Paros is a central Cycladic island in the Aegean that blends traditional Greek charm with a lively but relaxed atmosphere. You have Naoussa, a picturesque former fishing village turned dining and nightlife hub, as well as inland villages like Lefkes, which offer a quieter, more traditional feel. It’s a very windy island, but coastline is known for sandy beaches and sheltered coves. With strong food and wine culture, easy access by ferry or plane, and a good mix of authenticity and amenities, Paros appeals to visitors looking for both scenic beauty and a sociable, easygoing island experience.
📝 The best way to explore the Greek islands is by ferry. In summer ferry tickets can sell out quick so I recommend buying them ahead of time. The best website to book your tickets is on ferryhopper.com. I also find it useful to check ferry routes.
📝 As Naxos is a big island you will definitely need a car to explore it properly. I recommend using Naxos Akrogiali Rent A Car & Moto in Naxos Town. Cars start at around €45 per day, their office is three minutes walk from the port, and you can pre-book on their website but pay on arrival. They were also recommend to us by our hotel.
📝 Wine has been produced on Paros for thousands of years. The dry, sunny climate and sea breezes help grapes develop concentrated flavors while retaining freshness. Paros is especially associated with the white grape variety Monemvasia and the red variety Mandilaria, which are often blended to create distinctive local wines. One of the most famous wineries to visit is Moraitis Estate.
📝 Chickpeas are a staple ingredient in the cuisine of Paros. One of the most traditional dishes you have to try is revithada, a slow-cooked chickpea stew.
📝 Paros is VERY windy. Even during the summer months when the strong northern Meltemi winds sweep across the Aegean Sea. These cooling breezes help moderate the island’s hot, dry climate and have shaped local architecture, agriculture. The reliable winds also make Paros a popular destination for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, attracting visitors from around the world. On the downside we were unable to visit some beaches because it was so windy, it made using our pool un-enjoyable too, and the shutters at our villa were shaking like crazy at night.
1. O Tsitsanis Tavern (Ο Τσιτσάνης)
📍Prodromos. A family-run taverna in the village of Prodromos, regarded as one of the island’s oldest continuously operating tavernas. It was founded in 1969. All the ingredients come from the family’s own farm. This was one of my favourite spots on Paros when I visited in 2020 and still served my memory well. I went for the chickpeas, rabbit in tomato sauce with fries, yellow zucchini fritters and fries. Chickpeas are very popular in Paros so you’ll probably get them every meal. The yellow zucchini really gave the fritters an extra sweetness. Housemade cheese comes free to start, as does the ice cream to finish.
2. Kafeneion – i Palia Agora (Καφενείο Η Παλιά Αγορά)
📍Naoussa. An old-school kafenio tucked into Naoussa’s whitewashed lanes. Expect traditional Greek mezze, slow-cooked island specialties, and a lively atmosphere. I went for the dakos, chickpeas, keftedes, stuffed onions, fries and tzatziki. An orange cake comes free for desert. Naoussa is full of overpriced tourist traps these days but the food here is simple, authentic, and consistently mentioned as some of the best on the island. You can’t book so might have to wait in line for a table depending on what time you go.
3. O Katsounas (Ο ΚΑΤΣΟΥΝΑΣ)
📍Santa Maria. A laid-back seaside taverna near Santa Maria Beach known for fresh seafood and grilled fish. Both good but the orzo definitely tops the spaghetti. I went for the seafood orzo and “crayfish” (langoustine) spaghetti. Both good but the orzo definitely topped the spaghetti. String beans to start.
4. To Pariano Katsiki
📍Sotires. A rustic roadside taverna specializing in Parian grilled meats. Located on the edge of quiet village of Sotires, it offers hearty, home-style cooking, generous portions, and sweeping countryside views. Ideal for experiencing the island’s rural culinary traditions. I tried the sheep wrapped in paper cooked on the spit and the kokeretsi. The slow-roasted sheep was incredible. Kokretsi is made mixture of chopped organ meats including lamb or goat sweetbreads, hearts, lungs, kidneys, and liver, wrapped in intestines so a bit of an acquired taste but I thought this was very tasty.
5. Anna & Giorgos
📍Marpissa/Logaras. Anna & Giorgos is a family-run taverna on the road between Marpissa and Logaras. They’re known for traditional Greek home cooking, charcoal-grilled meats, generous portions, warm hospitality, and reasonable prices. I went for the chickpeas, peppers stuffed with feta, artichokes and pork kontosouvli. The chickpeas were delicious. I like how they are slightly different at every restaurant on Paros and they had a strong scent of rosemary here. I really liked the artichokes with the lemon, dill and pea sauce too. The pork kontosouvli was good but nowhere near the best I’ve had.
6. To Balconi tou Aki (Το Μπαλκόνι του Άκη)
📍Aliki. Established in 1964, To Balconi tou Aki (“Aki’s Balcony”) is one of the most scenic lunch spots on the island, perched on the beach in Aliki. Fresh seafood, classic Cycladic dishes, and panoramic waterfront views make it a favorite for long, relaxed meals overlooking the sea. They’re known for serving fresh seafood, much of it sourced directly from the owner’s daily catch. I went for octopus and fava, red shrimp, and a Greek salad. The octopus was nice and tender, the shrimp had a lovely sweetness, and I loved the creamy local cheese in the salad.
7. Family Tavern Ververas
📍Marmara. Tavern Ververas is a family-run gem in the village of Marmara, often mentioned for its warm hospitality. The menu is pretty simple; dips, Greek salad, grilled meats. I went for a Greek salad, sheftalia and beef souvlaki. A local cheese was brought complimentary to start, as was some ice cream and walnut cake to finish. First of the salads here are comically sized. Easily enough for six people but they’re mostly served to tables of two. I even saw a man eating by himself who be brought one. It was however a very good Greek salad loaded with a local creamy cheese, Xinomyzithra, and capers. I was also excited by the fact they served sheftalia (pork mince wrapped in caul fat), a Cypriot delicacy that I’ve never found in Greece before. They were very delicious, although didn’t have as much parsley and onions as the real thing. Beef souvlaki is very uncommon in Greece too – it’s always pork or chicken. Due to the light colour it was probably veal. It was well seasoned but doesn’t beat pork for me. The only thing I wasn’t a fan of were the chopping boards it was served on – it always looks tacky compared to a nice white plate. Service was incredible friendly and atmosphere very relaxed.
8. Klarinos Tavern
📍Lefkes. Klarinos Tavern is a traditional village taverna in the heart of Lefkes, one of Paros’ most charming mountain villages. They’re known for classic Greek comfort food served on a big terrace with beautiful views over the surrounding hills. A perfect stop while exploring the island’s interior. I went for lamb chops with fries, moussaka, chickpeas, string beans and yogurt with cherries to finish. The chickpeas were the standout dish for me here. I like how every restaurant in Paros serve them but they’re slightly different everywhere. These had a very strong chicken stock flavour.
9. Sigi Ikthios
📍Naoussa. A seafood restaurant overlooking Naoussa’s picturesque harbor. The menu focuses on fresh fish and modern Mediterranean flavors, while sunset views and an elegant atmosphere make it one of the town’s most sought-after dinner reservations. This place is more about the setting than the food.
10. Moraitis Estate
📍Naoussa. One of the Cyclades’ most respected wineries, offering tastings of indigenous Parian varietals alongside local cheeses and small bites. A good spot to learn about the island’s winemaking heritage while enjoying vineyard views and wine flights.
Souvlaki
1. Grill Roussos
📍Paros Town (Parikia). A longtime local favorite for gyros and souvlaki in the heart of Parikia. Fast, affordable, and reliably delicious, it’s the perfect casual stop for grilled meats, pita wraps, and traditional Greek street food after a day of sightseeing.
2. Souvlakia Kargas
📍Naoussa. Widely regarded as one of the best souvlaki spots in Naoussa. Expect juicy skewers, flavorful gyros, and generous portions at wallet-friendly prices. A popular choice for a quick, satisfying meal and a great late-night option after exploring the harbor.
Bakeries
1. Ragoussis Bakery
📍Naoussa. A beloved Parian bakery known for traditional breads, flaky pastries, savory pies, and local sweets. Stop in for a morning coffee and fresh-baked treats, or sample island specialties such as almond pastries and honey-soaked desserts. A dependable choice for breakfast or a midday snack.
James Dimitri 