Ah Paros, you dreamy white Cycladic beauty. This island is full of glorious food, trendy shops and a buzzing nightlife. It’s also so much more, if you allow it to be. It’s time to let you all in on the charm of this Greek island and why you must add this to your go-to destination list now!

Have you guys been before? If you have, then you know exactly what I mean when I say that this Greek island has a unique charm. If you’re yet to visit, what are you waiting for?

My first encounter with the island was in 2019 I was riding solo. Though initially travelling with my partner and our friends, they left me astray for a couple of days and I tried to plan out my travels to places where I could feel safe to explore on my own (Paros is a perfect solo traveller destination). I ended up planning a visit to Paros where I primarily stayed in the quaint fishing village, Naoussa Paros.

Naoussa is happ-e-ning, let me tell you. Especially in the middle of summer. The narrow paths and alleyways are crowded, you’re shoulder to shoulder and dodging stepping on people’s toes all while the aroma of freshly fried Loukoumades follows you everywhere you go. THIS IS PAROS GREECE!

While I know all how very exciting it is planning your holiday to Greece, I can understand how difficult it is to know how long you should spend in one place, especially if you’re island hopping and trying to do it all. I like to think of it like this; What is my intention of visiting this place? Is it to live like a local, be a mermaid perched on the shores of every beach, or the ultimate food critic testing out the flavours of the world? In any case, with the help of this guide, whichever you choose will be your guiding star to experiencing Paros Island the way that YOU want.

When Should I Visit Paros?

Visiting Paros is dependent on how you’d like to experience it. Paros behaves differently in every season, although, I’d say the best time to visit this Cycladic gem is between Late April and July. You get to see Paros bloom, where the Island slowly begins to wake as the locals come out of hibernation and the tourists begin to flock. Bars begin to open, and the groove returns all while bellies begin to rumble and the best of the best venues open their doors once again to greet you and keep you satisfied throughout your stay.

The best towns to explore on Paros Island?

This island boasts many beautiful villages and towns which can make your soul sing and dance. As a first-timer (or a long-term lover) I would suggest visiting the following towns as a gateway into the complex and colourful history of the island.

• Naoussa | The cool of the cool. A beautiful white-washed fishing village which is located in the Northern part of the island. It offers you the Greece we all know and love, and where a large part of the culinary scene and nightlife resides. The calibre of retailers will blow you away and I can assure you that each time you visit Naoussa, you’ll be struggling to zip your suitcase up when you leave. When it comes to choosing a venue to quench your thirst or quieten your rumbling stomach, Naoussa Paros leaves you spoiled for choice (don’t be overwhelmed, I’ll let you in on the MUST go to restaurants in Paros later on).
• Lefkes | An enchanting mountainous village. It’s adorned with Cycladic and Neo-classical buildings and surrounded by nature. With a handful of cafes and restaurants, Lefkes is the quaint older sister, a place to get lost for hours and sip on a ‘Kafedaki’ in the afternoon sun, under the embrace of the Bougainvillea trees. Take a couple of hours to walk the cobblestone paths to understand the history of this town, and imagine what life was like when Lefkes was the Queen of Paros.
• Parikia | The one in charge, the capital of Paros. Don’t be mistaken about the capital’s charm because Parikia boasts a symphony of colour. It is a place where one can explore art, craftsmanship, and food, all whilst getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets. Open yourself up to this history of the town and the general hustle and bustle of island life. I can assure you it’ll be surprising.

Paint me a picture of Paros Greece.

I’m not here to tell you how to get around Paros. I’m here to paint you a picture of how it feels to walk through the streets, to slow down and when to speed up again (because there are some places you’ll want to run to i.e. to the best loukoumades). One can only relay to you what it feels like to be in a place, how it’s excited or inspired them or brought up feelings they wish it hadn’t.

There is always another reason for travelling than just to tick a box. Each time you visit Paros, you are here because you’d like to see it from another angle, be a different version of yourself, or fall in love with it all over again. It really (really) will leave you crafting unforgettable memories that you will cherish forever.

What differentiates Paros from its neighbours such as Naxos, Santorini or Mykonos, is the essence of the local community. I mean it is of course inevitable to be a tight-knit community when living on an island, but the way the Parians celebrate together and support each other is unlike many other islands (I highly recommend visiting during Greek Orthodox Easter to see the island’s beautifully maintained traditions and celebrations).

Having the opportunity to meet beautiful locals, like Anastasia, I was exposed to island gems which may have been missed had I not got the inside scoop. This included an iconic and favourited traditional wood-fired bakery and patisserie Xilofournos (a 10-minute drive from Naoussa/a 15-minute drive from Parikia). This family-run business has some of the most delectable traditional Greek sweets that will leave you drooling for more and, the selection is never ending, you’re spoilt for choice.

Another hidden gem, and absolute FAVOURITE, is Keros – Health Store. Kero’s primary goal is to create products made out of local and raw materials as well as stock other wonderful Cycladic brands which will become your household staples (think lemon cream with oregano olive oil and creamy nut butters). A business built with honest intention and trust, we LOVE Keros and know you will too.

Your guide to exploring and eating your way through the Cycladic island.

You didn’t think I’d make you go through the trouble of reading through the entire post and NOT leave you with some golden nuggets?

The things to do in Paros are endless and offer you the opportunity to go off the beaten path, whilst also providing you with the white-washed charm you know Greece to be. Without further ado…

Things to do in Paros:

1. Hike to Cape Korakas Lighthouse

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of village life, I suggest you put on your best walking shoes and embark on the picturesque hike to Cape Korakas Lighthouse. This trail is relatively easy and flat, the path can be a little rocky at times but don’t be discouraged. The trail begins at Kolimbythres beach, as you start your ascent up the hills, you can begin to see Paros from a different view.

Intertwining with garden beds of colourful flora, the trail will expose secret landscapes and isolated beaches where you can sit in solitude under the Mediterranean sun while your thoughts float away with the sea breeze. Take my word for it, and go and explore this for yourself. TIP: My Partner and I went in April and the temperature was perfect. However, if you’re walking this trail during summer, I would suggest going before 10 am or, in the late afternoon!

2. Get lost in Naoussa Town

When you think of Greece, your mind wanders off into a labyrinth of white-washed Cycladic homes with alternating colour-painted doors and shutters, right? Well that my friends, is Naoussa Paros.

The quaint fishing village will leave you breathless. As you walk along its harbour you’re introduced to the colourful inhabitants that stand post along the shore, you can hear the sounds of the wooden boats dancing with each other and are hypnotised by the aroma of freshly grilled seafood as you weave your way down the many narrow cobblestone pathways.

This Cycladic village has a vibrancy that is indescribable. It is so easy to lose yourself in the charm of the afternoon sun, or the glimmer of twinkling lights that surround you. You may even find yourself a furry friend for the day (cats are everywhere on the island, the “other” super cute residents of Paros Island).

3. Float on the water at the best beaches in Paros

There is no way you travelled all the way to Paros Greece not to sink your feet in the soft sand, and float endlessly in some of the most clear and blue waters in the world, right?

Kolymbithres Beach | Located near Naoussa, it is renowned for its unique rock formations and crystal clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling. Purchase a sunbed or get in early to perch yourself like a mermaid on the many rocks along the shore. There’s nothing like being able to see yourself wiggling your toes on the sand bed is there?

Mikri Santa Maria Beach | Mikri (Meaning Small) Santa Marina Beach attracts visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty. A true Cycladic tranquillity, offering a picturesque and serene beach setting that is tucked away in a little cove and protected from the winds. Mikri Santa Maria beach is the ideal location where you can hide out from the labyrinth that awaits you back in town.

There is a great diversity of beaches in Paros you can stumble upon, each with its own unique charm. Golden Beach is known for its soft sand and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and water sports, whilst Santa Maria Beach is the place to be when you want a vibrant beach scene with beach bars and music that’ll have your head bopping and hips swinging as you lay back, soak in the sun and sip on delicious cocktails. A true day-to-night destination, Greek island style.

Ready to be sun-kissed in Paros?

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Where to eat and drink on the island’s hot spots:

1. Naoussa

• Kafeneion – i Palia Agora | Hands down where you’ll try THE BEST Keftedakia (fried meatballs) on the island and Mezethes (sharing plates) that’ll leave you going back night after night. They’re simple but packed full of flavour. It’s a no-fuss Traditional Taverna that you need to try. Coming to Greece means dining at these family-run venues because this is where the true experience of Authentic Greek cuisine and culture lies. Psst: You have to try the stuffed onions (Salantourmasi in Greek). You get the sweetness from the onion complimented by the fragrant rice-filled centre.
• Yemeni Wine Restaurant | Follow the narrow and winding streets of Naoussa Paros and you’ll reach Yemeni, a restaurant focused on traditional foods with a modern twist in presentation and pairings. The quality is divine and fresh, and you can’t leave without trying the seafood. Think crisp charcoal grilled octopus with a soft centre, and a buttery flaky sea bass that falls off the bone… YUM!
• Souvlakia KARGAS | Kargas IS the best in Naoussa, don’t walk here, run! Nothing beats biting into a juicy souvlaki pita after a scorching day walking around under the Mediterranean sun. You can select a souvlaki plate which is often accompanied by fries, sliced tomato and onion, and a generous serving of Tzatziki!
• Sousouro | Your corner coffee bar, afternoon snack spot and drink into the night while you people watch kind of place. The drinks are spot-on and huge, take our word for it. It’s located just further down from Kafenion i Palia Agora which makes it a perfect end to your evening.
• Sante Cocktail Bar | Sante is the hip and happening cocktail bar nestled under the Eucalyptus trees and secluded from the chaos. The funky jazz and classic disco tunes accompany you while you sip on an Aegean Mist.

2. Parikia

• Stou Fred | When Paris isn’t on the cards don’t fret because Stou Fred will come to the rescue. A unique gastronomical experience with fresh local produce and a fusion of culinary traditions that makes for a wonderful experience. Be sure to reserve ahead!
• Coure Rosso | Italian Pizza is their true passion so you can rest assure you’ll be biting into a true slice of Italy. With dough prepared the traditional Italian way (soft and airy crust with a crunchy base) and the use of the best Italian produce, Coure Rosso welcomes you for a culinary experience in true Italian style.
• Cafe Symposium | Sit beneath the shade as the trees shroud over you, Cafe symposium is an oasis in town. Beyond just a coffee shop, you can sip on freshly squeezed orange juice on the balcony while enjoying simple and flavoursome breakfast options and creamy Greek yoghurt the way it should be. It’s A meeting point, a place to be social and take a beat from the bustling streets.
• Koukoutsi | The locals hang out in Parikia with seriously delicious drinks (but shh, it’s a secret). Try a local Parian spirit called ‘Souma’ for an authentic experience, nibble on some light snacks or Meze and put your feet up, for it’s been a long day out in Paros Island’s Capital.

NOTE: For the ultimate Paros foodie spots, check out my latest post ’19 Of the Best Places to Eat in Paros The Locals Love (Just As Much As I Do)’

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Paros undoubtedly stands out as a hidden gem in the Cyclades, offering a perfect blend of charm, beauty, and exquisite mouth-watering cuisine for unforgettable memories to be made.

You’re now equipped with the golden nuggets of Paros Island shared in this blog and your adventure awaits. Have you got your passport ready?