The Greek island of Naxos is far less well known for tourists than its "big siblings" Mykonos, Santorini and Paros. But that is exactly what makes Naxos particularly attractive, because it is usually not overcrowded here.

Since the runway at the island's airport is quite short, there are no scheduled flights from German-speaking countries. However, the tour operator Springer Reisen offers package tours from Graz. After a long break, these are again carried out as a so-called direct flight, i.e. with a refueling stop.

If you want to travel by air, there is almost no way around changing trains in Athens. Here you can choose whether you want to fly from the capital to Athens with Olympic Air or Skyexpress. Alternatively, there are also ferry services, but the time required is much higher. Alternatively, you can fly to Santorini, Mykonos or Paros with non-stop flights and then take a boat to Naxos Town. On Santorini you should note that the airport and the port are a few kilometers apart. But this can be done easily and cheaply with the regular bus.

There are countless beautiful places to write about on the island of Naxos. This article is limited to the beach in Plaka. From the airport or the port you can get there easily and cheaply with the public bus. Yes, there is actually a big bus on the sandy road above the beach. There is one special thing about bus tickets on Naxos that you should keep in mind.

Bus tickets must be purchased in shops in advance

In contrast to other islands, for example Corfu and Santorini, there are no longer conductors in the vehicles. The union is massively against the fact that the drivers should sell tickets, which is why there are none on the bus. You have to buy these in shops beforehand, although pretty much every shop, no matter how small, has bus tickets in its range. Then you give the driver the ticket, he devalues ​​it by tearing it and the journey can begin. At Plaka Beach, for example, you can buy tickets for the public bus in the supermarket at the campsite.

The named beach is one of the largest and most beautiful on the island of Naxos. Feels like an infinitely long sandy beach invites you to linger and swim. There are also some beach cafes whose loungers and umbrellas can be used free of charge when consuming drinks and food. The prices are not excessive, but at a normal level. It is served directly on the beach lounger.

Water sports activities under professional guidance

Of course, you can also look for a vacancy and simply put your towel on the sand and then enjoy the sun and sea. Since Plaka Beach is very large and spacious, it is a good idea to change location from time to time in order to be able to discover even more. Snorkels and diving goggles should also be packed, because there is a lot to discover underwater and with a little luck you will get to know colorful fish and other marine life.

You can also have action at Plaka Beach, as there are several providers of water sports activities. Even surfboards and jet skis can be borrowed at moderate prices. If you want to learn sailing or diving, you can also attend professional courses on site. If that's too much action for you and doesn't like “sizzling in the sun”, you can linger in the shade in one of the numerous beach restaurants and cafés. The view of the Mediterranean is also impressive here.

At Plaka Beach there are several hotels within walking distance of the sea. Some of them have their own loungers and umbrellas for their guests. You can also buy drinks and snacks in the supermarket at the campsite, but the prices are not cheap here. As part of a trip to Naxos Town, which you should definitely do because of its beauty, a “pit stop” in a supermarket is a good idea. As already mentioned: Plaka and Naxos town are very well connected by public bus.

Rental car unnecessary for beach holidays

Rental cars can of course also be borrowed on Naxos. These can be very useful when exploring the island. There is so much to discover. But if you only want to spend a beach holiday in Plaka, a rental car is absolutely unnecessary. Alternatively, you can borrow these on a daily basis. Some hotels offer a corresponding service so that it is brought to the hotel and picked up again there. Otherwise you can also visit the offices of the providers in Naxos City.

Tip: Plaka Beach is ideal for beautiful walks on the beach at dusk. This can be concluded with a "stop" in one of the restaurants. Many offer good Greek cuisine, some also offer international dishes such as burgers.