I was lucky enough to visit this gorgeous island and I can't wait to go back.14:46, 02 Jul 2026Updated 14:48, 02 Jul 2026Summer is here, and with that comes summer holidays. Living in the UK, we’re blessed to have Europe on our doorstep - but with so many options, how can you decide where you want to go? There’s the popular spots of course, places like Barcelona in Spain or Mykonos in Greece.‌However, these destinations can quickly become overrun with other tourists who have had the same idea as you and what should have been a relaxing break can soon become an overcrowded nightmare.‌Luckily, there are plenty of places that are just as beautiful but without the sky-high price tag and teeming crowds. One such place is a charming Greek island, just a few hours ferry ride from the bustling capital of Athens.‌I was lucky enough to visit this island a few years ago, and it absolutely blew my mind.It’s got the bright blue and shining white buildings that are iconic of Greece, as well as the crystal clear beaches - some of which look like they’ve been plucked straight from another planet.There’s charm in every corner of the cobbled streets, as well as delicious food and laid-back beachfront bars.‌This paradise is Paros, a pear-shaped island in the middle of the Aegean Sea. It’s the perfect spot to base yourself if you fancy a bit of island hopping, with its even quieter sister island, Antiparos, just minutes away by boat.When you step off the boat at the main Paros port in Parikia, you are greeted by gorgeous beaches and a market square lined with tavernas and bars.‌Bougainvillaea grows across the narrow streets, and there are plenty of boutique shops to explore, too.Sleepy cats wander to and fro across the alleys, and if you fancy taking a day trip, you can hire a car, scooter or even a buggy to travel across the island to the other village of Naoussa.‌Here, the town buzzes with life, and you can eat some of the tastiest seafood, freshly caught. It's also home to one of the island’s most stunning beaches.Kolymbithres looks alien due to its large, clay rock formations that line the bright blue, calm ocean.If you fancy it, you can hire a sunbed - but the rock formations make a perfectly good bed in of themselves.Article continues belowSome sections are small enough for one or two, while other, larger recesses can fit dozens. It’s a fabulous place to spend the day, dipping in and out of the water and sunning yourself on the white-washed cliffs that surround it.Behind the bay, there are a few bars and taverns where you can buy drinks and snacks, then carry them back over to the beach. Make sure to take all your rubbish with you to avoid spoiling this beautiful bay.