Located just a three-hour ferry ride away from Santorini, Paros has long lived in the shadow of the famed Greek island. But now, with a hot new hotel and a burgeoning food scene, Paros is stepping into the limelight. By Lisa Perkovic
When you’re wandering the tiny cobblestone streets of Parikia, the rest of the world feels far away – until you spot a eucalyptus tree and hear an Australian accent. Parikia and Naoussa are the two main villages of Paros, the Cycladic gem Europeans (and now Australians) once hoped to keep secret.
Where is Paros?
Paros is a Greek island in the heart of the Cyclades, a cluster of islands in the central Aegean Sea. Situated about 160 kilometres southeast of Athens, it lies just west of Naxos and across a narrow strait from its smaller neighbour, Antiparos. The island’s capital and main port, Parikia, welcomes most visitors arriving by ferry, while Naoussa, a charming former fishing village, is now a lively centre for dining and nightlife. Known for its whitewashed houses, golden beaches and traditional Cycladic charm, Paros has become a favourite destination for travellers seeking a less-crowded alternative to Santorini or Mykonos.
Why visit Paros?
There are plenty of things to do on Paros. Visitors can wander charming villages like Parikia and Naoussa, stroll cobblestone streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses and admire blue-domed churches. The island also boasts golden beaches, watersports such as windsurfing and sailing, a growing dining and nightlife scene, and historic sites such as the Byzantine Panagia Ekatontapiliani church. Its famous white marble was also once prized for classical sculpture.
Where to stay on Paros
If you’re thinking about going to Paros, you’ve likely been to Santorini, and you may have seen the luxury Andronis Hotels there. They cascade down the Caldera in Oia and sprawl out across the hinterland beyond, and have the best restaurants, biggest pools and prime locations. Andronis Hotels reflect all the different sides of Santorini: white-washed, glamorous, bold and beautiful.
The Andronis Minois offers the same reflection of Paros. With just 44 rooms, the five-star hotel is small and intimate. Designed to reflect a Cycladic village, the grounds are a series of winding paths and tiny gardens, with rooms clustered around the pool and a dining area that feels like a celebrity kitchen, especially at breakfast, where the buffet is spread out over a kitchen island in the heart of the space.
In the evening, guests can wander down another laneway within the grounds to the ocean front, where the tables for the hotel’s restaurant Olvo sit out under the stars and waves crash on a dramatic rocky headland in front of you. The sun sets while as modern Greek dishes are served – beef cheeks with Stifado onions, grilled artichokes and a fava bean dip with traditional Greek breadsticks. Dessert is plated by lamplight, a modern take on the traditional Greek Bougatsa, crisp layers of filo pastry and chocolate custard.
In the morning, pay a visit to the outdoor gym. It doesn’t have all the whizz-bang machinery of indoor outfits, but it has weights, TRX, treadmill, bike and (most importantly) the soundtrack of cicadas and the fresh ocean breeze. The Aura Spa’s two treatment rooms are indoors, and offer a cool, dark retreat from the heat of the day. A Holistic Full Body massage will leave you blissed out.
Things to do on Paros
Fuel up on Burger Street
Tucked into a side street between the sea and Parikia’s boutique-filled backstreets, Burger Street brings plenty of foot traffic to its little alleyway. Owned by an Australian and her Greek husband who have been slinging jumbo-sized burgers in Paros for years, Burger Street exceeds its 4.8-star Google review reputation. The foil-wrapped burgers and ‘deluxe’ oregano fries are a must-try.
Indulge at Ragoussis Bakery
There’s nothing like the smell of freshly baked pastry. With stores in both Parikia and Naoussa, Ragousis Bakery has pastries, breads, baklava, biscuits, salads, gelatos, juices and cakes to satiate your appetite. The bakery dates back to 1912, so stopping in to try spanakopita or their famous orange cake is one of the best things to do on Paros.
Shop at Meli Meli
One of the top things to do on Paros is browsing the vibrant stores of Meli Meli, with locations in both Parikia and Naoussa. The shop is filled with bright, colourful pieces from Greek designers, including the latest clothing lines from Athens, quirky glass lobster bead bracelets, trendy rattan bucket bags and patterned tasselled purses, perfect for a stylish souvenir or a unique wardrobe update
Day trip north to Naoussa
One of the best things to do on Paros is take a day trip north to Naoussa. Located just a 15-minute drive from Parikia, Naroussa is famous for its quaint fishing village vibe. Start your day early, wandering the streets before the crowds arrive. Almond Living Well restaurant’s breakfasts are big with Australian travellers, who make a beeline for the towering smashed avocado toast, breakfast burritos and Kagianas Greek eggs before the other cafes open their kitchens.
At 10.30am, catch the day’s first ferry over to Kolymbithres Beach, where the natural rock formations and crystalline water make it popular with families, couples, Instagrammers and snorkellers alike. The ferry service also connects to Monastiri Beach throughout the day.
Back in Naoussa, visit Tripolitsiotis Paradosiaka, which opens its small shopfront around 3pm and sells fresh Loukoumades (donuts with honey and nuts) until they sell out which, given the crowds, doesn’t take long. Expect the harbourfront restaurants to start getting busy around sunset. The waves lap up on the pedestrian walkways in some spots, but that’s all part of Naoussa’s charm.
Dance or dine at Chora
Over on the port side of Parikia village is Chora, a study in Greek style. There are low back beech wood chairs, hanging rattan lights, rope wall features, and out the back is a moody lounge inspired by Greek Gods that heats up with popular DJs after midnight. For dinner, dine on ‘volcano’ carob rusk covered saganaki, tender lamb shank, and fresh ‘sunset’ rocket salad, all while listening to the dulcet tones of soft pop mixes
Visit Lefkes Village
Immersing yourself in authentic Cycladic life is one of the best things to do on Paros, and Lefkes is a fantastic place to do it. Set among olive groves and pine forests, Lefkes is a charming 17th-century village that feels like stepping back in time. Wander its winding streets lined with traditional and neo-classical architecture, enjoy a meal at a friendly local taverna, or walk part of the ancient Byzantine Road and see the grand Triada Church.
Meet the residents of Butterfly Valley
A magical escape for nature enthusiasts, Butterfly Valley is open from June to September and offers a rare glimpse of the Jersey tiger moth in its final phase of life. Dense vegetation and abundant spring water create a peaceful oasis where butterflies rest on leaves and sometimes take flight. Visiting this reserve is perfect for photographers, families or anyone seeking a quiet moment in nature.
See Panagia Ekatondapiliani
One of the most impressive landmarks on Paros, the Panagia Ekatondapiliani in Parikia is a historic Byzantine church that has stood for centuries. Known as the Church with the Hundred Doors, it is one of the best-preserved Paleo-Christian monuments in Greece. Legends say it was built either by Saint Helene or Emperor Constantine himself, and tradition holds that its secret 100th door will open when the Hagia Sofia in Constantinople returns to Orthodox worship. Visiting this sacred site is one of the best things to do on Paros.
Stroll around Paros Park
Explore the seaside paths on the Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula, discover remote beaches and admire striking rock formations at Paros Park. This natural haven is where rugged coastline meets hidden coves, caves and walking trails. The open-air theatre hosts cultural events, while the blue-domed St John of Deti monastery is a picturesque addition to the landscape. For nature lovers and adventurers alike, this protected 80-hectare area offers some of the most memorable things to do on Paros.
Swim at the beaches
There’s a beach for every mood on Paros. Golden Beach is ideal for windsurfing or basking in the sun on its golden sands. Santa Maria Beach has plenty of amenities and a vibrant atmosphere, which is great for socialising and people-watching. For a quieter experience, head to Piso Aliki, a tranquil cove where you can relax and enjoy the waves.
Make time for Antiparos
Antiparos has a charming little village and has caught the world’s attention with its beaches and caves, many of which are accessible only by boat. Take your pick from catamaran day cruises such as Salty Cruises, which depart from Parikia for a full-day adventure, or hop aboard the 20-minute ferry that runs every hour. The ferry drops you right on the doorstep of Chora village and from there, buses run all around the island.
Locals arriving in Antiparos head straight to their favourite bakery before a day at the beach, and visitors should do the same. Just a short walk from the ferry, Aspronisi in Chora is a local institution, with only a few shops along the main street. The spanakopita disappears quickly; the flaky, dense pies are so irresistible that they often sell out.
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