The Complete Paros, Greece Travel Guide

Paros has become increasingly popular in recent years since we first visited during this Greek island hopping trip; it was initially recommended to us as a ‘foodie’ island. Naoussa town in particular attracts visitors seeking both authentic Greek charm and cosmopolitan amenities. Paros is incredibly diverse: this crowd-pleasing island offers everything you could want: shopping, buzzing nightlife, great restaurants, beautiful streets, and quiet hilltop towns. It’s also a great island to pair with nearby Naxos (a 15-minute ferry away) and Milos. Not to mention its proximity to Antiparos, which adds even more discovery opportunities for day trips.

You can explore Paros by ATV if you want to stay near your area or rent a car if you want to explore the entire island. The island works perfectly for families, couples, and friend groups, offering something for every traveler. Sandy beaches like Paralia Beach and Santa Maria provide calm, shallow waters, while diverse beach clubs and tavernas make dining easy and relaxed. For accommodation, you’ll find tons of options, from seafront properties and luxury hotels to traditional village homes and modern seaside villas. Overall, Paros maintains a more authentic Greek atmosphere while remaining more reasonably priced than neighboring Santorini or Mykonos.

PRESET COLLECTION USED IN THIS BLOG POST: GREEK ISLANDS COLLECTION

5+ DAYS

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BEST TIME TO VISIT – MAY THROUGH OCTOBER, LESS WIND & WARMER WATER LATER IN THE SUMMER

WEATHER – MILD, RAINY WINTERS & WARM, SUNNY SUMMERS

GETTING AROUND – MOTORCYCLE, ATV OR RENTAL CAR

CURRENCY – EUROS, MOST PLACES TAKE CREDIT CARDS

LANGUAGES – GREEK, MOST PEOPLE SPEAK ENGLISH

NEARBY AIRPORT – PAROS AIRPORT (PAS)

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Photos left to right from top: views of the sea from downtown Naoussa; Dinner at Luaz Restaurant on the water; Bougainvillea in Lefkes square; swimming in Antiparos; a rental property near downtown Naoussa.

Where to Stay in Paros

Like much of the Greek Islands, accommodation in Paros ranges from simple family-run hotels to luxury retreats. The island’s size means you can stay almost anywhere and still easily explore, but I recommend staying in Naoussa if you want restaurant options and a buzzing nightlife experience on your doorstep, Piso Livadi if you want easy access to a calm beach (ideal for young kids), and in a rental property that’s a short drive from Naoussa or a local beach for relaxation and more spacious accommodation.

For our most recent trip we stayed in rental property just a 3 minute walk from Naoussa. While I loved the easy walk to town (and the property we stayed in!), we found ourselves still driving to explore small towns so I would opt for a more spacious property in a quieter part of the island next time. We’ve visited Paros multiple times and have also stayed in a large rental home near a beach and in a small set of apartments on the beach.

Hotels in Paros

Cleopatra Seaside Homes – $ – combines the elegance of a design city hotel with the warmth of island countryside. Where I stayed.
Clementina Paros – $$ – units with a modern take on cycladic architecture, close to town and affordable for a longer stay.
To Kyma – $$ – located right on the south-east coast of the island, all rooms have a private balcony with sea views and direct access to the beach.
Salt Suites – $$$ – a collection of suites just steps from the sea and a short hop away from Naoussa town (10 minute walk). A property I wouldn’t hesitate to book if it had availability during our stay.
Hotel Senia –  $$$ – a boutique luxury hotel where most rooms have private balconies with sea views, and some suites come with their own plunge pools. Located a short walk away from Naoussa’s charming harbor and restaurants, the pool bar at sunset is a highlight.
Parilio Hotel – $$$ – a design lover’s dream featuring modern minimalist luxury with a distinctly Cycladic soul. Walking distance to Kolymbithres beach.
Calme Boutique Hotel – $$$$ – Cycladic-style hotel with elements of local architecture and a zen-like atmosphere and incredible views.
Cove Paros – $$$$ – a modern seafront boutique hotel with 40 elegant rooms and suites plus 5 family suites with private pools near Naoussa. The hotel operates an all-day beach bar and features an acclaimed restaurant on property.

Photos: Siora of Paros, a rental property with a pool just a 3-minute walk from Naoussa town that’s great for kids.

Houses in Paros

Villa Veni – $$ – a beautiful and tranquil villa with a veranda and pool located on the outskirts of Veni village. Where I stayed.
Ariti Seaside Residence – $$ – contemporary waterfront spaces that blend design with Cycladic charm, featuring direct sea access and expansive outdoor terraces.
Citrine – $$ –  a charming and traditional 2-bedroom house steps from Naoussa town center.
Ochre Dream –  $$ – jump on this villa which has access to its own private beach, and has a local bakery, market and wine bar on the next street.
Potami Home – $$$ – located in the northeast part of the island with typical Cycladic architecture, outdoor space and a hot tub.
Siora of Paros – $$$$ – this Cycladic home is the best of both worlds: a 3 minute walk from downtown Naoussa, and a courtyard with a pool that’s so serene you forget where you are. The bottom of the building can be rented as a standalone 2-bedroom, or you can book the second floor for a perfect set up with friends or family.
SummerSalt Villa – $$$$ – a luxury beachfront villa with direct beach access on pristine Molos Beach, featuring 3 bedrooms, a private swimming pool, and stunning sea views. Located on the quieter eastern side of Paros with crystal-clear waters and sunrise views.
Amarone House – $$$$ – a modern 2-bedroom apartment in the heart of Naoussa, steps from the Venetian Harbor. The quaint balcony provides the perfect sea view.
Maisonette Sail – $$$$ – a luxury two-level property with a prime location near Naoussa’s harbor, and beautiful coastal design.
Fotis House – $$$$ – a cozy one-bedroom retreat with a dreamy beachfront location near Naoussa, featuring a sea-view terrace.

Photos: our rental home in Paros, Villa Veni.

View additional hotels and homes in Paros

Where to Eat in Paros

Markakis – a quintessential seafood dinner right on the sand, where you can dine just feet from the water. Try the fresh catch of the day.

Siparos – a beautiful spot that I recommend for a sunset dinner. The menu changes regularly based on what’s fresh and in season. Make reservations in advance as it’s popular with both locals and visitors.

To Balkony tou Aki – a traditional taverna serving fresh fish caught by the owner, local meat and vegetables, paired with their own homemade wines. Bonus points for the scenic windmill location.

Kedros Restaurant Paros – a charming restaurant with tables under beautiful old cedar trees. Great for a relaxing seaside dinner after a nearby swim in Ampelas.

Photos: Kedros Restaurant on the water and the nearby beach as seen from the restaurant.

Mario Restaurant – a fine dining waterfront restaurant where you can watch the fishing boats come in while dining.

Tsachpinis – located right next door to Mario’s with equally stunning harbor views. This family-run spot specializes in traditional Greek meze (small plates). More laid-back than Mario’s but still excellent quality – perfect for a long lunch of shared plates.

Luaz Restaurant – an upscale Mediterranean restaurant in Naoussa specializing in creative cuisine, fish and sushi. Request a table by the water for a romantic setting.

Photos: Luaz Restaurant in downtown Naoussa.

Taverna Julia – a family-run seaside taverna in Drios with stunning sea views just steps from the beach, rumoured to serve the best homemade moussaka on the island.

Fisilanis – a hidden gem in Logaras serving authentic Greek home cooking. The kind of place where the owner greets you like family and recommends daily specials.

To Paradosiako – a must-visit spot for traditional Greek loukoumades (honey doughnuts). These light, fluffy dough balls are served hot and drizzled with local honey and cinnamon.

Afros Sips and Bites – a specialty coffee café outside of the main part of Naoussa, beloved by locals for their speciality coffee and homemade vegan treats.

What to Do in Paros

Day trip to Antiparos – Take the short 7-minute ferry ride from Parikia or Pounta to explore Antiparos. If you ferry yourself, I recommend grabbing lunch at Zombos, where tables are set right on the sand, and checking out this cliff diving spot. Note: it is a bit tricky to navigate to unless you have a motorcyle or ATV (and prepare for some walking either way). Alternatively, you could book an Antiparos boat tour for the day, and enjoy lunch on the boat (this tour will take you to the same spot, and this one is also a good option).

Left: the cliff jumping spot we visited on Antiparos; Right: a restaurant in Antiparos. 

Have lunch on the beach – Grab souvlaki from a local spot like Street Griller, or pick up ingredients from the market for a casual beach lunch. The quieter beaches around the island make for perfect DIY dining spots with uninterrupted views of the sea.

Explore traditional villages – Venture inland to Lefkes, a stunning hilltop village with marble-paved streets, panoramic views, and authentic Cycladic architecture. Visit fishing village Piso Livadi on the southeast coast for excellent seafood tavernas and a peaceful family-friendly beach with calm waters. Head to Marpissa, a picturesque inland village featuring traditional whitewashed houses, ancient windmills, and a monastery with breathtaking 360-degree views of Paros.

 

Left: Bougainvillea in Lefkes; Right: the Greek orthodox church in Lefkes’ village square. 

Go waterskiing or waterboarding – The calm morning waters around Paros are perfect for water sports, particularly around Santa Maria and Paralia Beach. Book early in the day before the wind picks up for the best conditions.

Catch a movie under the stars – The outdoor cinema in Naoussa shows films under the stars during summer evenings. Grab some popcorn and a drink from the concession stand, and arrive early to get the best seats.

read post: Greek Island Hopping in Milos, Paros and Naxos

Beaches to Visit in Paros

Left: Secret Beach (below); Right: clay at Kalogeros beach. 

Secret Beach

A hidden gem we stumbled upon — here is the location on google maps. This secluded spot tucked between rocks offers the rare chance to have a beach all to yourself in Paros.
Food options nearby: no, pack your own snacks and water.

Santa Maria

A nice spot with small rocks and calm, clear water. The beach is divided into two sections with a selection of beach clubs and tavernas to choose from. Since it’s close to Naoussa, it’s convenient to visit for a morning swim or late afternoon when the winds are calmer. It’s also a great spot for water sports if you’re feeling adventurous.
Food options nearby: yes, several beach bars and restaurants along both sections of the beach.

Kolympithres Beach

A stunning beach famous for its unique granite rock formations that create natural swimming pools and sheltered coves. The smooth, sculpted rocks have been shaped by wind and waves over thousands of years. The beach is family-friendly, offering both sandy areas and rocky pools perfect for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters that stay relatively calm. Note it can get crowded during peak season, so go early.
Food options nearby: yes, several beach bars and a nearby upscale restaurant.

Photo: one of the swimming coves at Kolympithres Beach.

Monastiri Beach

The perfect beach for windy days as it’s situated in a protected cove. You’ll find lounge chairs for rent and a restaurant on the beach for food and drinks. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming.
Food options nearby: yes, Monastiri Paros beach bar and restaurant.

Paralia Beach

A family-friendly sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for little ones. Beach chairs line the sand and there are plenty of food options nearby.
Food options nearby: yes, a variety of beach bars to choose from.

Kalogeros Beach

A unique natural clay beach that’s worth visiting for its novelty. Cover yourself in the clay sourced right from the beach rocks – it’s like a natural spa day. This beach is a bit rockier and less protected than the others, but definitely a must-see.
Food options nearby: no, bring water and snacks if you plan to stay.

Where to Watch the Sunset in Paros

On top of Church Hill – one of the most serene sunset spots on the island. The panoramic views over the landscape are beautiful and it stays relatively quiet compared to other lookout points. If you time it right, you can watch the moon rise while the sky turns shades of pink and purple.

Photos: the sunset as seen from Church Hill.

On the beach – find a quiet stretch of sand on the western side of the island for unobstructed views of the sun setting over the water. The beaches near Parasporos and Santa Maria offer beautiful vantage points with fewer crowds than popular sunset spots.

read post: How to Choose Which Greek Islands to Visit

If you’re looking to pair a visit to Paros with another nearby island, check out our Naxos Travel Guide. For more inspiration you can also check out our guide to Greek Island Hopping in Milos, Paros, and Naxos.