Paros is probably the Greek island I first visited. From the time I was just over a year old to the age of ten, we, the whole family, went to Paros and the resort of Alykes every summer to get us some sun and sea and to take a break from Athens that we otherwise lived in for the most summer months. My mother actually told me that it was on Paros that I first learned to walk.

Although Paros has changed a lot over the years, the island is still one of the most beautiful in the Aegean Sea. This is probably why so many Greeks choose this island as a holiday resort.

Everyone has probably heard of Paros and many of you may already have visited the island as it is one of Greece’s largest travel destinations but in any case you may not have received the tips I plan to give you if you are planning a trip to this island!

Paros, with its approximately 14,000 inhabitants, is located in the southern part of the archipelago and is a part of the Cyclades, you know where all the houses are white with blue windows. It is situated between Naxos and Antipros, which I will write about in a later post.

The main town on the island is called Parikia and there we also find the island’s harbor. A bigger town on Paros, and perhaps the most touristy resort there, is Naousa which also has a smaller and older very beautiful harbor walk. But I do not intend to write about the “well-known” and touristy Paros, but about the Paros I prefer. “Low Season” Paros.

The island is full of people between June and the beginning of September and although you can also then find some quieter places to stay in, it is best and most comfortable to be on Paros between September and the end of October. Then you will have all the beauty for yourself. The sea is still warm but the beaches and pebbled alleys in the main towns and villages are empty. What could be better than that? It is also during this period that the Paros residents are more relaxed and can show their amazing hospitality in the best way.

This is the period when you can rent a car on the island and discover everything that it has to offer, both culturally and naturewise, without stepping on someone else’s toes.

I am also writing this post to tip about an accommodation I find wonderful as it is located in the quieter area of ​​Boudari (near Drios) and is an affordable alternative for those of you who really want to relax near the sea.

Villa Kampanelli is a family run accommodation with four large fully equipped and newly built apartments with a view towards the sea. Here, a family or a bunch of friends can easily share the cost and have a great experience. The accommodation is located 200 m from the nearest beach and 600 m from “Golden Beach” or “Chrysi Akti” in Greek, which is known for its wind surfing and scuba diving activities. It is also just walking distance from the town of Drios where you can find taverns, bars and shops. I warmly recommend the tavern “Tzoulia” which is located on the waterfront and serves wonderful food!

In the town of Drios you can also take the opportunity to visit the “Green Project” where you can spend the whole day as they serve everything from burgers to cocktails and even have handmade jams and chutneys for you to try!

Another tip I have for you is to visit the village “Marpisa”. This village is a delight for the eyes and for all instagrammers out there! It is dressed from head to toe in only white houses with blue windows and doors. Wherever you go in the stone-lined alleys, your eye only catches white, blue and strong pink from the flowers that grow everywhere!

You can also take a trip to the beautiful mountain village “Lefkes” for a traditional experience. There is also a famous tavern that many important Greeks visit, “O Lefkianos”.

I personally am not so fond of Naousa during the high season but in September and October it can be nice to take a trip there and take a look at all the nice little stores that are situated there.

Also visit the bar “Agosta” if you end up here in the evening where you can get very good drinks but also enjoy the traditional building and the view over the nice harbor. Why not also try the island’s own beer “56 Isles Aegean Wit” when you sit here enjoying yourself?

I end this post with some beach recommendations as I assume that you, like myself, worship the Greek sun.

1. The beach “Kalogeros” – here you can enjoy an outdoor spa by yourself as the natural clay from the cliffs has cleaning properties.
2. “Chrysi Akti” – here you can go if you like wind surf or want to try scuba diving
3. “Pounta Beach” – is probably one of the island’s most famous beaches. Something for the younger crowd!
4. “Monastiri” – is a beach with expensive entrance but if you like cool design and comfort it fits you wonderfully!

“Low Season” on Paros is something I recommend to everyone. In general, everything is cheaper, the sea is still warm and you can really relax in the beautiful nature that you have almost for yourself. Try it out!