Greece › Paros › Best Hotels
Updated: September 26, 2026 • By Santorini Dave • dave@santorinidave.com
My Favorite Hotels in Paros
- For Couples: Mythic (Agia Irini)
- For Families: Poseidon of Paros (Chrissi Akti)
- Beach Resort: Cove Paros (Naoussa)
- Naoussa (Trendy): Cosme
- Parikia (Ferry Port): Argonauta
- Best Value: Villa Isabella (Naoussa)
Mythic, high above Agia Irini Beach, is my favorite Paros hotel for couples. Staying at one of the hotels in Paros with a private pool is one of my top recommendations for travelers who want a little more privacy and luxury.
It has a large deck with great views.
The private pool overlooks the main pool and restaurant (great food).
Paros is one of the best all-around islands in Greece: great beaches, good food, fun nightlife, easy ferry connections, and two excellent main towns. It is not as dramatic as Santorini or as polished as Mykonos, but it is more relaxed and generally better value.
Paros has frequent ferry connections with Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, and Athens. The fast ferries from Santorini and Mykonos are around 2 hours, though times vary by boat and route.
My favorite places to stay on Paros are Parikia and Naoussa. Most first-time visitors should stay in one of these two towns unless the trip is mostly about beach time.
- Parikia: Best for ferry convenience, better value, buses, and easy logistics. The ferry port and main bus hub are here, and there are good beaches within walking distance or a short bus ride. I especially like Parikia for short stays, island-hopping, and travelers without a car.
- Naoussa: Best for restaurants, nightlife, boutique hotels, and the prettiest evening scene. It is more upscale and more expensive than Parikia, and gets very busy in July and August. For couples and honeymooners who want to walk to dinner and drinks every night, I prefer Naoussa.
Most popular beaches are reachable by bus in summer, but a rental car makes Paros much easier. Buses work well for point-to-point trips from Parikia and Naoussa but are less useful if you want to combine villages, beaches, and dinner stops in the same day. For stays of 3 nights or more, I recommend renting a car for at least one full day. Use it to see Lefkes, Marpissa, Prodromos, Piso Livadi, Golden Beach, and the east and south coasts. Book early for July and August, especially if you need an automatic.
Water taxis are useful in summer around Naoussa Bay, with service to Kolymbithres, Monastiri, and nearby beaches. Return schedules change through the season, so know the last boat back before heading out.
Antiparos is an easy side trip and worth a few nights if you have time. The quickest route is from Pounta, on the west coast of Paros, where small car and passenger ferries make the short crossing throughout the day and evening. Seasonal passenger boats also run from Parikia.
For most travelers, 3 days on Paros is the minimum. Four or five days is better, especially if you want beach time. A week is easy to fill if you want a slower trip.
Paros is no longer a hidden gem, and Naoussa in August can feel like a smaller, less flashy version of Mykonos Town. Book hotels and rental cars early for July and August, and do not try to see the whole island by bus in two days.
Paros Hotels – My Advice
- Best Luxury Hotels in Paros
Cosme • Cove • Avant Mar • Opal • Saint Andrea • Andronis Minois • Parilio- Best Hotels for Couples
Mythic • Bohemian Luxury • Parilio • Hotel Senia • Seesoo • Argonauta Hotel- Best Hotels for Families
Poseidon of Paros • Blue Mare Villas- Best Paros Beach Resorts
Cove • Cosme • Avant Mar • PAROCKS • Poseidon of Paros- Best Cheap Hotels in Paros
Villa Isabella • Margarita Studios • Pension Sofia- “Near Naoussa” can be misleading. Some excellent hotels sit just outside town, but the roads can be narrow, dark, and unpleasant to walk at night. Google Maps might say 15 minutes, but that does not mean it is a comfortable evening stroll. For hotels like Saint Andrea, I recommend having a car or budgeting for taxis.
- Beach hotels have location tradeoffs. Golden Beach is excellent for windsurfing and long beach days but can be windy in July and August. Santa Maria is lively in summer but well removed from the main towns. Kolymbithres is beautiful but crowded in peak season. For most first-time visitors, I prefer staying in Parikia or Naoussa and visiting the beaches during the day.
- A rental car makes out-of-town hotels much easier. Hotels around Kolymbithres, Parasporos, Golden Beach, Santa Maria, Agia Irini, and Aliki make more sense with a car. Without one, stay in Parikia, Naoussa, or somewhere with both a beach and restaurants within an easy walk.
The 32 Best Hotels in Paros
1. Cosme – Naoussa
Cosme is a beachfront luxury resort with a private beach club, spa, and half-moon infinity pool. Two restaurants and a bar serve Mediterranean and Greek food throughout the day. Activities include stargazing, cooking classes, and sailing excursions aboard a private catamaran. All suites have king or super king-sized beds and private balconies or terraces. Astro and Cosmos Suites add private plunge pools. Excellent location on Agioi Anargyroi Beach about a 10-minute walk to the heart of Naoussa.
2. Cove Paros – Naoussa
Elegant boutique hotel with an infinity pool, outdoor spa, and beach with food and beverage service. The signature restaurant, RADA, serves Cycladic-Greek fare for lunch and dinner under the pergola or on the beach. Breakfast is included and served by the pool. Rooms and suites include king-sized beds and private patios or balconies. Cove Signature Suites add private pools and sofa beds and sleep up to four guests. Wonderful location on Agioi Anargyroi Beach, about a 10-minute walk into central Naoussa.3. Mythic – Agia Irini Beach
Luxury hotel in the hills above Agia Irini Beach. Mythic has a spa, wellness studio with yoga and meditation classes, and two saltwater infinity pools set in tiers overlooking the sea. Dining is outstanding at Muzzein, with Cycladic-Mediterranean food and panoramic views. Rooms and suites offer queen-sized beds, rain showers, and furnished private terraces; some add private pools or jacuzzis. Peaceful location about a 5-minute drive to Agia Irini Beach, Butterflies Nature Reserve, and Pounta port for the Antiparos ferry. A car is recommended; the hotel has its own rental fleet. Adults-only (ages 16 and above).4. Avant Mar – Naoussa
Spectacular 5-star hotel on Naoussa’s Piperi Beach. There’s a wellness spa, two restaurants (including one from Nobu Matsuhisa), pastry shop, jewelry boutique, and gin-and-tonic terrace. The 38 rooms and suites are spread across several buildings, many with sea views and private plunge pools. Some Superior Double rooms have accessible bathrooms, and one unit is wheelchair accessible. The shared swim terrace has a glass-front pool and direct access to the hotel’s Piperi Beach sunbeds.5. Opal – Naoussa
Small, stylish boutique hotel near Piperi Beach. Rooms and suites surround a shaded courtyard where breakfast is served each morning. Some have direct sea views or private outdoor hot tubs. Quiet location at the entrance to town, across from Piperi Beach and about a 5-minute walk to the center of Naoussa.6. Parian Boutique Hotel – Naoussa
Contemporary boutique hotel with a rooftop infinity plunge pool. All rooms have queen-sized beds and private or shared balconies; all but one have sea views. One Double Room is wheelchair accessible with a roll-in shower and grab bars. Guests must be older than 12. Great location just steps from Agioi Anargyroi Beach and Moraitis Estate winery.7. Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa – Chrissi Akti Beach
The most family-friendly hotel in Paros. This luxury beach resort has two pools, two kids’ pools, a playground, and plenty of space for families. Suites sleep up to 4 guests, with larger family-friendly layouts available. The restaurant serves breakfast and Greek-Mediterranean food throughout the day. The hotel is on gorgeous Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach). There is a bus stop nearby, but I recommend renting a car if you stay here.8. Saint Andrea Seaside Resort – Livadia
Luxury hotel with a large pool, upscale dining, and spacious rooms and suites. Anastasia Restaurant serves Mediterranean food for lunch and dinner as well as breakfast; the lobby and pool bars serve cocktails and light bites. The hotel is about a 15-minute walk from Naoussa, but I do not love the road for walking after dark. Having a car or using taxis makes evenings much easier.9. Parilio – Livadia
All-suite luxury hotel with a pool and spa near Kolymbithres Beach. Suites are spacious and designed mainly for couples, all with private terraces. Uranus Suites have outdoor jacuzzis; Sun Suites have private pools. Mr. E restaurant serves Greek-Mediterranean food, with cocktails, wine, and light meals at the pool bar. Kolymbithres Beach is about a 15-minute walk away and Naoussa is about a 5-minute drive. Parilio also offers scheduled complimentary transfers to Cosme’s beach club.10. Andronis Minois – Parasporos Beach
5-star all-suite hotel with a saltwater pool, kids’ pool, and spa near Parasporos Beach. The 44 spacious suites sleep up to 4 guests, all with private terraces and many with sea views; several suite categories have private pools. There’s a sea-view Mediterranean restaurant for lunch and dinner, a pool bar, and a very good daily breakfast.11. Seesoo Paros Beachfront Resort – Pounta
Small waterfront hotel with a pool, massages, and all-day bar (but I wouldn’t call it a beach hotel). Rooms and one and two-bedroom apartments have kitchenettes and private patios or terraces; rooftop units add outdoor showers. Breakfast is served at the pool bar with plenty of vegetarian options. Pet friendly. Ages 13 and older only. Quiet location near the kitesurfing and windsurfing beach and Pounta port for the Antiparos ferry. A car is recommended; there is not much within walking distance.12. Summer Senses Luxury Resort – Punda Beach
Luxury resort with two sea-view pools, a spa, two bars, and two Greek restaurants. Family amenities include a shallow children’s pool, kids’ menus, and babysitting or nanny service on request. All rooms have a balcony or patio and Parian marble bathrooms with walk-in showers; suites add a living area with a sofa bed. Many suites have private pools and sea views. Punda Beach is about a 5-minute walk and quieter Logaras Beach about 10 minutes, with several tavernas nearby.13. Hotel Senia – Naoussa
Gorgeous luxury hotel in Naoussa with an excellent restaurant and two pools (a heated infinity pool and a rooftop adults-only pool). Spacious rooms and suites include private terraces, some with private jacuzzis; the Three-Bedroom Suites and Superior Suites add full kitchens. Food is excellent, from the breakfast through dinner. The hotel sits above Piperi Beach with its own designated beach lounge space; beach access is across the street and down a steep stairway. Naoussa port and its restaurants are about a 5-minute walk away.14. Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel – Naoussa
Adults-only boutique hotel in the heart of Naoussa. Rooms and suites have boho-style interiors, with some adding indoor or outdoor hot tubs. There’s a spa, small sea-view pool terrace, and very good breakfast. Located on a quiet pedestrian lane just steps from the shops and restaurants in the center of town.15. Paliomylos Spa Hotel – Naoussa
Upscale hotel with a sea-view pool and full-service spa. Rooms and suites include private balconies or direct pool access from a shared patio. All suites include kitchenettes; the largest 2-bedroom suites sleep up to 6. The hotel has an all-day café and snack bar serving breakfast, light meals, and drinks. Great location overlooking Piperi Beach, about 5 minutes to the water and an 8-minute walk to the best restaurants in Naoussa.16. White Dunes Luxury Boutique – Santa Maria
Minimalist all-suite boutique hotel with a pool and attached kids’ pool, small wellness center, and Greek-Mediterranean restaurant. All suites have king-sized beds and private balconies. The Exclusive Suite adds a private plunge pool; Junior Suites add a sofa bed and sleep up to four guests. Santa Maria Beach is about a 5-minute walk away, but there’s not much else within walking distance. A car is recommended.17. Lilly Residence – Naoussa
Adults-only luxury hotel with sea-view suites, many with indoor jacuzzis or private outdoor plunge pools. Amenities include a hydromassage swimming pool, bar and restaurant, and complimentary breakfast buffet with an a la carte egg menu. Lilly sits on a quiet hillside just a 2-minute walk from Agioi Anargyroi Beach and about a 5-minute walk to Naoussa.18. Kanale’s Rooms and Suites – Naoussa
Upscale hotel with a free-form pool and a creative Greek kitchen near Piperi Beach in Naoussa. All rooms and suites include private terraces; most have sea views, and suites have indoor jacuzzis. Rooms tend toward the small side, so opt for a suite. The Maisonette Suites are the largest at 55 sqm, while the 38 sqm Penthouse Suites have the best views. Located just above Piperi Beach (a 2-minute walk down a steep stairway) and about a 7-minute walk to Naoussa’s best restaurants and the Old Port.19. Stelia Mare Boutique Hotel – Naoussa
Relaxed luxury hotel with a pool and attached jacuzzi, poolside café, and spa room with a jacuzzi and hammam. Rooms and suites all have private terraces, most with sea views, and the largest suites sleep up to 6. Greek buffet breakfast is included. The hotel is a 2-minute walk from Agioi Anargyroi Beach and about 7 minutes from Naoussa and the Old Port.20. Villa Bellonia – Livadia
Great value 3-star hotel with beautifully landscaped grounds, central pool and dining terrace/bar, and tennis court. Rooms sleep 2 to 4 guests and overlook the pool, sea, or gardens. The included breakfast is fantastic. There is no restaurant on site, but Naoussa is about a 5-minute drive away, with Kolymbithres Beach about 5 minutes in the other direction. A car is recommended. Guests 12 years and older are welcome.21. Kalypso Hotel – Naoussa
Good-value beach hotel in Naoussa. Kalypso sits directly on Agioi Anargyroi Beach and is about a 10-minute walk from the center of town. This family-run hotel has a restaurant/bar and a wide range of rooms and apartments, all with private terraces; some have kitchenettes or outdoor jacuzzis. A good choice if you want a beach at the hotel but still want to walk into Naoussa for dinner.22. Kallisti Rooms & Apartments – Naoussa (Adults Only)
Friendly boutique hotel in a quiet neighborhood with a pool, all-day pool bar, and sea views from most rooms. Suites, apartments, and most studios include kitchenettes, all with private terraces. The hotel sits on a hill on the edge of Naoussa, within a 5 to 10-minute walk of the Old Port restaurants, an 8-minute walk to Agioi Anargyroi Beach, and a 15-minute walk to Piperi Beach.23. Anna Platanou Suites – Agia Irini Beach
Small all-suite hotel with a sea-view pool. Suites are large, all with private terraces and indoor or outdoor jacuzzis; one has a private pool. Views overlook Agia Irini Beach and Antiparos. The pool bar serves a Greek breakfast buffet each morning, followed by light meals, snacks, and cocktails, with many ingredients grown in the owners’ garden. Quiet location near Agia Irini Beach about a 10-minute drive from Parikia. Rent a car.24. Argonauta Hotel – Parikia
Affordable, family-run hotel in Parikia’s main square, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars and just a 3-minute walk from the ferry port. Rooms and suites sleep up to 3 and have simple, modern décor; most have small balconies overlooking Market Street, the square, or the sea. The popular restaurant downstairs serves an a la carte Greek breakfast and brunch. Excellent choice for a short stay or an early ferry.25. Apollon Boutique Hotel – Parikia
Cozy boutique hotel just steps from Livadia Beach in Parikia. Rooms are on the smaller side, all with contemporary decor and walk-in showers, most with private balconies. A buffet breakfast can be added. Children eight years and older are welcome. Quiet location near the beach, with a pleasant 10-minute seafront walk to the ferry port, Old Town, restaurants, shops, and Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the Church of 100 Doors).26. Kouros Blanc – Agia Irini Beach
Hilltop boutique hotel with a sunset-view infinity pool and all-day restaurant. Rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces. Some suites add private plunge pools; one has an outdoor jacuzzi. Breakfast buffet is included and room service is available until 10:00 pm. Quiet location about a 5-minute drive from Agia Irini Beach and Butterflies Nature Reserve. Rent a car.27. Parosland Hotel – Aliki
Good-value hotel in Aliki fishing village with a pool, kids’ pool, restaurant, and three beaches nearby. Rooms are spacious and sleep up to 4, while connecting rooms allow up to 6. All rooms have private balconies. The all-day Greek restaurant Elaionas is very good, and breakfast is included.28. Blue Waves Suites & Apartments – To Kyma – Drios
Affordable boutique hotel with studios and 1 and 2-bedroom apartments overlooking Drios Beach. All rooms have kitchenettes and private terraces, most with sunrise sea views. The largest apartments sleep up to 6 guests. Complimentary breakfast is served on each room’s terrace. The hotel sits on Drios Beach, while Boutari Beach and Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach) are about 10 and 15 minutes away on foot.29. Paros Palace Suites Adults Only – Lefkon, near Parikia
Adults-only hillside hotel with a pool and sea views just outside Parikia. Accommodation ranges from double rooms to 2-bedroom suites sleeping up to 4, with several suites adding private pools or outdoor spa tubs. The hotel has a restaurant, pool bar, free port transfers, and a complimentary daily shuttle into Parikia until 9:30 pm. Airport transfers are available for an extra charge. The uphill location is not ideal for walking back from town, so the shuttle is a real advantage.30. Margarita Studios – Ambelas
Friendly family-run hotel with a pool and excellent restaurant. Rooms and apartments include private outdoor space, with kitchenettes in many units. The restaurant serves homemade Greek food from breakfast through dinner, and the hands-on Greek cooking classes with Stella are a highlight. Located in quiet Ambelas, a short drive from Naoussa. A car is strongly recommended.31. Pension Sofia – Parikia
Small, friendly inn surrounded by well-kept gardens. Double and Triple Rooms have private terraces and original art. The owners, Sofia and Manolis, are a big part of why I like this place: warm, helpful, and genuinely welcoming. Pension Sofia is a 3-minute walk from a small beach, about 9 minutes from the port, and 11 minutes from the heart of Parikia.32. Villa Isabella – Naoussa
Excellent-value, family-run hotel near Piperi Beach. The eight rooms and suites range from 18 sqm doubles to a 40 sqm two-bedroom family suite sleeping four. Most categories have sea views, and rooms include simple kitchenette facilities. The Top Floor Suite is 32 sqm, while the Two-Bedroom Family Suite has two bathrooms and a private sea-view terrace. Villa Isabella sits next to the public stairway leading toward Piperi Beach and less than a 5-minute walk from the heart of Naoussa.
A Quick Guide to Paros Beaches
- Piperi Beach – The closest beach to Naoussa. Near several hotels but with no beach services. Sandy and swimmable.
- Agioi Anargyroi Beach – Also near Naoussa, this busy beach has several hotels along its shoreline. The southwest end is rocky, but the rest is sandy, swimmable, and family-friendly.
- Livadia Beach – The main beach in Parikia. This organized beach has hotels, beach clubs, and water sports facilities. Good sand and swimming.
- Kolymbithres Beach – One of the most distinctive beaches on Paros, with smooth granite formations separating a series of small sandy coves. Beautiful but crowded in summer, with limited sand compared with Golden Beach or Santa Maria.
- Chrissi Akti – AKA Golden Beach, this organized beach has beautiful sand and great swimming and windsurfing. Plenty of hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports centers. Gets windy in July and August.
- Lageri Beach – Secluded and relatively difficult to reach, with sandy and rocky coves. The more remote sections have long been popular with naturists.
- Santa Maria Beach – A lively, well-organized sandy beach with restaurants, beach bars, and water sports. Good for families with children and teens. During windy July and August, the smaller coves around Mikri Santa Maria can be more protected.
- Aliki Beaches – Aliki has 3 good beaches: sandy and swimmable Aliki Beach near the village’s seafood tavernas; quieter, pebbly Piso Aliki; and Agios Nikolaos Aliki, with mostly sand, some pebbles, and clear water.
- Faragas Beach – Sheltered beach in a series of coves on the south coast. Good sand and swimming, with a beach bar at the main cove.
- Agia Irini Beach – AKA Palm Beach, this small, swimmable beach is lined with palm trees and has a popular beach club. It can get crowded in summer.
- Parasporos Beach – Sandy, swimmable beach with a campground and a few beach bars that serve late into the night.
- Ambelas Beach – Calm, family-friendly beach near the fishing village of Ambelas.
Villas and Apartments in Paros
The dining terrace at the 3-bedroom Calypso villa at Ciel Villas, near Pounta.
- Ciel Villas – Pounta
Six sea-view villas in the hills above Pounta overlooking Antiparos and the sunset. Each spacious villa has two to five bedrooms, a full kitchen, washing machine, and either a private pool or jacuzzi on a furnished terrace. The largest sleeps up to ten in 190 square meters. All guests have access to a large shared infinity pool with a barbecue grill and pergola. Pet friendly. Under a 10-minute drive to the beach, Butterflies Nature Reserve, and the Antiparos ferry. Rent a car.- Blue Mare Villas – Livadia, near Naoussa
Luxury 1 to 3-bedroom villas with kitchens, washing machines, and private terraces; the 3-bedroom villas add private jacuzzis, while the 3-bedroom Asterias Villa is also wheelchair accessible. Amenities include a pool, kids’ pool, playground, and free buffet breakfast.- Angels Villas – Livadia, near Naoussa
Boutique villa collection with a pool and playground. The 1 and 2-bedroom villas have full kitchens, washing machines, private terraces, and sleep 4 to 5 guests.- Ambassador Luxury Villas – Santa Maria Beach
Large luxury villas ranging from 1 to 3 bedrooms and 80 to 250 sqm, all with full kitchens and private terraces. Amenities include a pool, in-room massage, and babysitting services. About a 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Beach and a 6-minute drive from Naoussa.- Paros Paradise Apartments – Krotiri, near Parikia
Affordable studios and apartments sleeping up to 6, all with kitchenettes and private terraces, many with sea views. About a 4-minute walk to Livadia Beach and roughly 20 to 25 minutes on foot from the ferry port.- Villa Vanta – Drios
3 and 4-bedroom villas sleeping 6 to 9 guests. Both villas have private pools with hydromassage and countercurrent swimming systems, plus full kitchens with dishwashers and washers and dryers. Walking distance to Drios, Boutari, and Golden Beaches.
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi,
We’ve already traveled to Santorini and Milos and loved every minute of it, mainly due to their unique scenery and vibe.
Would travel to Paros and Naxos feel a bit of “more of the same”?
Josh
I don’t find Paros and Naxos as physically unique as Santorini and Milos, but they do have a more vibrant local culture with loads of charming small villages sprinkled around the interior. I don’t think you’ll think them “more of the same”.
Hi Dave, amazingly helpful info on your site! I have 15 full days in Greece and have split it with 3 in Athens at the start, 3 in Mykonos, 3 in Santorini, maybe 2 in Naxos, 2 in Paros (or 4 in one of those), and 2 in Athens at the end. Would you switch around of the time spent in these places? (I plan to daytrip from Athens maybe 1 or 2 of those days there, maybe Delphi and one other place). Do you think it’s better to just stay on Naxos or Paros and daytrip to one instead of splitting it up? Thanks so much!
That sounds great. I don’t recommend day trips between islands as it’s a poor use of time and typically doesn’t allow for many hours on the destination island due to ferry schedules. The one exception is Antiparos (from Paros) which is worthwhile. The ferry is very short and schedule allows for a longer stay. Delphi is a long day trip from Athens. Nafplio and Hydra are closer and more enjoyable day trips from Athens (though maybe slightly less interesting for some).
Hi Dave! I am traveling to Paros in July for 2 or 3 nights. With my husband we are under 30’s so very active searching for good vibes and nice ambience. Hoping to be able to go out at night, but must be near the beach! Which hotel would you recommend us? Afterward, we’ll go to Mykonos. Any good recommendations for nice hotel with beaches and not extremely expensive?
Thanks.
In Paros there is good nightlife in both Parikia and Naousa. But neither have great beaches. For the best beaches, I’d recommend busing or driving to get around the island (which is fun and easy and needn’t be a hassle).
Hi, we are a couple in our 60’s enjoy luxury accommodation been to Santorini & Mykonos previously now intending to visit Paros first week of August. Hotel choices between Senia or Contaratos which would you recommend? Also coming for 9 nights should we split our time between Naousa and Parikia?
Thanks for any help
In my opinion, Senia is more of a boutique hotel and closer to town and restaurants. 3 minutes down to a decent beach. Contaratos Beach Hotel has a better beach (though still not one of the best beaches on the island) just across a small road. 12 minute walk to town. It’s a 3.5 star hotel. Nice, friendly, family owned but do not be expecting luxury. It’s likely a little cheaper than Senia for a similar room. Both hotels are fine choices. And yes, with 9 days I would switch towns and switch hotels. You really get a very different feel of the island by moving to a new location. And a seemingly minor issue but a big deal for me: It’s easy to get tired of the breakfast options after 3 or 4 days at the same hotel (even if it’s really good).
Hi Dave! Looking for some advise. Really torn between Paros and Naxos. Family of 3 with a 14 year old. Two of us love pools and beach, husband loves history and walking around cute villages. We will be arriving from Santorini and then heading to Athens after. For hotels looking at Hotel Senia in Paros and Galaxy in Naxos. Any thoughts?
Paros and Naxos are both amazing island with incredible beaches and great food. Naxos just barely edges out Paros for your needs, though. Naxos has plenty of rustic charm in its capitol Naxos Town and in the interior villages, such as Moni with its historic Panagia Drosiani, a 6th century Byzantine church that is one of the oldest and most important in Greece and the Balkans.
Galaxy is an excellent hotel with clean, modern rooms, lush gardens with fruit trees to pick from, a large pool, friendly staff, and just steps from St. George Beach, and walking distance to Naxos Town (charming village with the ruins of Apollo’s temple). The only downside is that all of their rooms are open plan, so there will not be much privacy if you’re all sharing one space. Rooms for 3 are between 23 – 29 sqm with one king or 2 singles and a sofa bed.
If you’d like a little more space and privacy, I’d suggest the Nissaki Beach Hotel’s Two-Unit Suites, which have a similar location but more space, or check out Iria Beach Art Hotel’s Deluxe Sea View Suite on charming Agia Anna Beach, just a 10 minute drive from the village.
Hi Dave! We are a couple (active) in our 60s heading to Greece for the first time next May. We will be spending time in Santorini, Paros (3 nights), and Mykonos. My question is about Paros. We are torn between the following hotels and would love your thoughts. We do want privacy, not far from a beach (but will rent a car) but don’t want it too quiet. And since we are there for 3 nights really want a nice size space.
Astir of Paros – is it too far out from Noussa and thus too quiet mid-May?
Senia – are the rooms nice and large enough? and recently renovated?
Yria – just looks intriguing.
Thoughts very welcome! LOVE your site.
Thank you very much!
I love the Astir of Paros hotel. It’s a beautiful, 5-star resort on its own private beach with a great pool and luxury facilities. Rooms are spacious, ranging from 30 – 40 sqm, and décor is minimalistic yet high-quality. This is a quiet location, about a 30 minute walk from the heart of Naoussa.
Yria is the most remote of these 3 hotels, about 5 minutes from Parasporos Beach and around 40 minutes on foot to Paroikia. Rooms are amply sized from 28 to 74 sqm and are spread out among expansive gardens.
Senia Hotel is much closer to Naoussa (which I prefer), less than 10 minutes’ walking distance. The hotel was recently renovated and has been refreshed every year since then. The budget rooms are on the smaller side, but the suites are all spacious about 30 sqm and larger. The hotel is perched above Piperi Beach, which is accessible via a long flight of stairs and across the street. Of these 3 hotels, Senia will be the best fit for your needs.
Hi Dave, love your blog. So informative.
I am planning to go to Santorini and Paros in early April. The ferries don’t seem to be selling tickets yet. Is it ok to buy the ferry tickets when I arrive in Athens? Thanks.
The ferry schedules for Paros and Santorini will be updated soon – probably December or January. I always buy tickets on Ferryhopper.com. But yes, even if you don’t buy in advance you’ll have no trouble purchasing tickets in Athens after you arrive. Ferries in April never sell out.
Hi Dave, really enjoy reading all of your posts!
My Husband and I are going to Greece next May 20-30. I would like some suggestions on places to stay in Santorini and Paros. My problem is I have bad knees. Walking around is fine, but stairs do get to me after awhile. By looking at all of the photos it appears there are a lot of them. Of course, I want to see the beautiful sunsets and volcano but perhaps you have a solution? Our plan is to fly to Athens from Canada and stay 1 night (do the Hop On Hop Off tour) then fly to Santorini for 4 nights and ferry to Paros for 4 nights, then ferry back to Athens for 1 night. Will do a sunset wine tour (should I book this early?) Also I like the hotels Paros Palaces or Akrotiri Hotel in Paros are any of these two less climbing that you know of. Thank you for all of your great ideas and knowledge. Rhonda and Shawn
Most hotels in Paros do not have a lot of steps but you managed to pick two that are set on a hillside and do have stairs about the property. These are not stairs like you’ll find in Santorini (steep and many) but there are still plenty of steps. I’d recommend Astir of Paros if you want few steps. In Santorini Tsitouras Collection is one of the better hotels with few steps (though still some). And yes, I strongly suggest booking tours in advance. In May there are fewer tourists but also fewer tours running so they can get fully booked.
Hi Dave,
I am planning a very last minute trip to Greece and we are thinking to go to Athens (2 days), Mykonos (4 days), Paros (2 days) and Santorini (5 days), then back to Athens for another day, but according to my weather app there’s rain in the forecast. Should I let the rain scare me? We are planning on being there from September 29 to October 12th.
Any help is greatly appreciated!
Thank you,
Marta
Weather forecasts are only good for a few days in advance. One week at absolute most. So these forecasts for your visit are meaningless. Don’t worry about the weather until a day or two before when it’s then reasonable to make alternative plans for the rain.
Hi Dave,
Which places are the most comparable to Naoussa on other Greek islands? In terms of nightlife and prettiness. We stayed at Kallisti Rooms in September based on your recommendation and absolutely loved it so thanks for that.
My thoughts:
1. Lindos in Rhodes comes pretty close to meeting your requirements. It’s very pretty, busy, has good places to eat and has a very good beach and scene adjacent.
2. Naxos Town. The streets of the Kastro overlooking the port remind one of Naousa a little. This is a quieter scene than Naousa but plenty of restaurants and a fun active vibe.
3. Kos Town has a similar feel also, especially if you gravitate towards the pedestrianized older part of the town. Busy, pretty and some fine places to drink and dine.
4. Agios Nikolaos in Crete has a similar feel as do Chania and Rethymnon. The latter two are more compact, busier, have more nightlife, and probably prettier, but Agios Nikolaos is a perennial favourite with many visitors.
5. One must mention Mykonos because it’s Mykonos. Expensive yes, but charming, pretty, and tremendously popular.
6. For a possible wild card, I’d consider Skiathos Town. A little larger than Naousa, but combining all the elements you are probably looking for.
Thanks again, all your advice is much appreciated! One last question! Kallisti rooms and apartments has now become available – would you recommend here above Kosmitis? Ideally hoping to walk to dinner rather than drive/ride a scooter.
Yes, Kallisti is a better choice to be near bars and restaurants. Staying within walking distance of town is my preference.
Thanks for all of your advice! My partner and I are booking a last minute trip, spending 3 nights in Paros at the end of June so we are a bit late to get your suggested hotels. We are keen to stay in/around Naousa, so we can be walking distance in the evenings for dinner etc, but happy to get out exploring the island’s beaches during the day. We are currently looking at Anemomylos Residence and Kosmitis Hotel, would you recommend one over the other?
Of the two hotels you mention, the Kosmitis has the better location (on the beach) if you want sand and swimming, while the Anemomylos is much closer to central Naousa where the action is. The facilities of both hotels are very similar so your choice will depend on how you plan to spend your time. If you rent a car you will be better able to park it at Kosmitis, though there is some street parking for Anemomylos. If you rent scooters it doesn’t really matter. The beach at the Kosmitis is not my favorite beach in Paros and as you suggest you will be exploring the island’s better beaches by day – many of which are within a 10-15-minute drive of Naousa.
Another accommodation option that few know about is Petres and it is just out of Naousa, a 10-minute drive and located in open countryside. Its advantage is that it’s quiet, relaxed and calming and since you are going to be using the car to get around it is located ideally for access to the beaches both on the bay and to the beaches to the east of Naousa. You can’t really walk into town (unless you’re keen), but it’s easy to drive in and park your car at the municipal parking lot.
Hi Dave,
This site has been so helpful in planning our trip to Greece. We are coming to Greece May 5 to May 18th visiting Santoríni, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos and Athens. How is the weather going to be around that time on the islands? Would most businesses be open? I am afraid it won’t be warm enough. I wanted to enjoy some beach time during our stay. Thank you!
Maria
Weather will probably be nice, warm, sunny (but not summer hot). Swimming likely on most days. Sea water will still be cool. Almost everything will be open.
Hi Dave!
Incredible site! You are a wealth of knowledge!
We will be staying in Paros for 3 nights – we are okay with renting scooters to get around/check out the best beaches. Thinking about booking at Villa Irini – any thoughts? We also thought about doing a day trip to Mykonos. Do you think that its worth doing that or is Paros pretty similar and not worth the ferry ride – or is there a better day trip? Oh and for reference we will be there mid May. Thank you so much!!
Villa Irini has a great location a short walk from town. There’s a small beach just down the hill that is nice for a quick swim but otherwise not great (better beaches are within are short drive). Day trips to Mykonos are not possible in May as the earliest ferry gets to Mykonos at 1:30pm and the last ferry back leaves at 1:50pm. A great day trip is nearby Antiparos (regular ferries leave from Parikia).
Hi Dave! Thank you SO much for your extensive reviews and detailed information. I don’t think I could have planned my upcoming Greece trip without you. I am having a really hard time deciding between 3 hotels in Paros (my boyfriend and I are spending 8 nights between Paros and Santorini) this coming May (for his 50th birthday). We are coming to Greece by way of Texas and we couldn’t be more excited. So here are the 3 hotels we are considering – Senia Hotel, Saint Andrea Seaside Resort and Kanale’s. This is our first time in Greece. We won’t have a car (but we are ok with taxis and rentals), and we love the finer things in life. We are struggling between being in town vs being a little outside of town. Should we do 4 nights in Paros and 4 nights in Santorini? Or 5 nights in Paros and 3 nights in Santorini? Also, here is where we are staying in Santorini – Aghios Artemios Traditional Homes in Imerovigli. Is this a good choice? Will this be too far from town? Sorry for all the questions, but you seem like the perfect guy to help me out. I’m just so worried I will make the wrong decision and we will look back wishing we stayed someplace else. Thank you SO much in advance. Ilyssa
There are really only two ‘town’ destinations on Paros: the main port of Parikia and the former fishing port of Naousa. I’ll give a little comparison between the two. Naousa is the more popular of them because it is prettier, more touristy (shops and taverns) and not subject to the necessary comings and goings of the big ferry boats and catamarans. That said it is not really a beach place. There is only one decent beach – Piperi – though Naousa very well situated to a brace of fine beaches all within 5-7 kilometres for which you will need a cab, scooter or bicycle. Naousa can get very crowded (some like it that way) in high season and you might have to line up for a table at a restaurant on the little harbor. Parikia is the main port and here you will find a lot of transients – people arriving and departing. There is always a lot of life and it all takes place along the attractive waterfront running southwest from the ferry terminal. The back street is pedestrianised and like Naousa is the home to shops and more taverns and cafés. The nearest beach to Parikia is within walking distance (1.3 kms) to the east of the port though little shuttle boats take you opposite the port (which is on the cusp of a large protected bay) to Kambana Beach. The atmosphere is a little less busy than that of Naousa and when the boats are not in, it has a pleasant relaxed feel to. Country life in Paros consists of the main inland village Marpissa – very pretty and good for alternative tavern lunches or dinners and a few sizeable communities around the coast such as Piso Livadi, Alyki and Pounta. Piso Livadi is probably the best of three. It is little more than a beach, 4-5 taverns, some decent places to stay and a little port that runs some very pleasant boat excursions. Pounta is little more than the ferry port for Antiparos, but has one of the best restaurants on the island “Thea” and Alykes is a rather characterless community that probably won’t over-impress.
Your hotels are all in or just outside Naousa so qualify as town destinations. All are good with two of them – Kanale and Senia being close to Piperi beach while Saint Andrea doesn’t have a real beach at all – just a rocky foreshore and not really within walking distance to it nearest decent beach at Kolymbithres.. You will probably enjoy being in either the Kanale or Senia because of their closer proximity to Naousa central. Kanale is the quieter of the two as the main traffic does not pass in front of it.
As for nights, if you’re more after beach time then up your days in Paros, more interested in tours and sightseeing then add a day to Santorini. Aghios Artemios is not really in Imerovigli. It’s down the hill and a very long walk to town or tavernas. Renting a car is essential if you stay here.
Hi Dave, I love your website.
I am planning to book a trip to Greece for 25May – 05June (Athens-Mykonos-Paros-Santorini).
Will everything on the islands be open and busy enough for a good atmosphere during those dates?
Thanks for your help,
Clare
Will everything be open? Yes. Busy? Paros will still be quiet but far from dead. Santorini will have a busy feel and a nice atmosphere if you like a little buzz.
Hi Dave, My family of 5 is traveling to Paros on July 17-23. I would like to stay close to either Parikia or Naousa. I was looking at the Paros Palace in Parikia and wanted to get your opinion. I would like a nicer hotel with pool, close to beach and town. We are thinking about renting a car. What are your suggestions and thoughts?
Of the two places Naousa is the more touristy resort and is probably favoured over Parikia. Parikia is the port and tends to be a busier, more commercially bustling place, but that said it is still a pleasant enough place to hang around in. Parikia has a longish waterfront full of cafés and restaurants that segues into the beach scene at the eastern end of the waterfront. That continues on round the bay until you are directly opposite Parikia itself. Other than when the boats are arriving or leaving, Parikia has a pleasant relaxed feel about it and is fine for a base. There is a very pleasant pedestrian street running parallel to the waterfront that makes for relaxing evening strolls while looking at the shops.
Naousa is a former fishing village so it has a picturesque little fishing port and caïques plus hundreds of shops, cafés and restaurants. It can get asphyxiatingly busy in full Summer, but it is unquestionably atmospheric and bustling at all times. There is only a little beach on the west side (as you arrive from Parikia) so you have to drive, or bus it to a beach to have a swim. Fortunately, some very good beaches are within 10-15 minutes driving of Naousa.
Which is better for a family of five? Seriously, either or the other. If you are going to hire a car – and that is a good idea and you are probably better off in Parikia for parking. Naousa’s public carpark can be hard to find a spot in when it is busy. You might consider basing yourselves in a hotel such as Blue Mare Villas just out of Naousa where you have not only a relaxing hotel with pool and shaded areas but easy parking and generally easy access to both Parikia and Naousa and the nearby beaches. Note that for a family of five you will need a larger car naturally, as the default cars tend to be pretty small. July is also busy so any bookings should be made well in advance especially if you plan to fly to/from Paros.
Hi Dave,
Hoping to get your opinion. I’m Greek – have been to Paros before but hardly remember it (was young!). Now that I’m older and want to bring my family of five – 2 adults and kids 14, 13, and 9, I don’t know where to stay. Have been to Naxos (LOVE!), Santorini and Mykonos (awesome but a touch too touristy), I am looking for a Naxos-like experience in Paros. Also, we need walking distance since we won’t have a car. Ideally, we would love a nice hotel with beach in front walking distance to restaurants and nightlife, or at least an easy bus ride like in Naxos. also wanted to mention that we love an urban vibe and would love suggestions of a beach club (appropriate for families) if one exists. Thoughts?
Tina
Let’s start from the principle that you want to walk (mainly). The first location that comes to mind is Parikia – the port and ‘capital’. The main reason is because you can have a better choice of beach life, combined with restaurants and nightlife. The urban vibe you refer to exists here too and you can probably find a decent hotel within striking distance of the beach: the Argonauta Hotel comes to mind – a friendly, family hotel in the middle of Parikia. The beach scene stretches eastwards then curves around the bay as far as Marcello beach that you can walk to, or take a shuttle boat across the bay. Along here you will find various beach bar/clubs where you can hang out all day with the family. You won’t need a car to do all of the above.
Naousa is the other option, but to do yourselves justice you will need a car, or you might be able to get by with buses or taxis in order to get to the outlying beaches. Naousa itself has only one small beach (Piperi) while the better beaches are within a 10-20-minute taxi ride at Kolymvythres, Monastiri (north of Naousa) or Santa Maria and Mikri Santa Maria to the east. Being of Greek descent, you will probably enjoy Parikia better: Naousa is touristy and can get very busy and crowded. Parikia is just that bit more Greek.
Finally, the round-island bus service is actually quite good so with a bit of planning you can get yourselves down to the south coast beach scene centred around Chrysi Ammos or, a little nearer, to the actually quite pleasant port with a beach at Piso Livadi from where you can take a highly-recommended day cruise to remote beaches on Naxos and the Koufonisia.
Hi Dave –
My fiancé and I are traveling to Paros next June for our honeymoon before moving on to Santorini. We wanted to stay in or near Naoussa at a hotel with a great pool and pool bar. Which hotel would you recommend? Thanks! Kathryn
Try Contaratos Beach Hotel.