Where To Stay On Paros, Greece: The Best Areas + Top Places To Stay
Paros is one of the best Greek islands for travelers looking for a mix of beautiful beaches, charming villages, and a relaxed atmosphere. But choosing where to stay on the island depends on what kind of trip you want. I stayed in Paros on my honeymoon and absolutely loved it!
Below I break down the best areas to stay in Paros (including the neighboring island of Antiparos), the pros and cons of each location, and tips on getting around the island, so you can find the perfect base for your Greek island getaway.
If you haven’t decided on which Greek Island to visit yet, I recommend Paros, Naxos, and Milos as top destinations. These 3 islands are in the Cycladic Islands which also includes Santorini and Mykonos. They are the perfect addition to a trip to those famous islands or great alternatives to the more popular spots.
If you need help planning and booking your island hopping trip to the Greece, I’m a travel advisor who can do it all for you!
Where To Stay In Paros
Do you want to be in the heart of the action, or are you looking for a quieter, more secluded spot? Below I break down the best areas to stay in Paros and recommended hotels in each location.
Tip: Book your accommodation early! Hotels are on the smaller side and Paros is only growing in popularity as a top destination in the Greek Islands.
Short Answer
My top two recommendations are Naoussa or Golden Beach, depending on your travel style. Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Paros:
- Naoussa for being at the center of the action, with chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife in a postcard-perfect harbor town.
- Golden Beach for relaxing beach days, water sports, and a laid-back vibe with stunning views and a few great tavernas nearby.
- Piso Livadi for a quieter harbor village feel, with charming seafood spots, boat tours, and easy access to nearby beaches.
- Aliki for a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with calm beaches, local tavernas, and a more traditional island pace.
- Parikia for convenience and budget options, with ferry access, shops, restaurants, and historic sights all within walking distance.
- Antiparos for an upscale relaxed, bohemian escape with a stylish small-town feel, crystal-clear beaches, and fewer crowds. Just a short ferry from Paros.
Naoussa – Best for Nightlife & Dining
Naoussa is the most happening town on Paros, with a lively waterfront filled with trendy restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. It’s the most upscale town on Paros and the most popular place to stay on the island.
It’s a great base if you want to be close to the nightlife and some of the island’s best beaches. If you don’t want to drive anywhere, you’ll want to base yourself around here.
Perfect for couples, groups of friends, and luxury seekers.
Pros:
- Lively nightlife with excellent bars and restaurants
- Great selection of boutique hotels and luxury stays
- Close to some of the well-known beaches (Kolymbithres, Santa Maria)
- Stunning harbor and charming old town
Cons:
- More expensive compared to other areas
- Can get quite crowded during peak season
- Not an “on the beach” stay
- Limited budget accommodation options
Where to Stay in Naoussa
📍Parilio Hotel: A high-end, design-forward boutique hotel with incredible amenities.
📍Saint Andrea Seaside Resort: An adults only luxury stay with stunning sea views and a relaxing atmosphere. A bit outside of Naoussa.
📍Alexandros Studios & Apartments: A great mid-range option with a homey feel and easy access to Naoussa’s center.
Parikia – Best for Convenience & Budget Travelers
Parikia is the island’s main port and where you’ll disembark from the ferry. It has a good mix of local charm, affordability, and convenience.
This port town is ideal for travelers who want easy access to ferries and a central location for exploring the island. But it’s not where I would recommend staying if you’re looking for the best of Paros.
Pros:
- Best area for public transport connections
- Plenty of affordable hotels and guesthouses
- Waterfront with restaurants and shops
- Close to Livadia Beach and Parasporos Beach
Cons:
- Can be noisy due to ferry traffic
- Lacks the upscale charm of Naoussa
Where to Stay in Parikia
📍Argonauta Hotel: A stylish, affordable boutique hotel in the heart of Par
📍Pension Sofia: A budget-friendly and highly-rated guesthouse with a cozy atmosphere.
📍Paros Agnanti Hotel: A luxurious option just outside Parikia with sea views.
Golden Beach – Best for Beach Lovers & Water Sports
Golden Beach is famous for its long sandy beach and windsurfing scene. If you’re looking to stay right by the water, this is the place.
This is where I stayed on my honeymoon! It was a beautiful setting to relax and enjoy. We did rent a car to explore the island because it is a bit outside of town. But if you pick a hotel with a nice restaurant then you can spend a couple days simply enjoying the hotel property and beach here.
We drove to Naoussa a few times to eat and wander the town. We also drove to Lefkes and around the whole island to explore. Driving around the island of Paros doesn’t take long at all because it’s a relatively small island. You could circle the whole island in 1.5-2 hours if you didn’t stop. But, of course, we stopped many places to enjoy the scenery and grab food at less touristy spots.
Pros:
- One of the best beaches on Paros, ideal for swimming and sunbathing
- Excellent conditions for windsurfing and other water sports
- Relaxed atmosphere with beachfront bars and restaurants
Cons:
- Limited nightlife compared to Naoussa and Parikia
- Less frequent public transport connections
Where to Stay Near Golden Beach
📍Saint George Hotel: A beachfront hotel with direct access to Golden Beach. This is where I stayed for four nights on the first stop of my honeymoon. I highly recommend it!
📍Poseidon of Paros: A luxury resort with high-end amenities and a beachfront location.
Aliki – Best for a Relaxing, Family-Friendly Stay
Aliki is a small fishing village in the south of Paros, known for its laid-back vibe, calm beaches, and family-friendly atmosphere.
We visited here for an afternoon and enjoyed a meal and drinks at Thalassamou, right on the water. We ate at an off time – between lunch and dinner – and were the only ones there, which made it like our own private setup on the water.
Pros:
- Great for families with young children, especially with shallow, kid-friendly beaches like Aliki Beach and Agios Nikolaos
- Relaxed atmosphere and less touristy
- Close to some of the best beaches on the island (Faragas Beach)
Cons:
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options
- Not as well connected by public transport
Where to Stay in Aliki
📍Afrodite Boutique Hotel: A cozy and welcoming stay with a pool.
📍Parosland Hotel: A high-end option with a focus on wellness and relaxation
Lefkes – Best for a Peaceful, Traditional Stay
Lefkes is a picturesque mountain village with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and incredible views. It’s the best area for travelers looking for an authentic, quiet stay away from the busier coastal towns. It’s car-free and filled with traditional houses, charming cafes, and walking trails.
While you could stay here if you prefer mountains to beaches, I recommend visiting this town for a morning or afternoon as opposed to booking accommodation here. That said, if you are looking for an authentic Greek stay and less of a beachy vibe, then you can absolutely consider it!
Pros:
- Stunning traditional architecture with whitewashed houses and bougainvillea
- Amazing hiking trails (like the Byzantine Road) and panoramic views
- Authentic Greek village experience
Cons:
- No direct beach access (requires driving to the coast)
- Very limited nightlife and dining options
Where to Stay in Lefkes
📍 Irini’s Poiēma: This guesthouse is perfect for a peaceful, authentic village experience with beautifully designed rooms that showcase Cycladic charm. It’s a great base for exploring the island while enjoying the quiet charm of Paro’s most picturesque mountain village.
If you’re traveling in a group there are lots of great villas to rent in the Lefkes area.
Piso Livadi – Peaceful Beach Vibes & Local Tavernas
On the island’s southeast coast, Piso Livadi is a small, laid-back fishing village that’s perfect if you’re seeking a more traditional and quieter stay. It’s known for its lovely harbor lined with excellent seafood tavernas and easy access to great beaches.
Perfect for those looking for a relaxed and family-friendly vibe.
Where To Stay In Piso Livadi
📍Aloni Hotel: Family-run with sea views and friendly service.
📍 Londos Hotel: Simple and affordable stay steps from the beach and port.
Antiparos – Charm & Island Chic
Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Paros, Antiparos is a smaller island with a big personality. It has a boho-chic vibe, beautiful beaches, and a charming main town that feels like the Greece of decades past.
Think boutique hotels, sandy coves, and low-key sophistication. Great for couples and travelers looking for a peaceful, creative escape.
Pros:
- Relaxed yet stylish main town with artisan shops and gourmet restaurants
- Gorgeous, uncrowded beaches like Soros, Agios Georgios, and Faneromeni
- Home to the impressive Antiparos Cave
Cons:
- Limited nightlife. While there are a few chic bars and restaurants, Antiparos is quiet after dark.
- Fewer accommodation options. Boutique hotels and villas dominate, but choices are more limited.
- Less convenient for exploring Paros. You’ll need to take the ferry back and forth, which can be a hassle if you want to do frequent day trips.
- Requires extra logistics. While it’s close, staying on a separate island means coordinating ferry times and transport more carefully.
Where To Stay In Antiparos
📍The Rooster: Ultra-luxury wellness retreat with private villas and a stunning aesthetic. You can also make reservations to enjoy their delicious restaurant. Go at sunset for great views while you enjoy a cocktail.
📍 Kouros Village: Waterfront hotel right by the port, perfect for exploring the island.
📍 Hotel Mantalena: Traditional and charming with sea views and a quiet atmosphere
Map Of Where To Stay In Paros
Here’s an overview of Paros so you can familiarize yourself with the different locations around the island that you may want to visit and stay at.
Getting Around On Paros
You’ll want to get out and explore the island regardless of where you choose to stay. Here’s some options for getting around.
Rental Cars & Scooters
The best way to explore Paros is by renting a car or scooter. It allows you to visit remote beaches, traditional villages, and hidden gems at your own pace.
Rental cars are available at the port and airport. We rented from Hertz and they had an office right next to the ferry port. Word of warning: be sure to check the hours of your rental car company because our ferry was running late and we almost missed being able to pickup our car the day we arrived.
It’s fun to do one driving day where you loop the whole island, which is what we did. You can do a loop connecting Parikia – Naoussa – Lefkes – Piso Livadi – Aliki – Parikia, adding beach stops like Golden Beach or Kolymbithres along the way for an enjoyable day trip.
Public Buses
Paros has a decent public bus network connecting Parikia, Naoussa, and some beaches. However, schedules can be infrequent, especially outside the summer season.
Taxis & Private Transfers
Taxis are available but can be expensive. It’s recommended to book private transfers in advance, especially if traveling late at night. Ask your hotel about options to book a car or driver – they can usually assist you.
If you book your trip through me, I will help arrange all transfers so you don’t have worry about it.
Boats & Ferries
From Parikia and Naoussa, you can take boat trips to nearby islands like Antiparos, or hop on small boats to famous beaches like Kolymbithres.
Planning a trip to Paros?
I’m a travel advisor who helps take the stress out of travel planning. If you want a custom Greek island itinerary (with the best places to stay, eat, and explore), get in touch here – I’ll handle the logistics so you can enjoy your trip.
What To Do On Paros
These are my top recommendations for what not to miss during your stay on Paros.
1. Take a Boat Trip Around Paros (and Antiparos)
If you only do one thing in Paros, make it this.
A boat trip is the best way to experience the island’s crystal-clear blue water, hidden coves, and sea caves. We did a full-day sailing tour that included swimming stops, lunch onboard, and even snorkeling gear. The water around Antiparos was the clearest I’ve ever seen.
You can book boat tours via Viator or GetYourGuide. Look for routes that visit Blue Lagoon, Despotiko, and Faneromeni Beach.
🛥️ Tip: Book early if you’re visiting in summer – the good tours fill up fast.
2. Stroll Through Naoussa
Naoussa is Paros’ postcard town – think narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and bougainvillaea around every corner. But it’s not just for Instagram. The old fishing port is buzzing with great restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutique shops.
We loved grabbing an early dinner near the harbor and then wandering with a gelato in hand.
🍴 Don’t miss: Soso for modern Greek meze and Yemeni for a romantic dinner in a quiet courtyard. Grab a drink at Sante.
3. Visit Lefkes Village
Lefkes is a small mountain village in the center of the island, and it’s a peaceful break from the beach towns. You can easily spend a couple of hours walking the cobbled paths, exploring little ceramic shops, and grabbing a coffee with a view.
If you’re up for some light hiking, the Byzantine Road trail starts in Lefkes and takes you through olive groves and old stone paths to the village of Prodromos.
4. Relax on the Beaches
Paros has a wide variety of beaches, depending on what you’re after.
- Kolymbithres: Shallow water and funky rock formations. Very kid-friendly.
- Santa Maria: Bigger and more organized, great for beach bars and water sports.
- Monastiri: A little more low-key and scenic, with a good taverna nearby.
- Faragas & Aliki (South coast): Less crowded and usually protected from the wind.
🏖️ If you rent a car or ATV, you can easily beach-hop around the island in a day.
5. Hop Over to Antiparos
Antiparos is just a 10-minute ferry from the main port of Pounta, but it feels like another world. We loved wandering the quiet streets, exploring the famous Antiparos Cave, and grabbing lunch at a taverna in town.
This is also where you’ll find some of the best beaches in the area: Soros, Agios Georgios, and Faneromeni. Antiparos is perfect for a day trip, or even an overnight if you’re after a slower pace.
6. Watch the Sunset in Parikia
Parikia, the island’s main town and ferry port, is often overlooked – but don’t make that mistake. The promenade comes alive in the evening, and the sunset views from the waterfront are worth timing your dinner around.
You’ll also find the Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors) here – a well-preserved Byzantine church that’s worth a quick visit, especially if you’re into history.
7. Eat Your Way Through Paros
The food in Paros was better than we expected. It’s a great place to dive into local Greek cuisine, from grilled octopus and fava to loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) with honey.
- For a casual beach lunch: Piso Livadi has laid-back tavernas right on the water.
- For something more upscale: Siparos (near Naoussa) offers incredible food with a sunset view.
🍷 Paros also has local wines worth trying – ask for a glass of Malvasia or Monemvasia varietals.
TLDR: Best Areas & Hotels In Paros, Greece
Paros has something for everyone, whether you want nightlife in Naoussa, convenience in Parikia, a peaceful retreat in Lefkes, or a beachfront escape in Golden Beach. Where you stay will shape your experience, so choose based on what kind of trip you want. No matter where you stay, Paros is an island that’s easy to explore and hard to leave.