Where to Stay on Paros, Greece: 3 Best Areas & Hotels

Wondering where to stay on Paros? I’ve got you covered!

One thing I’ve learned from island-hopping around Greece is that choosing the right base can make a BIG difference to your trip. Paros is one of the Cycladic Islands, and it offers a little bit of everything, which is amazing, but that can make it hard to decide where to stay. 

The thing to know is that the three main areas in Paros offer quite different experiences, especially if you’re planning to explore without a car. So whether you’re after romantic evenings by the water or easy ferry connections, I’ll walk you through the three best areas and share my favorite hotels for every budget. Let’s get into it!

Where to Stay in Paros Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Paros

Not sure which part of Paros is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown of the three best areas to stay, along with my favorite mid-range hotel in each one!

• Naoussa – Best for first-time visitors – This gorgeous harbor town is full of waterfront restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutique shops, so it’s a fantastic place to stay if you want everything on your doorstep. I recommend Paliomylos Spa Hotel for its beautiful sea views and location near Piperi Beach.

• Parikia – Best for ferry connections and value – Paros’ main port town has a charming old town and plenty of affordable accommodation, plus excellent transport links, which makes it ideal for island-hopping. Play Paros is my top pick here, with stylish rooms and a fantastic location near Livadia Beach.

• Piso Livadi / East Coast – Best for beaches and families – If you’re dreaming of lazy beach days and traditional Greek tavernas, this quieter stretch of coastline is a dream come true! I love Cavo Piso Livadi for its beachfront location and gorgeous swimming pool.

Where to Stay in Paros

Naoussa

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Gorgeous harbor with fantastic restaurants and bars
• Lots of boutique shops 
• Walkable town center 
• Beaches close by 

Cons

• One of the more expensive places to stay on Paros
• Gets crowded during peak summer, especially in the evenings

If it’s your first time visiting Paros, I think Naoussa is the best place to stay! This gorgeous fishing village on the northern coast has become one of the island’s most fashionable destinations, and I totally get why. This is where I stayed, and I instantly fell in love with the whitewashed streets and bougainvillea-covered buildings – it was precisely the kind of scenery I came to Greece for in the first place! 

The Venetian harbor area in particular is very picturesque, and you can still see the remains of a 15th-century fortress that once protected the town from pirates. The waterfront is lined with seafood restaurants and cocktail bars, and behind that there’s an entire maze of narrow streets filled with boutiques and traditional Greek tavernas.

Another thing that I loved about staying in Naoussa was that it proved to be a great base for exploring the island’s beaches! Piperi Beach is within walking distance, while the famous Kolymbithres Beach, with its unusual granite rock formations, is a short drive or boat ride away.

The only real downsides are the prices and crowds, particularly in July and August, although I visited in May, so that wasn’t such an issue for me. And if you want somewhere beautiful and packed with things to do, Naoussa would definitely be my top choice

Katerina Mare – $$$

If you’re looking for somewhere special to stay in Naoussa, Katerina Mare would be my top pick! This beautiful boutique property has everything I love about the Greek islands, with whitewashed buildings and traditional Cycladic architecture—oh, and gorgeous views over the Aegean Sea! It’s also just 100 meters (328 feet) from Piperi Beach and 200 meters (656 feet) from Naoussa’s central square, so the location is unbeatable. 

The accommodation ranges from cozy studios to spacious apartments with kitchenettes, and the private sea-view balconies are a big selling point. I can think of few better ways to end the day than watching the sunset over the water with a glass of wine! If you’re after a more intimate stay with plenty of character, I think Katerina Mare is a fantastic choice. Rooms can start from around €200 per night during peak season.

If Katerina Mare is fully booked, Zefi Hotel & Suites is another beautiful option, with a gorgeous pool area where I could see myself spending all day! The rooms are decorated in a stylish Cycladic style, and it’s only around a 5-minute walk from the center of Naoussa, so you can easily explore the restaurants and bars without needing a car.

Or, for a luxurious beachfront escape, Salt Suites Paros offers gorgeous modern suites, a swimming pool, and direct access to Agioi Anargyroi Beach, making it another dreamy spot. It’s less than a 10-minute walk from Naoussa’s center, making it ideal if you want to enjoy the beach without being too far from the action.

Paliomylos Spa Hotel – $$

Paliomylos Spa Hotel is my favorite stay in Naoussa, especially if you want somewhere with a pool and a little extra luxury! This beautiful hotel overlooks Naoussa Bay and has a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool with sea views. It’s also just a minute’s walk from Piperi Beach, so you can easily switch between relaxing by the pool and swimming in the Aegean.

The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly decorated, with private balconies and kitchen facilities. Some of the more luxurious suites even have their own outdoor hot tubs, which would be amazing for a romantic getaway!

And although the hotel feels peaceful, Naoussa’s restaurants and bars are only around a 10-minute walk away. For me, that’s a pretty great combination! Rooms can start from around €180 per night during the busy summer season.

Sunrise Paros is another great choice, with bright rooms and an inviting outdoor swimming pool. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the center of Naoussa, so it’s particularly convenient if you want to explore the town on foot.

Meanwhile, Kallisti Paros has a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and cabanas, plus stylish suites with balconies overlooking the sea or pool. It’s only around 400 meters from Naoussa’s center and Agioi Anargyroi Beach, so you get a peaceful setting without sacrificing convenience.

Zoumis Residence – $

I love Zoumis Residence because it’s affordable AND it offers plenty of modern comforts, including a pool, jacuzzi, and a complimentary hot breakfast. What a find! This charming property is just a short walk from Agioi Anargyroi Beach and has a lovely outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, plus a poolside bar.

I think it’s a great choice for couples and families who want somewhere comfortable without paying Naoussa’s higher hotel prices. Best of all, Naoussa’s center is only around a 10-minute walk away, so you can still enjoy all those gorgeous waterfront restaurants and cocktail bars without needing to drive. But if you do decide to rent a car, there’s free parking – win! 

Rooms start from around €150 per night, but prices can rise as summer approaches, so lock in your stay quickly.

If Zoumis Residence is fully booked for your travel dates, Romantica Suites is another excellent option, with stylish, modern suites and a bright, beachy feel that I really like. It’s around a 10-minute walk from Naoussa’s center, making it a great choice if you want a quieter base while keeping restaurants and shops within easy reach.

Alternatively, Hippocampus Hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms with private sea-view verandas and a traditional Greek breakfast. It’s just outside the busiest part of Naoussa, around a 10-minute walk from the harbor, so you can enjoy the sea views without being too far from the action.

Parikia

BEST FOR FERRY CONNECTIONS AND VALUE

Pros

• Excellent ferry and bus connections for exploring without a car
• Plenty of affordable accommodation, restaurants, and historic sights

Cons

• The port area can get busy, especially when ferries arrive
• Less of a romantic, upscale atmosphere than Naoussa

If you’re planning to explore Paros without a car or do some Greek island-hopping, Parikia is a fantastic place to stay! It’s the island’s capital and main ferry port, so you’ll probably arrive here anyway, and staying nearby makes getting around SO much easier. There’s also a great selection of hotels and restaurants, and accommodation tends to be more affordable than in Naoussa.

But don’t write Parikia off as just a transport hub! Behind the busy waterfront, you’ll find a charming old town full of whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets, and little shops and tavernas. One highlight is Panagia Ekatontapiliani, also known as the Church of 100 Doors, which dates back to the 4th century. You can also explore the remains of the medieval Frankish Castle, built from marble from ancient structures.

And there’s plenty to enjoy along the waterfront, too! Livadia Beach is within walking distance of the town center, while the seafront restaurants are fantastic places to watch the sunset over the Aegean.

The main downside is that Parikia can get quite hectic when the ferries arrive, especially during summer. But if you’re after convenience and value for money, I think it’s hard to beat!

Pyrgaki Hotel – $$$

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more upscale, Pyrgaki Hotel is my top luxury pick in Parikia! This beautiful four-star hotel sits on a hillside overlooking the town and its harbor, so the views are a huge selling point. It’s also built in that classic blue-and-white Cycladic style, which I absolutely love, and the setting feels much more peaceful than staying right beside the busy ferry port.

There’s a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool with sea views, plus an on-site restaurant with a terrace where you can enjoy dinner overlooking Parikia Bay. The rooms are bright and comfortable, and many have private balconies with Aegean views. Rooms typically start from around €220 per night, depending on the season.

If Pyrgaki is fully booked, Paros Palace is another gorgeous option, with a swimming pool overlooking the bay and luxurious suites; some even have private pools or hot tubs. It’s also on a hillside just outside Parikia, so it’s a fantastic choice for couples who want a romantic setting away from the busiest part of town.

Play Paros – $$

Play Paros my favorite mid-range hotel in Parikia, and I think the location is hard to beat! This stylish boutique hotel sits right by Livadia Beach, so you can easily spend your mornings swimming in the Aegean before heading into town for lunch.

The ferry port and old town are also within walking distance, which is so handy if you’re arriving by boat or planning to explore the island without a car. There’s an outdoor swimming pool where you can relax between adventures, plus a rooftop terrace with beautiful sea views.

And with plenty of beachfront restaurants nearby, you won’t have to venture far to find somewhere good to eat! Rooms can start from around €110 per night, although prices rise during peak season.

For a peaceful adults-only stay, PAREA Blue Zone is a chic, minimalist property that offers a serene stay with a huge swimming pool and panoramic views, plus a yoga pavilion and outdoor gym. It’s a little farther from Parikia, around a 5-10 minute drive from the ferry port, so I recommend it if you’re renting a car or don’t mind taking taxis.

Alternatively, Argonauta Hotel is a charming little hotel with beautifully renovated rooms, a pretty courtyard, and a fantastic Greek breakfast – my favorite! It’s right in Parikia’s old town, only around 100 meters (328 feet) from the ferry port, so the location really couldn’t be better if you’re island-hopping.

Irene Hotel – $

If you’re traveling on a budget, Irene Hotel is a fantastic choice! This family-run hotel sits right across from Livadia Beach, so you can enjoy a beachfront location without paying luxury prices. It’s also only around a 10-minute walk from the ferry port and Parikia’s old town, making it especially convenient if you’re exploring without a car.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies in many room categories. I would definitely recommend choosing a sea-view room if your budget allows, because having the Aegean right outside your window is such a treat!

There’s no fancy pool or spa, but with the beach across the road and restaurants within easy reach, I don’t think you’ll miss them all that much. Rooms start from around €100 per night, depending on the season.

Polos Hotel Paros is another great budget-friendly choice, with an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a pretty garden and comfortable, air-conditioned rooms. It’s just steps from Livadia Beach and around 500 meters from the port, so it’s a fantastic option if you want a pool without sacrificing convenience!

Or, if you want to stay in the heart of Parikia, Pelican Paros offers modern, comfortable rooms and a fantastic location near the old town’s shops and restaurants. It’s also within easy walking distance of the ferry port and the Church of 100 Doors, making it a great base for sightseeing without a car.

Related Read: Not sure what to pack for your Greek island getaway? Check out this complete Greece packing guide for all the essentials you won’t want to leave behind!

Piso Livadi / East Coast

BEST FOR BEACHES & FAMILIES

Pros

• Beautiful beaches and waterfront tavernas
• Very relaxed atmosphere
• Great choice of family-friendly hotels and water sports

Cons

• Farther from the main towns and nightlife
• A rental car is useful for exploring the wider area

If you’re coming to Paros for lazy beach days and a slower pace of life, I think the east coast is a fantastic place to stay! This part of the island is home to gorgeous sandy beaches and traditional fishing villages, so while it’s a bit too slow-paced for me personally, it works really well for families and anyone who wants to escape the busier towns of Naoussa and Parikia.

Piso Livadi is one of my top picks along this coast. I loved visiting this charming little harbor town and eating my body weight in fresh seafood right by the waterfront! You can easily walk to nearby Logaras Beach, while the picturesque village of Marpissa is worth exploring if you fancy a break from the sand.

Farther south, you’ll find Punda Beach and Golden Beach, both popular for water sports, especially windsurfing. There’s also Drios, a quieter seaside village that’s ideal if your idea of a perfect vacation involves swimming and Greek food (and not a lot else!) 

The most important thing to know is that the east coast is fairly spread out. Buses connect the main villages, but I recommend renting a car if you want to explore different beaches and see the rest of Paros.

Poseidon of Paros – $$$

If you’re looking for a luxurious beach resort, Poseidon of Paros would be my top pick! This gorgeous five-star resort sits right beside Golden Beach, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and incredible views of the Aegean Sea. It’s especially good for families, although I can definitely see the appeal for couples who want a peaceful escape.

The resort has two outdoor swimming pools and a spa where you can enjoy a massage after a day at the beach, plus separate kids’ pools the little ones will love. The rooms and suites have a traditional Cycladic feel, and there’s also on-site dining, so you don’t have to venture far for a good meal!

I think this is a fantastic choice if you want to spend plenty of time relaxing at your hotel rather than constantly heading out sightseeing. Rooms start from around €220 per night during the summertime.

If Poseidon of Paros is fully booked, Summer Senses Luxury Resort is another amazing choice, with beautiful suites, several swimming pools, a spa, and even some rooms with private pools! It’s just a short walk from Punda Beach and about a kilometer (0.6 miles) from Piso Livadi, so it’s a fantastic option if you want a luxury resort close to the coast.

Meanwhile, Aloni Hotel & Suites is a beautiful Cycladic-style hotel with a swimming pool, sea-view balconies, and some suites with private plunge pools. It’s right in Piso Livadi, just a short walk from the beach and waterfront tavernas, which is perfect if you want to explore without driving anywhere.

Cavo Piso Livadi – $$

Cavo Piso Livadi is my favorite mid-range option along the east coast, and I love its location! This stylish hotel sits right by the waterfront in Piso Livadi, so you’ll have the beach and some fantastic traditional tavernas practically on your doorstep. I think it’s an ideal choice for families who want something convenient, but it’s also fantastic for couples looking for a relaxed seaside getaway.

The hotel has a beautiful outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, plus bright, modern rooms with air conditioning and plenty of space to unwind. There are also larger family rooms and suites, including some with their own private plunge pools, which would be an amazing upgrade! Rooms typically start from around €140 per night.

If Cavo Piso Livadi is fully booked, Saint George Hotel is another beautiful option, with a sea-view swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and spacious rooms with private balconies. It’s located farther south at New Golden Beach rather than in Piso Livadi itself, making it a great choice if you want to spend your days swimming or trying some water sports.

Or, if you’d rather stay somewhere smaller, Magoo Suites has gorgeous sea-view rooms and suites just steps from Logaras Beach. It’s only around a 5-minute walk from Piso Livadi, so you can enjoy a peaceful beachfront stay while keeping restaurants and shops within easy reach.

Golden Beach Hotel – $

If you’re looking for an affordable beachfront stay, Golden Beach Hotel is a fantastic choice! This relaxed hotel sits directly on the famous Golden Beach, so you’ll have a huge stretch of sand and gorgeous turquoise water right outside. I think it’s especially appealing if you want to spend most of your vacation swimming and sunbathing on the beach rather than paying for a fancy resort.

The rooms are simple but modern, with some offering balconies and beautiful sea views. There’s also an on-site restaurant serving Greek and Mediterranean food, plus a beach bar where you can grab a drink without wandering too far from your sun lounger. Rooms can start from around €90 per night, although prices rise during peak season.

Paros Inn Seafront is another great budget-friendly option, with simple rooms, sea-view balconies, and a terrace where you can enjoy breakfast overlooking the water. It’s right on Logaras Beach and just a short walk from Piso Livadi, so you’ll have plenty of restaurants nearby without needing a car.

Meanwhile, Pnoi Hotel has a lovely outdoor swimming pool surrounded by gardens, plus a poolside bar and comfortable rooms. It’s also close to Logaras Beach, so I think it’s a fantastic alternative if you want affordable accommodation with a pool rather than staying directly on the sand.

Related Read: Why stop at Paros? Check out my 2-week Greece itinerary to discover even more incredible destinations and make the most of your Greek getaway!

Top Activities in Paros

Paros is so much more than gorgeous beaches and whitewashed villages! Don’t get me wrong, I could happily spend every day soaking up the Greek sunshine, but there’s so much more to discover here. From island-hopping adventures to delicious Greek food and charming hidden villages, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few of my favorite experiences to add to your Paros itinerary!

• Take a Greek cooking class: Why just eat delicious Greek food when you can learn to make it yourself? This hands-on cooking class was SO much fun! You’ll prepare traditional dishes like moussaka and spanakopita with local chefs, enjoy your creations with Greek wine, and even try some Greek dancing!

• Go island hopping: My FAVORITE thing I did in Paros was this half-day boat cruise! You’ll explore the stunning Blue Lagoon, discover Antiparos’ sea caves, and swim in crystal-clear water around Despotiko. Plus, snorkeling gear, lunch, and drinks are included!

• Explore Paros on a private tour: Want to see more of the island without renting a car? This private driving tour is perfect! With a local driver and a customizable itinerary, you can explore charming villages like Lefkes, discover scenic viewpoints, and find hidden gems you’d otherwise miss.

• Sail on a luxury catamaran: If you’re craving a little extra luxury, this full-day catamaran cruise is hard to beat! Spend the day sailing around Antiparos and Despotiko, swimming in turquoise bays, and enjoying a freshly prepared Greek lunch on board. Talk about paradise!

• Try a watercolor painting workshop: For something a little different, why not paint your own Greek-inspired souvenir? This beginner-friendly workshop in Parikia teaches you watercolor techniques in a peaceful garden setting, and you can take your masterpiece home!

Related Read: Planning more Greek adventures? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Greece for even more incredible places and experiences to add to your itinerary!

Thanks for reading!

With its whitewashed villages, sparkling blue water, and endless Greek charm, Paros makes it pretty hard to pick a favorite spot! Whether you’re relaxing by Naoussa’s harbor, exploring Parikia’s charming streets, or soaking up the sunshine on the east coast, you’re in for one incredible island getaway. I know I can’t wait to go back!

And why stop at just one Greek island? I’ve explored some incredible places, and I’ve got plenty more Greece travel guides with travel tips, hidden gems, and hotel recommendations to share! Or scroll through some of my favorites below to keep the adventure going!

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