Autumn in the Greek Islands: 7 Destinations That Shine After Summer

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, is an island of abundance. Its fertile soil yields olives, grapes, and citrus fruits, making autumn the most delicious time to visit. While many islands wind down after September, Naxos retains its vibrant rhythm. Farmers’ markets overflow with seasonal produce, and local tavernas serve hearty dishes like slow-cooked goat with rosemary and graviera cheese. 

For hikers, the cooler air is ideal for exploring ancient footpaths that wind past marble quarries, Byzantine chapels, and sleepy villages like Apeiranthos. The sea remains warm enough for swimming at Agios Prokopios or Plaka Beach, while the fading light adds a painterly touch to the island’s landscapes. Autumn in Naxos is a sensory feast—less about glamour, more about authenticity.