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Naxos Travel Safety: Essential Tips for Your Stay

Naxos is widely considered one of the safest Greek islands but nevertheless here are some practical safety tips which you may find useful.

General Safety & Petty Crime

While serious crime is rare, opportunistic petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas like Naxos Town (Chora), at popular beaches, or on public transport during peak season.

  • Be Aware of Your Belongings: Keep an eye on your bags, wallets, and phones, especially in busy spots. Consider a cross-body bag or a front pocket for valuables.
  • Beach Safety: Don't leave valuables unattended on the beach while swimming. If traveling in a group, take turns watching belongings. Using a waterproof dry bag for essentials can also be an option if swimming close to shore.
  • Accommodation Security: Always lock your hotel room or accommodation doors and windows when leaving, even for a short time. Most "break-ins" are often "walk-ins" due to unlocked doors.
  • ATM Use: Use ATMs during daylight hours and be discreet.
  • Emergency Numbers:
    • European Emergency Number (General): 112
    • Police: 100
    • Ambulance: 166
    • Fire Department: 199

 

Road Safety & Driving

Naxos' roads, especially outside of Chora, can be narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved.

  • Vehicle Rental:
    • Reputable Companies: Rent from established companies (multi-nationals simply cooperate with local ones). Beware of scams involving faulty vehicles where you might be blamed for pre-existing damage. Always inspect the vehicle thoroughly (and take photos/videos) before driving off.
    • Insurance: Having comprehensive insurance coverage can sometimes be very useful.
    • Driving Conditions: Be cautious on mountain roads and unpaved tracks leading to remote beaches. Speed limits may not be strictly adhered to by locals, so drive defensively.
  • Scooters/ATVs: These are popular but require extreme caution. Many accidents involve inexperienced riders. Always wear a helmet and ensure your travel insurance covers such activities. If you're not an experienced rider, consider a car or public transport.
  • Pedestrians: Be aware of traffic, especially in Naxos Town where streets can be busy and narrow.

 

Health & Well-being

  • Hydration & Sun Protection: Naxos summers are hot. Drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen (SPF 30+ and 50+ for children), hats, and sunglasses. Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day (12 PM - 4 PM).
  • Food & Water: Tap water in Naxos is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available and often preferred by tourists. Food hygiene standards are good; enjoy local delicacies without excessive worry, but always choose busy, reputable establishments.
  • Medical Facilities: Naxos has a General Hospital in Chora, as well as private doctors and pharmacies throughout the island. For serious emergencies, you may need to be transported to a larger island or Athens. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and potential repatriation.
  • Mosquitoes: Especially in late spring and summer evenings, mosquitoes can be present. Pack insect repellent, and many accommodations provide plug-in repellents.

 

Swimming & Water Activities

  • Currents: While many Naxos beaches have calm, shallow waters, be aware of currents, especially on more exposed beaches or during windy conditions.
  • Red Flags: Pay attention to any red flags indicating dangerous swimming conditions.
  • Boating/Ferry Travel: Follow all safety instructions from ferry staff. If renting a boat, ensure you understand how to operate it safely and check weather conditions before departure.

 

Hiking Safety

  • Preparation: Wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water, and inform someone of your route and estimated return time.
  • Marked Trails: Stick to marked trails. While Naxos' mountains are not extreme, it's still possible to get lost or encounter tricky terrain.
  • Weather: Be aware of sudden weather changes, especially in the mountains. Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day.

 

Responsible Tourism

  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries (shoulders and knees covered), and preferrably wearing trousers/shorts rather than dresses (for women) in churches.
  • Environmental Awareness: Help keep Naxos beautiful by disposing of waste properly and being mindful of water and energy consumption, especially in areas where resources might be limited. In recent years there's been a lack of drinking water and the island's government had to result to sea-water distillation.

 

 

 

 

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