2Paros – For Chic Villages, Windsurfing & Island-Hopping Ease

Suggested stay: 3 days
Next, take a short ferry ride to Paros, one of the rising stars of the Cyclades. Often described as a more relaxed alternative to Mykonos, Paros is stylish yet understated, making it a fantastic stop for a few days of unwinding and exploring.
The picturesque port town of Naoussa is an Instagram favorite, with its bougainvillea-lined alleys and harbor-side restaurants. For a quieter vibe, base yourself in Lefkes, a mountain village with stunning views and old-world charm.
Paros is also known for its water sports, particularly windsurfing and kitesurfing on the beaches of Golden Beach and Pounda. You can take boat trips to nearby Antiparos, a smaller, bohemian island home to sea caves and celebrity hideaways.
Why it works: Paros strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity, offering both laid-back beaches and vibrant nightlife, without the crowds of Mykonos.