naoussa

The Complete Naoussa, Paros Guide: Everything You Need To Know About This Charming Village

Naoussa was easily our favorite place to stay in Paros. It has everything you picture when you think of a Greek island — whitewashed streets, bougainvillea, little shops and a beautiful waterfront harbor — but it also has some of the best restaurants and nightlife on the island.

We used Naoussa as our home base during our trip to Paros, and I would absolutely stay here again. During the day, the Old Town is perfect for wandering, shopping and stopping for coffee, while at night the harbor completely comes alive with restaurants, cocktail bars and people spilling into the streets.

This complete Naoussa, Paros guide covers everything you need to know before visiting, including where to stay, where to eat and drink, the best things to do and how to get around.

Planning your own Greece trip? Check out my complete Greece Travel Guide.

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 :).

Quick Deets: What To Know Before Going to Naoussa, Paros

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How To Get to Naoussa, Paros

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 are 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 in Naoussa, Paros

If it’s your first trip to Paros, Naoussa would be my top choice for where to stay. We used Naoussa as our home base and loved being able to walk to so many restaurants, bars and shops at night, while still having an easy starting point for exploring the rest of the island during the day.

There are 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!

Lilly Residence, $$$

An adults-only boutique hotel, Lilly Residence is ideal for couples seeking a relaxing retreat. It’s 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!

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.

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!

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.

What to Eat & Drink in Naoussa, Paros

Casual Spots

Upscale Dining

Bars & Nightlife

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Looking for even more places to eat? Check out my full guide to the Best Restaurants in Paros for all of my favorite restaurants, cafés and bars around the island.

Best Things to Do in Naoussa, Paros

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 instagrammable spots on every corner – including the iconic Linardo pink door you’ve probably seen all over 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!

Traditional fishing boats in the harbor of Naoussa, Paros
Traditional fishing boats in the harbor of Naoussa, Paros

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 absolutely 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 hop 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.

Read More: Your Paros Park Guide: A Deep Dive into the Trails, Beautiful Beaches & the Best Route to Take

Coastal hiking trail and clear blue water at Paros Park near Naoussa
Secluded pebble beach with clear water at Paros Park

Antiparos Island

Antiparos makes for an easy day trip while staying in Naoussa. You’ll first make your way to Pounta, where the quick ferry takes you across to the island.

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 chose 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.

Is Naoussa, Paros Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Naoussa was easily one of my favorite places we visited in Greece, and if I were planning another trip to Paros, I would stay here again in a heartbeat.

During the day, you can wander through the whitewashed streets, shop at the little boutiques, grab lunch by the harbor, or head out to one of the nearby beaches. But Naoussa really comes alive at night. The restaurants fill up, cocktail bars spill out into the streets, and the entire Old Town has such a fun energy without losing that beautiful Greek island feel.

I also think Naoussa is one of the best places to stay in Paros, especially for a first trip. We loved being able to explore the island during the day and come back to Naoussa for dinner and drinks without having to go anywhere else.

If you are trying to decide whether to add Naoussa to your Paros itinerary, my answer is definitely yes. Even if you don’t stay here, it is worth setting aside plenty of time to explore — although I have a feeling you will wish you stayed!

Planning More of Your Paros Trip?

If you’re planning a trip to Paros, I have plenty more deets to help you put everything together! From where to stay and the best places to eat to beautiful villages, beaches and how to plan your days, check out my other Paros guides:

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