Naxos is a fantastic island for dinner experiences that go beyond just grabbing a gyro or a seafood platter. The island’s rich local flavors and historic streets offer a chance to enjoy authentic meals in settings that range from lively tavernas to serene olive groves. We particularly love the Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup, which combines a guided walk through the Venetian-era Kastro castle with tasting local cheeses, candies, and a sunset dinner overlooking the port. It’s a perfect way to combine history, culture, and cuisine in one intimate experience. If you want something even more immersive, the Naxos: Private Traditional Dining in the Olive Grove offers a secluded evening under the stars, with dishes prepared in a traditional wood-fired oven and endless local wine.
Below, we’ve rounded up two of the best dinner experiences in Naxos. Whether you prefer a guided tour with a focus on local history and flavors or an exclusive feast in a peaceful olive grove, these options give you a taste of the island’s true character.
1. Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup
At number 1, this private tour offers an excellent introduction to Naxos’s culinary and historical highlights. Starting with a pickup from your hotel, port, or airport, your guide takes you into Naxos Old Town, centered around the 13th-century Venetian Kastro castle. This walking tour emphasizes the island’s heritage, with stops at a traditional creamery to sample Naxian cheeses, and a family-run candy shop where you can taste homemade treats infused with local herbs, citron, and even ouzo. The highlight is a sunset dinner at Oniro Wine Bar Restaurant, perched inside the old town with stunning views of the castle and port—a perfect backdrop for trying Mediterranean dishes while watching the sky change color.
This tour’s standout feature is its personalized experience—small groups and the flexibility of pickup from your accommodation make for a stress-free evening. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning how much they learned about Naxos’s history alongside the delicious food. The included admission tickets and the fact that it’s tailored to your group make this tour a great value for a four-hour immersion in local flavors and sights.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, personalized introduction to Naxos’s food and history with a stunning sunset backdrop, this private tour hits the mark.
2. Naxos: Private Traditional Dining in the Olive Grove
At number 2, this experience offers a completely different vibe: a secluded dinner in a private olive grove. For around $233 per person, you and your party enjoy an evening under the stars, with all dishes lovingly prepared in a traditional wood-fired oven. Using local ingredients and recipes that have been handed down through generations, the host creates a meal that’s both authentic and memorable. The setting is tranquil, with endless wine flowing as you share stories and laughter in a peaceful outdoor environment.
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a romantic or intimate experience, or those wanting to escape the crowds. With no rush and no other travelers around, you’ll feel like guests in a friend’s home. The reviews highlight the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the homemade dishes, which keep visitors talking long after the meal ends. Since it’s a small, private setup, it’s ideal for special occasions or simply for those who want a genuine taste of Naxian tradition.
Bottom line: For a serene, authentic dinner in a beautiful natural setting, this olive grove experience offers a peaceful and delicious escape from the busier tourist spots.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two dinner options, consider what kind of experience suits your mood and interests. Are you looking for a guided, cultural walk with the chance to sample cheeses and candies, followed by a sunset meal? Then the Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup is your best bet. If you prefer a private, quiet dinner in a natural setting, with no crowds and an emphasis on traditional cooking, then the Naxos: Private Traditional Dining in the Olive Grove offers unmatched serenity and charm.
Budget also plays a role. The first tour offers great value for a four-hour experience that combines sightseeing, tasting, and dining, while the olive grove dinner is a bit more exclusive and thus costs more, but provides a deeply personal and memorable meal. Think about your preferences—whether you want a guided cultural walk or a peaceful outdoor feast—and plan accordingly.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season (June to September), to secure your preferred date and ensure an authentic experience with fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts
Naxos offers a wonderful range of dinner experiences that highlight its flavors, history, and natural beauty. For a lively, guided exploration with sunset views, the Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour is hard to beat. On the other hand, if you dream of a quiet, star-lit meal with homemade dishes, the Private Dining in the Olive Grove is an unforgettable choice.
Both options give you a taste of the authentic Naxian way of life—so pick what suits your style, book early, and enjoy a memorable evening on this charming Greek island.
