Naoussa is the most beautiful village – a place that perfectly blends traditional Greek charm with a vibrant, contemporary atmosphere. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and crystal-clear waters, Naoussa is the most quintessential Greek village. Whether you’re looking to explore its rich history, lounge on the beautiful beaches, or indulge in the best Greek food, this Naoussa, Paros guide will give you everything you need to know to make the most of your time in this charming village.
What makes Naoussa stand out is its lively harbor, packed with cozy cafés and restaurants, all with incredible views of the ocean. The village has that laid-back, welcoming vibe, but don’t be fooled – when the sun goes down, it turns up the energy with a buzzing nightlife scene.
Whether you’re after a chill day by the water or a night out with some energy, Naoussa has it all – making it a must-see on your Paros itinerary.
Planning your own Greece trip? Check out my complete Greece Travel Guide or dive into more Paros coverage with my 3-day Paros Itinerary for a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.
PLEASE NOTE, THIS ARTICLE INCLUDES AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS I MAY EARN A COMMISSION ON ANY PURCHASE MADE THROUGH THE LINKS, AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU! I ONLY RECOMMEND PRODUCTS & SERVICES THAT I BELIEVE IN, I’VE USED MYSELF, OR I’VE BEEN WANTING TO TRY – SO THEY ALL COME HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY ME, REGARDLESS OF THE SMALL PAYOUT :).
What to Know Before Going
- Best Time To Visit?
- The best time to visit Naoussa is during the shoulder seasons: late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October). The weather is warm, but the island is less crowded compared to peak summer months.
- What’s The Weather Like?
- Naoussa has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach the low 30s°C (high 80s-90s°F), making it perfect for beach days. Spring and fall are ideal for exploring, as temperatures are pleasant, typically ranging between 20-25°C (68-77°F).
- How To Get Around?
- Naoussa is a very walkable village, so bring comfortable shoes for exploring its narrow streets. For exploring other parts of Paros, you can rent a car or scooter, or use public buses. The village is small enough that you can easily walk to most places.
- Currency & Language
- The official currency is the Euro, and Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so communication shouldn’t be a problem.
- What To Pack?
- Casual, comfortable clothing and swimwear are a must. The evenings can get a little cooler, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater for after-dinner strolls.
- Summer Events
- Naoussa hosts several lively festivals during the summer months:
- Fish and Wine Festival (First Sunday in July): A celebration of local seafood and wines, featuring live music, traditional dances, and delicious food.
- Revival of the Tsambouna (July 17): A cultural event showcasing traditional Greek bagpipe music, bringing the streets of Naoussa to life.
- Enneamera tis Panaghias (August 21): A four-day celebration in Naoussa with a torch-lit boat parade in the harbor, honoring the Virgin Mary.
- Naoussa hosts several lively festivals during the summer months:
How To Get There
If you’re flying into Naoussa, the nearest airport is Paros National Airport (PAS), located about 20 minutes away by car. You can catch a direct flight from Athens International Airport (ATH), which takes around 40 minutes. There’s no direct flights to the island from the US, but, during the summer months, there are also direct flights to Paros from several other European cities, making it super easy to reach.
Ferries are the most common way to get to the island, with the most common route from Piraeus Port in Athens to Paros. High speed ferries take about 2 hours 45 minutes, while the standard ferries take about 4 to 5 hours.
If you’re already visiting nearby islands, Paros is super well-connected to the other popular destinations like Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini by ferry. The ferry from Mykonos to Paros is only about 40 minutes! You can easily hop on a ferry from other Cycladic islands and get here. And, once you arrive at the port in Parikia, Naoussa is just a 15-20 minute drive away.
Where to Stay
There’s so many adorable places to stay in Naoussa, ranging from super cozy guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels. I’ve included several of my favorite spots, with hotels at all budget levels. Since this is such a hot spot destination, I’d definitely recommend booking a few months in advance. You’ll find better availability, plus better rates, but Summer definitely has premium rates across the board.
Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, $$$$
If you’re looking to splurge, this beachfront gem offers spacious suites with private plunge pools, a signature half-moon pool, and an exclusive beach club. It’s beautifully designed, perfectly located, and really has all the factors you’re looking for when booking a luxury hotel!
- Approx. $800/night
- Book a room HERE
Lilly Residence, $$$
An adults-only boutique hotel, Lilly Residence is ideal for couples seeking a relaxing retreat. I’ts just a short walk into the town, and offers really luxurious rooms. Some even have private hot tubs or pools – perfect for a romantic getaway!
- Approx. $500/night
- Book a room HERE
Senia Hotel, $$$
This boutique hotel offers incredible views of the Aegean Sea and is just a 5-minute walk from the village center. With a beautiful infinity pool, stylish rooms, a beautiful spa and exceptional service, it’s a great option for those looking for luxury and comfort at a reasonable price-point.
- Approx. $425/night
- Book a room HERE
Kanale’s Rooms & Suites, $$
Located within walking distance to Naoussa’s center and Piperi Beach, Kanale’s offers beautiful, modern rooms with ocean views. They also have an incredible rooftop restaurant, perfect for watching the sunset with a drink in hand!
- Approx. $300/night
- Book a room HERE
Ariti Seaside Residence, $
Located just a short stroll into Naoussa’s center, this charming guesthouse offers studios with kitchenettes and balconies or patios overlooking the Aegean Sea. It’s a great low-cost price, while still feeling modern and cozy.
- Approx. $175/night
- Book a room HERE
What to Eat & Drink
Casual Spots
- Tserki Naousa
- A lovely little spot for coffee and pastries, Tserki Naousa offers a variety of sweet and savory treats, along with specialty coffee. They have incredible pastries, and the best freddo cappuccinos we had all trip!
- Souvlaki Kargas
- The best gyros in Paros, maybe even all of Greece. It’s a cute little spot, where you’ll be seated on the picturesque cobblestone street outside the shop. It’s quick, easy AND cheap. Do not miss it!
- Almond
- The perfect spot if your looking for a healthy breakfast. We came here several times to grab smoothies before hitting the beach! There’s tons of options like smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and avocado toast. Plus it feels like you stepped in Tulum when you walk in the door.
- Come Back Bar
- Located right on the beach, Come Back Bar is a super chill spot for snacks and incredibly crafted cocktails. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset with a drink in hand.
- Nonna Crema
- If you’re looking for a little sweet treat after a day of exploring, head over to this charming gelato shop. Their homemade gelato is rich, creamy, and a perfect way to cool off. And, make sure to get their homemade cones – so crispy & fresh!
Upscale Dining
- Barbarossa
- The ultimate upscale experience in Naoussa, Barbarossa is located by the harbor and offers a fantastic menu of fresh seafood. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic dinner with insane views of the sunset. They do the iconic towel tossing party you may have seen on social media! While it looks fun, the prices are quite expensive, and we’ve heard the party only happens once a night…
- Sigi Ikthios
- Sigi Ikthios is located right on the harbor, and has incredible seafood. It has the same harbor-side vibe of Barbarossa, but at a much more affordable price point. The octopus is to die for, the vibes are absolutely beautiful, and the waiters. are so sweet. One of our favorite meals in Paros!
- Luaz
- If you’re looking for a laid-back yet upscale dining experience, Luaz is the spot. The menu has everything from fresh seafood to premium meats, all made with local ingredients. Get a spot outside by the sea. The vibe is chic but relaxed – perfect for a special night out.
Bars & Nightlife
- Sante Cocktail Bar
- Sante’s a little cocktail bar where you can grab a drink and find a table under the huge tree outside. It’s a trendy spot with great cocktails (and a great tequila list). It’s low-key and the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
- Linardo
- Famous for its vibrant pink doors by day, but by night, it turns into a lively club.
- Voulez Vous
- A rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Naoussa, perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the sunset.
What to Explore
Naoussa Port & the Venetian Castle
The iconic Naoussa Port has such a vibrant, picturesque vibe. You’ll find cafés lining the water, fishermen bringing in their fresh catches, and the bright blue sea contrasting beautifully with the white buildings. Definitely spend some time wandering around!
There’s plenty of instagramable spots on every corner – including the iconic Linardo pink door you’ve probably seen all of social media! It’s so calm in the morning, which is a stark difference from nighttime, so enjoy the peaceful moments!
You can also walk right up to the Venetian Castle, which is one of the must-see spots in Naoussa. It’s even more beautiful at sunset, when the golden light hits Naoussa and makes everything glow. Make the walk over to check it out – you won’t regret it!
Kolymbithres Beach
Kolymbithres Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Paros. The beach is known for its granite rock formations, creating little secluded coves that feel like your own private beaches. And the bright blue water is absoutely stunning.
In peak season, you can rent beach chairs, but during the off-season, it’s the perfect place to find your spot on the rocks and hang. The water is super clear and calm, and also very shallow – so perfect for swimmers at all levels.
You can either drive over, or hope on a water taxi right from Naoussa port!
Paros Park
Just a 15-minute drive from Naoussa, you’ll find the tranquil Paros Park. It’s a nature reserve filled with quiet beaches, hidden coves, and scenic walking paths. It actually felt like stumbling upon a hidden gem on the island!
There are 3 different routes you can take, all with very clearly marked trails. You can check out the lighthouse on the island, or hike up to the top of the cliffs, but we decided to take Route 3, which focuses on the multiple secluded beaches of the park.
Park at Monstrasi Beach, where you’ll find the start to all the paths. It’s worth spending at least half a day admiring the beauty of this place. We stopped at several beaches just for a quick dip, before making it to our favorite location in Paros, Playa de Guijarros – a pebble beach with the clearest waters ever.
Antiparos Island
Just a short ferry ride from Naoussa, Antiparos has a bit more laid-back of a vibe compared to the main island. It’s known for its charming village with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful beaches. You can also rent a boat or book a boat tour to explore the beaches in a different way – which is what we choose to do!
Ferries run multiple times a day, so it’s easy to squeeze into any trip. But, if you have the time, it’s definitely worth it to spend a day exploring the little shops and cafes in the village, and all of their beaches.
Naoussa’s Old Town
Wandering through Naoussa Old Town is like stepping into a postcard of Greece. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed houses and colorful bougainvillea. It’s exactly the vibe you think of when you picture a Greek Island.
It’s easy to lose yourself for an hour or two here – pop into local shops, grab a coffee, and say hi to the kitties walking around.
Naoussa, We’ll Be Back for More!
Naoussa truly embodies the perfect blend of island charm and modern luxury. From relaxing by the sea to savoring delicious food and exploring the island’s rich history, this village offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning to stay longer, this Naoussa, Paros guide will have make sure the village captures your heart with its irresistible charm!
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