The whitewashed harbour village of Naoussa (sometimes spelt Naousa) is extraordinarily pretty – and increasingly one of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades. Situated at the northern end of the island of Paros, it’s undeniably one of the highlights of any trip to this unique Greek island. Wondering if it’s the right place for you? Read on.
What’s Naoussa Like?
When you picture a trip to the Greek islands do you imagine a whitewashed town with those distinctive sugarcube buildings? Well, Naoussa is certainly one of the best examples of that.
But if you’re looking for a quiet place with an authentic Greek feel then Naoussa is probably not for you – it’s no longer a hidden secret, and has a little bit of that cosmopolitan vibe that Mykonos Chora is known for. It’s not (yet) Disneyfied but it does cater to very modern tastes. There are a few traditional Greek tavernas, but these are outnumber by swanky international cuisine and chic cocktails bars, with a generous side helping of expensive designer clothing boutiques. Food and drink prices are higher than average. The narrow cobbled alleyways are a delight to wander around but in high season you will be nose-to-tail with fellow travellers. At around midnight the late bars get going and there are a few places to continue dancing til dawn.
It is undeniably beautiful and though and attracts a mixed crowd of visitors, even if the shopping caters to a young urban crowd and Instagrammers.
There’s still a sizeable fishing fleet based in Naoussa’s harbour and you can watch the fishermen get their catch on in the mornings and evenings.
Lots of people drive in to Naoussa in the evening from the surrounding areas so I’d be careful on the roads at night.
The harbour is particularly picturesque at sunset. The light in this part of the Greek islands is something you have to experience.
However I was struck by the amount of trash in the sea in the harbour and on the coastline in the wider area, despite the best efforts of Clean Blue Paros to tackle this (although this problem is by no means limited to Naoussa or to Paros!). Hopefully attitudes will start to change.
Where to Stay in Naoussa?
Naoussa is the most popular seasonal resort on Paros and there’s an abundance of accommodation options. There aren’t many places to stay in the old part of town which is behind the harbour though. This is where most of the shops are bars are located, so it’s pretty busy and loud in the evening and it would feel a bit claustrophobic to stay here. If you’re determined to stay central here are a few 2-star hotels next to the harbour.
There’s a cluster of accommodation to the west of the old quarter, spreading out towards Piperi beach and up onto the hill behind. This is where most of Naoussa’s budget accommodation is located. There’s an increasing amount of development going on near Piperi, including some boutique hotels. There’s a bus stop near the beach too, and it’s a 5-15 minutes walk into town depending on your location. Be aware that many hotels are up a short hill and the roads around here are very rough concrete – certain death for wheeled luggage.
Beyond Piperi and half way to Kolymbithres is Livadia, home to some of the best luxury hotels in the area such as Parilio, Astir and Sant Andrea Seaside Resort. The shore here is rocky with some narrow bits of beach. It’s a long walk to town.
On the east side of the old chora is another cluster, but on this side you’ll find many small boutique hotels – like the fabulously-named Angels Pillow (adults-only). The beach on this side – Agioi Anargyroi – is better than Piperi but by no means the best on Paros. There are a number of hotels right by the back (across the road). Parian Boutique Hotel, Kalypso Hotel, and Conteratos Beach Hotel are all very close to the beach.
Design-lovers should check out Mr and Mrs White or the adults-only Lilly Residences,
On a budget? Hotel Mary is a cheap and friendly hotel run by ex-backpackers.
Which Are the Best Beaches Near Naoussa?
Before you book a stay in Naoussa it’s important to know that there’s no beach right in town. If you want to walk out of your hotel and flop on the beach then there are much better places to do that than Naoussa – check Where to Stay in the Cyclades:Ultimate Beach Resort Guide for more ideas.
The closest two beaches to town are:
- Piperi – course-grained sand, can get a bit wavey.
- Agoi Anaryroi – cleaner and more sheltered than Piperi, with some sun loungers. Not so private as the road runs along side it.
Neither are the finest (or cleanest) beaches in the area and it’s definitely worth heading further afield if you’re planning a beach day. The most beautiful beaches in the area are short trip away by boat or road.
But Naoussa is located in the middle of a large semi-enclosed Plastira Bay which is home to some spectacular coastal scenery. Particularly on the western peninsula where the large granite boulders and strange rock formations now form part of the 80 hectare Paros Paros. You can spend a day here exploring smaller coves and coastal trails.
Thankfully there are plenty of water taxis right at the harbour which sell return tickets. It’s an easy day out. Depending on the season, not all routes run every day but there should be at least one running (as long as the weather is ok):
Kolymbithres and Monastiri are the most famous beaches with fine sands and shallow waters strewn with boulders. They are both organise organised with a few cafes and tavernas on hand as well as gentle watersports.
Lageri on the eastern peninsula also sometimes features on the boat routes – the sheltered sands here are in a wild and undeveloped part of coast and are favoured by the clothing-optional crowd, just so you know. The beaches before Lageri are not notable – the double beach at Stefano is better from a distance – but you can have an excellent seafood supper at Siparos.
All three are much more sheltered from the winds and waves than the beaches at Naoussa.
You can also catch the bus or drive to Santa Maria where you’ll find the windsurfing aficionados on a long sandy stretch of beach, and a sheltered family-friendly cove at Mikri Santa Maria.
What to Do in Naoussa?
Naoussa is a great destination for those who don’t just want to flop on the beach – it’s a photogenic base with great upmarket shopping, dining, and nightlife. The main appeal is simply wandering its labyrinth. But there are a few things in particular worth checking out:
One of Naoussa’s main landmarks is Kastelli, the Venetian fortress which is right by the harbour. It’s a great spot for photos but you’ll need sure footing to cross the walkway which is constantly battered by waves.
The other great photo spot is where the old buildings abruptly meet the sea – look for the bright pink Linardo at the end of the harbour and keep walking around the corner, or have lunch at one of the cafes with waterfront tables such as Fotis.
At the back of town on the east side is the Moraitis Winery where you can stop by to taste a flight of local wines.
As Naoussa is an old fishing village it’s no surprise there are plenty of great seafood restaurants (including trendy sushi joints) around the harbour.
Want to support the fight against single-use plastic? Clean Blue Paros have a map of participating businesses including cafes offering reusables.
To explore the wider area under your own steam there are many rental agencies where you can pick up a car, an ATV, a scooter, or a bicycle.
If you’re into hiking then you should definitely spend some time at Paros Park, and then also head inland for hiking trails around Paros’ gorgeous interior villages such as Lefkes and Marpissa. You can find further details at Paros Hikes. Dedicated hikers might want to pick up a copy of Cicerone – Walking on the Greek Islands which covers Paros as well as neighbouring islands.
It’s possible to visit neighbouring islands Antiparos and Naxos on day trips but you’ll have to reach Pounta and Parikia respectively to catch the ferry. In high summer (July/August) you may find additional water taxi routes available, as well as excursions further afield to islands like Mykonos and Delos.
How to Get to Naoussa?
Naoussa is on the very northern tip of Paros. The main ferry port on Paros is Parikia – see KTEL Paros for routes and timetables. There is a small bus station right next to the ferry port and buses frequently run the 10km to Naoussa.
Paros is well-connected with Pireaus and other islands in the Cyclades. See Ferryhopper for ferry connections and tickets.
It also has an airport, currently domestic flights only – see Skyscanner for flights and deals.
Naoussa has a popular marina – see Marina Reservation for further info.
Read more:
The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping in Greece
15 Best Greek Islands for Beaches
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