Woof, wanna visit Paros, Greece with your dog? As a former furry Greek Island beach bum, let me just bark that Paros, Greece is one Mediterranean gem totally worthy of some wet nose sniffing! Greece, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, ancient history, and picturesque islands, beckons travelers from around the globe – both human and canine. While Paros may not be as PAWpular as some of its more famous neighbors (like honeymooning Santorini and pawty island Mykonos), it offers a unique island charm to be experienced with your dog. Perk up your ears for my TOP DOG barks below!
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First bark first, why should you visit Paros?
Nestled in the heart of the mesmerizing Aegean Sea, Paros is a hidden gem within the Cyclades archipelago. With its pristine beaches, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, this jaw-droppin’ Greek island attracts travelers seeking an authentic Mediterranean experience. When my humans and I were island-hopping in Greece, we chose to set our paws in Paros and call it home for several months due to the following reasons:
#1 PAWstatic Beaches
Paros boasts some of the most enchanting beaches in the Cyclades. Golden sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters characterize sPAWts like Kolymbithres and Santa Maria. Whether you’re a sunbather, water sports enthusiast, or nature lover, the diverse range of beaches on the island offers something for everyone. Arf-my-Dog! Just picture yourself lounging under the warm Greek sun, surrounded by stunning landscapes. AWOOO, I think I’m ready to return to my beach bum life already!
#2 Charming Villages
One of my humans’ favorite parts about traveling is meeting other humans (and for me, it’s sniffing and chasing furry buttocks). For this reason, we arf-solutely love connecting with locals and other travelers while exploring the traditional villages at Paros, where whitewashed buildings with blue accents create a PAWfect, postcard-like backdrop. Parikia, the island’s capital a.k.a. my home away from home, welcomes visitors with labyrinthine streets, vibrant markets, and intriguing historic sites like the Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church. And there’s Naoussa, a fishing village turned TOP DOG destination, sets off an authentic ambiance with its narrow alleys, bustling harbor, and waterfront tavernas.
#3 Cultural Riches
PAWS DOWN, Paros is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Arf-ter all, we are in Greece, one of the most ancient civilizations in the world! For humans, the Archaeological Museum in Parikia houses artifacts dating back to ancient times, providing a glimpse into the island’s storied past. And, be sure to sniff out the iconic Frankish Castle or venture into the Valley of the Butterflies (on-leash dogs are welcome) to witness the natural beauty and historical significance that define Paros. Regardless of where I set my alpha paws, I sniffed ARF-mazing architecture everywhere!
#4 Paw-lickin’ Food
WOOF! It’s no head-tiltin’ surprise here, but Greek cuisine is renowned for its to-beg-for flavors and healthy dishes, and Paros takes it to a new level. Mmm mmm. As an international dog foodie, I am the first to bark about my love for Greek food. Indulge in local specialties like fresh seafood, savory moussaka (my human’s favorite), and dreamy baklava. Wander through the charming streets and discover quaint tavernas offering a culinary journey that captures the essence of Greek gastronomy. Sniff out my list of favorite Greek food HERE.
#5 Authentic Island Atmosphere
Unlike some of its more bustling neighbors, Paros retains an authentic island atmosphere which I wag my stylish undocked tail in delight. The fewer tourists, the better. That is partly why I became a furry beach bum here for several months! The slower pace of life and the warmth of the locals make it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing escape, away from tourist central. Enjoy the simple pleasures of sipping coffee or tea at a seaside cafe, strolling through traditional markets, and savoring the unhurried beauty of daily life on the island.
Paros is a haven for travelers seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or simply a traveler yearning for an authentic Mediterranean experience, Paros welcomes you with open paws.
AWOOO, are you already to pack your bags and set forth on a journey to discover the unparalleled allure of this Greek island PAWradise? Before you do so, keep on sniffing if you should bring your dog along!
Is Paros, Greece Dog-Friendly?
Arf-solutely! Exploring the enchanting iIsland of Paros, Greece with your furry companion is easy peasy! Compared to Santorini and Mykonos, Paros is more chill and laid-back, which was one of the reasons why my humans decided to spend more time here than the more PAWpular islands.
Here’s why visiting Paros with your dog is a match made in travel & dog heaven:
#1 Dog-Friendly Atmosphere
PAWS DOWN, Paros welcomes your furry traveler with open paws! Many cafes and restaurants in the main towns of Parikia and Naoussa have outdoor seating, making it easy for you and your dog to enjoy a leisurely meal together. As a matter of bark, I’ve sat my furry buttocks on plenty of human chairs INSIDE restaurants here and throughout Greece (although you may get a NO sometimes, it’s usually a YES – generally barking). I’ve also sniffed water bowls outside various establishments, which is a clear sign that Paros is a destination where dogs are not just tolerated, but embraced.
I can’t bark out how many times I was offered water without my human’s request. Dogs are usually allowed inside restaurants and bars without issues, making dining out with a dog in Greece FUN. In touristy areas, your dog will be treated pretty well – with Greece’s lurking economic pawblems, most establishments (especially restaurants) are willing to accommodate you in exchange for your business.
BARKS OF CAUTION: With that barked, there is a high number of stray and feral dogs in Paros and throughout Greece. The same goes for cats. This is obviously a heartbreaking situation for any dog or animal lover to witness. Without a doubt, tails are lowered.
To bark the least, Greece’s homeless animal pawblem is tough to tackle. Regardless of where you go in Greece – from the cities to the islands, you’re likely to encounter more than several homeless dogs in a single day. 🙁 Animal activists estimate that there are 2 million stray dogs and cats in Athens alone. Proposed neutering to control the stray pawpulation is, unfortunately, met by opposition in efforts to preserve “purebreds.” In 2004, local authorities poisoned tens of thousands of homeless dogs as Athens prepared to clean up the streets for the Olympics.
While some are neighborhood dogs who are somewhat looked after and fed regularly, most are street dogs who have to fend for themselves – rummaging through garbage, finding shade and water in Greece’s deadly triple-digit summers, and sometimes roaming in packs for security. And, even the dogs who aren’t homeless with “owners” and access to food don’t necessarily live good lives – they’re often tethered outside as “guard dogs” without protection from the extreme heat or rain and subjected to the abuse of obnoxious children or evil adults passing by.
Even though most strays and feral dogs I’ve encountered in Greece have been friendly, it’s imPAWtant to keep your dog away for health and safety issues.
#2 Scenic Walks and Hikes
AWOOO, the island’s diverse landscape is a haven for nature-loving dogs and their owners. From serene coastal walks to more challenging hikes inland, Paros offers a variety of trails suitable for all fitness levels, even for tiny furry athletes like myself. The 3.7 out-and-back Byzantine Trail, leading from Lefkes to Prodromos, is a particularly scenic route where you and your dog can take in the island’s natural beauty.
#3 Dog-Friendly Beaches
I love beach-bummin’ it here! Paros boasts an array of stunning beaches, and the tail-waggin’ news is that many of them are dog-friendly. Even if they are “technically” not, the rules are very lax from my observation. While some beaches may have restrictions during peak tourist season, there are still plenty of stretches where your canine companion can frolic in the sand and surf alongside you. Kolymbithres Beach, with its unique granite rock formations and craggy coves, is one such canine haven. ARF, let’s start digging for gold until the sun comes down!
#4 Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Sniffing out suitable accommodations for you and your dog is a breeze in Paros. Numerous hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals are pet-friendly, ensuring a hassle-free stay for both you and your furry family member. Some establishments even go the extra mile, providing amenities such as pet beds, bowls, and special treats to make your dog feel right at home. How much should you expect to pay for your dog’s stay? Keep pawing below for more info on dog-friendly accommodations in Paros.
#5 Cultural Excursions
While many historic sites and museums may not permit dogs, Paros offers ample outdoor attractions where you can immerse yourself in the island’s rich history without leaving your dog behind. Explore the ancient marble quarries near Marathi or wander through the labyrinthine streets of Parikia and Naoussa to soak in the island’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. Even if the museum or indoor attraction doesn’t allow dogs, you can still take your dog to sniff around and explore the exterior grounds (and snap a few photos)!
Where should you stay with your dog in Paros, Greece?
Paros, with its warm hospitality and dog-friendly atmosphere, offers a variety of accommodation options that welcome both you and your furry family member. REAL BARKS: I’ve never had to pay extra fees for my stay in Paros or anywhere in Greece. WOOF-HOO! Be sure to choose the pet-friendly filters and confirm with the establishment prior to booking. Sniff out my tips on how to find dog-friendly accommodations HERE.
When choosing where to stay with your dog in Paros, consider the following options below.
#1 Hotels
Many hotels in Paros are dog-friendly (or pet-friendly). Look for accommodations that explicitly mention their pet-friendly policies and inquire about any additional fees or amenities they offer for your canine companion. Again, some hotels may even provide pet beds, bowls, and treats (although I haven’t gotten them myself).
#2 Vacation Rentals
Opting for a vacation rental, such as a villa or apartment, can be an excellent choice for dog pawrents. These private accommodations often have more space and a home-like atmosphere (like a private balcony), allowing your dog to feel more at ease. If the dog policy isn’t clear at the time of booking, be sure to communicate with the property owner or manager in advance to ensure they are open to hosting guests with dogs.
My go-to site for sniffing dog-friendly apartments is Booking.com, which I prefer over AirBnB (my humans and I had some bad AirBnB experiences, but to each its own). Booking.com is a PAWstatic resource for finding dog-friendly “AirBnB-like” accommodations in Paros, and that is our #1 site for finding temporary apartments abroad. Be sure to use the pet-friendly filters!
#3 Beachfront Resorts
ARF, wanna live it up on the Greek islands? As Paros boasts such beautiful beaches, staying at a beachfront resort can be an ARF-mazing experience for both you and your dog. Some resorts in Paros are known for being dog-friendly, offering easy access to the beach where your dog can enjoy the sand and surf (for the dogs who enjoy a good swim, which I turn my nose up). Be sure to check with the resort about their pet policies and any restrictions they may have.
#4 Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts
Paros is dotted with cozy guesthouses and bed & breakfasts, many of which are open to hosting guests with dogs. Because smaller establishments often provide a more personalized experience, the property owners may be more flexible in accommodating your dog’s stay. ARF course, check their reviews and dog policies, and contact the property directly with any questions.
#5 Lefkes, a Quaint Mountain Village
If you prefer a quieter and more secluded setting, consider staying in Lefkes, a head-tiltin’ mountain village in the heart of Paros. Some accommodations in Lefkes offer a tranquil environment and may be more inclined to welcome dogs. The village also makes the PAWfect place for you to take your dog on a stroll.
Where I rested my furry paws in Paros:
Casa di Roma
Main Street, Paros
WOOF, “pets” stay free here! This dog-friendly hotel with an outdoor pool and poolside bar is just .5 miles from the Port of Parikia. It offers clean rooms of different sizes with refrigerators and a rooftop terrace. It’s so dog-friendly that there’s even a Jack Russell in the lobby who runs the show here with his human. Since he was beta, we got along quite well with lots of tail-waggin’. No growls! And, arf course, I sniffed out a cat or two on this well-maintained property – AWOOO, it’s Greece arf-ter all. They offer breakfast for a surcharge, which my humans opted out of.
Book your dog-friendly room at Casa di Roma NOW!
9 Muses
Parikia, Paros
“Pets” (I mean, dogs) also stay free here, but there is a limit of one per accommodation. 9 Muses has quite the collection of breath-taking dog-friendly apartments near the Port of Parikia. It has the resort feel on the property with sea views, a pool, and beautiful gardens. Equipped with a kitchenette, each unit is sizable but sets off a homey vibe with its alluring rustic decor. Since my human cared for a new litter of kittens here, this place holds a special place in her heart. On the other PAW, I was quite upset that she was giving food away! Grr. I also sniffed out some free roaming chickens from a nearby farm. Like Casa di Roma, they also offer breakfast for a surcharge, which my humans and I also did not try.
Book your dog-friendly apartment at 9 Muses NOW!
Before booking, it’s crucial to confirm their pet policies, any associated fees, and to ensure they are well-prepared for your dog’s stay. With the right choice of lodging, you and your dog can enjoy a PAWsome stay on the beautiful island of Paros. Sniff out my tips on how to find dog-friendly accommodations HERE.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Paros
Again, pretty much every restaurant in Paros is dog-friendly, at least from my experience. Whether you want to dine indoor or outdoor, dining with your dog is generally NOT a PAWblem. ARF, sniff out some of these dog-friendly restaurants where I’ve sat my furry buttocks on a human chair:
Mana Mana – Situated on the vibrant streets of Parikia, Mana Mana is one suPAW cute sPAWt to get your grub on! I love how it’s located under a tree, which means plenty of shade and protection from the often scorching hot Greek Island sun.
Elaea – Located on the Port of Parikia, this joint serves up chops-lickin’ fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Be sure to get your furry paws on their Greek salad and grilled octopus.
Kialoa Bar – I sniffed out this cool bar with a Hawaiian name on the main beachfront of Parikia. It offers an all-day entertainment vibe, making it a PAWfect place to get a drink.
Sniff out my favorite Greek food HERE.
REAL BARKS: Paros stands as a hidden gem for travelers seeking a dog-friendly destination. From welcoming locals and scenic walks to dog-friendly accommodations and beaches, this enchanting Greek island offers an unforgettable experience for you and your furry traveler. So, pack your bags, grab the leash and carrier, and embark on a memorable adventure to Paros, where you can experience the beauty of Greece with your dog.
ARF, that’s all I have for now! Hope you enjoy visiting Paros, Greece with your dog! Feel free to share your experience with me. BARK AT ME.
Markin’ it up,
Roger Wellington a.k.a. The Doob
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