Parikia or Naoussa in Paros – Where to Stay?
Paros is a relatively popular Greek island, lying in the middle of the Cyclades archipelago. Unlike its neighbors Santorini and Mykonos, it is a pretty laid-back destination.
Most tourists visit Paros for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Thus, it can be crowded in the summer months. If you are into culture, great food, and classy bars, you should stay in one of the two main towns: Parikia or Naoussa.
Both are typical Cycladic towns with whitewashed houses, churches with blue domes, and narrow alleys. So, choosing the right one depends on what you are looking for. One is better for culture, while the other offers nicer beaches.
How to Decide
Both Parikia and Naoussa offer plenty of reasons to stay there. Parikia is a bit busier, with a larger local population, while Naoussa is smaller and more touristic.
Stay in Parikia if you are into sightseeing. There are plenty of interesting places to visit, so your time will pass quickly. If you are on a budget or visiting in the off-season, stay in Parikia.
If the main reason for your holiday in Paros is to spend time on the beach, go to Naoussa. If you prefer a more luxurious experience, then Naoussa is a better choice.
In continuation, we’ll go into more detail to help you decide where to stay.
Parikia
Parikia is the island’s capital and its largest city. It is located at the end of a small bay on the west coast of Paros. It is the center of all activities and the island’s main port.
Parikia’s Old Town is right next to the port. It’s a maze of cobbled streets with white houses and colorful bougainvillea. Most historical sights are here.
The town spreads further north and south, along Parikia Bay. A long promenade along the sea offers one of the best walks on the island.
Main Sights
All of the island’s most important historical sites are located in Parikia. The impressive Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church is the second most important church in the Cyclades (after Our Lady of Tinos).
The original chapel from 326 was the work of Constantine the Great. In the 6th century, Emperor Justinian renovated the church. This is when the domes were added and it received its Byzantine appearance. In the 18th century, a major earthquake damaged the church, but it was subsequently restored.
Another important site is the Frankish Castle of Parikia. It was built in the 17th century using stones from nearby ancient temples. Also worth visiting is the Archaeological Museum of Paros.
Beaches
Parikia hosts several nice beaches, though they are not among the island’s most scenic. Livadia, just a short walk north of the Old Town, is the main urban beach. It’s a good place to try local seafood.
Further up north is a much longer and a bit nicer Paralia Parikia, or Parikia Beach. There are plenty of local taverns and sunbeds with umbrellas. On the other side of the Old Town, there is a small beach with a windmill.
The nicest beaches near Parikia are at the northern end of the bay. Krios and Marcelo beaches are a great place to escape city life. Since they are in a bay, the sea is pretty calm here.
Hotels
Parikia is known for family-owned, budget-friendly accommodation. There are plenty of 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels and guesthouses, most of them small in size.
Irene Studios is our favorite hotel in Parikia. It’s a beachside property right at the beginning of Paralia Parikia. Each of their 11 studios comes with a kitchen, bathroom, balcony, and sea views.
If you’d rather stay in the Old Town, in a typical Cycladic house, we suggest booking a room in Hotel Dina. There is a beautiful patio, the rooms are tastefully decorated, and some come with views of a small nearby church.
Naoussa
Though similar in size, Naoussa feels more like a village. Actually, it is a fishing village, located at the end of a large bay, Naoussa Bay, on the island’s northern coast.
Naoussa’s Old Town is a little bit smaller and has fewer historic sights. However, it is equally beautiful, with similar whitewashed houses, cute shops, and colorful bougainvillea.
Naoussa’s terrain is much more rugged, and it is often surrounded by rocks. There are several bays and nice beaches within walking distance.
Main Sights
Naoussa hosts far fewer historic sites, and none of them are as important as those in Parikia. The town’s most charming area is the Old Port of Naoussa.
The Venetian Castle, or Kastelli, is a 17th-century fortress built to defend the port. It’s a round fortification, partially submerged, that can be accessed by walking from the port.
Among the town’s beautiful churches, one stands out: the 19th-century Holy Church of Panagia Faneromeni, also known as the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Located on a small hill, it is Naoussa’s parish church.
Beaches
Naoussa has nicer beaches than Parikia. In the town proper, there are three beaches: Naoussa Beach, right in the Old Town; Agioi Anargyroi, east of it; and Piperi, west of it.
That said, the best beaches are outside of town. According to many, Kolympethres Beach, across the bay, is the nicest in Paros. It is a collection of small beaches with shallow waters surrounded by white granite rocks.
Further north, there is a beautiful peninsula with a 17th-century monastery (Agios Ioannis Detis), an open-air theater, and a sandy beach (Monastiri). It’s known as Paros Environmental and Cultural Park.
Hotels
Naoussa is home to some of the best accommodation in Paros. Most of the island’s hip, upscale hotels are in or around the town.
Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort is probably the best hotel in Paros. Located on Agioi Anargyroi Beach, it offers 40 modern suites, some of them with plunge pools and balconies with views. There’s an infinity pool, a spa, a fitness center, and 3 bars/restaurants.
Hotel Senia, on Piperi Beach, is less than 5 minutes from the Old Town. The hotel features elegant rooms, two infinity pools (one of them heated), a spa, and bike rental.
