The Lesser-Known Cycladic Islands

Paros is not known for glam beach clubs that are scattered all over Mykonos, but for much more laid-back beach experiences. If you are looking for a more organized beach set up, then you should head to Seven at Mikri Santa, Palm Beach at Paroikia, Monastiri and Cactus and the Beach Project at Golden Beach. All beach clubs need advance reservations!

Paros is known for great locally sourced food and amazing fish. My very favorite restaurants are: Siparos in Santa Maria, and Blue Oyster at Ampelas beach and Tsachipinis, Barbarossa and Mario’s in the cute and buzzing town Naoussa. For post dinner drinks, Comeback and Sante are both fun. For a sunset drink head to Agosta!

Paros is known as one of the best shopping spots of the Cyclades! Especially as far as it concerns Greek brands and designers. Best boutique shops are: Electric, White, Angels, Leto, On Aura Tout Vu, and Zina Fragi. 

If you’re into windsurfing, you can have a big day at Golden Beach.

Moraitis winery for wine tasting is a must and a visit to Petra Farm in Kolymbithres if you’re with kids. So fun to see lots of different animals all over the island- especially donkeys, chickens etc. I

t’s worth taking a tour to see the marble quarries to the south east of the island. Little do people know that some of the most important masterpieces of Renaissance art were carved using marble from Paros- for example, Venus de Milo and Hermes were sculpted using this Parian marble.

Take an afternoon to explore the quaint and charming traditional Greek village of Lefkes. Nestled between the highest mountain on Paros, expect whitewashed Cycladic streets and bougainvillea-adorned homes.

If you’re a meat lover, there are several local tavernas serving meat-centric dishes and traditional foods like moussaka. You can’t miss taking a dip at the picturesque Kolymbithres beach. Some say there’s an uncanny resemblance to the Seychelles with its clear, turquoise waters. The beach is semi-organized with sun beds available and tavernas nearby for refreshments and snacks.

Heading to Antiparos makes for the perfect day trip. A quick 10-min ferry ride and you’re there! If you want an organized beach, head over to Soros. The most beautiful beach on the island is Panagia Paneromeni or Agios Sostis, but you’d better rent a quad bike to get there because it’s only reachable by foot or quad! Theologos beach is great for kids and Sifneiko is good for sunset.

If you have time, visit the desert island of Despotiko to see the recently restored temple of Apollo- just across the bay from the sweet little Piperno’s restaurant. For sunset drinks and dinner, head to the Rooster. Their breads by the fantastic Despoina are out of this world- they also have a farm area that can be rented for family style dinners that are especially wonderful.

Day trips

Delos

• Pipernos

• Siparos

• Blue Oyster

• The Rooster

• Mario's

• Sigi Ikthios

• Parostia at Cosme Hotel

• Cabana Bar

• Zazala Beach Bar