Paros Named World’s Best Island for 2025 – Here’s Why

In a surprise move, Paros, among the Cyclades’ most tranquil islands, has been named the “best island in the world” for 2025 by readers of Travel + Leisure. Once a peaceful getaway, this lovely island has now skyrocketed to the No. 1 spot on the World’s Best Islands list, a significant leap from 24th place just a year ago. What sets Paros apart from the world’s most famous islands? But its glorious golden beaches, charming whitewashed villages and history stretching back millennia are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what this relatively unknown Greek treasure has to offer. Lesser known than its jet-setty neighbor Mykonos (a party magnet with high-end resorts), Paros gives visitors who want to get away from it all — but not from the bounty and splendor of the Cyclades — a chance to do just that. It’s been described as a “smaller Mykonos” for its similar allure, but with smaller crowds and a calmer tempo. One of Paros’ most charming towns endangers its appeal. Its vibrant nightlife, whitewashed buildings and quaint cafes nestled on narrow streets carry a Mediterranean flourish. While it is much less boisterous than Mykonos, Naoussa is arguably the next big spo*t for people looking for an authentic, yet slightly lively, Greek experience, stat. Whether you are relaxing with fresh seafood by the port, or getting lost in the maze like streets, Naoussa has it all – at a much more reasonable price than its sister island.