Paros Holidays

It’s not a hidden gem but it’s got more of an authentic edge. There’s the same almost blindingly white cuboid architecture that pops against blue skies and oh-so pink bougainvillea, and a slightly sleepier vibe but with a lively night scene. There are beautiful beaches to spare, tiny churches, marvellous monasteries, marble quarries and ancient sites. Everything you could possibly want from a Greek Island getaway.

North-coast Naoussa is where the charm really packs a punch. It’s set around a fishing boat- and yacht-dotted harbour and has swapped its fishing village heritage for a more cosmopolitan style. The lanes steadily ascending from the waterfront are a delightful maze where you’ll find tavernas, bakeries full of honey-soaked baklava, and boutiques selling marble trinkets and locally made clothes. After dark, the party really starts and there are plenty of bars and clubs where the fun stretches until dawn. Over on the west coast is the beating heart of the island, Parikia, where the daytime liveliness jumps up a notch. Passengers spill in and out of the to-ing and fro-ing ferries down at the port but step away from the buzz and the cobbles will lead you into a labyrinthine old town where you can shop, drink and dine. 

How to holiday in Paros 
The island is served by ferries from across the Cyclades and beyond so can easily be added to a Greek island-hopping adventure. Mykonos is just an hour away by sea while Santorini ferries take a couple of hours. Further afield are Athens (between three and four hours) and Crete (four hours). Once you’ve stepped on dry land, you can catch a local bus or hire a car to explore the island.