Pagonis Sandals: Meet the Craftsmen Behind Naxos' Most Famous Shoes
Is there a more iconic souvenir from the Greek islands than your own pair of traditional Greek sandals? Meet Pagonis Sandals, the family business creating Naxos’ most famous shoes.
Down a narrow side street in old town Naxos, just a stone’s throw from the bustling port, master craftsman Kostas Pagonis sits with his small team in the workshop connected to their bustling Pagonis sandal shop.
Since Kostas’ father and uncles began selling quality leather shoes to the well-heeled folk of Naxos in the 1940s, the Pagonis name has been as synonymous with the classic Greek sandal as the Cycladic Islands are with the ancient Greek tales that played out along their shores.
Surrounded by colourful leather and hand-operated machines that whir all day, he and his team whisk orders out to waiting customers as quickly as Hermes, the winged messenger, once sped across the skies.
Now in its third generation of shoe-making, their passion and skill for creating handmade one-of-a-kind sandals for their clients has spread far and wide.
For Kostas, happiness very often comes in shoe-form, and nothing gives him greater joy than being able to show his customers the craft and love that goes into each pair of shoes he crafts with his hands.
“You can buy Greek sandals anywhere – but to see your shoes being made here, by human hands, in the place they came from is something different and unique,” he shares.
It’s the very essence of ‘Meraki’, the Greek concept of approaching something with all your passion; pouring your soul, creativity and love into what you make.
When we visit, his staff joke that he’s always got the next pair on the brain – and it’s not uncommon to see the light on in his workshop late at night, hours after he’s promised to go home and rest.
Popping by their bustling shop is a treat for any shoe-lover; browse the rainbow of colourful sandals in every conceivable style and shape bursting off the walls and tables, and stay to watch as the team transform leather into fashion right before before your eyes.
Pairs can be bought ready-made or custom ordered ready for pick up within 3-4 days (we did this, and Mim is now the proud owner of a beautiful pair of brown custom leather Greek sandals that are a mainstay of her wardrobe!).
Prices are incredibly reasonable too, with the handmade sandals selling for between €50 - 65 per pair.
During peak travel periods the wait time can sometimes extend by a day or two, so if you’re keen to get your hands on a special pair of Pagonis shoes be sure to visit early on in your trip!
Alternatively, if you’re short on time or want to plan ahead, orders can be placed on their website too.
PANONIS SANDALS NAXOS | THE DETAILS
Where | Paparigopoulou, Naxos
When | Hours vary, but generally from 10am - 2:30pm, then 6pm - 11pm
Cost | Expect to pay between €50 - 65 per pair, depending on design
Tips | If you’re after a custom-made pair, visit the shop early on in your trip to avoid disappointment. Shoes take at least 3-4 days to produce and you don’t want to miss out!
WHERE TO STAY ON NAXOS
While there aren’t many accommodation options in Halki, we’ve put together our favourite accommodation options on Naxos - just a short drive away.
LUXURY
Naxos isn’t known for its high-end accommodation... yet. However, if you’re after a more luxurious splurge on the Island, here are our top picks:
AMPHITRITE ROCKS | Traditional villa in the hills above Naxos with views over Paros and beyond. This well-appointed villa has a kitchen, multiple rooms, and an infinity pool... need we say more! Perfect for families. Check prices and availability
NAXIAN ON THE BEACH | Our fave place to stay on Naxos, this Boho-chic hotel is located right on Plaka Beach. Naxian on the Beach is for Millennials who love sleek, modern design. Also attached to Tortuga restaurant and bar. Check prices and availability
MID-RANGE
Almost all accommodation on Naxos is mid-range 4* without the huge price tag... yet. Here are our top picks:
AMPELOS SUITES | Gorgeous, modern self-contained apartments and suites located in downtown Chora, right in the heart of the action. Check prices and availability
NAXIAN UTOPIA | Sleek, boho-modern and inviting hotel with amazing views over the whole of Naxos. The pool set-up is grand, too - and some suites have their own plunge pool. Check prices and availability
BUDGET
Fortunately, you can still find good, cheap accommodation on Naxos, especially near Prokopios and Agia Anna. Here are our top picks:
KATERINA ROZA APARTMENTS | Self-catered studios located in the heart of Naxos Chora. Surprisingly modern and cute, considering the price. A rare find! Check prices and availability
HOTEL FRANCESCA | It’s all about the pool at this 2* hotel near Agios Prokopios beach. The rooms aren’t bad either, so this place is a real bargain. Check prices and availability
BOOK | Alternatively, search all accommodation on Naxos here.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN GREECE
If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
*In normal times, we recommend using World Nomads travel insurance, but unfortunately they're not currently covering COVID-19 related claims right now.
PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE SOON?
Check out these essential guides, travel tips, and more to help you plan your trip:
THE BEST OF NAXOS | Top things to do on Naxos, A guide to the pretty town of Halki
SANTORINI ATTRACTIONS | Our guide to hiking Skaros Rock, How and where to find the best Santorini sunsets
GREECE SAILING | This is what it’s like to sail the Greek Saronic Islands with Medsailors
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
PLAN YOUR GREEK SUMMER WITH OUR USEFUL GUIDES
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