The Beauty of Paros
On my second trip to Greece, I knew what island I wanted to visit most - Paros.
During my first trip to Greece ten years ago, my friends and I visited Crete and Santorini. Paros wasn’t really on our radar. And it hasn’t been on the radar for many travelers outside of Europe, until recently.
Paros is part of the Cycladic Islands - which also includes Santorini, Milos, Naxos, Antiparos, Mykonos, and 216 other islands. Unlike its neighbors Santorini and Mykonos, Paros has remained a bit more relaxed and retains more of its local authenticity. Yes, there are touristy shops and restaurants to be found, but there is a different vibe here than on those more popular islands. You won't find Gucci stores like on Mykonos and you won't be constantly stumbling around crowds for sunset as in Santorini.
I loved walking around in Naoussa and exploring the narrow streets - since it was early in the season, there were not many crowds and a bit of a chill in the air at night. Excellent weather for strolling and diving into some delicious Greek food and wine.
Many visitors island hop while in Greece and Paros has become a stop typically following time in Mykonos. Most visitors spend 3-4 nights here which is a perfect amount of time to relax and enjoy the best of what this island has to offer.
But be aware, Paros is no longer a hidden gem and has become a favored alternative to islands like Mykonos, especially among Europeans (and now also with Americans). In fact, there are plans to expand the airport in Paros in the next two years to accommodate international flights from Europe so expect this little island to become a little busier soon!
Experiencing Paros
It’s possible to take a ferry or fly from elsewhere in Greece (it’s a short flight from Athens or a short to medium-length ferry ride to Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini). Parikia is the capital of the island, while Naoussa is the shopping and nightlife center. There are plenty of little streets to get lost in while browsing around Naoussa, peeking into the shops full of locally designed goods, grabbing a sunset cocktail, and seeking out a spot for dinner.
Paros feels low-key and relaxed though it is also a sporty island. If you're into being active on vacation there are options for windsurfing, kitesurfing, scuba diving and more. There are also two horse farms on the island where you can enjoy horseback riding. If you’d prefer to just relax at the pool, beach, or spa - you’ll find that in Paros and the many luxe hotels on the island have the perfect spaces to do just that.
I was fortunate enough to stay at Parilio, the only Virtuoso property on the island, for three nights thanks to my partners at Travelive.
This boutique hotel embodies relaxed luxury with clean, modern design and excellent service. The staff was friendly and attentive, five-star service at all times. The food offered at the hotel was excellent and full of local flavors - I was able to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the property during my stay and enjoyed the unique dishes available at every meal. I felt so cared for throughout my time at Parilio.
The hotel is an all-suite property - I stayed in the Halo suite which offers a separate living space and expansive patio with sunbeds and a table area. It was very spacious and very comfortable - especially the bed! After a long day of travel from Atlanta to Athens to Paros, this was just what I needed! Everything was just so immediately relaxing once I arrived here and I felt right at home.
Because Parilio is a Virtuoso-property, if you book this hotel through me, you are eligible for room upgrades, $100 resort credit, and early check-in/checkout. And I have so many good things to stay about the staff at this hotel that I would love to send my clients here!
There are plenty of other hotels to consider on the island, but if you are looking for five-star luxury service, consider Parilio, as well as Cosme (its sister property) or Mythic Paros. I was able to meet with the Sales Directors and Hotel Managers at these hotels so I can help make my own client's experience more exceptional when they stay there!
Cosme is located on the beach in Naoussa and this location makes this an excellent place to stay if you are interested in being close to town, but staying in a five-star resort. It's an all-suite property like Parilio. This is also an ideal resort for families with the pool and nearby beach access, as well as the proximity to town.
Mythic Paros is ideal for those looking for a zen hideaway with stunning sunset views. I felt immediately relaxed when I arrived! Located closer to Parikia, the hotel is perched up on a hill - every part of the hotel has a sea view, including your room, the restaurant, the fitness center, and the bar. The hotel is focused on wellness and sustainability, and is an excellent spot for couples.
I look forward to sharing the beauty of Paros with my clients - if you are thinking about a trip to Greece, let’s make sure Paros is on your list! Paros will likely have an upgraded airport in the next few years where they’ll accept international flights - meaning Paros is about to be even more popular.
