The beautiful island of Paros has always been on my long list of Greek islands to visit; so when my girlfriend and I were thinking of where to travel this July for some quality time and soak up the Mediterranean sun, I suggested the Island of Paros. I admit that Paros was the perfect destination! The island offers adorable Greek style villages and there are many beaches to choose from. Paros is affordable and adorable so the perfect combination! In terms of architecture and style is very similar to Mykonos minus the touristic crowds and commercialized shops. What I loved the most about Paros was its authenticity. Unlike my experience in Santorini and Mykonos, here in Paros you actually see the locals living the Greek island.
I had booked an Airb&b very close to Naoussa town; a picturesque and charming place with white houses, blue doors and shutters with lots of bars and restaurants to choose from. One thing that came as a surprised was the beautiful boutiques and shops. Nothing makes me more excited then finding niche Greek brands with excellent quality and prices! During the evening Naoussa, becomes very lively and you can enjoy a stroll around the town and delicious restaurants to dine.
What to Do:
Beaches
Of course you’re on the island so the seaside is the highlight of your trip. There are many beaches to choose from and the sea is very clean, clear and not crowded but the sand is light brown so you don’t find that turquoise blue colour sea.
– Kolymbithres is a famous beach in Paro near Naoussa, with amazing Granit rocks sculpted by the wind. It’s relatively small so it can get crowded but it’s the most picturesque beach of Paros. They offer beds and umbrella!
-Lageri is almost like a private ‘secret’ beach. It’s 20 min drive from Naoussa, and you have to drive 10 min off the main road on a very rocky road to arrive to this semi circular bay (good beach for windy days). There is absolutely no services on this beach so take water/food and umbrella with you and expect some nudity!
– Santa Maria is another popular beach famous for water sports.
Rent a car or a scooter and visit the island
We rented a small fiat 500 and we drove around the villages. The popular villages are Naoussa; we stayed here and was the perfect base. You have shops, restaurants, bar and it becomes lively during evening. Parikia (the main port town), Lefkes (a little town between mountains), Piso Livadi (small fishing port) and Antiparos. My favourite ultimate village that I highly recommend is Prodromos. 7km drive from Naoussa, is a white tiny village with the cutest houses and small churches. We visited the town after lunch hours so it was very quiet and I truly enjoyed the authenticity of the place.
Yoga
If you’re into Yoga and Meditation then guess what Paros is popular for their Yoga centers. Check out Taos center for their programs: http://taos-greece.
Shopping
I was not expecting to find such fantastic boutiques in Naoussa. Some shops are more on the higher end but you can find niche local fashion brands with quality. There are so many cute jewellery and accessories boutiques that you literally can’t choose from. In addition very nice furniture and home accessories shops with Mediterranean style products.
www.electic-paros.com
Where to Stay
I booked an airb&b close to Naoussa town. It turned out to be a cute Greek style suite with a terrace overlooking the sea. The best part of this place is that you can walk down to a small rocky beach just below the house!
Where to Eat
Safran Restaurant: Cosy Mediterranean restaurant in a narrow street of Naousas. I really enjoyed the atmosphere, the service and the creative approach to Greek food. A sweet touch when you ask for the bill, they offer delicious homemade desert!
Mario Restaurant: Traditional Greek food in a fantastic vibrant square at the harbour of Naousas. I really loved the ambiance; truly a Greek experience and food was simple and delicious.
Barbarossa: Set in a charming harbour of Naousas, Barbarossa is the ‘cool’ restaurant of town. You have the Dj playing in the background and the menu is seafood oriented with Sushi, salads, seafood appetizers and pasta. A bit pricy but top class service and atmosphere.
How to Get to Paros:
Paros is just 1hr ferry ride from Mykonos and Naxos or you can even fly from Athens to Paros as they have a small airport! Check blue star ferries for the ferry hours and prices. https://www.bluestarferries.com/en/
