This less-visited Greek island hits all the right notes.
In the pantheon of Greek isles, Páros stands out as a Goldilocks destination. Nicknamed Little Mykonos for its vibrant nightlife, this pear-shaped, 75-square-mile volcanic rock in the Cyclades is still sleepy enough that there’s a beach where you can enjoy a sunset swim au naturel. Historically a hub for white marble (the Venus de Milo statue was made from two blocks of it), Páros has seen its tourism cachet grow progressively since the 1960s. Today, sun worshippers are falling in love with the island’s sandy beaches, clear waters, white-and-blue cliffside architecture, and winds too aggressive to be casual – the foundations of a classic Cycladic vacation.
Building on top of that is where the fun begins. You can go the Mykonos route with a lively club in Parikia or Naoussa, the island’s two largest villages. But to get the full Páros experience, flesh out your trip with farm tours, local designer shopping, and some of the region’s best seafood restaurants. Here’s how to get a taste of the island on your day in port.
10 a.m.
From the main port, it’s a short walk to the center of Parikia, Páros’ lively capital, home to one of Greece’s most renowned churches: The fourth-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani is known for its 99 doors (and a mythical 100th one that’s said to be hidden). Its interior – a classic basilica layered with elaborate Byzantine details such as a gilded crucifix and massive chandeliers – is worth a peek. Afterward, stroll the narrow, winding lanes lined with white-and-blue buildings that make up the center of town before stopping at stylish, all-day restaurant Chora for a freddo espresso, Greece’s frothy take on the iced coffee.
11 a.m.
Take a 20-minute taxi ride north for a tour and tasting at family-run Petra Farm, overlooking the Aegean. Complete with goats and chickens, it grows everything from grapes and olives to capers, lavender, and figs. In the elegant main house, sample jams, cheese, juicy cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and homemade breads. The prepackaged pantry items (including an addictively sweet-with-a-kick chili jam) make great souvenirs.
1 p.m.
Cab ten minutes to Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant to tan and people-watch from a sunbed under its famous red umbrellas. Located on Ai Yiannis Detis peninsula, where rocky hills and a blue-domed monastery preside over the Gulf of Naoussa, Monastiri Beach Bar is among Páros’ most popular, thanks to the island’s growing party scene (book a daybed or cabana weeks in advance). At midday, the DJ spins a tranquil soundtrack for a few hours of alternating between sunbathing and submerging yourself in the Aegean. For the most local sip, try a red, white, rosé, or sparkling wine from newly launched Parian label Seiradi. #lttravelconnection #luxurytravel
