded by sweet rustic vibes, leading to a deserved renaissance.
Located 30 minutes from Chora, Halki is the perfect place to visit on a day trip around Naxos, although be warned, you’ll want to stay all day, and while away the hours under the shade, sipping delicious wine and taking it all in.
This guide to Halki (Chalkio) showcases the best of the town, as well as when to visit, and how to get there.
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HALKI,
NAXOS
SNAPSHOT
WHERE | 30mins east of Naxos Chora
HOW TO GET THERE | By rental car, or public transport (bus)
WHAT TO SEE | Byzantine Church of St. George, Fish & Olive ceramics, Kitron Distillery
WHERE TO EAT | Liotrivi Halkiou, Mitos Arternative Bar + Pizza
HALKI TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
WHERE IS HALKI, NAXOS?
Halki (otherwise known as Chalki or Chalkio) is located in the hinterland of Naxos Island, around 30 minutes east of the capital, Chora.
The diverse inner part of the island is known for its rocky mountains and cultivated valleys, and it’s here that Halki sits, hidden amongst centuries-old olive trees and ancient Byzantine ruins.
Despite its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in Greece, it still remains quiet and peaceful
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HALKI
Naxos is also prone to the extreme summer heat, and while the mountain villages provide some respite, it can still get super hot in Halki.
Due to this, most businesses and restaurants are closed from 2 pm - 5 pm daily, so either arrive early or later in the day to explore the beauty of Halki.
Due to the heat (and tourists!), we suggest visiting Naxos between late April - early June, and mid-September - October - otherwise known as the shoulder season.
During this time, the days are still long and the weather and sea are warm, but the crowds are smaller and more manageable, making the island extremely pleasant.
What's more, the price of accommodation, food and drinks are cheaper during the shoulder period - and you’re helping reduce the environmental impact while extending the tourism season to locals.
HOW TO GET TO HALKI
Due to its popularity, Halki/Chalki is super easy to get to, with a range of transport options making a trip simple from Naxos Chora, or other popular areas like Agios Prokopios or Plaka beach.
RENTING A CAR ON NAXOS
By far our most recommended form of transport on Naxos, a rental car will help you no end on Naxos. Naxos is huge with so much to see, and if you have your own set of wheels, especially an air-conditioned set, it will make your life so much easier.
Compared to other Greek Islands such as Santorini, Car rental on Naxos is actually quite affordable, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Expect to pay around €25 - €50 per day for car rental on Naxos.
It’s easy to get to Halki by car, with the Islands’ main circular road (Naxou-Chalkiou) passing through the town. Parking is possible just outside of town - look for the parking as you exit the town, just before the supermarket on your left.
BOOK | Search and book car rental on Naxos
SCOOTER OR ATV
For those on a budget, hiring an ATV or scooter might be a better option to get to Halki.
Just be warned though, if you’re planning a day trip throughout the Island, the mountain roads can be a little sketchy, especially outside of Filoti.
There are plenty of places to rent scooters on Naxos, however, we recommend Naxos On the Road.
Note that to rent a scooter in Greece you'll need to show proof of a motorbike license.
LOCAL BUS
Buses are by far the cheapest mode of transport on Naxos, and the network is pretty good and reliable, especially between Chora and the mountain villages of Chalki, Filoti and Apeiranthos (and return).
The bus you’ll need to catch is either Line #2 & #6 from Chora Town. The trip should take around between 30 - 45 minutes, depending on the summer traffic.
Tickets between Chora and Halki should cost €2.30 (as of 2022). Tickets for the Naxos bus service need to be bought prior to boarding and can be found at tourist markets throughout the Island.
See the Naxos bus timetable here - look for lines #2 & #6.
TOUR
If you’d prefer someone else to do the driving (who wouldn’t with Greek wine!), then why not take a day tour around Naxos, visiting the inland villages including Halki, plus a visit to the Temple of Demeter and other famous sites.
BOOK | Full-day Naxos attractions bus tour, including Halki
THINGS TO DO IN HALKI, NAXOS
FIND THE 11TH CENTURY CHURCH OF ST. GEORGE
Nestled deep amongst centuries-old olive groves is the historic Byzantine church of St. George.
The church is typically Byzantine, a simple four-column cruciform inscribed church with a narthex, however, its well-preserved state and incredible frescoes make it one of the best things to see in Halki (Chalki).
Built in the 11th century, the church maintains its original frescoes, which date back to the second half of the 11th century and cover the internal walls of this living, breathing museum.
The walk from Halki takes around 10 minutes and follows a peaceful path into the olive groves, which provide ample shade from the beating sun. The church itself is only open during July and August, so make sure you plan your visit around this time to see the internal frescoes.
A further 15-minute walk away is the ruins of another Byzantine Church, Taxiarhis Rahis. It was partially rebuilt after a collapse, however, the frescoes are original. If you have time, it’s definitely worth a visit!
THE DETAILS
Where | Church of St. George, Halki
Opening Hours | July + August
Cost | Free
TRY CITRON LIQUEUR IN HALKI
Housed in a mansion in the charming village of Halki is the historic Vallindras distillery, home to Naxos’ most famous citron liqueur. Still very much family-owned, Kitron has, over the years, become a cult liqueur, especially in Athen’s famous cocktail bars.
Kitron is made from fruit and leaves of the citron tree, similar to a lemon tree, but slightly differing in flavour, and comes in three distinct flavours, green, white/clear and yellow, differing in order of bitterness or strength.
The process is simple; fragrant citron leaves are collected, bathed in alcohol and left. The essential oils of the leaves are dissolved and distilled at various temperatures, leaving three basic spirit types - green, white and yellow.
After sampling Kitron over a dozen times on the Island, we can safely say it’s one of our favourites, with the subtle citrus flavours perhaps better than Italy’s limoncello - so we highly recommend sampling, and maybe buying a bottle or two!
It’s possible to do a tasting of each product here at the distillery, which also showcases the family history and distilling process in an entertaining and well laid-out museum in the heart of town.
It’s free to visit and reservations are not required.
THE DETAILS
Where | Vallindras Kitron distillery, Chalki
Opening Hours | Daily: 10 am - 5 pm
Cost | Free
WALK THE SMALL, YET PICTURESQUE OLD TOWN
Halki is small, yet its size does not detract from its beauty - it rivals Lefkes on Paros, and Apeiranthos, as one of our favourite Greek Island villages.
With a myriad of cobbled laneways and pastel Neo-Classical buildings, Halki provides a small insight into what Athens may have looked like pre-modernisation (or bastardisation!)
The marble-cobbled laneways that lead to the centre of town, a typically beautiful shaded square covered in vine leaves and bougainvillaea. It’s here that all the magic happens - delightful shops, a range of atmospheric (and delicious tavernas), an ice cream store, and that typically Greek aesthetic.
The town comes alive after 5 pm, when villagers end their day and sit amongst al-fresco cafes & tavernas, sharing the latest town gossip over a frappe, Kitron, or other refreshing tipples.
There are also a range of gift stores that sell a range of products including jewellery, homewares and other locally made products which are worth a look if you’re in the market for a souvenir - it’s a great way to support the smaller villages of Greece.
To explore the town on foot takes about 20 minutes, so take your time.
FISH AND OLIVE CERAMIC HOUSE
The renaissance of Halki can be partly attributed to Fish & Olive, the elegant gallery-cum-store located in a historic mansion in the heart of town.
Fish and Olive is the lovechild of Katharina Bolesch and Alexander Reichardt, a local couple creating exceptional ceramics, marble sculptures and homemade jewellery right on Naxos.
The gallery itself is elegant, and wouldn’t be out of place on Mykonos. However, its understated appeal, sleek interior and exceptional products make it a must-visit in town.
Influenced by Cycladic art and history, the pieces are typically Mediterranean. On top of showcasing the works of Katharina and Alexander, the gallery also presents paintings and etchings by national and international artists as well as lithographs by Fish & Olive Creations.
While you may not buy anything (it is rather pricey, especially for our Millennial budget!), it’s definitely worth taking a stroll through the beautiful gallery and admiring the art.
THE DETAILS
Where | Fish & Olive Gallery, Halki
Opening Hours | Daily: 10 am - 16:30 pm
Cost | Free
HAVE A LAZY LUNCH UNDER THE VINES
The day we visited Halki, we’d spent the morning exploring other villages in Naxos and arrived feeling hot, tired and hungry... really hungry.
We sat at the first taverna we could find, situated in the achingly beautiful main square, under think vines and heavenly shade.
We sat and took it all in; the light summer breeze, the wafts of oregano and rosemary, the distant hum of cicadas, and the two local men, deep in conversation about god-knows-what?
Ordering the vegetarian shepherd’s stew, a massive Greek salad, and a jug of wine, we dug right in, enjoying a thoroughly delicious meal that was just what the doctor ordered - nothing flash, just good, honest Greek cuisine.
It was one of those simple travel moments, where everything in that moment just felt, well, perfect.
We’re not sure you’ll have the same wonderful experience as us, but we can highly recommend slowing down and enjoying a long, lazy lunch under the vines in Halki.
We suggest eating at the following tavernas:
WHERE TO STAY ON NAXOS
While there aren’t many accommodation options in Halki, we’ve put together our favourite hotels on Naxos - just a short drive away.
LUXURY
Naxos isn’t known for its high-end accommodation... yet. However, if you’re after a more luxurious splurge on the Island, here are our top 3 picks:
AMPHITRITE ROCKS | Traditional villa in the hills above Naxos with views over Paros and beyond. This well-appointed villa has a kitchen, multiple rooms, and an infinity pool... need we say more! Perfect for families. Check prices and availability
AMMOTHINES CYCLADIC SUITES | The only true 5* luxury on the Island, Ammothines is located right in the heart of Plaka beach. Offering modern, large, well-appointed rooms in traditional Cycladic design, this is true luxury. Check prices and availability
NAXIAN ON THE BEACH | Our fave place to stay on Naxos, this Boho-chic hotel is located right on Plaka Beach. Naxian on the Beach is for Millennials who love sleek, modern design. Also attached to Tortuga restaurant and bar. Check prices and availability
MID-RANGE
Almost all accommodation on Naxos is mid-range 4* without the huge price tag... yet. Here are our top 3 picks:
AMPELOS SUITES | Gorgeous, modern self-contained apartments and suites located in downtown Chora, right in the heart of the action. Check prices and availability
NAXIAN UTOPIA | Sleek, boho-modern and inviting hotel with amazing views over the whole of Naxos. The pool set-up is grand, too - and some suites have their own plunge pool. Check prices and availability
NAXOS DOWNTOWN APARTMENTS | Super modern (which is hard to find in Greece!) apartments located in Naxos Chora, 400 m from Agios Georgios Beach. Location is everything here, as are the sleek modern finishes. Check prices and availability
BUDGET
Fortunately, you can still find good, cheap accommodation on Naxos, especially near Prokopios and Agia Anna. Here are our top 3 picks:
KATERINA ROZA APARTMENTS | Self-catered studios located in the heart of Naxos Chora. Surprisingly modern and cute, considering the price. A rare find! Check prices and availability
HOTEL FRANCESCA | It’s all about the pool at this 2* hotel near Agios Prokopios beach. The rooms aren’t bad either, so this place is a real bargain. Check prices and availability
HOTEL PROTEAS | Another surprisingly cheap, modern hotel on Agios Prokopios beach. Studios are self-contained with AC, so perfect for a long stay. Check prices and availability
READ MORE | Our guide on Where to stay on Naxos
BOOK | Alternatively, search all accommodation on Naxos here.
NAXOS TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
GREECE PACKING ESSENTIALS
To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE | THE BEST INVESTMENT WE’VE EVER MADE! We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allow us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!)
A TOTE BAG | The humble tote is a versatile little lifesaver when on the road. They're plastic-free, small, easily foldable, and can pack a surprising amount! Check out this range of beautifully designed, personalisable totes bags here
BIODEGRADABLE WET WIPES | Keep clean without destroying the planet!
HAND SANITISER | This is not something we’d actually recommend normally, but we now live in Covid times... so this can be a bloody great investment
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ADAPTER | You’ll need a European plug to keep your gear going!
POWER BANK | Don’t get caught out without power for your devices
EYE MASK | For those annoyingly early European sunrises!
BIO-FRIENDLY TOILETRIES | Avoid damaging and chemical-heavy products and facial scrubs with microbeads altogether. We recommend Lush solid shampoo, conditioner and bodywash bars, ocean-friendly sunscreen (Stream2Sea), a mooncup is a great investment for “that” week and Lip balm for the sun
READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Greece consciously and comfortably
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN GREECE
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
THE BEST OF NAXOS | Top things to do on Naxos, Where to stay on Naxos Island, Things to do in Chora Town, A guide to the pretty town of Halki, A guide to Plaka Beach, Agios Prokopios, How to get from Athens to Naxos
SANTORINI ATTRACTIONS | Our complete Santorini Guide, The best things to do in Santorini, A complete guide to Oia, Santorini, Exploring the stunning Ammoudi Bay, A guide to Megalochori Town, Our guide to hiking Skaros Rock, How and where to find the best Santorini sunsets, where to stay in Santorini, How to get from Athens to Santorini
EXPLORE PAROS | The best things to do on Paros, A guide to Naoussa town, A guide to Lefkes, A short guide to Parikia Paros, Where to stay on Paros, How to get from Athens to Paros Island
MYKONOS DREAMING | What to see and do on Mykonos, A Guide to Mykonos Town (Chora), How to get from Athens to Mykonos
GREECE SAILING | This is what it’s like to sail the Greek Saronic Islands with Medsailors
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR GREEK SUMMER WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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