Traditional and charming, the Greek island of Paros has some incredible areas for a perfect stay. Whether you prefer a bustling town, a secluded beach, or an authentic village, this article tells you where to stay in Paros!

Discover the best areas to explore Paros’s landscapes, from the lively streets of Parikia to the serene mountain village of Lefkes. Check out the many personalities that make each locale a fantastic destination for an unforgettable island retreat.

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Best Areas to Stay in Paros

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece

As you embark on your journey to this Greek island, where to stay in Paros is a question that becomes pivotal in shaping your experience.

There are different areas to pick from on the island, some convenient and strategic to ensure your stay is effortlessly enjoyable.

On Paros, you will find a couple of gorgeous, bustling towns and serene coastal retreats. Let’s explore the most convenient areas to stay in Paros according to your needs!

Parikia, the Capital

Parikia, or Paroikia, the island’s capital, is also the main port of Paros. This is the most lively place on the island, featuring a picturesque mix of narrow streets, traditional white-washed buildings, and unique churches.

It’s easy to explore historical sites in Parikia, such as the Panagia Ekatontapiliani, the Church of the Hundred Doors, and the Frankish Castle. Besides, the bustling atmosphere of the capital is enhanced by numerous shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. Over here, you will find hotels and rental homes for all budgets.

Panagia Ekatontapiliani is one of Greece’s most important Byzantine monuments, while the Frankish Castle is a medieval fortress constructed in the 13th century by the Venetians.

Capital is arguably the best place to stay on the island for younger travelers looking for an exhilarating night scene.

Parikia’s waterfront is lively with cafes, restaurants, and shops, a popular spot for leisurely strolls to enjoy views of the sea, fishing boats, and the picturesque windmill that stands as a symbol of the town.

As the main port of Paros, Parikia is a hub for ferry connections to other islands in the Cyclades, making it a convenient starting point for travelers looking to experience stunning island-hopping adventures in Greece.

Suggested Accommodation in Parikia

• Meletis Studios.
• Hotel Oasis.
• Nomad Central.

Naoussa

Exuding an irresistible charm, Naoussa is one of the most picturesque settlements on the island. The fishing village on Paros’ northern coast is another excellent pick for those looking to combine authentic Greek charm and nightlife experiences. In the village, you will find dozens of fantastic Paros hotels and vacation homes to rent.

The heart of Naoussa is its postcard-perfect harbor, with colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water and a waterfront lined with seafood tavernas.

If you pay close attention, at the entrance to the harbor, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient Venetian fortress.

Dotted with boutiques and souvenir shops, the alleys of Naoussa offer an entertaining place to spend the evenings exploring local craftsmanship and looking for the perfect holiday mementos to take home with you.

The beaches near Naoussa are among the most beautiful on the island. Kolymbithres, for example, is a famous beach known for its lunar rock formations, while Monastiri Beach offers a more secluded atmosphere.

Suggested Accommodation in Naoussa

• Villa Isabella.
• Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel, Adults Only.
• Hotel Iris.

Marpissa

Lesser known than Parikia and Naoussa but also than other vital villages in Paros, Marpissa is the perfect base if you’re looking for Aegean charm and a quiet vibe. This picturesque village in the eastern part of Paros offers delightful authenticity and tranquility.

Facing the nearby coast of Naxos Island, Marpissa features narrow winding streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea, and small squares.

The traditional Cycladic architecture creates a postcard-perfect setting for those seeking the most authentic experience.

In the village, you can visit the Folklore Museum of Marpissa to learn more about the island’s ancient traditions or discover the historic church of Agios Antonios, dating back to the 17th century, with its impressive bell tower. If you stay in Marpissa at the end of August, don’t miss the Routes in Marpissa Festival.

Suggested Accommodation in Marpissa

• Panorama.
• Traditional Arch House Paros.
• Ktima San Antonio Paros.

Piso Livadi

Another beautiful spot in Paros, right on the coast, is the small village of Piso Livadi. The Cycladic settlement features a relaxed atmosphere, traditional architecture, and a scenic waterfront.

The village has a stunning long shore with golden sand and clear waters. In the harbor area, you will find several traditional Greek cuisine taverns and cafes, which make the place an excellent base for those looking to unwind by the sea.

There are two gorgeous beaches a few minutes away, Kalogeros and Logaras, while several boat trips around Paros or to nearby islands depart from the harbor of Piso Livadi.

Traditional Cycladic architecture is prevalent in Piso Livadi, with whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and blue accents, making it a fantastic spot for photography.

You can visit the old Church of Agios Georgios Thalassitis, a picturesque chapel built between the 13th and 14th centuries.

Finally, even when the area is not the best choice for nightlife, the village is a short drive from Naussa (12 km), allowing those staying in Piso Livadi convenient access to one of Paros’ most lively towns.

Suggested Accommodation in Piso Livadi

• Deep Blue Studios.
• Aura Paros.
• Arkas Inn.

Lefkes

One of my favorite villages in Paros is Lefkes. It’s perched on a hillside and surrounded by a unique green landscape, offering a tranquil retreat from the more touristic coastal areas of the island.

Lefkes has narrow stone-paved streets, Cycladic architecture, and blue-domed churches, all traits that make it a place with a timeless appeal that allows you to experience the authenticity of Greek island life.

The village also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Aegean Sea and the neighboring Naxos, as it stands about 300 meters from the sea level.

Lefkes is also close to Parikia and Naoussa, making it a convenient base if you prefer to stay in a mountain village over a coastal settlement.

In Lefkes, you can explore the impressive Byzantine Church of Agia Triada, which dates from the 15th century, and the Museum of Folklore Culture of the Aegean.

The surrounding countryside is crisscrossed with hiking trails that lead through olive groves, vineyards, and scenic landscapes to other villages and coastal towns, offering a chance to explore the diverse terrain of Paros.

Finally, during your stay in Lefkes, don’t miss the opportunity to attend local festivals or to try the delicious local snails.

Suggested Accommodation in Lefkes

• Sunrise Views Lefkes.
• Villa Byzantino.
• Lindo House.

Aliki

Located 12 km south of Parikia, Aliki is a gorgeous coastal town featuring beautiful beaches and a relaxing escape for visitors seeking a more laid-back experience. This is an ideal destination for beach enthusiasts with its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

The main beach in Aliki features sunbeds, umbrellas, and other organized structures. Other nearby beaches include Piso Aliki and Faragas. The fishing village has a colorful harbor with simple but delicious tavernas serving fresh seafood.

The name of this village comes from the salt pans that have been a typical trait of this area since ancient times and represent a remarkable share of the local heritage.

Conveniently located near the capital of Paros, this allows visitors to easily access additional amenities, historical sites, and ferry connections to other islands.

Suggested Accommodation in Aliki

• Patriko Family House.
• Anixis Studios Aliki Paros.
• Studio Manolis.

Golden Beach

Located halfway from Marpissa and Drios, the area surrounding the spectacular Golden Beach is a calm area to stay if you seek sun-soaked holidays. Also known as Chrissi Akti, this coastal area features a 700-meter long shore, one of the most spectacular on the island.

This wide beach features clear, shallow waters that make it a fantastic family-friendly destination while the gradual slope of the seabed makes it suitable for swimmers of all levels.

Besides, it offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy exciting water sports. The ideal windy conditions are a highlight in the area, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

Several water sports centers along the beach offer equipment rental and lessons, allowing visitors to try their hand at these exhilarating activities.

There is a wide range of accommodations in Golden Beach, from luxury hotels to more modest studios and apartments. Moreover, the beach is lined with tavernas and beach bars, creating a lively atmosphere. Locals claim that this is the best spot on the island for stunning sunset views.

Near Golden Beach, you can explore different traditional villages, such as the tranquil Drios or venture into different hiking trails. Choosing to stay near Golden Beach promises a delightful mix of seaside relaxation, water sports, and proximity to amenities.

Suggested Accommodation Near Golden Beach

• Golden Beach Hotel.
• Poseidon of Paros Hotel and Spa.
• La Mer Seaside Apartments.

Drios

Wonderful turquoise waters are the perfect excuse to spend a day in the ancient port of the island, Drios. You can find this green and lush village on the southeastern coast, in a laid-back location, ideal to spend a holiday away from more busy towns.

Accommodation in the area is good, since some of the best villas in Paros are located in Drios.

This settlement near Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti), one of the most famous beaches on the island, offering easy access to its crystal-clear waters, making it a great choice for beach enthusiasts. 

Drios has a small fishing harbor that adds to its coastal charm, this lovely spot is perfect to enjoy views of the sea, and perhaps watch the local fishermen at work.

The region around Drios is known for its windy conditions, making it an excellent destination for windsurfing and other activities.

If you are interested in local architecture and ancient buildings, don’t miss the Church of Agios Georgios, an old charming from the 16th century.

Right above Drios, the little village of Aspro Chorio is also great for a walk and a traditional Greek coffee.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy different hiking trails that connect Drios to other interesting spots, including beaches, ancient monasteries, and small villages.

There are several trails that are over 20 km long, however, there’s a popular, somewhat easier, and shorter walk that connects Drios to Lefkes, which offer some stunning views of the island.

You can check out several the best hiking trails from Drios on this All Trails page.

Suggested Accommodation in Drios

• Glyfa Village.
• Drios Luxury Studios.
• Cycladic Breeze Villas.

Ambelas

One more settlement worth a stop during your trip to Paros is Ambelas, only a few minutes from Naoussa, home to a relaxed atmosphere and traditional Greek charm.

Ambelas maintains a quintessential fishing village vibe with its small harbor and whitewashed houses, offering a glimpse into the authentic island lifestyle. There are several seafood tavernas worth visiting. In fact, the village is renowned for its excellent seafood caught locally. tavernas that line the harbor.

Another highlight in the area is Ambelas Beach, a small but pretty sandy stretch with clear waters, ideal for families as it offers a peaceful environment for swimming and sunbathing, less crowded than other larger beaches on the island.

Not far from the popular town of Naoussa, a stay in Ambelas allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility of this small town while still having easy access to the amenities and attractions of Naoussa.

Besides, the area around Ambelas is suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Suggested Accommodation in Ambelas

• Villa Zou.
• Eleana Studios.
• Christiana Hotel.

Santa Maria

Located north of Ambelas, Santa Maria is home to the most important beaches in Paros. Santa Maria Beach itself is divided into two parts—Mikri (Small) Santa Maria and Megali (Big) Santa Maria.

Both beaches boast golden sands and turquoise waters, providing an idyllic setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.

Located just 6 km east of Naoussa, Santa Maria offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachfront hotels and resorts to cozy apartments and lavish villas.

Many accommodations in the area provide direct access to the beaches and stunning views of the sea.

Accommodation in Santa Maria

• White Dunes Luxury Suites.
• Santa Maria Mare.
• Kalma Villa.

Other Areas to Stay in Paros

Agia Irini: Close to the port of Pounta and a few minutes from the airport, Agia Irini is a coastal area with a relaxed vibe and a beautiful sandy beach. It’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy the sea while being within reach of Parikia and a few minutes from the nearby Antiparos.

• Suggested accommodation in Agia Irini: Sunset Villa II.

Kostos: Just like Lefkes – maybe a bit quieter – Kostos is another mountain village in Paros a few kilometers from Ambelas. Nestled inland, Kostos is close to Paros’ ancient marble quarries and features a whitewashed landscape with narrow pathways, and panoramic views.

• Suggested accommodation near Kostos: Asteras Paradise.

Read more about Paros

• Unmissable Things to Do in Paros with Kids for a Perfect Greek Vacation!
• Stunning Family Hotels in Paros for an Amazing Trip to Greece with the Kids!
• The Most Amazing Things to Do in Paros, Greece
• Travel the Greek Islands: How to Get to Paros the Easy Way!

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