10 Spots to make you fall in love with Naoussa Greece

Let's continue on my summer vacation in Greece. If you haven't already please start by reading this piece on Paros that I posted a few days ago..

Majority of my vacation time was spent in the beautiful Island of Paros and specifically in the little charming village of Naoussa. This Aegean gem is a beautiful village, which represents the essence of Greek beauty and culture. Naoussa offers an enticing mix of coastal beauty and gastronomic delights, with its vibrant harbor, historical landmarks as well as a growing restaurant scene. In today's blog I want to share with you my top 10 places that I fell in love with during my stay in beautiful Naoussa.

But first let's explore how to get to Naoussa from Athens.

You have two primary modes of transportation to get to Naoussa; namely ferry and flight. The ferry option is an affordable and enjoyable way to reach Naoussa, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. From Athens, travelers can take a bus or taxi to the Piraeus Port, which serves as the main hub for ferries departing to Paros. The ferry journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on the specific ferry service chosen. Upon arriving at the Paros port, which is typically in Parikia, visitors can then take a local bus or a taxi for the short, scenic journey to Naoussa. This option allows travelers to seamlessly transition from the bustling urban atmosphere of Athens to the tranquil charm of Naoussa, all while enjoying the beauty of the Greek islands.

The second option is best for those who prefer a more direct route and do not mind spending an extra penny. There are domestic flights available from Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to Paros National Airport. The flight takes about 45 minutes, providing a swift and convenient option for those seeking to minimize travel time. Upon landing at Paros National Airport, travelers can easily arrange for a taxi or rental car to take them directly to Naoussa, offering a seamless and efficient journey.

My preferred means was the ferry because I wanted to enjoy the stunning sea views and also save a few coins. I'm not going to lie, the hustle of boarding the ferry is quite something especially if you are like me, an over packer. However, once on board the ride is comfortable and clean. A quick tip is to book a ferry that allows you to select your seats to avoid the rush of finding a comfortable seating space.

Where to stay while in Naoussa? You will not find tall chain hotels but chic vacation rentals are in plenty. I really wanted to stay at 8keys which had high reviews but it was fully booked on my travel dates. I ended up staying at Svoronos and it was so lovely. Vasiliki was super kind and the fresh spread of Greek breakfast set out every morning on the patio with the lovely buzz of cicadas in the background was an experience I looked forward to everyday.

Welcome to Naoussa! Here are my top 10 places in Naoussa that I still dream about.

Agioi Anargyroi Beach - Tranquil Bliss by the Sea

Agioi Anargyroi Beach, is a short stroll from Naoussa's center. Its beach has golden sand and crystal-clear waters which gently kiss the shore. This beach offers an idyllic escape. This was my afternoon plan for the second day in Naoussa. The beach is lined with sun beds and parasols owned by various establishments that you can easily hire for the day. A pair of sunbeds cost between $30 - $50 dollars. I loved it here especially because it was just a walking distance from my stay.

Pastello Seafood Restaurant - A Gastronomic Delight

A very short walk from Agioi Anargyroi Beach is this cute Italian restaurant decorated in pretty pastels. Pastello specializes in Italian cuisine with a heavy seafood influence. It's a romantic spot that I would recommend visiting in the evening so as to enjoy gorgeous sunsets at the rooftop. Order for an Italian or Greek bottle of wine to accompany your prosciutto crudo e mozarella di bufala campana pizza which I absolutely enjoyed.

Itria Cocktail Bar - Mixology with a View

For a taste of refined cocktails and an evening cool down, look no further than Itria Cocktail Bar. Perched in a strategic location on the gorgeous white washed cobblestone streets, this stylish bar offers an extensive menu of expertly crafted cocktails. Sip on your favorite libation as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Cycladic waters.

Moraitis Winery - Savoring Parian Wines

Wine enthusiasts can delve into Paros' viticultural heritage with a visit to Moraitis Winery. This was my plan for my 3rd day in Paros and has been an experience that I truly miss. The winery has such a deep and lovely family history and Savvas, the tour guide, was absolutely hilarious. They offer different packages including a tour of the winery, wine tasting and lunch. I indulged in the cheese and wine experience which costs about $40. Be sure to make your reservation in advance as they only take in a limited number of people at a time.

The Rada Restaurant - Exquisite Dining Experience

The Rada Restaurant is a culinary gem that elevates the dining experience in Naoussa. It is located along the Agioi Anargyroi Beach only a few minutes walk from the winery. With a focus on Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant combines fresh, local ingredients with innovative culinary techniques. The boho-chic ambiance and attentive service creates a dining atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting. I enjoyed dinner here on my 3rd day ( after tasting a bit too much of the Moraitis wine :)). Be sure to try the chocolate mousse 3 ways for dessert.

Panagia Church - Architectural Splendor

The church was on my daily route from Svoronos into the center. Steeped in history, Panagia Church is a cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into Naoussa's religious and architectural heritage. Dating back to the 15th century, this Byzantine church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Admire its iconic blue domes and intricate frescoes, and feel the echoes of centuries past within its sacred walls. Bring a tripod and capture a few Instagrammable moments.

Loukoumades - Sweet Temptations

I first discovered lukumadez in Athens and obviously was in search of them in Paros as soon as I got there. This was my daily dessert stop during my evening leisure walks in the center of Naoussa. The Greeks enjoy their sweets and this little piece of heaven is a must try when you visit the Cyclades. These traditional Greek donuts, deep-fried to golden perfection and drizzled with honey or chocolate, offer a delightful taste of Greek pastry craftsmanship. Loukoumades are a must-try treat as you explore Naoussa's culinary delights. Do not be put off by the long queues waiting to buy, trust me it's worth it!

Fotis Bar - A Local Gem for Refreshing Drinks

I stumbled upon this hidden gem on one of my evening walks. Only one word describes it. Breathtaking! Fotis Bar, a local favorite, captures the essence of Naoussa's laid-back charm. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, Fotis Bar is an ideal spot to unwind with refreshing drinks. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a local beverage, this bar provides a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. The views of the sea and the islands in the distance are nothing short of perfection.

Barbarossa - Seaside Relaxation

A stone throw away from the castle is Barbarossa restaurant. This is a landmark of Naoussa and is most likely the image you will find if you look up Naoussa online. Barbarossa stands as a culinary gem, offering visitors a seaside dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Mediterranean bliss. This charming restaurant is renowned for its relaxed ambiance and panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, inviting atmosphere, stunning vistas, and culinary excellence. Barbarossa invites patrons to savor the laid-back elegance of Naoussa's coastal charm.

Venetian Castle - A Historical Tapestry

Presiding over Naoussa, the Venetian Castle is a testament to the village's maritime history. If you did not know Naoussa, was originally a fishing village and the walk towards this castle displays this history beautifully with the old fisherman boats docked and floating on the dock. Explore Venetian Castle's well-preserved ruins, narrow pathways, and panoramic viewpoints. The castle's strategic location provides not only historical insights but also breathtaking vistas of the village and the Aegean Sea. Visit early in the morning for beautiful sunrise or in the evening to take in breathtaking sunsets

Naoussa, Greece, unfolds as a captivating destination where culinary excellence, cultural richness, and coastal beauty converge. From the tranquil shores of Agioi Anargyroi Beach to the refined dining experiences at Pastello Seafood Restaurant and The Rada, each place contributes to the unique allure of this Aegean village. Whether you're sipping cocktails with a view at Itria, exploring historical landmarks, or savoring sweet loukoumades by the sea, Naoussa invites you to embark on a sensory journey through the heart of Greek hospitality and charm.

Have you been to Naoussa? Please share your experience on your most memorable spots. Are you planning to visit soon? Feel free to reach out if you have any questions on how to make your visit amazing!