A Short Break in the Greek Islands: 3 Days in Paros

At first glance, Paros may seem like any other Cycladic island, but as soon as you set foot on the island, you sense that something is different. As you walk among the whitewashed houses, you notice how much slower you are moving. You wake up to a cool breeze in the morning and learn the subtleties of choosing a beach depending on the direction of the wind during the day. As you sip your coffee with a slice of lemon cake in the stone streets of Parikia, the concept of time relaxes. In the harbor of Naoussa, there is a brief silence among the fishing boats and seagulls, then reality returns with the sound of a child’s voice or a plate. Over three days in Paros, you remember how to live at a different pace, away from the city, the hustle and bustle, and your routines. This is a place where you return not just having swum in the sea or explored, but having learned to slow down.  
If you’re ready, let the sea salt reach your nose…

Day 1

The moment you set foot in Parikia Harbor, you are likely to ask yourself, “Why haven't I come here before?” Even before you have checked into your hotel, the gentle breeze blowing in your face, the shadows hanging from the bougainvilleas, and the quiet sense of peace rising from every corner envelop you. Make Lefkes your first stop. Time seems to slow down in this village, the streets wind around each other, and getting lost is almost inevitable. At every turn, another house, another window, another color in a pot awaits you. You sometimes forget to take photos because you just want to watch. And yes, thoughts like, “If I bought this house, I could live here in the winter,” may cross your mind. It happens. Sit down at Ramnos Cafe for breakfast. A well-made simple coffee, a fresh croissant, and a long view in front of you. You don’t need anything else. Head to Naoussa in the afternoon. That little harbor is in such a spot that it’s as if someone carefully chose and placed the colors. Blue chairs, white walls, seafood dishes on the tables. Go into Soso Restaurant, no need to overthink it. The calamari is fresh, the service is friendly, the bill is reasonable. In the late afternoon, you’re back on the streets. Your mind, which has been lightening up all day, slowly blends into the night. The road leads you to Yemeni Taverna. Music starts playing, laughter rises from the tables, someone suddenly stands up and starts dancing. The ouzo burns your throat, but it’s a pleasant burn. For a moment, everything feels as it should.

Day 2

Today is beach day. Paros is generous in this regard, with every corner offering a different beauty. The first stop is Kolymbithres. There are tiny coves between huge rocks, and the water is crystal clear. Cool off in the shade for a while, then bask in the sun. The view is like a painting.

When you get to Golden Beach, the wind brings a different vibe. Surfboards are flying through the air, and just watching is a treat. Lie down on the sand with a drink in your hand and just take it all in.

Santa Maria is more lively. There are people doing yoga in one corner, music playing on the other side, and a group enjoying cocktails after coming out of the sea. A little peace, a little fun, all in one place.

Have breakfast at The Little Green Rocket in Parikia. Order a large smoothie bowl topped with fruit. Light, cool, and fresh.

For lunch, stop by Naoussa and find a table at Blue Oyster. Grilled octopus with a cold Mythos beer on the side. Clink glasses with sunburned noses.

In the evening, head to Linardo Bar. Inside, there’s a light buzz, everyone looks great, everyone’s here to have fun. After a few sips, your feet start to move. The music gets louder, the night gets longer.

Day 3

Today we're slowing down a bit. The third day is the time to slowly prepare for our departure. There is still a lot to discover, but there's no need to rush. In the morning, visit the villages of Marpissa and Prodromos. As you walk through the narrow streets, you feel that life here has a different rhythm. Uncles sitting in the shade play dominoes, and sometimes when you make eye contact, you might even get a small greeting or a glass of ouzo at your table. Everything is natural, just as it is.

For breakfast, go to Cafe Symposium. It’s not just a café; with the paintings on the walls, the quiet inside, and the music in the background, it’s like a little art break. Sip your coffee, pause for a moment, think a little, maybe jot down a few lines.  

For lunch, let the road take you to Aliki. Sit at a table facing the sea at Thalassamou. The squid is fresh, the fried zucchini balls are perfectly crispy. Pair it with a light white wine, then a bit of silence. Each bite settles a little deeper into your soul.

In the evening, head to Barbarossa for a closing meal. Sitting by the sea at sunset, by candlelight, is an indescribable peace. The plates are elegant, the service simple yet warm.

As the night draws to a close, stop by Evinos Bar. A gentle breeze on the terrace, a final glass of ouzo. No need for words everything is just right. You bid farewell to Paros in silence, but deep down, you already know you’ll be back.

How to get to Paros?

Getting to Paros is much easier than you think. First, fly from Istanbul to Athens, which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. When you arrive in Athens, head straight to the Port of Piraeus without going to the city center.

Ferries to Paros depart from here. There are two options. If you value your time, choose the fast ferry, which will get you to the island in about 3 hours. The ticket price is around 45–60 euros. If you prefer to take your time and enjoy the view, the classic ferry will get you to Paros in 4–5 hours and is more economical, typically costing 30–40 euros. Tickets can be easily purchased online. The most commonly used websites are seajets.gr and ferries.gr. There are no complicated transfers, and the journey to the island is pleasant and smooth.

Where to Stay in Paros?

Argonauta Hotel: Located just a 5-minute walk from Paros Port, this charming hotel offers personalized service, a beautiful courtyard where you can relax, and free wireless internet access. The family that owns the Argonauta Hotel provides guests with a warm and relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy your traditionally and tastefully decorated room. You can take advantage of free wireless internet access.

Acoya Residences: Located just 100 meters from Aliki Beach in Aliki, Acoya Residences offers sea-view accommodations, free Wi-Fi, and free private parking. The air-conditioned accommodation is 500 meters from Agios Nikolaos Beach.

Where to eat in Paros?

There are several good options for breakfast. At Ramnos in Lefkes, you can sip your coffee while enjoying the village view and start your day with a crispy croissant.
The Little Green Rocket in Parikia offers a more modern alternative with its fresh smoothie bowls.
If you're looking for a quieter, more artistic setting, Symposium is the place to be—it's peaceful, serene, and even has a gallery-like vibe.
If you're dreaming of a seaside table for lunch:
Soso Restaurant in Naoussa is small but cozy, known for its calamari and mezze.
Blue Oyster has a more casual atmosphere, but it's perfect for delicious octopus and ice-cold beer.
Thalassamou, on the other hand, is located on the Aliki side, where a light breeze blows, fried zucchini balls are served, and you can wait for your afternoon nap accompanied by the sound of the sea.
At dinner, the atmosphere becomes a bit more important. Yemeni Taverna offers a true Greek night: live music, a cheerful crowd, and a “let's sing a song” vibe.

If you're looking for a more peaceful and romantic evening, Barbarossa is elegant and refined; it's a beautiful place to end the night by the sea, lit by candlelight.
For those who want to continue the night, we have bar recommendations: Linardo guarantees dancing, everyone is a bit dressed up, and the atmosphere is lively. Evinos is ideal for sitting on the terrace and enjoying the last drink. Sativa attracts a more laid-back and bohemian crowd, while Fotis All Day Bar is always enjoyable from sunset to midnight.