Paros Travel Guide

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

Senia Hotel (Naoussa)

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.

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.

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.

Yria Boutique Hotel (Near Parasporos Beach)

A quiet, resort-style property with lush gardens and traditional Cycladic charm. Great for couples and families looking for a peaceful base close to Parikia.

Evenings in Naoussa

Top Things to Do in Paros

Explore Naoussa

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.

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.

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.

Sunset Drinks at Agosta (Naoussa)

Finish your day with a cocktail right on the water at this lively bar with great music and views over the harbor.

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.