Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (2024)

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (1)Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (2)

You might not find Paros on every list of the best places to stay in Greece, but this authentic Mediterranean escape is certainly deserving of the honor. Still, with so many scenic beaches and charming villages, figuring out where to stay in Paros, Greece can be a little tough without pro guidance.

Translation: let us help you. We’ll not only help you figure out where to stay in Paros, but we’ll also score you awesome hotel perks at no extra cost. Plus, we can answer all your travel questions and hook you up with expert recommendations along the way.

Ready to travel?Connect with Fora to get started.

In the meantime, read on for the best areas to stay in Paros, Greece.

Where to stay in Paros: the most exciting (or relaxing) areas & cities

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (3)Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (4)

Paros is a fantastic choice for where to go in Greece for first-timers, especially if you want an authentic Greece experience.

The island offers a charming and picturesque atmosphere with beautiful beaches, traditional villages and a vibrant local culture. Paros is one of the best Greek islands for families and favored by travelers looking for a quieter alternative to the more famous islands.

So where should you stay in Paros? Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Naoussa: where to stay in Paros for a relaxed vibe & watersports

Naoussa is a small fishing town in Paros’ northeast with an authentically chill vibe. The town sits along the southern coast of the Gulf of Naoussa, with a diverse and gorgeous range of beaches extending in either direction.

The variety makes Naoussa a great place to visit whether you’re keen on a relaxing swim or an adrenaline-fueled water adventure in the Mediterranean. Plus, the protection of the gulf means the waves typically aren’t too rigorous for younger travelers.

The town also hosts a plethora of small boutiques, Greek tavernas and wine bars.

One of our favorite boutique hotels in Greece, Cosme, is also within walking distance of Naoussa. During our recent FAM trip to Greece, our advisors stayed here and loved it. Cosme’s design feels right at home among the island architecture, and the boutique style makes it an intimate choice for couples.

Connect with Fora to plan and book your stay at Cosme.

2. Parikia: Paros’ most cosmopolitan town

The capital of Paros, Parikia offers a charming blend of traditional and modern elements, making it a delightful place to stay on the island. Most notably, its picturesque waterfront invites leisurely strolls and authentic local dining experiences.

Parikia also boasts historical landmarks like the iconic Panagia Ekatontapiliani — or Church of 100 Doors — along with a local market, lively tavernas and a thriving nightlife scene (see our Greek nightlife guide), all of which offer plenty of variety for travelers wanting a diverse experience.

If you want a fun experience with a similar diversity, check out our guide on where to stay in Crete, one of the most popular Greek islands.

3. Lefkes & Chrissi Atki (aka Golden Beach): where to stay in Paros for architecture & nature

Lefkes stands out from Naoussa and Parikia with its distinct Cycladic architecture, narrow stone-paved streets and tranquil atmosphere. In fact, the feel here is decidedly less busy than the other two towns, even for an island known for its laid-back experience — at least compared to popular islands like Crete and Santorini (BTW: check out the coolest places to stay in Santorini).

Moreover, Lefkes’ position on Paros makes it a convenient choice for travelers ready for an adventure. The nearby mountains offer plenty of hiking trails and scenery, especially in spring.

It should be noted, however, that Lefkes isn’t the best choice for travelers who want to wake up to waterfront views, as it’s Paros’ most inland town. But given the island’s small size, the nearest beach — the popular Chrissi Atki (or Golden Beach) — is only about 10–15 minutes away from Lefkes.

That said, if you’re only interested in visiting Lefkes, the nearby Summer Senses Luxury Resort — one of the best Greek resorts for couples — is just south of Chrissi Atki and comes highly recommended by Fora Advisors. The resort has a contemporary luxury vibe, and the beach views are incredible.

Fora Perks at Summer Senses:

  • $50 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Bonus — Antiparos: Paros’ low-key sister island

Antiparos doesn’t get the same kind of attention as Paros, but it’s every bit as worthy a destination. The overall atmosphere is even more relaxed than its sister island, even in peak season. But there’s still plenty to do here, whether it’s taking in the Mediterranean scenery, hiking through the hills or sightseeing in the main town (also known as Antiparos).

“Antiparos is an up-and-coming island just seven minutes by boat from the more popular Paros,” says advanced Fora Advisor Artemis Koutsogiorgas. “Several celebrities have homes here, as it's less touristy than Mykonos or Paros. But it’s still a luxurious island. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and amazing nightlife for those that still want that experience.”

ADVISORArtemis Koutsogiorgas

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (8)Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (9)

expertise

  • Greek Islands,
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Pro tip: many Fora Advisors recommend staying on Paros for more luxurious accommodations, then taking a day trip to the smaller island. However, if you’re wondering where to stay on Antiparos, Kameo is a lovely option on the island’s northern coast.

Need help deciding where to stay in Paros? Let Fora help

You don’t have to figure out where to stay in Paros by yourself. When you book your trip to Greece with us, you’ll not only get expert recommendations from true travel pros, but access to awesome hotel perks at no extra cost, too.

Ready to travel?Connect with Fora to get started.

Need more Greece travel inspo? Check out our guides to the best hotels in Greece or the most unique places to visit in Greece. Unsure Greece is the right destination for you? Maybe one of these Fora guides will unlock your next vacation:

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Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island (2024)

FAQs

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece’s Most Under-the-Radar Island? ›

Parikia, the island's main port, plays host to the superb Panayia Ekatontapiliani Cathedral, which has its roots in the 4th Century, as well as to striking architectural landmarks and myriad bustling tavernas. The town's golden sandy beach is lined with excellent eateries, and has some great nightlife.

What part of Paros is best to stay in? ›

Parikia, the island's main port, plays host to the superb Panayia Ekatontapiliani Cathedral, which has its roots in the 4th Century, as well as to striking architectural landmarks and myriad bustling tavernas. The town's golden sandy beach is lined with excellent eateries, and has some great nightlife.

Is it better to stay in Naoussa or Parikia? ›

Parikia is the capital of Paros and therefore the financial epicentre. Additionally, it is a commercial center as well. Of course, it features picturesque Cycladic alleys, most of them located in the old town. On the other hand, Naoussa is considered as more traditional place.

Which is the best village to visit in Paros? ›

In brief, Parikia and Naoussa are the most touristy villages. There are also many other quaint villages on the island, such as Lefkes and Marpissa, praised for maintaining the traditional Cycladic architecture. Many hotels are located around these villages.

What is the best town to stay in Paros, Greece? ›

Here are a few of our favorites.
  1. Naoussa: where to stay in Paros for a relaxed vibe & watersports. Naoussa is a small fishing town in Paros' northeast with an authentically chill vibe. ...
  2. Parikia: Paros' most cosmopolitan town. ...
  3. Lefkes & Chrissi Atki (aka Golden Beach): where to stay in Paros for architecture & nature.
Jul 12, 2023

What is the main Centre of Paros? ›

Parikia in Paros (also called Paros Town or Chora) is the capital of the island and has about 3,000 inhabitants. The settlement was built on the same site where the ancient city and capital used to stand. This little town is the commercial and cultural center of Paros as well as the main harbor of the island.

How many days in Paros is enough? ›

Located almost in the center of the Cyclades, Paros has true Cycladic architecture and an active lifestyle. In brief, staying 3 to 5 days is recommended in order to explore the island as much as possible.

How far is Parikia from Naoussa in Paros? ›

The distance between Parikia and Naoussa is 10 km. The road distance is 9.9 km. How do I travel from Parikia to Naoussa without a car? The best way to get from Parikia to Naoussa without a car is to bus which takes 21 min and costs €1 - €3.

Is parika or Naoussa better? ›

Let me say first that both Parikia and Naoussa are great choices with their own unique charm. While Parikia, the island's capital, has a more cosmopolitan feel with a busy harbour, Naoussa (also written Naousa), has more of a village charm, with a few beautiful and picturesque beaches.

What is the best way to get around Paros? ›

How to move around Paros?
  1. Public Buses (KTEL) Public transportation is the cheapest way to reach most places in Paros. ...
  2. Water taxis & Sea buses. ...
  3. Car rental in Paros. ...
  4. Taxis and private transfers. ...
  5. Organized Tours.

Is Paros walkable? ›

Come with us to find the authentic side of of Paros & Antiparos in the centre of the island circle of the Cyclades. Take 'the road less travelled' on the hillside trail, the rocky shore or the sandy beach & discover the primal beauty of the Cycladic island – the natural way: walking (or pedalling!) right in!

Do you need a car to get around Paros? ›

If you are only visiting Paros for two to three days, you do not really need a car, though you could put it to good use if you do. If you stay in Naousa, you could easily visit beaches and sights by public transport. There are plenty of places just a quick bus / taxi / boat ride from Naousa. Same goes with Parikia.

Is it better to stay on Naxos or Paros? ›

Naxos is slightly more family-friendly, while Paros is slightly more couples-friendly. Both islands have charming villages by the sea, gorgeous traditional villages in the hills, and smaller beach resorts around the coasts.

What is the most secluded beach in Paros? ›

Agios Fokas beach

Description: Agios Fokas is an unorganized bay at the entrance of the gulf of Parikia. Although located close to the popular beaches of Paros, it remains calm and secluded.

Are the beaches better in Naxos or Paros? ›

Both have a number of protected coves and beaches ( often south-facing) which are protected from the wind. 5. Both have excellent beaches but Naxos has a lot of big, wide ones that have shallow water and are generally safer and better suited to families with small children.

Which is nicer Naxos or Paros? ›

Paros has better nightlife (though not too wild) and feels a little trendier with more shopping and boutique hotels. Naxos has just a little nightlife but more historic churches and archaeological sites. Paros has better public transportation linking its main villages to nearby beaches.

Is Naoussa Paros worth visiting? ›

Naoussa is a charming town on the north coast of Paros that is definitely worth visiting if you're looking for a unique getaway in the Greek islands. Naoussa is a picturesque town that has something to offer everyone, and we hope this article hasn't left you with any questions about the town.

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