Paros Travel Guide
Naoussa Harbor
Move over Santorini and Mykonos, because Paros is having its moment as the IT island of the Cyclades. We spent a week in Paros in June, and here our favorite places to stay, eat, drink and play in this charming Greek island.
Paros has long been one of the Greek Cyclades’ best-kept secrets—but word is getting out. With golden beaches, bohemian charm, chic boutique hotels, and some of the best food in the Aegean, it’s the perfect island for those who want the magic of Mykonos with a little more room to breathe. Whether you’re wandering the maze-like streets of Naoussa, swimming off hidden coves, or sipping wine as the sun dips below the horizon, Paros delivers laid-back luxury in every sense.
Here’s your complete guide to the best beaches, restaurants, hotels, and things to do on Paros.
Siparos Restaurant in Paros
Best Restaurants in Paros
Yemeni (Naoussa)
A beloved spot tucked into a charming alley in Naoussa, Yemeni serves traditional Greek food with a refined touch. Their seafood pasta and slow-cooked lamb are musts, and the wine list is excellent. It books up—reserve ahead.
Siparos (Near Santa Maria Beach)
Elegant but unfussy, Siparos is a sunset destination in itself. Right on the water, it’s perfect for fresh seafood, grilled octopus, and elevated Mediterranean dishes with stunning views to match.
Soso (Naoussa)
A hidden gem known for meze-style plates with flair. Think grilled halloumi with fig jam, spicy cheese dips, and fresh salads with a twist.
Sigi Ikthios Restaurant
Thalassamou (Aliki)
This feet-in-the-sand taverna in Aliki is beloved for its beachfront charm and superb grilled fish. Go for a long, lazy lunch after a morning at nearby beaches.
Taverna Glafkos (Naoussa)
A simple seaside spot where tables spill onto the rocks. It’s all about location and classic, satisfying Greek fare.
Senia Hotel in Naoussa
Stay
A boutique hotel perched just above Naoussa’s harbor, Senia offers stylish Cycladic design, two infinity pools with sea views, and a great in-house restaurant. It strikes the perfect balance between luxury and warmth with incredible service.
Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort (Naoussa)
A newer luxury resort with design-forward architecture, a serene spa, and one of the best hotel breakfasts on the island. The vibe is upscale boho, and the service is impeccable.
Summer Senses
Beautifully designed hotel with increible pools and sea views.While somewhat remotely located, there are a few beachftont restaurants you can walk to from the hotel.
Parilio (Between Naoussa and Kolymbithres)
Minimalist elegance at its finest. This adults-only retreat has stunning interiors, a tranquil pool, and a fantastic restaurant, Mr. E, that’s worth a reservation even if you’re not staying there.
Avant Mar
Perhaps the most luxurious option on the island, the Avant Mar has a wonderful beachfront location located near Naoussa.
Evenings in Naoussa
Top Things to Do in Paros
Explore Naoussa at Sunset
Wander the whitewashed alleyways of this former fishing village, now filled with chic boutiques, cafes, and bars. At sunset, the harbor becomes a postcard-perfect scene.
Day Trip to Antiparos
Just a 10-minute ferry ride away, Antiparos is smaller, wilder, and full of charm. Rent a bike or buggy and explore its beaches and cave. Read our Antiparos guide here.
Visit the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Parikia)
One of the oldest Byzantine churches in Greece, this historic site in Parikia is a peaceful and culturally rich stop.
Explore Lefkes
This authentic Greek village is at the top of the hill in the center of Paros. Formerly the capitol the island, there is plenty of charm and history to explore.
Lefkes streets
Hike the Byzantine Trail
Connecting Lefkes to Prodromos, this ancient footpath winds through olive groves and mountain villages. It’s a shaded, peaceful way to see the island’s interior.
Windsurf or Kite Surf on Golden Beach
Paros is a top spot in the Aegean for wind sports, and the south coast beaches are ideal for beginners and pros alike.
Shop til you Drop
The shopping in Naoussa is wonderful, with chic boutiques. Don’t miss Saline for clothes and Alenia for handmade local jewelry.
Best Beaches in Paros
Kolymbithres Beach
Located near Naoussa, this beach is famous for its smooth granite rock formations that create natural swimming pools. It feels like a sculpture garden made by nature—and it’s one of the most photographed spots on the island.
Santa Maria Beach
This is a beach-lover’s dream: long stretches of sand, clear turquoise waters, and plenty of amenities (loungers, beach bars, water sports). It’s especially great for families and groups.
Molos Beach
Molos Beach
This quiet, unfussy beach has a small rental hut (shown above), but that’s about it. This is where you go to relax and get away from the buzz of the island.
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti)
A favorite for windsurfers, this expansive beach on the southeast coast has a fun, breezy vibe and a few great tavernas nearby for a post-swim lunch.
Monastiri Beach
Faragas Beach
Tucked away in the south, Faragas is more secluded, with calm waters and a stylish beach bar. It’s perfect for a mellow, chic day by the sea. Nice beach club by the owners of the popular Barbarossa restaurant in Naoussa.
Monastiri Beach
Sheltered and shallow, Monastiri is ideal for families and kids. You can also hike up the hills behind the beach for panoramic views over the bay.
Paros is the kind of place that seduces slowly—one sun-soaked afternoon, one perfect meal, one crystal-clear swim at a time. It’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for a mix of culture, nature, and barefoot elegance. Whether you base yourself in lively Naoussa or explore the island’s quieter corners, Paros is bound to become a place you return to again and again.
Pro Tip: Book hotels and top restaurants ahead if you’re visiting in July or August, when the island is at its busiest.
Let Paros be your next great escape. You may just find your favorite corner of the Cyclades.
