PAROS

PAROS

Maya Smadi
Paros is an amazing Cycladic island (right next to Mykonos) with beautiful beaches, views, food and people. It’s a great island for families, couples, a group of friends or even solo travelers. I’ve been to it twice; once in 2021 and again in 2023. I have to say it has changed in 2-years, it’s more expensive and DEFINITELY busier. Paros is a hot spot for both Greek and foreign tourists so I highly recommend a visit, and to book restaurants and boats in advance especially if you're a big group.
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Transport

You can reach Paros by ferry or plane.

You need a mode of transport within the island if you want to explore. There aren't many taxis so don’t rely on them for your day to day.

You can rent atv’s and motor bikes which seem so scary to me when driving so close to a cliff but if you're comfortable then do your thing.

There is public transport (bus) but I’m not sure how accessible they are.

Towns

Generally, everything is so picturesque and wonderful to stroll around during the day with loads of shops and restaurants.

Naousa Paros Harbour
@mayasmadi
Naousa is a highly frequented village/port for locals and tourists alike. It's a good place to shop and has a lot of restaurants and bars to check out.
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Parikia is the port town, not as pretty as Naousa but you’ll find loads of shops and restaurants.

Parikia, Paros
@mayasmadi
If you're taking a ferry, chances are you will enter Paros from Parikia Harbor. It is the capital town and the main harbor. You can stroll around the little shops and restaurants.
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Lefkes is a smaller town tucked on a hill, it’s very charming and surrounds the Byzantine holy trinity church.

Lefkes, Paros
@JessieWestTravel
Quaint and charming traditional Greek village nestled on the highest mountain on Paros. Expect whitewashed Cycladic streets and bougainvillea-adorned homes.
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Beaches 

Beaches on the Cycladic island of Paros are 'cold' and have a mix of sand and stone shores.

I've included a combination of budget and high-end beach bars scattered all over the Island.

Note: We’re told the government will be banning serviced beaches so keep some basic things handy (towel, umbrella, water).

Golden Beach Paros
@mayasmadi
One of the best beaches in Paros. It’s big with the clearest waters. There’s a water sports rental spot as well wind surfers. Not crowded like the big Santa Maria beach. Lots of serviced clubs there but you can also do your own thing as with most beaches on the islands. We sat at Blue with 2 sun beds for €50. The food was ok.
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SeaRocks Paros
@mayasmadi
Formerly Aspro, this a small beach club but very nice. Water is amazing here, the staff is friendly and they have a VIP area if you want that.
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Santa Maria Beach Bar
@mayasmadi
One of the more famous and large beach clubs with a young crowd with louder music. It does get quite busy.
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Monastiri beach
@mayasmadi
Chilled beach club to have some really amazing greek food and enjoy some time on the beach.
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CABANA Beach Bar Restaurant
@mayasmadi
This place has a great view of the island and a more upscale crowd hosting international dj’s and themed music nights.
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Faragas
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Antiparos Beach Club

If you want to change it up, hop on a ferry to Antiparos.

We didn't explore much but we did spend the day at Soros Beach Club.

Soros Beach Club
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Dinner & Drinks

These are suggestions that work for both lunch and dinner - based in Naousa.

Barbarossa Restaurant
@mayasmadi
Located in Naousa, this is the weekend dinner spot ($$$) for locals and tourists. Music gets loud later in the night and it's just a lot of fun. Music is catered towards Greek last time I went in 2021.
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Siparos Seaside Restaurant
@mayasmadi
One of the best restaurants in Paros. Book for dinner so you can enjoy the beautiful sunset and try to get the table on the terrace.
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Barbarossa Bar
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Sante Cocktail Bar
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Really cute cocktail bar tucked away in the narrow streets of Naousa.
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come back
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Medusa Cocktail Bar Paros
@mayasmadi
Newly opened Medusa bar is very chick compared to its neighbors, playing international music and with a no teenager door policy.
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Things to do

Moraitis Winery
@JessieWestTravel
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Coffee & Food

Suggestions for lunch and dinner including small tavernas.

Maroon
@mayasmadi
If you want a bite to eat and some good coffee, head to Maroon. Really cute place in Parikia.
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RESTAURANT FLORA
@mayasmadi
A small and random tavern on the hilltop in Lefkes. The views is amazing, it overlooks the holy trinity church and the sea. The food is great.
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ARANTO
@mayasmadi
A little tavern on a very awkward turn with traditional Aegean food.
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Lefkiano Restaurant
@mayasmadi
Very cute restaurant in Lefkes, perfect for lunch and dinner.
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Grocery

There are loads of mini and super markets like the chain Alpha Beta, but I’m including only one because we thought they had great produce and variety. The larger ones can run out of things towards the end of the day so plan ahead.

Anoussakis Market
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Family run supermarket with good quality produce.
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Other

HEALTH CENTER PAROU
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Maya Smadi
Marhaba! I'm Maya, just your average travel enthusiast. While I may not be your typical professional travel blogger, I bring a down-to-earth, no-frills perspective to the table. What you'll get is my genuine experiences, straight from the heart. I thrive on organizing itineraries, diving deep into research, and meticulously planning my trips. Trust me, I've been to quite a few places, some even multiple times. I'm all about practicality, making sure to squeeze every ounce of adventure out of my travels. One thing I pride myself on is my knack for tapping into local knowledge. Thanks to my network of friends scattered around the globe, I always make it a point to experience destinations like a true local. Because let's face it, what's better than immersing yourself in the culture and lifestyle of a place? Based in Dubai, UAE, I'm your go-to gal for any insider tips or local insights on navigating the vibrant city. So whether you're planning a trip to Dubai (or the other Emirates) or seeking advice on your next adventure, feel free to hit me up. I'm here to share my passion for travel and make your journey a little smoother.
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