Paros Island: What to do and Where to stay

Paros, a picture perfect slice of paradise island in the Aegean Ocean. If you are craving waterside restaurants with stunning sunsets, Greek stone pathways bursting with pink blossom but have seen the prices and crowds of islands like Mykonos, look no further. One of the reasons I feel Mykonos has become such a popular party destination, is it has an international airport. This accessibility makes weekend getaways and short breaks incredibly easy. However, if you have the luxury of time, I recommend venturing further into the Aegean Ocean to this perfect island that is Paros. Especially before it gets too popular.

While Santorini may tempt with its iconic blue domes and whitewashed buildings, Paros boasts its own collection of iconic Greek churches and chapels, a charming little Venice, and equally breathtaking sunsets and even a Blue Lagoon. Prices are rising but are still more affordable that it’s more glamourous relations and the rooftop bars are equally ravishing!

Whether you want to escape the world in a luxury resort, explore authentic Greek villages or seek dining experiences with panoramic sea views, Paros has it all. Including a famous Greek napkin party, rooftop nightclubs and bars. Ideal for those looking for a mix of culture and play! So, pack your bags and prepare for the ultimate Greek island experience. Though this article comes with a warning you may not want to leave, I know I didn’t.

How do I get to Paros?

Opting for a flight into Santorini or Mykonos followed by a ferry journey is a popular choice. The port in Santorini is approximately a 20-minute drive away from the airport, while in Mykonos, it’s even closer. Which is what I did. However, I’ve always been sceptical about flights and ferry schedules aligning. Unless you thrive on the adrenaline rush of racing to catch a ferry, I would advise to plan for an overnight stay on one of these islands to ensure a stress-free journey, especially Mykonos as it is so windy so can throw ferry schedules off course.

For this trip, I flew into Santorini, having already experienced Mykonos, and opted for the faster ferry (1 hour and 20 minutes compared to the slow of 3 and a half hours). The price difference was minimal (about 10 euros in advance), making the faster option a no-brainer. I booked my ferry tickets through Ferryhopper, and they were great, particularly when our ferry was unexpectedly cancelled. They sorted an alternative straight away on another fast ferry.

Another popular way to get to Paros is to fly into Athens and then take a connecting flight or ferry. I did this on my return to London so I could explore Athens and it’s rooftop bars! If you do come in via Athens be sure to stay at least 36 hours before you head off on your adventures. I would now do it that way round. I found Athens on the return such a stark contrast to the islands it was slightly tainted then again it also acclimatised me for London!

If you are leaving Paros by air then do note the airport is tiny. However there is five times the amount of space for leaving a hire car. Check in an hour before your flight is plenty – 45 minutes would be ideal. They can only process one flight at a time and once through security you are in one small room/ holding pen! The only reason it is worth getting there an hour before is if you need a seat in the pen!

How long should I go to Paros for?

You can do a day trip, stay for a few days or a flop and drop rest on Paros. With Syros, Anti Paros and Naxos as close neighbours you can either base yourself on the island or move round. Entirely what suits you. I prefer having a base — I’m not a fan of constant packing and unpacking. So for this trip as I already had stays in Santorini and Athens, I opted to remain in one place for the week. If I had the luxury of time and money I would have stayed longer – probably 10 nights.

Where is the Port in Paros?

The main port is at the capital, Parikia which is mid west of the island. You will no doubt arrive in here unless flying form Athens. If you plan to visit other islands then this is where you will depart from, except Antiparos where you have a choice of Parikia for foot passengers or Pounda port if you have a car, west of the island.

Where to stay on Paros? Naoussa or Parikia?

I spent a long time deciding this! Especially as I found a hotel in Parikia that was taunting me. And for those considering Parikia, I highly recommend checking out the Akrotiri Hotel I can’t personally vouch for it but I would have stayed here if Parikia had won. But the nautical Naoussa was calling louder!

So why Naoussa? First I had plotted all the restaurants and rooftop bars I wanted to go to and the majority were there. It is a small island so taxi’s or the bus were a possibility but walking to and from dinner in holiday heat is the dream.

Second, fans of ‘One Day’ Netflix’s series (me!) then this town was one of the filming locations – the skinny dipping scene was at Naoussa Harbour. If it was good enough for Emma and Dexter than it’s good enough for you and me!

Thirdly, Naoussa is known for its upscale atmosphere, shopping and aesthetic streets. It is definitely where the comparison to Mykonos comes from. (Though Parikia does have charming picture perfect streets too.)

Also, Naoussa even has its own ‘Little Venice,’ with those sunsets and bars that lead out onto the water, reminiscent of what has put Mykonos on the map. One note, however: the sun actually sets on the other side of Paros, whereas at Mykonos’ Little Venice, it is right in front of you, giving it a slight edge.

Lastly the nightlife, whilst this is no Mykonos, it is where you will want to be if dancing at dinner and on tables is your thing! But if you’re not into the party scene, worry not: the proper partying doesn’t kick in until after Cinderella o’clock. And I would therefore avoid staying right in the heart of it all. Just a 10 minute minute walk away, you’ll find a wealth of options for quiet and calm lodgings.

I found Naoussa offers sophistication, fun with a relaxed ambiance. Parikia on the other hand can be a lot busier being a port town. Many day trippers will flood in during the day though it will therefore be a lot quieter late at night. It is home to the church of 100 doors, the best sunsets on the island and some great rooftop restaurants so it is a great choice too.

Lastly, not to add to the complication if you love being away from it all then one of the smaller villages would suit you better. I was very tempted by the south of the island but it was just a bit too remote for me but had I wanted a flop and drop holiday then I would have headed there.

Which Hotel should I stay at in Naoussa?

I was searching for my typical hotel – with a rooftop, in budget but still fancy! Never easy. We had a big requirement for twin beds and a sea view and this seemed impossible on our budget. (I was craving Cosme Hotel but not their prices) One or the other or none or not able to confirm. Then I stumbled across Alexandros and I knew it had something special about it. They answered all my questions, confirmed the room type and helped with a reservation ahead of arriving. It was 5 star treatment. The apartments range in super lux with their own pools down to ours – simple and perfect. Yet the service was the same.

We were greeted by Litsa the owner who whisked us in, settled us and then her son shared his insights – which my friend appreciated more than me as she had done no research whereas I has a full scale itinerary for us.

The room was perfect and the little balcony was a little slice of heaven – I felt like I was staying in my own Greek apartment.

Breakfast on the rooftop was a feast made by Lista every night – I did ask when she slept! When she realised I was GF she made me my own GF bread, was not that rubbish cardboard you usually get. The rooftop is also available for a nightcap – 5 euros for a glass of decent wine you cant go wrong.

If you are a solo traveller this place would a home away from home – it was for us! I loved how well looked after we were, giving her mobile so if we had any problems anywhere on the island we could message. One night we went straight from Naxos to dinner in the port and she messaged to check we were ok! Gold star treatment.

How to get round Paros?

Paros is a pretty small island that whilst hilly is not mountainous like it’s neighbour Naxos. In this map google said it would take 90 minutes to drive round in one go. Obviously stopping at places added time but it really is very doable in a day. Ideally three to take it all in.

Hiring a car was the easiest and cheapest way to do this but it is possible by bus too. We chose to book through ML Car Rental who had their head office right by our accommodation. But it turned out no office in the port where we were collecting it from.

They just had a small car lot area behind a load of buildings away from the port dock with a man who had the keys! They were brilliant and super helpful however on the phone but it would have made much more sense to cab over to Naoussa and then pick up the car but we were saving money picking it up at the port. So if you use them and I would recommend – just get clear instructions where to collect from. We dropped it back at the airport with clear instructions as no one would be there to collect and it was beyond easy.

Parking on the island was easy. There was so much choice in the back roads in all towns. Alternatively the bus system is actually pretty good which was my plan B (but happily I was with someone who is a driver rather than drinker – I cant give up my holiday rose lunches!). Lastly, like most of the Greek islands, taxi’s are quite pricey and hard to find. A 15 – 20 minutes journey is around 20/25 Euros. Which is why staying the right town for your needs is key!

Cash or card in Paros?

I was armed and ready with Euros as read cash was king but actually found I used my card more often than not. Things like the ferry to Antiparos, taxis and small remote tavernas all were cash so you will need it but probably not as much as expected.

Beaches in Paros

Paros has some stunning beaches to laze on, photograph, drink at or smother your face in mud on – 60 in fact! Who needs the Dead Sea when you have Paros.

Piperi Beach

Piperi Beach is located in Naoussa so ideal for those without a pool at their accommodation – it was just a 5 minute walk from our hotel. It’s not a beach I would go our of my way to get to as there are so many on the island but perfect for those staying locally.

Kalogeros Beach

South of the island and famed for its mud minerals, it is magical. To get there, it is all signposted. A car is key! Head left on the beach and take something to scrape the clay from the wall, you wont be finding this mud on the floor like you do at the Dead Sea. You then mix it in the ocean water, and make your own clay! It is meant to have healing detoxifying properties for the skin.

The beach is one you will need to bring a towel and watch the waves as the ferries can suddenly send you smacked into the seabed! (No, thankfully I am unusually not talking from experience)

Kolymbithres Beach

At the north east of the island you will fine Kolymbithres Beach with its unique rock formations from zillions of years of erosion. It also has calmer waters than many of the beaches and above lots of tavernas but be warned the bed prices are starting to rival some of the more fancy islands.

Monastiri Beach

Just half an hour walk from Kolymbithres is Monastiri beach, with a gorgeous boujee beach club. The prices are now on par with other islands so no savings to be made here but if you love crystal waters with crafted cocktails, tunes and a splash of glamour then they are worth it.

What to do on Paros?

Take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon

What a better way to see the island and other tiny islands, than a boat trip. There are a variety of options from full days, party fun boats, half days or private hire! I went for a half day using Rofos boats. Leaving from the delightful port town of, Aliki. Note it is perfect for a seafood lazy lunch on return at one of many restaurants.

The tour takes you on a traditional wooden boat to Panteronissi – the famous Blue Lagoon, Pirate’s Cove and Agios Myronas. All of which you can just sit and chill or jump in and swim in the brightest waters.

It was a pretty packed boat so I would advise getting there early to secure your spot – especially if you need shade.

They provide wine and plenty of food – I thought it was just a giant fruit platter but there was a lot more than that and if you are really nice to them, wear a captain’s hat, they will let you drive!

Take a day trip to Naxos

With both Paros and Naxos’s ports based in the mains towns, it makes it super easy to pop over to. I got the first early ferry to maximise our day and headed back on the penultimate ferry (I was concerned if we missed the last one we would be stuck!) If you want to see some of the island then you can take a hire car or you can pick one up in the port. More on Naxos coming soon here.

Wander round the Venetian Fortress of Naoussa

Originally a watch tower for pirates back in the 15 century. If you are in Naoussa on August 23rd then you are in for a treat as it is the towns annual Pirate Party celebrating the victory of locals against the pirates in 1532! This is a quick visit or admire it from a taverna on the shore opposite with a cocktail type of attraction!

Hike Paros Park with lunch at Monastiri Beach Club

Paros Park, based by Monastiri beach, just north of Naoussa, makes for a perfect hike to the Lighthouse after a lazy lunch at the beach club or for stunning sunset views. In summer there is also an open air cinema, Enastron, if you are looking for a romantic evening on those perfect for those on longer stays.

Hop Across to Antiparos Island

The holiday home of some of the rich and famous like Tom Hanks this gem of an island is just 7 minutes away on the ferry Head west of the island to the port of Pounda. You can’t book but they are usually very regular, especially in summer. You can also go by foot from Parkikia but I would strongly advise a car to see the island. You can bus round or I have even heard of some walking it (not advisable in summer) but the car was a godsend. More on what to see and do coming here soon.

Go Shopping

Pottering local shops on holiday, especially after a rose filled lunch is high on my to do list! I read the shopping is better shopping in Naoussa but found them both brilliant and full of some great little boutiques plus I am a sucker for a good tacky souvenir and there are plenty of those.

Photograph churches / Pose by Blue Domes

Posing by blue domes is not reserved just for Santorini. There are as many churches on Paros as rooftop bars I have visited! Over 450 on this small island! So if posing by these Instagram popular buildings was your dream then it is about to get fulfilled without fighting for a spot!

The first you will see on arrival: Paros Agios Konstantinos Church which is a listed church and guards over the port. Just off the ferry to the left you will find the cutest picture perfect chapel Parekklisi Agiou Nikolaou.

For an hidden gem head over to Aliki port where the stunning Saint George church glistens in the sunshine.

If you love church architecture then Faneromeni (Panagía) Church is spectacular. It stands tall over the town of Naoussa and can be seen at most vantage points. My favourite was at night from Little Venice.

Lastly, the Church of Agia Triada in Lefkes. Built on the site of three former churches, it is truly magnificent set in this mountainous village.

Visit Lefkes and Marpissa Villages

These two towns are just a 10-minute drive apart and are a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Greek village experience, complete with traditional attire, unspoiled architecture, and historical sites.

Lefkes was actually the original capital of the island even has a few rooftops! So stop for lunch, coffee and meet some of the lovely locals. ‘One Day’ Netflix fans need to head to Lefkiano Restaurant where the Greek dinner scene was filmed, at a rooftop restaurant no less!

I found Marpissa village super quiet and much less interesting to photograph and wander round but was still worth a pit stop for that truly authentic Greek experience.

Stop in at the Golden Garden Cocktail Bar

I was gutted that the Golden Garden Cocktail bar was actually closed the day we passed – I had been stalking it and excited to try one of their cocktails. It had reminded me of a wine garden I had spent an afternoon in a little village in Croatia.

Visit The Museum of Byzantine Art

The Byzantine Museum is set inside a renovated monastery in Naoussa. And yes this is a blue dome photo opportunity too! I didn’t actually go in but if you love old art then apparently it is wonderful.

Visit Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani

The Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapiliani is the largest church in Paros based just a few minutes from Parikia town.

It is known as the church of 100 doors but actually has only 99, with one that will only open when Constantinople (Istanbul) becomes Greek again – as the myth has it. It was pretty small in reality and didn’t take too long to look around – well worth it though.

Wine Tasting

Based in Naoussa is Moraitis winery is one of the best wine museums in the world. I mean, that’s reason enough to pop by! Even if it’s just to sample a glass in their garden. if you do want to learn more then definitely book. If you don’t have time or fancy a rooftop wine tasting experience then head to Koukos rooftop where the owner runs wine tasting sessions as well as delicious cocktails.

Where to Eat and Drink in Parikia

Evions cocktail bar

A cute rooftop terrace set in between palm tree, Evions is a great pre dinner option. Though palm trees did seem to block some views so get there early for prime position More here.

Bebop

Champagne and sushi for sunset – yes please! I took a chance as I had booked Stiva months before but they cancelled on me as decided not to open yet. Their loss was Bebop’s gain and we had a brilliant evening and the food was on point, the service was so helpful with lots of advise and crafted cocktails. more here.

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Where to Eat and Drink and Dance in Naoussa

Little Venice, Naoussa

In Naoussa if you are looking for that Mykonos ‘Little Venice’ vibe then head to this island’s very own version. It isn’t as upmarket as Mykonos, as this is a pebbly beach rather than walk way but it holds all that Greek walk out to aqua water feels with restaurants lined along.

Glafokes stood out when I was researching and I read I would need a reservation due to the waterside location but trying to get one was tricky. I ended up contacting our hotel who made the reservation for us but gutted they had decided to close the only time we could do – a Monday lunch. So we headed down anyway craving a Greek salad and a rose I knew I couldn’t go far wrong at one of the options.

Right next door we chose ‘Come Back’ – I mean the name suggestion in itself is awesome! I will! Even managed to nab a water front sofa to relax with our rose! Perfection. We walked back this way at night and ideal for a waterside romantic dinner followed by drinking till 3/4am!!

Barbaraossa

Over priced and over rated was what I had read and been advised BUT I also read it was a lot of fun. The home of the napkin party – I was going to try for myself. First to note that Barbarossa is split across the water with a rooftop and bar one side (backing onto Little Venice) and the restaurant the other. You need to book the restaurant for the napkin party.

The food was good. It wasn’t the best we had but it certainly wasn’t bad – my friend really rated her dinner so I would say it’s not a foodie’s destination but for the Greek atmosphere the napkin party I’d go again and again! Read here for more about the dos and don’ts to get the most out of your reservation.

And the party is not then over… later the bar springs alive and the party carries on. The whole area is littered with late night bars and fun.

Axinos Restaurant

With the smallest rooftop, Axinos restaurant is set on the marina with beach club energy inside and summer dining out. Read more here.

Linardo

Not just a pretty place to pose with pink flowers! By day yes, by night Linardo is where we dance – even to Abba vibes!

Stilvi

I had read that Stilvi was a bit pretentious but I popped by for a cocktail and the staff were super friendly and loved our drink at the bar so reviews are always subjective – even this one!

Voulez Vous Rooftop Bar

All the holiday feels at this rooftop bar and with the name like Voulez Vous it is a requirement to sing! (not really) there is however to try their cocktails and enjoy this vibe and view. More on it here.

Matzourana

A little walk from the town and in fact I would really advise you don’t walk – I had planned to but our hotel recommended as it was on badly lit main roads we go through the town not the main road or drive. I was really grateful we took their advise. The views and sunset were worth the effort. The food was good but not amazing unlike the wine which was local and delicious. More here

Sommaripa Consolato

Rooftop dancing is my favourite type of dancing and Sommaripa offers just this! You won’t find big wild clubs on Paros but you will find the cutest rooftops, balcony’s for drinks and inside all the fun till the wee hours though note this one only has one toilet!) More here.

Final thoughts on Paros

When I was planning this trip I had a feeling Paros was going to steal my heart and I wasn’t wrong. Busy but not Mykonos busy… yet! That said I went early June and have heard that the summer months are now heaving so I would recommend the shoulder seasons. Just wish I could fly in direct for weekends as that would be happiness.