If you’re Greek island hopping chances are you are exploring the Cyclades Islands, which are home to Santorini and Mykonos. But there are over 25 other islands in this Aegean archipelago, including Naxos, Paros and Milos and most have all the beauty and splendor of the famous duo but without the crowds or the price tags. Paros, in particular, has a lot to offer and a lot of excellent accommodation catering for all budgets. There are no high rise and big all-inclusive resorts so the emphasis is on small family-run boutique hotels and rooms. Here’s an overview of where to stay on Paros including Paros hotels that we personally recommend.
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Choosing accommodation largely comes down budget and what style of holiday you prefer. For many people staying in one of the larger towns is important so they have everything at their door step and no need for a car, although hiring a car for a day or two to explore the island is very worthwhile.
For other people a small village with a few local tavernas and a nice beach is all they want to just flop and drop for a week or two.
Some families will be better suited to self contained accommodation whilst other people prefer a hotel with a bar and plenty of activities on hand. There’s a lot to see and do on Paros as well so it pays to choose somewhere to stay that is in your best interests.
Further reading : Paros or Naxos?
Are you planning a last-minute trip to Paros?
Paros can be busy especially in Spring and Summer so book early to avoid disappointment!
Top Tours in Paros
Top Places to Stay in Paros
- Paliomylos Hotel & Spa – Naoussa
- Papadakis Hotel – Naoussa
- Lilly Residence, Adults Only – Naoussa
- Irini Rooms – Naoussa
- White Blossom – Parikia
- Magginas Studios – Parikia
- Blue Waves Suites & Apartments – Drios
- Evita Apartments – Aliki
- Anna’s Studios – Piso Livadi
For more advice and information from even more travellers be sure to join our Facebook Group.
Naoussa
Naoussa is a lively fishing village at the north of the island, about a 15 minute drive from the port in Parikia and about 30 minutes from the airport.
Naoussa is the 2nd biggest town on the island and is slightly more upmarket, and more expensive than Parikia. It has many excellent bars and tavernas around the main square at the port and lovely shops and boutiques, as well as a winery.
The nightlife can get pretty busy here in peak periods with many bars open until dawn and a vibrant party atmosphere, although it is very quiet only a few streets back. There is a lot to do and for many people really no need to leave the town at all!
Recommended hotels in Naoussa
Budget hotel : Irini Rooms
mid-range hotel : Paliomylos Spa Hotel
Luxury hotel: Lilly Residence Boutique Hotel ( adults only)
If you are after a fully self-contained house that can sleep at least 6 people then you can rent both a one-bedroom and two-bedroom house at Villa Helena right near Piperi Beach. Its a quiet spot yet only a 5 minute walk into town and Kristos will look after your every need.
For a bit of a splurge check out White Cliff which oozes Cycladic-chic and even has an outdoor jacuzzi, with great views and super stylish interiors.
Parikia
Parikia is the capital of Paros and is also home to about 3000 people as well as being the main port. It is the commercial center of the island and where you will find services and amenities such as banks, travel agents, government, churches, and museums.
Sometimes referred to as Hora ( town) it is a pretty port and the old quarter has all the typical Cycladic architecture and elements with the narrow alleys and whitewashed buildings.
There is an ancient castle at the highest point of the town near the windmills. It is also home to what is considered one of the most important Byzantine churches in all of Greece, Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Our Lady of a Hundred Doors).
Most of the ferried servicing the Cyclades from Athens first stop at Parikia so for many people this is the first place they see in the Greek Islands.
As a result, it attracts a lot of young people and is where most of the budget accommodation and hostels are found.
Recommended hotels in Parakia
Budget hotel : Livadia Hotel
mid-range hotel : Akrotiri Hotel
Luxury hotel: Minois Village Boutique villas and spa (1.1 kms from town centre)
For an amazing apartment that can sleep up to people look no further than Bethlehem, stylish, central, and great value for money, it really is lovely!
If you need something even bigger and completely private then check out Villa Haritomeni, a stunning luxury villa up on the hill behind Parikia which has absolutely incredible views especially at sunset.
Piso Livadi
Piso Livadi is on the southeast of the island and is a small working fishing port.
There are several excellent seafood tavernas and cafes and a number of boats are moored here in summer as it is easy to access Naxos and the Small Cyclades.
Recommended hotels in Piso Livadi
Recommended Budget hotel : Panorama Rooms and Suites
Recommended mid-range hotel : Cleopatra Homes
For groups lovely Villa Nausithoe has a beautiful garden, nice views and is only a 2 minute stroll to the shops and tavernas. It sleeps 8 and is suitable for small children and seniors as well, with few stairs.
For something a little smaller you can practically touch the sea at View Rooms. Listen to the waves pounding on the rocks and watch the sunrise over Naxos each morning!
Lefkes
Lefkas is a medieval village in the middle of the island about 30 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes south of Naoussa. It is very quaint and authentic and whilst popular with day-trippers few tourists stay there.
The main attraction is the beautiful Church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) and there is also a few small museums.
There are sweeping views back over Naxos and the surrounding countryside. You can also follow the Byzantine Road which leads down to the sea.
Recommended hotels in Lefkas
Recommended mid-range hotel : Lefkas Village Hotel
There are a couple of lovely houses to rent in Lefkes. Agiasi Villas is a modern 3-bedroom Villa with stunning contemporary finishes, a hot tub and a pool with views across to Naxos.
Directly looking over the beautiful Church is Sweet Path Villa, modern and tastefully decorated with local artworks and great for a small group. Live and breathe traditional village life!
Aliki
On the southern end of the Island, towards the west, is the charming small fishing village of Aliki.
This natural harbour is quite protected from the wind and the water here is almost always calm and tranquil. There are a number of excellent taverna’s and cafes that line the bay and several are right on the sand including one of our favourites, Apoplous.
Taverna ll Balcone and Vassilis are also fantastic, in fact, you really can’t go wrong in this town.
You will find the Cycladic Diving Centre in Aliki as well as several boat hire places at the small marina.
Apart from the main beach, there is another, Galatis around the bend heading further west, which is also very nice. There is a good playground here for the kids too.
To the south/east is Piso Aliki beach, another great spot to swim and relax.
Recommended hotels in Aliki
Evita Apartments are right across from the beach with wonderful views over the bay. The apartments are clean and comfortable and thoughtfully equipped.
On the road into town from the east are a number of small family-run hotels including Afrodite Boutique Hotel which has a beautiful shady pool and is a tranquil respite on a hot day.
Helen’s Minimal Studios is also a great choice – again across from the beach and also facing west so the sunset views are quite incredible,
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