Paros, The Greek Island Hotspot: Where To Eat, Stay And Play

Easily reached by ferry from its famous island neighbors and a quick 40-minute flight from Athens, the Greek island of Paros has been a relatively secret retreat for those in the know. But in the last few years, fashionistas and the rich and famous started visiting its lovely beaches and bougainvillea-covered fishing villages, and the island quickly became the chilled-out alternative to Mykonos and Santorini.

For years, Paros has attracted some of the most famous under-the-radar visitors. Having just finished writing Breakfast at Tiffany's, Truman Capote spent four months with his companion Jack Dunphy during the summer of 1958 on Paros. His visiting friend, photographer Cecil Beaton, wrote, 'We have lived in a timeless haze of repetition. Life is nothing but sleep, swim, eat and read. One day merges soothingly into another without incident. Each day is a pattern.'

I have lived in Paros for several years now and was immediately attracted to the area of Naoussa; its weekends are lively and crowded in the village, and other times, it is tranquil and relaxed. A remarkable spirit fills the air on Paros; the locales are gentle and friendly while a bit shy. It often takes a simple ‘Kaliméra’ greeting to make them smile and engage in conversation.

Every part of Paros feels different, from the bustling port of Parikía to the vibrant fishing village of Naoussa, where many of the best restaurants and hotels are located. Weekends are packed with visitors, but strangely, it never feels overwhelming or claustrophobic; it feels more like the beating heart of a vibrant center you want to be a part of.

You will find winding, narrow white alleys, unique shops and boutiques selling local products, delicious restaurants serving international and local cuisine, a fun nightlife filled with bars and clubs, and, of course, cats everywhere lounging and posing for photos.

With a slew of luxury hotels that have recently opened, the barefoot luxury vibe, easy way of life, and friendly locales have put this island on the map as the ultimate new destination. Add on an afternoon on the hidden gem celebrity island of Antiparos (only a 10-minute ferry ride from Pounta Port on Paros) for lunch and shopping, and you might rub shoulders with its long-time resident actor Tom Hanks or spot billionaire Jeff Bezos on his superyacht.

WHERE TO PLAY

It is ideal to take a private boat trip to visit Antiparos and the historic ruins of Despotiko Island, including the sanctuary of Apollo. Along the way, you will experience many amazing spots for snorkeling and swimming, including my favorite, the Blue Lagoon. Explore Paros with a rental car or ATV to visit its many churches, including Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a beautiful 1,700-year-old Byzantine church, or visit the fabulous Moraitis Winery in Naoussa.

However, daytimes on Paros are mostly spent at the beach as the summer heat welcomes you to its refreshing waters. With many sandy beaches to choose from, island regulars like Andria Mitsakos, an Athens-based designer legend who owns the fabulous Anthologist shop in Naoussa, says she can't reveal her favorite hidden beach but claims, "When I'm on the island, I wake up early, toss on a bikini, grab a pareo and jump in the car, barefoot. I drive to the nearest beach and slip into the sea like a mermaid. It's so still (when the wind isn't blowing), and I always whisper to myself, "I'm so lucky."

Another island regular Dimitris Vakakis, owns the popular private boat charter service Seacrets Cruises in Paros and loves a beach day on adjacent Antiparos. “Faneromeni Beach is unparalleled for a serene escape away from the crowds. Its unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear waters, and golden sands make it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding. There are no umbrellas or loungers here, and you can immerse yourself fully in the natural splendor.”

Paros-based Italian wedding photographer and content creator Matteo Beltrama runs Marry Greece and knows many of the most beautiful areas on the island. Together with his husband Paolo, he also manages Sweetparos Luxury Suites in Prodromos. “My favorite beach escapes include Xrisi Akti, a long golden beach with several beach clubs,” says Matteo. “You absolutely must try the super healthy cuisine of Rebel Beach Bar there. On Krios beach, when it is very windy in Paros, this beach is calm, relaxed, and sheltered. Kolimbithres is very famous for its almost lunar landscape and its crystal-clear waters. I recommend it very early in the morning. Molos is an enchanted bay where tamarisk trees, long walks, and two small churches are the undisputed masters.”

Christiane Smit, who owns the stunning Moonhouse Villa, a luxury vacation rental, with a zen-like ambiance, on a hilltop with striking views spanning to the sparkling Aegean Sea, said her favorite beach is “Tsoukalia because it has Tamarisk trees to enjoy shelter from the sun. My favorite hour is late afternoon, when the light turns pink, and the water feels softer.”

“Kalogeros Beach, a bit further down is also very special,” she adds, “You feel caressed between two large rocks, the rock on the North part consists of clay 'argilos', mix it with water and you can give yourself a facial treatment. I usually swim here very early in the morning, you will find the beach empty, it's pure luxury. You can reach a few other tiny beaches on the other side of the island by following a small donkey path, these beaches have no name, you can only find them by exploring the island. When you do find them, you feel you are in heaven.”

WHERE TO EAT

There are countless restaurant options in Paros and neighboring Antiparos. From seaside tavernas overlooking the port to some of the finest hidden culinary spots where locales frequent away from the summer crowds in the village. Among my personal favorites (including many of the local favorites below) is Rada Restaurant at the beachfront Cove Paros Hotel, a delicious barefoot boho-vibe sunset experience with communal tables and music with fresh modern Greek cuisine by Chef Gikas Xenakis. In the early morning, I always love to walk into Naoussa village when it's still quiet and get the best iced coffee “freddo espresso” at Ragoussis Bakery, and then take a long swim in the sea before the island awakes.

Christiane Smit shares her favorites: "In Piso Livadi is Markakis; it's on the seaside with a view of the fishing boats, and it's very small, authentic, and charming. The food is simple and pure; they use local ingredients, and the fish is always fresh. They also recently opened a Deli in Marpissa where you can find local and Greek products. They cook home-cooked food for takeaways if you feel like relaxing and staying in during the evening. Also, visit Mario (owned by Marios Tsachpinis), which has relocated from Naoussa to a beautiful waterfront place on Livadia Beach with sunset views in Parikia. His food is always an experience for all senses."

"You should try Blue Oyster on Ambelas Beach; it's my favorite for afternoon swims and cocktails," adds Christiane. "Wearing a kaftan over a bikini and going for dinner is an absolute summer feeling while walking barefoot is the ultimate luxury. It has a large selection of seafood, clams and shells, fresh fish, and Greek food with a twist. For coffee and healthy bites in Naoussa, visit Afros (owned by Haris Katsanikakis and Polina Papaloannidou). It's where I take my friends because it's easy and healthy."

On Antiparos, there are several delightful options; Christiane adds, “bardót, close to the castle on a small street, where everything from the decor to the materials is so well curated. You pass through the bar and enter the courtyard with a very old olive tree. The food is an experience for the soul, and everything is served on handmade ceramic plates and bowls. Visit Boogaloo for cocktails and dancing, just next door in a courtyard with low chairs and a cozy vibe, and of course The Rooster if you want the total summer sunset drink experience.”

Dimitris Vakakis loves Sigi Ikthios, “located in the port of Naoussa, with master chef Yiannis Zoumis and his team. It has excellent gastronomic delicacies, and you can sit beside the small traditional fishing boats watching the sunset.”

Matteo Beltrama says, “Take a taxi to Ambelas and enjoy dinner at the fishing tavern To Thalami. Go to Kallitekniko Kafenio in Prodromos during the evening (if you are lucky, you can enjoy it also with live music and traditional dances of locals). Here, you must try herring and caper sauces, tiganopsomo (fried bread with feta), and stuffed calamari. Il Napoletano Eat Napoli in Parikia is where you can eat the best Italian pizza of Paros. Also, on the water in Parikia is Opos Palia (with generous portions, lots of vegetarian options), and in Piso Livadi, Restaurant Gialos Paros at the edge of the marina.

Matteo also loves the local spots, including “Taverna O Tsitsannis (one of the oldest taverns of Paros) is where you must try the tasty souvlaki chicken and grilled lamb.” he adds. “Another authentic tavern is Taverna Mosxonas in Naoussa, and Taverna To Marathi in Marathi, the best place to enjoy the meat and especially the traditional kokoretsi (grilled lamb offal).”

Andria Mitsakos loves Siparos in Naoussa: “My go-to for lunch or dinner always, but my favorite time of the day is after the beach, pre-dinner, for sunset…I’m still in my bikini and a caftan, and I slide up to the bar with a friend (or a lover) or sometimes solo. It’s the best time of the day because it’s before the Americanos flood the place for dinner. I’m usually able to catch up with the owners, Paris and his sister Despina, and their father is usually there, too. He’s so cute! The barman will make me a martini so cold I could ice skate across its surface, and Despina will bring me sea urchin or some oysters, and sometimes I’ll ask for the staff meal of the day and take that home for dinner. This is home to me!”

"A visit to Thalassamou is hands-down your long lunch spot," says Andria. "It's at the end of Aliki Beach, and I always sit at the same time under the pine trees. I never order as the owner, Anna, always brings me what she wants me to try. Her husband, Marios, is in the kitchen and the best chef on the island. Period. He also makes sourdough bread from his grandfather's strains. It's beyond words. They are also opening Fotia this season at Aliki in the marina. It will be all of Marios's recipes he's perfected over the years, but all cooked on an open fire in the forno (traditional Greek oven). I can't wait!"

"Cannelait pastry shop offers the island's best croissant," she adds. "I also love popping in there for a quick lunch; they also have a lovely terrace. You should get the chocolate tart with the caper leaves and ask for the tomato biscuits. I can eat an entire bag while driving home. I love an easy afternoon visit to Casa Fistiki on Antiparos, a new Mexican-Mediterranean seaside bar and restaurant on the dock in Agios Georgios. It usually turns into dinner with friends passing by."

WHERE TO SHOP

Shopping here is often more rewarding than in neighboring Santorini and Naxos, which are filled with souvenir shops. Paros and its posh neighbor Antiparos have countless boutiques featuring luxury fashion, ceramics, artisan gifts, and beachwear for all tastes. When you are finished exploring the magic of the island, check out these local favorites.

Christiane Smit loves “Sunday in Bed, run by Ina Solbach. This shop offers a selection of African Tribal Art, carpets from Afghanistan, and well-being clothes. Other shops include Parimia Paros, located in the little streets of Naoussa, and Sentou Paros. Make sure to visit Anthologist, located in the Cosme Hotel, and Morethanthis in Antiparos. Another wonderful place to buy local ceramic gifts is Stelios Ghikas in Kostos and Todd Marshard in Lefkes.”

Matteo Beltram adds his favorites, “Arseni Delicatessen in Parikia. This shop has the best fruit and vegetables in Paros, where you can make small culinary purchases to take home (Paros capers, pomegranate juice, dried figs), and To Melissi in Naoussa. This shop has culinary items and my favorite perfume ever (the fig ones). The owner produces all the fragrances by herself. Also, I think for the most fashionable women, (one-of-a-kind jewelry by artist Zoe Xemantilotou) at Neso Studio in Naoussa is really cool! I just ordered a pair of custom-made Bali earrings.”

Andria Mitsakos says, “I love The Antique Store and To Melissi for her skincare line and Zina Fragi Jewelry, all in Naoussa. I own two Anthologist shops: one at the Parilio Hotel in Kolymbithres, and my Parian flagship is at Cosme Hotel. Shopping there is like a deep dive into my personal wardrobe and archive. You’ll find my new collections, vintage and other faves. Pop by and say hello!”

WHERE TO STAY

New hotels are popping up everywhere throughout Greece this year, while others are being renovated and refreshed. On Paros, the luxury factor is growing, with several new brands launched, including one with a very famous celebrity Chef.

Here is a selection of some of the most popular places to stay during your visit.

Cove Paros

The stunning, female-owned Cove Paros is an architecturally modern boutique resort with 40 elegant rooms and suites, including five signature suites with private pools. It offers an all-day beach club with plush chaise lounges and bar service and an acclaimed restaurant on 20 acres of dramatic land on the small bay of Agioi Anargyroi. The lively center of Naoussa is only a ten-minute walk away.

With its luxurious barefoot living, guests can enjoy exquisite dining at the beachfront Rada Restaurant overlooking the water. Additionally, the new beach lounge will host special culinary and wine events featuring communal tables on the sand, chef experiences, wine tastings, and more.

Cove Paros, just a few years old, is an adult-friendly hotel, (over 12 years old only), and one of the few luxury hotels on the island that offers direct beach access from your room. The new poolside spa, boutique, and refreshed private beach club complement the existing resort and its acclaimed private pool suites.

Andronis Minois

Andronis Hotels recently acquired the Minois Hotel Paros. Reopening this summer as Andronis Minois, the beautiful property in Parikia, offers a contemporary take on traditional Cycladic architecture. The hotel offers 44 luxury suites, each with terraces and patios. Each room enjoys its unique view, while multi-bedroom suites feature private swimming pools. There is a central swimming pool with a vibrant day-to-night Lounge Deck, a well-stocked outdoor gym, and an underground spa. Chef Anastasios Tsantilas heads the fine-dining Olvo restaurant. Carved out of the hotel on a tiered landscape with sea views, this revitalized space is just over 500 feet from the water’s edge.

Cosme

Located on a quiet bay adjacent to the village of Naoussa, Cosme Hotel is designed to look like a white-washed village, complete with its own town square fountain centerpiece. With 40 suites, some with private pools, guests can also enjoy access to a private beach and beach club. An expansive pool, lined with sun loungers and cabanas, looks out over the bay, and is above the Greek restaurant Parostia headed by chef Yiannis Kioroglou. The beautiful spa, located on a hillside of its own, sits at the back of the property, combining two treatment suites with an indoor/outdoor jacuzzi spa, while a fun stargazing deck is perched on its roof.

Avant Mar

Opened last year, Avant Mar is perfectly positioned with an easy five-minute walk to Naoussa village. The property has its own small beach, Piperi, equipped with navy umbrellas and loungers. The rooms are located in four white cubes, Cycladic-style buildings, and share a simple and elegant design: curved cane bedhead, blue-and-white batik cushions, and light wood armchairs (the best ones offer a sea view). The bathrooms feature modern marble sinks and Aesop products. All accommodations are positioned to one side of the zig-zag-shaped pool, next to the all-day restaurant Thymes and a raised wooden deck perfect for enjoying sunset drinks. The main dining attraction is the open-air Nobu outpost Matsuhisa, which includes a sushi counter, its own bar, and nightly DJs. This Summer, famed Chef Nobu will make a personal visit to celebrate the official opening.

Mythic

Located in the tranquil, south-west part of Paros, Mythic Paros Hotel is perched on the hillside making it one of the best places to take in the sunset on the entire island. This boho-chic adults-exclusive hotel offers two large infinity pools and plentiful double sun loungers overlooking panoramic horizon views. There is a fabulous cave-style Cavo Senso spa adjacent to the pool, as well as sunrise and sunset yoga, wellness events and immersive local experiences located at the very top of the property in the huge Somana Flo Studio.

The 41 individually decorated rooms, most actually carved into the rock mountain, are scattered throughout the various levels, many with private plunge pools, and all facing out to sea. The rooms and spaces are adorned with natural fabrics and textures, echoing their commitment to sustainability, and feature unique wooden furniture designed and handcrafted on the Mythic site itself. Visit for perfect sunset views with dinner at Muzzein Paros, an outdoor cliffside experience serving elevated fresh, Mediterranean cuisine and special degustation menus. You may even be lucky enough to enjoy a live local performance or signature event, hosted during the season.

Summer Senses

Perched atop a hill, Summer Senses offers panoramic views of the Sea with 100 contemporary rooms ranging from premium to luxurious suites with private pools. There are two large, freeform swimming pools and the family-friendly property also offers a shallow lounge pool for kids. The resort includes the Anassa Spa by Idolo, and the state-of-the-art Anassa Gym. The fine dining Galazia Hytra restaurant is a collaboration with Michelin star restaurant, Hytra, located in Athens. This season, the hotel will offer an all-day gastronomic pleasure for guests at their GAIA Restaurant, where authentic Cycladic cuisine will be served.

Also, check out locally owned boutique hotels like Kalypso Hotel and Villas and Stelia Mare, which are both located on Agioi Anargiroi Beach. The lovely, intimate properties are run by two charming longtime Paros locals George Bafitis and his brother Stavros who both have 30 years of experience in the business.