How to Plan Your Naxos Tour: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut

Are you planning to visit Cyclades and looking for the perfect tour to explore Naxos? Look no further than the Naxos: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut tour! This tour is an excellent way to experience the rich history, culture, and traditions of Naxos while creating unforgettable memories. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to plan and prepare for this fantastic tour.

Experience

The Naxos: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut tour is a unique and immersive experience that will take you back in time to the ancient world of Naxos. Here are some of the highlights of the tour: -Visit the serene archaeological park of Iria and hear fascinating ancient myths -Travel back in time and live the “Greek kafeneio” experience in Fasolas -Get an insider’s look into the past and contemporary local life of Filoti – Participate in “hands-on” activity of milking and cheese making – Savor an authentic Greek lunch at a shepherd’s hut and make new friends

Itinerary

The Naxos: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut tour is a full-day tour that lasts approximately 6 hours. Here’s a breakdown of the itinerary:

1. Iria Sanctuary

Your first stop will be at the archaeological park of Iria. Recent excavations have revealed an amazing sanctuary of God Dionysus, who was born, raised, and worshipped in Naxos. The landscape has been restored with oak trees and vineyards as it used to be and makes the visitor feel like traveling back in time while listening to fascinating myths.

2. Fasolas

Next, you’ll visit Fasolas for a traditional Greek kafeneio experience. You’ll get to enjoy a cup of Greek coffee and learn about the significance of kafeneio in Greek culture.

3. Filoti

After Fasolas, you’ll head to the picturesque village of Filoti, where you’ll get an insider’s look into the past and contemporary local life. You’ll stroll through the vibrant streets, explore the village’s landmarks and attractions while learning about the village’s customs and culture.

4. Shepherd’s Hut

Your final stop will be at a shepherd’s hut for an incredible lunch experience. You’ll get to savor authentic Greek dishes while enjoying the stunning views of the countryside. You’ll also have the chance to participate in “hands-on” activity of milking and cheese making.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Naxos: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut tour is easy! You can book the tour through the GetYourGuide website. The tour costs $74 per person and includes all entrance fees, transport, and lunch. To book the tour, click here and follow the instructions.

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Naxos is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich islands in Cyclades, and the Naxos: Iria Sanctuary, Filoti, and Lunch at a Shepherd’s Hut tour is a perfect way to explore its beauty and tradition. We hope this guide has helped you plan your Naxos tour successfully. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience Naxos’s grandeur and join the tour today!

FAQ about Cyclades

Cyclades is a group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. The islands are famous for their picturesque white and blue buildings, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Here are some frequently asked questions about Cyclades that will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time there.

1. What are some of the must-visit islands in Cyclades?

There are 24 inhabited islands in Cyclades, each with its unique charm and beauty. However, some of the most popular islands that you should visit include:

• Santorini: Famous for its stunning sunsets, volcanic beaches, and cliff-side villages.
• Mykonos: Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and charming old town.
• Naxos: The largest island in the Cyclades, with stunning beaches, historical sites, and mountain villages.
• Paros: Famous for its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and traditional architecture.
• Amorgos: An unspoiled island with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich history.

2. What is the best time to visit Cyclades?

The best time to visit Cyclades is during the summer months between June and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. However, during July and August, the islands can get crowded with tourists. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you may want to visit in May or October when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds have thinned out.

3. How can I get to Cyclades?

Cyclades is well connected to the mainland and other Greek islands by ferry and air. The major ferry ports in Cyclades are Piraeus in Athens, Rafina, and Lavrio. The main airport in the region is in Santorini, which is well connected to other Greek islands and major European cities.

4. Is it necessary to rent a car on the islands?

Renting a car is not necessary, but it is recommended if you want to explore the islands’ beauty fully. Public transportation is available on most islands, including buses, taxis, and boats, but they can be infrequent and unreliable. If you rent a car, you can explore the islands at your own pace and discover hidden beaches and scenic routes.

5. What are some popular beaches in Cyclades?

Cyclades is known for its beautiful beaches, and there is no shortage of them. Some of the most popular beaches that you should visit include:

• Red Beach, Santorini: A unique beach with red volcanic sand and stunning views.
• Paradise Beach, Mykonos: A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and a vibrant atmosphere.
• Agios Prokopios Beach, Naxos: A long stretch of golden sand beach with calm waters perfect for swimming.
• Kolymbithres Beach, Paros: A beautiful beach with unusual rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
• Mouros Beach, Amorgos: A secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.

6. What are some traditional Cycladic dishes that I must try?

Cyclades is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are several traditional dishes that you must try during your visit, including:

• Greek Salad: A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, onions, olives, and olive oil.
• Moussaka: A baked dish made with layers of aubergines, minced meat, potatoes, and bechamel sauce.
• Fava: A popular dip made from yellow split peas, onion, and olive oil.
• Octopus: Grilled or boiled octopus seasoned with lemon, olive oil, and oregano.
• Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey syrup.

7. Are there any historical sites or museums in Cyclades?

Cyclades is rich in history and has several museums and historical sites that you can visit, including:

• Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Santorini: A Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a volcanic eruption with well-preserved buildings and artifacts.
• Archaeological Museum, Mykonos: A museum that showcases the island’s archaeological finds, including pottery, statues, and jewelry.
• Portara, Naxos: A massive marble gate standing at the entrance of the temple of Apollo built-in 530 BC.
• Ekatontapyliani Church, Paros: One of the oldest and largest churches in Greece, built-in 326 AD.
• Archaeological Museum, Amorgos: A museum that exhibits the island’s history and culture, including artifacts from the Cycladic civilization and ancient wrecks.

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Cyclades is a beautiful region with stunning beaches, picturesque villages, rich culture, and history. Whether you’re planning to visit Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, or Amorgos, you won’t be disappointed. Follow these frequently asked questions to plan your trip, and you’ll have a memorable time in Cyclades.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cyclades

The Cyclades is a group of Greek islands known for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and picturesque villages. Each island in the Cyclades has its own unique charm and appeal, making it the perfect destination for tourists who crave an authentic Greek experience. If you’re planning to visit Cyclades as a tourist, here are some tips on how to make the most of your time on the islands.

1. Explore the Beaches

One of the biggest draws of Cyclades is its stunning beaches. With over 220 beaches spread across the various islands, there’s no shortage of places to soak up the sun and take a dip in the Aegean Sea. Some of the best beaches in Cyclades include:

• Mykonos: Paradise Beach, Super Paradise, and Psarou Beach
• Santorini: Perissa Beach, Red Beach and Kamari Beach
• Naxos: Agios Prokopios Beach, Plaka Beach and Mikri Vigla Beach

2. Visit the Archaeological Sites

Cyclades is home to many important archaeological sites, all of which provide insight into the region’s rich history and culture. Some of the most popular archaeological sites include:

• Delos Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the impressive ruins of an old Greek city, including the famous Terrace of the Lions.
• Santorini: The ancient city of Akrotiri, which was buried by a volcanic eruption, is one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Cyclades.
• Paros: The marble quarries on this island date back to ancient times and were used to build some of the most famous landmarks in ancient Greece.

3. Take a Boat Tour

One of the best ways to experience Cyclades is by taking a boat tour around the various islands. These tours offer stunning views of the islands’ coastlines, as well as the opportunity to swim in secluded coves and explore hidden beaches. Some of the most popular boat tours in Cyclades include:

• Santorini: Sunset cruises around the caldera and nearby islands are a must-do for anyone visiting Santorini.
• Mykonos: Boat tours around the island often include stops at nearby Delos Island and Rhenia Island.
• Paros: Cruises around this island often include stops at nearby Naxos and Antiparos islands.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Greek cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors and healthy dishes. Cyclades is no exception, with many of the islands offering their own unique spin on classic Greek dishes. Some of the most popular dishes to try in Cyclades include:

• Fava: A traditional Greek dish made with yellow split peas, onions and olive oil.
• Seafood: With so many beaches and ports, it’s no surprise that seafood is a staple in Cyclades cuisine. Octopus, squid and fresh fish are all popular choices.
• Sweet Treats: Cyclades is famous for its sweet treats, such as loukoumades (Greek donuts) and melitinia (sweet cheese pies).

5. Attend a Local Festival

Cyclades is home to many festivals and cultural celebrations throughout the year, which provide a unique opportunity to experience the region’s traditional music, dance and customs. Some of the most popular festivals in Cyclades include:

• Santorini: The Ifestia Festival, which takes place in late September or early October, is a celebration of the island’s volcanic history and includes fireworks and reenactments of the eruption of the Santorini volcano.
• Mykonos: The Mykonos International Film Festival takes place every June and features independent films from around the world.
• Naxos: The Naxos Festival, which takes place in July and August, features a variety of concerts, dance performances and theater productions.

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Whether you’re interested in exploring the beaches, discovering the region’s rich history or indulging in its delicious cuisine, Cyclades has something for everyone. By following these tips, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Cyclades and create unforgettable memories on this stunning Greek island chain.