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Imerovigli & Paros Recommendations Needed

I am visiting Greece for the first time with my 2 girlfriends May 29th - June 7th. We land in Athens are going to Santorini first, then Paros, back to do the final 2 days in Athens. I am looking for recommendations of places to stay. We are mainly looking at Imerovigli for our Santorini stay, and then in Paros we are unsure, but were thinking Naousa? In Paros, we want to be close to the beach and nightlife, but we are looking at mid-range budget - preferably between $200-$500 per night. In Imerovigli, we want a great view.

Things we want to do at some point on our trip - boat day, wineries (I heard Santorini is better for this), a sunset caldera dinner, beach day with maybe a little bit of a party scene or at least lively - doesn't have to be Mykonos vibes. And then of course we want to just walk and explore the different areas. If you have any suggestions on places to stay, eat, activities to book, etc - we're all ears!

And for reference, we're three girls in our late 30s, early 40s. Love good food, wine, some partying or something more upbeat, but also will want some more laid-back time. We want to experience the views in Santorini, and we love beaches and boating as well.

Thanks in advance for any tips or suggestions!

Posted by
3577 posts

I don't have any advice to give about Santorini; we've only been twice, mainly for logistical reasons, and anyway, we avoid crowds.

In Paros, we've stayed almost a month over the years. Naoussa is the part of Paros I hate, it's called the "little Mykonos." It's a very popular destination for wedding planners, travel agencies, and Instagrammers. In short, it's what we call a "tourist honeypot," (which I suppose is why you mentioned Naoussa).

However, I think it could work for what you're looking for, especially since it won't be too crazy in early June (though still quite crowded). The other option, if you're looking for a lively atmosphere, is to stay in Parikia, the port and capital. It's less chic and less expensive than Naoussa and a bit more "Greek." Furthermore, it's the hub for all the buses on Paros, in case you don't have a car.

If you're looking to swim, the beach at Naoussa is ridiculous (and windy) compared to the other beaches on Paros. Beach activities (swimming, diving, kitesurfing, windsurfing, etc.) are mainly found on the east coast, where the best beaches are.

Regarding wines, those from Santorini are world-renowned. You can find winery tours with tastings, or even better, you can go on your own if you have a car.

In Paros, right near Naoussa, there's a winery called "Moraitis" with excellent, internationally acclaimed wines. (Cheaper than those in Santorini)

https://moraitiswines.gr/en/mainpage/

And just 3 minutes south of Naoussa, there's also a local brewery, "56 Isles," which produces excellent beers and where you can enjoy a tasting:

https://www.56islesbeer.gr/

Regarding accommodation, you'll find many options. On the islands, don't focus solely on hotels, as they represent a minority of the available accommodations. Many places called simply "studios" or "apartments" offer the same services and comforts as traditional hotels and allow 3 or more guests to stay in a single unit. As usual booking.com, Google Maps, and Airbnb will help you find them.

In Paros in June, for two people, we never paid more than €150 per night in perfect accommodations not far from the beach and amenities. But we always rent cars. Without a car on an island, you lose more than 50% of your accommodation options and rates.

Posted by
12 posts

For fabulous view in Imerovigli, have a look at Villa Lukas or other accomodation in that very central location (look on google maps). I stayed there a couple of years ago and loved it.
In terms of Paros, unlike Jolui, I like Naoussa very much although I agree it has developed into a very upmarket village in recent years. However it is still, IMHO, an incredibly beautiful village and you are travelling at a quieter time. I would look at accomodation in the area of Agioi Anargyroi beach, which is not nearly as windy as Piperi beach I think Jolui is referring to. There are a wide range of types of accomodation for different budgets in the area. I often stay in that area, or very centrally and have never yet paid over €75! Its a quieter area and only a 10 minute eady walk to the village. Nearby great beaches are Ambelas (a few km in a taxi), or Kolymbithres and Monastiri accessible by boat from Naoussa harbour. For a beach party vibe, have a look at Punda and Santa Maria beaches on Paros as they may be what you are looking for. Hope you have a fabulous trip!

Posted by
3577 posts

Haha!
I knew Missymoo would come and proselytize for Naoussa! So, in fact, that makes two votes for Naoussa, including mine, since I suspect that's what you're after.