Dreaming of Paros but unsure where to settle in for your stay? This comprehensive guide unveils the best spots on the island, from charming towns to serene fishing villages, helping you plan the perfect getaway.
Best Places to Stay in Paros – At a Glance
- Parikia: Ideal for history lovers and those seeking convenience, nightlife, and waterfront dining.
- Naoussa: Best for nightlife, boutique shopping, and luxury stays.
- Golden Beach: Perfect for water sports enthusiasts and families seeking relaxation.
- Lefkes: Offers tranquility, traditional charm, and scenic hiking trails.
- Alyki and Piso Livadi Villages: Great for a fishing village vibe, seafood dining, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Map of Paros Island
Top Activities in Paros
- Boat trips around the island
- Snorkeling and Diving: Visit Faragas Beach near Aliki for diverse marine life.
- Day Trips: Explore Antiparos or the Small Cyclades for secluded beaches, Mykonos, Delos, and Naxos are all nearby.
- Hiking: Discover scenic trails around Lefkes and Golden Beach.
Quick Comparison Table
| Area | Best For | Highlights | Recommended Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parikia | History, convenience, nightlife, first-timers | Byzantine church, Venetian castle, waterfront dining, shopping | 3-4 nights |
| Naoussa | Nightlife, luxury, boutique stays | Vibrant nightlife, gourmet restaurants, Cycladic charm, shopping | 3-4 nights |
| Golden Beach | Water sports, family fun, beach holiday | Windsurfing, sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters | 2-3 nights |
| Lefkes | Tranquility, traditional charm | Hilltop views, hiking trails, peaceful atmosphere | 2-3 nights |
| Piso Livadi or Alyki | Fishing village vibe, beach holiday | Seafood tavernas, small beaches, family-friendly setting | 2-3 nights |
Parikia
- Visit: Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani early for peace and fewer crowds.
- Do: Enjoy sunset drinks at a waterfront bar near Livadia Beach, and wander the lovely alleyways.
- Eat: Grab affordable pastries from Ragoussis Bakery.
Where to stay in Parikia
1. Paros Agnanti Hotel
The closest 5-star hotel to Parikia and 100 meters from Marchello Beach. There are private pools in the suites, incredible sea views from the rooms, pools, terraces, happy hour, free wifi, and a complimentary shuttle bus to take you the 1.7 km into the center of Paros.
2. Andronis Minois
This luxurious 5-star retreat is located near Parasporos Beach, just 2.5 km south of Parikia, the island’s capital and port. The 44 elegantly suites combine bright white interiors, soft pastel accents, and natural wood furnishings. Some suites offer private outdoor hot tubs or sea-view balconies.
Olvo Restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes like freshly caught seafood and grilled meats. The breakfast includes an extensive spread of fresh pastries, Greek yogurt, local honey, and made-to-order eggs. With a seawater pool, a holistic spa, and a complimentary shuttle to Parikia, this is a great Paros choice
3. Parian Village Beach Hotel
Situated at the edge of Livadia Beach, this 4-star adults-only hotel is just a 1.5 km stroll along the coast to the center of Parikia. The property is designed in traditional Cycladic style, with seven whitewashed buildings surrounded by gardens of bougainvillea and olive trees. Rooms are minimalist yet warm, featuring whitewashed walls, tiled floors, and touches of blue or natural wood.
The continental breakfast buffet includes homemade spanakopita (spinach pie), fresh yogurt with local honey, and traditional cheeses. The hotel also features a pool with a sea-view terrace.
4. Argonauta Hotel
In the heart of Parikia, across from the Port, this calm, clean, lovely family-run hotel is a little gem. Right at the entrance to the old town and overlooking the main square, it’s the perfect location for exploring Paros, especially if its your first time on the island.
Its 16 rooms have bright white interiors, handmade wooden furniture, and light blue accents. Breakfast is served in a leafy courtyard and includes traditional Greek pies, freshly baked bread, local jams, and seasonal fruit.
5. Aegean Village
As you check the prices for Paros accommodation, you’ll notice is very expensive! Aegean Village is quiet, with a beautiful garden area, a walk to the Port that is not uphill, and the rooms have free wifi and air-conditioning. This inexpensive 2-star family hotel ticks all the boxes.
Naoussa
- Dine: At Barbarossa, famous for fresh seafood and lively ambiance.
- Explore: Kolymbithres Beach via water taxi for unique rock formations.
- Shop: Stroll early evening for boutique treasures without the rush.
Where to stay in Naoussa
1. Parilio, a Member of Design Hotels
One of the most beautifully furnished hotels on the island, and a contemporary minimalist exterior and pool area make this a stylish and private retreat. There are only four suites in this boutique luxury hotel at Kolimpythres and you need to book many months ahead.
2. Anemalia Way of Living
Opened in September 2024, Anemalia is an apartment hotel, a 5-minute walk from the town center and Agioi Anargyroi Beach. It’s a light, contemporary, minimalist experience. Room decor emphasizes neutral tones and natural wood finishes and most rooms have a private terrace. Each unit has a kitchenette with a coffee-making machine.
3. Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort
This property has only perfect reviews and is only 1 kilometer from the center of Naoussa. It’s only 50 meters from the beach and has a swimming pool and hot tub. The infinity pool looks over the sea and some rooms and suites have mini-infinity pools in the private courtyards.
4. Lilly Residence-Sea View Suites, Adults Only
Heated private plunge pools, infinity pools, Spa baths, champagne buffet breakfast beside the pool, dinner and cocktails at the pool bar, and Hermes accessories in the rooms make this hotel an obvious romantic choice.
5. Cove Resort
This is my favorite place in Paros – there is a wonderful holiday feeling in the landscaped private gardens and infinity pools, the lighting of the property at night, and just spectacular pool and beach areas. The rooms are lovely, but their private outdoor spaces make them extra special.
Golden Beach
- Surf: Rent gear at Nea Chrisi Akti for consistent winds.
- Relax: Head to the quieter southern end of the beach.
- Dine: Visit nearby Drios for local tavernas and a serene dining experience.
Where to stay in Golden Beach (Chriss Akti)
1. Calme Boutique Hotel
Located in the peaceful village of Drios, this 5-star boutique hotel is 700 meters from Golden Beach. The private villas each have a pool and terrace looking to the sea. The interiors reflect Cycladic minimalism, with whitewashed walls, smooth concrete floors, and handcrafted wooden details.
Calme offers a farm-to-table dining experience at the on-site restaurant, featuring dishes like fava bean puree, fresh fish, and locally grown vegetables. The breakfast is a gourmet affair with organic eggs, homemade pastries, and seasonal fruit.
2. Golden Bay Luxury Villas and Suites
A 5-minute walk from Golden Beach, these luxury villas and suites have panoramic sea views. Designed with typical Cycladic minimalism, with its smooth white walls, large windows, and sleek wooden furniture, it’s a nice Paros Island feeling, helped by the enormous pool and terrace with views over to the sea. Some of the apartments have full kitchens that include dishwashers.
Breakfast is a spread of freshly baked croissants, traditional Greek pastries, and locally sourced ingredients like honey and cheeses. The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes.
3. Seample Studios
A family-friendly, self-catering property near Golden Beach, featuring 3-star facilities. Just 40 meters from the beach, the five studios have a modern, calm aesthetic with tiled floors, bright white Cycladic-style decor, and kitchenettes. Sitting on your private balcony right on Golden Beach make these studios perfect for a beach holiday.
4. Paros Philoxenia
This 3-star beachfront property opened in November 2019 is located between the villages of Drios, Logaras, and Piso Livadi. It’s bungalows are built in traditional Cycladic style. Each bungalow has a kitchenette with a coffee-making machine but there’s also a restaurant onsite that specializes in traditional Greek cuisine, including dishes like freshly caught fish, stuffed vine leaves, and souvlaki. Breakfast includes homemade pies, traditional Greek yogurt with honey, and freshly baked bread. A poolside bar serves cocktails and light snacks throughout the day.
Lefkes
- Hike: The Byzantine Road to Prodromos for panoramic views.
- Sip: Coffee in the shaded main square while admiring Cycladic architecture.
- Shop: Shop in the pottery, jewelry, homewares, art and handicraft stores
- Visit: The marble Church of Agia Triada for its stunning frescoes.
Where to stay in Lefkes
1. Agiasi Villas
Two minutes (uphill) from the village center is a large sparkling pool and three and four-bedroom houses, some of which have private hot tubs (inside and outside).
Agiasi Villas is brand new and excellent value accommodation of a high standard with wonderful extras.
2. The Olive Mill Guesthouse
A romantic, quiet (soundproofed), self-contained guesthouse with breakfast, free parking, wifi, and very comfortable beds. The guesthouse is a historic building and it has been recently renovated. The Airport Shuttle is a real bonus.
Piso Livadi
- Eat: Fresh seafood at Halaris Taverna by the fishing port.
- Day Trip: Ferry to Naxos for a quick island adventure.
- Stroll: Enjoy the serene harbor views at sunrise.
Where to stay in Piso Livadi
1. Summer Senses Luxury Resort
This 5-star resort is located in Marpissa, just 500 meters from the sandy shores of Punda Beach, one of Paros’ most popular spots for water sports. The resort offers luxurious rooms and suites featuring Cycladic-inspired decor with neutral tones, stone finishes, and plush furnishings. There are two spectacular outdoor pools, including a family-friendly option, and a spa offering treatments inspired by Greek wellness traditions. Dining options include the fine-dining Galazia Hytra. Breakfast includes loukoumades (honey-soaked donuts), local cheeses, and freshly baked pastries.
2. Cavo Piso Livadi
The five-star Cavo Piso Livadi opened in March 2020. It’s a Cycladic-style hotel, just off Piso Livadi beach, and within a short walk to local tavernas. Rooms feature minimalist decor with tiled floors, light wooden furnishings, and calming neutral tones. Room service, a lovely outdoor pool and poolside area, as well as private pools and a breakfast that includes homemade pies all make this a kuxurious but relaxed option.
3. Poseidon of Paros
On Golden Beach, the 5-star Poseidon’s elegant rooms and suites have whitewashed walls, marble accents, and handcrafted furniture. Many rooms have private balconies overlooking the sea or the beautifully lush gardens. The onsite restaurant serves Mediterranean and seafood dishes. With a spa, two swimming pools overlooking the beach, a pontoon, and access to water sports, this hotel is ideal for active travelers and beach lovers.
4. Cleopatra Seaside Homes
These self-catering apartments are just a 5-minute walk from Logaras Beach. The interiors are bright and airy, with Cycladic-style white walls, tiled floors, and simple furnishings. Each apartment has a balcony or terrace with sea views. Perfect for independent travelers looking to stay close to the beach and the apartments sell out quickly.
Aliki
- Eat: Fresh seafood at Halaris Taverna by the fishing port.
- Day Trip: Ferry to Naxos for a quick island adventure.
- Swim: Enjoy the serene harbor views at sunrise.
Where to stay in Aliki
1. Kiano Suites
A 4-star boutique property located in the center of Aliki village, steps from its sandy beach. The suites feature boho-inspired decor with natural wood accents, earthy tones, and private balconies. Each suite includes a kitchenette equipped with a coffee machine and a microwave. Breakfast baskets with fresh bread, local cheese, and honey are available.
2. Paros Afrodite Luxury Villas
On a hillside near Aliki, these private villas have views of the sea and are 1.5 km from the village center. Each villa features open-plan interiors with vaulted ceilings, whitewashed walls, and natural wood furnishings, creating a breezy, light-filled atmosphere. Breakfast hampers with homemade jams, fresh bread, and local cheeses can be arranged. This is an excellent choice for families or groups looking for a secluded, spacious villa.
Seasonal Recommendations
- Summer (June-August): Stay near beaches for nightlife and water sports.
- Spring (April-May): Enjoy blooming landscapes in Lefkes or Parikia.
- Autumn (September-October): Fewer crowds in Naoussa with warm weather.
- Winter (November-March): Parikia is the liveliest option year-round.
Transportation: Getting around Paros
- Parikia to Naoussa: Frequent buses (20 minutes, €2.50); taxis (~€15).
- Reaching Golden Beach: Buses (30 minutes); car rental for flexibility.
- Exploring Lefkes: Limited buses; renting a car is recommended.
- Piso Livadi Accessibility: Connected by buses; a car is ideal for nearby beach access.
- Alyki: easy to get by car and bus, with large parking lots available
Final Tip for Staying in Paros
To maximize your stay, divide your time between towns and the countryside or the beach. Spend a few days in Parikia or Naoussa for nightlife and dining, and then unwind in a fishing or hillside village for a peaceful retreat.
