Apeiranthos might be tiny, but it packs a surprising punch when it comes to unique tours and authentic experiences. Its charming villages, scenic landscapes, and welcoming locals make it a fantastic base for exploring on organized trips. Among the many options, two stand out for their depth, authenticity, and memorable moments: the Naxos: Historic Olive Press & Shepherd Cheese Tour and the Naxos: Private Day Tour. We especially love the former for its hands-on tasting experiences and the latter for its personal touch and local insights. Both tours showcase different sides of Naxos, ensuring there’s something for every traveler.
If you’re wondering which trip suits your style—whether a deep dive into Naxos’s culinary traditions or a personalized journey through its villages—you’ll find our detailed reviews below. Each offers a distinct window into the island’s culture, landscape, and flavors.
The Types of Tours in Apeiranthos
Apeiranthos is known for its authentic character and scenic surroundings, making it an ideal spot for a variety of tours. You’ll find options like food-focused experiences (think olive oil tastings), cultural visits, and private excursions. To help you plan, here’s a quick overview of the most interesting tours currently available:
- Naxos: Historic Olive Press & Shepherd Cheese Tour – a 6-hour private experience centered around Naxos’s agricultural heritage and artisanal foods. Learn more here.
- Naxos: Private Day Tour – a 5-hour personalized trip that takes you through charming villages and iconic landmarks with a local guide. Details here.
Now, let’s explore what makes each of these tours special.
1. Naxos: Historic Olive Press & Shepherd Cheese Tour
At number one on our list is the Naxos: Historic Olive Press & Shepherd Cheese Tour. This private experience offers a genuine taste of Naxos’s agricultural past and present. The tour includes visits to an 1880 olive press, a working shepherd’s farm, and a cozy family-run winery. Throughout the day, you’ll sample artisan cheeses, freshly pressed olive oils, and local wines, giving you a true flavor of the island’s culinary traditions.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on hands-on tastings and in-depth visits. You’ll step inside an olive press that’s been operating since 1880, learning how the oil is made and sampling different varieties. Meeting the shepherd offers a rare glimpse into traditional sheep herding and cheese production—an authentic experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. The winery visit adds another layer, with a curated tasting of local wines paired with regional cheeses.
This tour is perfect for food lovers and those interested in agriculture, especially since it combines history with delicious bites. The private format means your guide can tailor the experience slightly to your interests, making it more intimate and relaxed.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a comprehensive, sensory-rich look at Naxos’s culinary heritage, with exceptional tastings and engaging storytelling. Expect to come away with a new appreciation for the island’s farm-to-table traditions.
2. Naxos: Private Day Tour
At number two is the Naxos: Private Day Tour, which offers a personalized journey through the island’s most notable sights and hidden corners. This 5-hour tour is ideal if you want a flexible, guided exploration of Naxos’s villages, ancient sites, and scenic spots. The itinerary includes stops at the Temple of Demeter, the Damalas village, and the Panagia Drosiani Church, along with a visit to the famous Kouros at Melanes.
What sets this tour apart is the local guide’s insight—they grew up on Naxos and love sharing stories about everyday life, history, and the island’s traditions. The itinerary is customizable, so if you’re keen on exploring specific villages or trying particular foods, your guide can accommodate that. The visit to the Eggares Olive Oil Museum is a highlight, combining a short museum tour with tasting and shopping.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge. The tour is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a more personal, in-depth experience without the rigidity of larger group tours. Keep in mind that this tour involves some walking and vehicle travel, so a reasonable level of mobility is helpful.
Bottom Line: For those who prefer a flexible, local-guided tour with authentic village visits, this private experience offers a balanced mix of sights, stories, and tastings.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Deciding between these two great options depends on what you’re most interested in. If you’re passionate about food, history, and hands-on experiences, the Olive Press & Cheese Tour is a perfect pick. It’s ideal for those who want to learn how Naxos’s traditional foods are made and taste a variety of local products. Learn more about this experience here.
If you’re after a more personalized sightseeing trip that covers villages, historic sites, and scenic spots, the Private Day Tour suits your style. It offers flexibility and local insights, making it a good choice for travelers who want to customize their day and go beyond the usual. Check availability here.
Consider your budget, physical comfort, and what kind of experience will be most memorable. Both tours offer great value: the Olive Press & Cheese Tour for its immersive tastings, and the Private Day Tour for its tailored approach.
Final Thoughts
Apeiranthos and its surrounding areas provide a perfect backdrop for exploring Naxos through engaging tours. Whether you’re drawn to culinary traditions or personalized sightseeing, these options give you a taste of the island’s authentic charm. The Olive Press & Shepherd Cheese Tour is ideal for foodies and history buffs, while the Private Day Tour suits travelers seeking a flexible, local-guided adventure.
To make the most of your trip, book early especially in peak season, and think about what kind of experience will leave you with the best memories. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a genuine and enriching Naxos experience—one that you’ll look back on fondly long after you’ve returned home.
