Naoussa is the stylish harbor town of Paros, on the north side of the island, and one of the most atmospheric places in the Cyclades. Once a quiet fishing village, it has grown into a chic yet still charming destination, with whitewashed alleys, a picturesque old port, and a vibrant food and nightlife scene.
There are many great things to do in Paros, but Naoussa alone is responsible for some of the absolute highlights of the island. Although it’s much smaller than Parikia, Naoussa has the vibe of a trendy little city: from boutique hotels and cocktail bars to designer shops and excellent restaurants right by the water.
However, the Aegean Sea is never far away. You’re always just a few minutes from a beach, whether that’s the little town beach at Piperi, the famous rock formations of Kolymbithres, or the sandy bay at Monastiri in Paros Park, one of the best things to do in Naoussa. In this complete guide about Naoussa in Paros, we describe the best things to do, where to eat, and the best places to stay.
What to do in Naoussa in Paros
1. Wander the alleys of Naoussa’s old town
Like in many Cycladic towns, getting “lost” is part of the fun. Follow whichever lane looks pretty and keep an eye out for little artisan shops hidden in the quieter corners. The town feels different at each time of day: calm and almost sleepy in the morning, lively in the afternoon, and buzzing after sunset.
The best way to start exploring Naoussa is simply walking. The old town is a maze of narrow, stone‑paved alleys, whitewashed houses with blue doors, and bougainvillea spilling over walls and balconies. You’ll find a mix of local homes, boutiques, and small bars tucked away in side streets.
There are some nice bars with sea views, a little bit further from the old port, like Taverna Glafkos and Fotis All day bar.
2. Enjoy the atmosphere at the old port
Naoussa’s old fishing port is the town’s beating heart and probably the most famous view in Paros. In one compact area, you get everything: colorful fishing boats, fishermen working on their nets, octopus hanging to dry (especially in the morning), and a line of tavernas and bars with tables almost on top of the water.
Come here in the late afternoon to watch the light change and the harbor slowly fill up with people, or in the evening when the lights are on, music drifts from the bars, and every table is taken. It can get busy in high season, but the atmosphere is fantastic and still feels friendly rather than overwhelming. For some restaurants you do need to make reservations in advance, especially those with tables by the water
3. Visit the Venetian Castle ruins
Right at the edge of the old port, you’ll notice a stone walkway leading out into the bay towards a small circular structure: this is the Venetian castle (Kastelli) of Naoussa. Built in the 15th century to protect the harbor from pirate attacks, the fortress is now partially sunken but still impressive, with low walls and openings that frame views over the marina and town.
The short walk out along the breakwater is worth it, especially around sunset when the light is soft, and the water glows. It can be a bit slippery when waves are high, so watch your step and wear decent footwear. From the castle, you can look back at the port, the church towers, and the white houses stacked on the hillside – a classic Naoussa postcard view.
4. Relax on the beaches near Naoussa
Some of the closest and best options are:
- Piperi Beach: This small sandy bay is just a short walk from town and popular with locals and visitors who stay in Naoussa. There are rocks on both sides, which are great for snorkeling, and you’ll find a few places for food and drinks nearby.
- Kolymbithres Beach: Known for its smooth, sculpted granite rocks and shallow coves, Kolymbithres looks almost lunar in places and is one of the most iconic beaches on Paros. You can get there by car or bus, or even by a small boat taxi from Naoussa harbour in high season.
- Monastiri Beach (Paros Park): Set in a small bay beneath a monastery, Monastiri offers calm waters and a dramatic rocky landscape around the Paros Park peninsula. There’s usually a beach bar and some sunbeds, and you’re right at the trailheads for several hiking paths in the beautiful Paros park.
- Santa Maria and Lageri: A little further out, these beaches offer more space and a bit more of a wild feel, especially Lageri with its quieter, more natural setting.
If you don’t have a car, check local buses or ask about the boat taxis that shuttle between Naoussa and nearby beaches in summer.
5. Go shopping in the boutiques
Naoussa is one of the best places in the Cyclades for boutique shopping. Along the maze of alleys, you’ll find a mix of small designer stores, concept shops, handmade jewelry studios, art galleries, and more relaxed souvenir boutiques.
The quality is generally high, with many independent Greek brands and local makers. You’ll see everything from linen dresses and leather sandals to ceramics, natural cosmetics, and carefully curated home decor. It’s worth taking your time: many of the nicest shops are tucked into quiet corners away from the main flow.
Even if you’re not planning to buy much, an evening stroll through the lit‑up streets, with open doors and beautifully decorated windows, is an experience in itself.
In Petit Tipota, you can find a selection of clothing and classic-with-a-twist beach essentials. If you’re looking for some cool surfing stuff, you need to check A Bit of Salt. Tucked away in Naoussa, Heel (Hellenic Ethical Eco Lab) is a slow-fashion store showcasing Greek-made garments in organic fabrics.
6. Taste local wine at Moraitis Winery
Just outside the centre of Naoussa, Moraitis Winery is one of the best‑known wineries on Paros and a great place to spend a lazy afternoon or early evening. The family‑run winery has been producing wine for generations and focuses on local grape varieties such as Monemvasia and Mandilaria.
You can join a tasting, visit the cellars, and learn more about how Parian wine is made, or simply sit in the courtyard with a glass (or bottle) and some snacks.
If you can, try to time your visit in the late afternoon so you can walk back to Naoussa as the light starts to soften.
7. Enjoy dinner by the water
Naoussa is famous for its food scene, especially the restaurants lined up around the old port and along the waterfront. Tables are squeezed together on cobblestones next to fishing boats, plates of seafood and meze are carried out non‑stop, and the buzz of conversation and clinking glasses fills the air.
You’ll find everything from traditional tavernas to more modern, creative Greek cuisine. Popular spots in and around the port include long‑time favorites where you can try fresh fish, grilled octopus, and local specialties. Many places are small and fill up quickly in summer, so it’s a good idea to reserve if you have your heart set on a particular restaurant, or to arrive earlier in the evening.
8. Experience Naoussa’s nightlife
When the sun goes down, Naoussa transforms into one of the liveliest nightlife spots in the Cyclades, while still keeping things fairly relaxed and elegant. Music drifts out from bars in the alleys and around the harbor, lights hang over the streets, and people move slowly between restaurants, wine bars, and cocktail spots.
The area around the old port is the hub of nightlife, with iconic bars such as Linardo and Agosta known for their sea views, music, and late‑night dancing. In the alleys, you’ll find smaller cocktail bars and wine bars under trees and in stone courtyards, perfect if you prefer a quieter evening.
Some other good spots are Sommaripa (cocktail bar) and Aiola.
9. Explore Paros Park from Naoussa
Just a short drive or boat ride from Naoussa lies Paros Park, a protected coastal area with hiking trails, viewpoints, and small bays. The peninsula offers a very different landscape from the village: rugged rocks, low vegetation, and panoramic views over the sea and towards Naoussa.
Several marked trails loop around the park, taking you past a lighthouse (one of our favorite things to do in Paros), small chapels, and quiet coves where you can swim. The amphitheatre in the park sometimes hosts concerts and events in summer, which makes for a memorable night out under the stars.
Because Paros Park is so close, it’s easy to combine a morning hike and swim there with a relaxed afternoon and evening back in Naoussa.
Take a boat trip from Naoussa
In the high season, Naoussa is also a great place to organise a boat trip or a longer day cruise to other islands.
- Boat taxi to Kolymbithres and Monastiri: Small boats shuttle between Naoussa harbour and the beaches across the bay. The exact location is here. Boats to Monastiri beach depart hourly from Naoussa starting at 10:30 AM for a 13 € round-trip fare, dropping passengers at a pier on the beach’s west side, with the final return sailing at 6:30 PM.
- Day trips to Antiparos, Delos, or Naxos: Many operators offer full‑day cruises with swimming stops in clear blue bays, snorkeling, and lunch on board. You can book here.
- Sunset cruises: A more relaxed option if you just want to enjoy the coastline around Naoussa from the water in the golden hour
You’ll usually find stands around the harbor advertising different routes and prices; it’s worth comparing what’s included and checking the weather forecast before booking. Or you can book your boat trip in Paros in advance.
Practical tips for visiting Naoussa
How to get to Naoussa?
Naoussa is about 10–15 minutes by car from Parikia, where the main ferry port of Paros is located. You can reach Paros by ferry from Athens (Piraeus or Rafina) and several other Cycladic islands such as Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, and Syros.
From Parikia, you can:
- Pick up your rental car or take a taxi straight to Naoussa.
- Use the local KTEL bus service, which runs regularly between Parikia and Naoussa, especially in high season.
If you’re arriving at Paros airport (near Aliki), it’s about a 30–35 minute drive to Naoussa.
What is the best time to visit Naoussa?
Naoussa is at its most lively from late June to early September, when all restaurants, shops, and bars are open, and there are plenty of boat trips and beach services. However, this is also when it’s most crowded and hot, especially in the evenings around the port.
It’s calmer when you consider visiting in late May–June or September–early October, when the weather is usually pleasant, the sea is warm enough to swim, and most places are still open. Outside the main season, Naoussa becomes quieter, but some local businesses remain open, and you’ll have the alleys and viewpoints more to yourself.
Read more: What is the best time to visit Paros
Getting around Naoussa
Naoussa itself is compact, and the best way to get around town is on foot. The alleys in the centre are pedestrian and often steep, so be prepared for a bit of walking and leave the car at the edge of the old town. There are some big parking lots on the way out of Naoussa.
To reach beaches and other parts of Paros, you can use:
- Local buses: KTEL buses connect Naoussa with Parikia and several beaches and villages on the island.
- Car or scooter: Renting a car in Paros or a scooter gives you maximum flexibility to explore more remote beaches and villages at your own pace.
- Boat taxis and tours: In high season, boats from Naoussa harbor can take you to Kolymbithres, Monastiri, and other spots around the bay.
Best places to eat in Naoussa
If you’re wondering where to actually sit down and eat in Naoussa, here are a few places we liked, all very well reviewed online.
- Pita Frank – A small, lively grill house that’s become a bit of an institution for gyros in Naoussa. Portions are big, prices are very reasonable for Naoussa, and you can watch the team assemble your pita right in front of you.
- Notos Aegean Restaurant – A modern Greek restaurant with a big menu and a mix of classic dishes and more creative plates. It’s popular in high season, so don’t forget your reservation.
- Tsachpinis – Ouzeri ton Naftikon A long‑running fish tavern right on the harbour, known for its fresh seafood, meze and pasta dishes with a strong “by the sea” feeling. Try the grilled octopus, seafood risotto, and other Parian specialities!
Where to stay in Naoussa
- Archipelagos Studios: This is one of the best options if you’re looking for a family-style studio. Only 100m from the beach and close to the village.
- Joseph Studios: you can choose between a studio or appartement, close to the beach and the center of Naoussa. They have a nice swimming pool and a buffet breakfast.
- Senia Hotel: this exclusive hotel is located in Naoussa, Paros, seamlessly blends into its Cycladic landscape with classic white-and-blue architecture, offering spacious, well-designed rooms that are suitable for couples or families. There is a heated infinity pool, and breakfast made from local ingredients.
- Quartano Luxury Residence (Adults only): the hotel is situated near Naoussa’s centre. They have a gym, bakery, and salon, while rooms and suites offer tranquil pool views. The buffet breakfast kicks off the day nicely!