Welcome to our digital nomad guide from the heart of the Cyclades—Paros, a captivating Greek island that beckons with its timeless allure and traditional charm. For a whole month, we made Paros our home, and it was actually our first stop as digital nomads!
Our goal is to assemble a curated guide for fellow digital nomads seeking not just places to stay, but a slice of what slow travel life entails in each destination. We plan on making these guides for each place we stay for a month or longer so that eventually we’ll have a ranking of our favourite places to share with you.
From the food and navigating the island’s intricate transport network to how easy it is to communicate as English speakers. The aim here isn’t just to share anecdotes—it’s to equip you with firsthand experiences, insights, and honest appraisals that transcend the glossy travel brochures.
So, how do the ratings work? Essentially, it’s very simple. Both myself and my partner Manu have given each criteria a score out of 10, which I’ve taken the average of and used here to make this guide.
My Travel Must-Haves for Paros
As digital nomads, our travel essentials are geared towards ensuring productivity and comfort, especially in a destination like Paros. Here’s a list of must-haves that made our stay both efficient and enjoyable:
1. eSIM for Mobile Connectivity
Staying connected is crucial for digital nomads. In Paros, while Wi-Fi is widely available in accommodations and cafes, having a reliable mobile data connection is indispensable. We opted for an eSIM, which provided us with seamless internet access across the island. It’s a hassle-free solution, especially for those who need to be online for work or navigation without relying solely on public Wi-Fi networks.
2. Power Bank
With the amount of tech we carry around, a high-capacity power bank is essential. It’s perfect for long days out when you’re using your phone for navigation, translation, or capturing content. A power bank ensures your devices never run out of juice at critical moments. There’s plenty available on Amazon and I’d recommend purchasing two so you’re never left short!
3. Noise-Canceling Headphones
Paros is generally a tranquil place, but for those moments in bustling cafes or during occasional street festivities, noise-canceling headphones are invaluable. They help create a personal workspace bubble, allowing you to focus and work efficiently, no matter your surroundings.
I use these from Sony and have done for a few years – I love them!
4. International Travel Adapter
Greece uses the Type C and F plug types, different from those in many other countries. An international travel adapter is a small but crucial item, ensuring you can charge and use your devices without any hassle.
5. Greek Phrasebook or Language App
While English is widely spoken as you’ll see below, having a Greek phrasebook or a language app can enhance your experience. It’s useful for reading signs, menus, and making a deeper connection with locals.
Here’s a few useful phrases to help you out in Greece (and impress the locals!):
- Hello/Goodbye: “Γειά σου” (YAH-soo) – Informal, used for one person. For a group, use “Γειά σας” (YAH-sas).
- Please/You’re welcome: “Παρακαλώ” (pa-ra-ka-LOH)
- Thank you: “Ευχαριστώ” (ef-ha-ri-STOH)
- Yes/No: “Ναι” (neh) / “Όχι” (OH-hee)
- Excuse me/Sorry: “Συγγνώμη” (see-GHNO-mee)
- How much is this? “Πόσο κοστίζει αυτό;” (PO-so ko-STEE-zee af-TOH?)
- Do you speak English? “Μιλάτε αγγλικά;” (mee-LAH-teh ang-lee-KAH?)
- I don’t understand: “Δεν καταλαβαίνω” (then ka-ta-la-VEH-no)
- Where is the bathroom? “Πού είναι η τουαλέτα;” (poo EE-neh ee tua-LEH-ta?)
- Help!: “Βοήθεια!” (vo-EE-thee-ah)
- Water: “Νερό” (neh-ROH)
- Food: “Φαγητό” (fa-GHEE-toh)
- Beer/Wine: “Μπύρα” (BEE-rah) / “Κρασί” (kra-SEE)
- Check, please: “Τον λογαριασμό, παρακαλώ” (ton lo-ga-ri-a-SMO, pa-ra-ka-LOH)
- Good morning: “Καλημέρα” (ka-lee-MEH-ra)
- Good night: “Καληνύχτα” (ka-lee-NEEKH-ta)
- I would like…: “Θα ήθελα…” (tha EE-the-la…)
- Emergency: “Εκτακτη ανάγκη” (ek-TAK-tee a-NA-ghkee)
Remember, even a little effort in speaking the local language can go a long way in showing respect and creating friendly interactions.
6. Travel Insurance
Last but not least, comprehensive travel insurance is a must. It should cover everything from health emergencies to travel delays and lost equipment. It’s the safety net that gives you peace of mind as you enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle in Paros.
Our favourite provider is SafetyWing who offer insurance targeted for digital nomads, meaning it’ll cover you all over the world continuously for a monthly fee with no fixed contract. You can use the calculator below to get an idea of pricing:
These essentials made our month-long stay in Paros not just manageable, but truly enjoyable. They ensured we could work effectively, explore freely, and immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of this Greek paradise. For fellow digital nomads planning a journey to Paros, these items are worth considering for a smooth and productive experience.
Overall Score: 8.2
Of course, the opinions here are subjective and open to discussion. Our thoughts are targeted to our likes and will likely differ from some others! Here are some key facts about our time in Paros to consider while reading this review:
Time of Year
We stayed during the month of October, which is right on the edge of the shoulder season. It’s normal for the Greek islands to close in November for the off-season (by close, I mean hotels close, no flights, etc.). This means our “quietness” score is by no means reflective of what it would be if you went in mid-Summer, for example.
Accommodation
We tend to favour AirBnBs and chose this one near Naoussa, which we managed to get for a bargain price (£900 for the month), given that Naoussa is considered the most expensive part of Paros.
Our Likes/Dislikes
We are by no means party people; in fact, we’re a mix of autistic and ADHD, which means we tend to feel very uncomfortable in crowded situations/loud places! With that in mind, we love outdoorsy stuff like hiking, beaches, etc., so that will be a big factor in what we consider “fun activities”. Don’t expect any nightlife recommendations!
Food: 8.5
Safe to say, we absolutely fell in love with Greek food during our stay! Paros is filled with restaurants, and Naoussa, in particular, has a whole range from traditional tavernas to more trendy dining options from a range of cultures. We tend to side ourselves more on the traditional end and love places with authentic food and big portions – of which there are plenty here!
A few of the restaurants I’d recommend in Naoussa include:
- Souvlakia Kargas (£, Gyros/Souvlaki)
- Pita Frank (£, Gyros/Souvlaki)
- Sigi Ikthios (£££, Seafood Restaurant)
- Kafeneion – i Palia Agora (££, Traditional Taverna)
- Almond Cafe (££, Breakfast/Brunch)
- Loukomades (£, Traditional Doughnuts)
- Ragoussis (£, Best. Bakery. Ever.)
While on the subject of food, here are some must-try Greek dishes:
- Souvlaki: A Greek street food classic, juicy skewers of marinated meat or vegetables, sizzling over open flames, delivering a burst of savoury goodness in every flavourful bite.
- Gyros: Succulent layers of seasoned meat, often pork or chicken, roasted on a rotating spit. Usually nestled within a warm pita alongside crisp veggies and a dollop of tangy tzatziki. It’s the quintessential grab-and-go treat, but can also be enjoyed as a “portion” without the pitta (likewise for souvlaki).
- Pastitsio: The Greek comfort classic, embodies layers of aromatic minced meat nestled between tubes of pasta, draped in a luscious béchamel sauce, and baked to golden perfection, like a moussaka but with pasta.
- Moussaka: A comforting symphony of layers: velvety eggplant, savoury minced meat, and creamy béchamel baked to golden perfection, embodies the heart and soul of Greek home-cooked goodness.
- Loukoumades: Golden pillows of fried dough, delicately crispy on the outside and pillowy-soft within, a heavenly treat traditionally drenched in warm honey and sprinkled with nuts.
Prices: 7
As one of the more touristic islands, Paros is certainly not the cheapest option out there, however, it’s still miles better than the likes of Mykonos or Santorini.
As I’ve mentioned previously, we’re not the kind to eat in fancy restaurants (or at least, not very often), so when eating out we’d most often find ourselves in tavernas or souvlaki restaurants. I’d say the average cost of a gyros pitta was around €4, which in my opinion is not bad at all!
I’ll talk more about supermarkets below; however, we found our shops to be just a little less than what they would be in the UK. This is largely down to not having many large supermarkets around, so you need to pay a bit higher in the smaller stores.
Fun Activities: 7
There are lots of beautiful beaches, cute villages, and tours you can do around Paros. We both mentioned that really the only thing missing for us is more outdoorsy hiking-style adventures.
For a month-long stay, we had plenty to do and lots to explore. Here are a few things I’d recommend:
- Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise: Relax, swim, and explore the unique beauty of the Cycladic Sea on a full-day cruise from Paros to Antiparos, Despotiko, and the Blue Lagoon. Discover caves and enjoy Greek food with unlimited drinks.
- Day trip to Antiparos: On the above tour, you’ll explore hidden coves, but the town and island itself are well worth a visit. You can take a short ferry from Pounda that runs pretty continuously and will have you in Antiparos port in around 5 minutes.
- Pantasoulas Cruise around Paros: Departing from the picturesque port of Naousa, you can enjoy a 6-hour cruise (10:30-16:30) around the North coasts of Paros in 4 selected locations with crystal clear waters that are only accessible by boat. Also, the absolute BEST lunch I’ve ever had on any tour ever.
- Exploring the Villages: From the mountain retreat of Lefkes, with its neoclassical charm, to the artistic enclave of Marpissa, adorned with colourful murals, and the serene coastal village of Aliki, each corner of Paros boasts its own unique allure.
Beauty: 7
Paros is a picturesque embodiment of Greek island beauty. Its landscapes are a harmonious blend of traditional white-washed buildings, azure seas, and golden beaches. The island’s natural beauty is breathtaking, with scenic views around every corner. From the charming streets of Naoussa to the tranquil beaches and the rolling hills dotted with ancient ruins, Paros offers a visual feast for the eyes. The island’s beauty also lies in its sunsets, which paint the sky in hues of orange and pink, providing a serene backdrop for evening strolls. For digital nomads who appreciate natural aesthetics and photographic opportunities, Paros is a paradise.
Now after the above you might be thinking why a 7? Why not a 10? For us it was really down to the diversity of the landscape. There’s plenty of cute whitewashed villages and a few lovely beaches, but during the time of year we visited we found it was missing a lot of lush greenery or things to see other than the aforementioned. Paros is absolutely stunning however it’s not as visually diverse as some other places you might visit.
Safety: 9.5
One of the most reassuring aspects of Paros is its high level of safety. As digital nomads, feeling secure in our environment is crucial, and Paros offers that peace of mind. The crime rate is exceptionally low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. Whether wandering through the streets late at night or leaving equipment at a café table while taking a break, we felt secure at all times. The local community is respectful and protective of both residents and visitors, creating a safe haven for those seeking a stress-free nomadic lifestyle.
Public Transport: 9
Navigating Paros is surprisingly convenient, even for those who are used to the complexities of big city transport systems. The public transport here is reliable and covers most of the island, making it easy for digital nomads like us to explore different areas. Buses are frequent, affordable, and connect all the major towns and beaches. For more flexibility, renting a scooter or a car is also a great option, especially to reach more secluded spots however we didn’t feel it was necessary. You can find all the bus timetables on the KTEL website which varies depending on the season.
English Spoken: 9
One of the comforts of staying in Paros as a digital nomad is the widespread use of English. Most locals, especially those in the service industry, speak English perfectly. This makes everything from ordering food, asking for directions, to setting up a workspace hassle-free. It’s always appreciated to learn a few basic Greek phrases, but you’ll find that communication here is not a barrier.
Weather: 8.5
The weather in Paros is one of its biggest draws. During our stay in October, we experienced mild and pleasant weather, perfect for both work and leisure. The island enjoys a Mediterranean climate, meaning hot, dry summers and mild winters. This makes it an ideal destination for digital nomads who prefer a warmer climate. The sea breeze in the evenings is particularly refreshing, perfect for winding down after a day’s work.
Quietness: 9
Paros, especially during the shoulder season, offers a tranquil environment that’s ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The peacefulness of the island is conducive to productivity and creativity. Even in the more popular areas like Naoussa, the noise level is significantly lower compared to other tourist hotspots in Greece. This quietness is a luxury for digital nomads seeking focused work time.
Of course our experience here is targeted towards the shoulder season. If you visit Paros during the busier summer months you likely wont experience such a high score for quietness!
Supermarkets: 7.5
While Paros doesn’t have large supermarket chains, the local markets and stores are charming and well-stocked with essentials and local delicacies. Prices can be slightly higher due to the island’s touristic nature, but the quality of fresh produce, especially local cheeses, olives, and seafood, is exceptional. For digital nomads planning longer stays, these markets offer everything needed to set up a comfortable and sustainable living space.
In conclusion, Paros is a gem in the Cyclades for digital nomads. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern conveniences creates an ideal environment for both work and leisure. Whether you’re looking for a temporary workspace or a longer-term retreat, Paros offers an experience that combines the best of productivity and Greek island charm. Stay tuned for more guides as we continue our journey as digital nomads, exploring and ranking our favourite destinations around the world.
Reviews from the Community
Read on for reviews from fellow travellers about staying in Paros for an extended period of time. Want to contribute? Drop me an email at alicia@thechaosdiaries.com
Jill – Jill on Journey
I love thinking back to my time in Paros in September/October 2021. While the island is not as calm as other Cycladic islands such as Folegandros or Milos, it’s also by far not as touristy as famous Mykonos or Santorini. I loved how we dove into the local life so quickly. The wifi worked great in our apartment and there are also some amazing cafés where you can work from in Parikia and Naoussa.
When we didn’t work, we were able to spend so much time outside in the sun (which was still very warm in October). I especially enjoyed strolling through the small villages such as Lefkes. And a day trip to Antiparos was clearly one of my favorite things to do in Paros during my free time.
Also, I can highly recommend visiting PAWS Paros to cuddle their cats or go for a walk with one of their dogs. Especially when you’re in Paros for a few weeks, this can be a lovely routine and you can support a local animal shelter during your workation.
Score: 8.5/10
