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Santorini vs Paros: Which Island to Visit?

ByLeah & Samuel

The Greek Cyclades islands offer numerous picturesque destinations, out latest adventure brought us to Santorini and Paros. If you are trying to decide between the two islands, hopefully this blog can be helpful. It’s important to consider the type of experience you’re looking for. Both islands offer incredible beaches, delicious food, and charming towns, but they differ significantly when it comes to crowds, price, and vibe. In this guide, we’ll break down Beaches, Food, Shopping, and Price to help you choose which island is right for you.

Beaches: Volcanic Sands vs. Secluded Shores

  • Santorini is famous for its unique beaches, characterized by volcanic sand and dramatic backdrops. Perissa Beach stands out with its distinctive black sand, offering crystal-clear waters and plenty of beach bars and restaurants nearby. However, the volcanic nature of the island means that Santorini’s beaches can sometimes feel a bit rocky and less “soft” compared to typical sandy beaches. While stunning to look at, they may not provide the most relaxing experience for a day of lounging.
  • Paros, on the other hand, offers more traditional sandy beaches. Tsoukalia Beach is a quieter, more secluded option with soft sand and beautiful, tranquil waters. The beach scene in Paros is far less crowded than in Santorini, and windsurfers flock to beaches like Golden Beach for its perfect conditions. Paros’ beaches, with their calm, crystal-clear waters, feel like a hidden gem compared to the bustling scenes of Santorini.

Winner: Paros (but if you’re seeking iconic volcanic landscapes, Santorini is the place to be)

Cuisine: Modern Greek Fusion vs. Traditional Greek Flavors

  • Santorini is a haven for Greek fine dining with many restaurants offering upscale takes on local ingredients and dishes. Restaurants like Karma in Oia serve up exquisite dishes, like melt-in-your-mouth lamb shanks and freshly grilled seafood. The food in Santorini is a great mix of traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist, often enjoyed with panoramic views of the sea. However, the prices in Santorini reflect its popularity, with meals tending to be more expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Oia.

  • Paros, on the other hand, offers a more authentic and affordable Greek food experience. One of our favorite meals in Greece was at Parea Local Cuisine where we had fresh swordfish (caught day of) and other traditional Greek dishes. This makes Paros an ideal destination for those looking to indulge in hearty Greek food without breaking the bank. We had a very unique raw stingray dish at Markakis Restaurant which we still remember to this day. Paros’ dining scene has a more relaxed, local vibe, focusing on freshness and authenticity rather than modern sophistication.

Winner: Paros

Shopping: High-End Boutiques vs. Local Crafts

  • Santorini is known for its high-end boutique shopping, particularly in Oia and Fira. The streets are lined with chic, luxury shops offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to designer clothing. You’ll also find plenty of art galleries, featuring local and international artists. Many of these boutiques feature Greek designers who blend modern trends with traditional elements, such as flowing white linens, bold blues, and intricate embroidery. We picked up a handcrafted espresso cup souvenir in Oia and really admired the craftmanship.

  • Paros offers less designer brands but gives you the opportunity to find some great local shops. The quaint town of Naousa has really charming shops selling handmade goods, local pottery, and crafts that give you a true taste of Cycladic culture. The prices in Paros are generally more affordable, and you’re more likely to find unique souvenirs and artisan products that aren’t as mass-produced.

Winner: Santorini

Price: Luxury vs. Affordability

  • Santorini is undeniably one of the most expensive islands in Greece. With its reputation as a honeymoon destination and luxury travel hotspot, everything from accommodation to meals and activities tends to come with a higher price tag. Staying in popular areas like Oia or Fira means paying a premium for those iconic caldera views, especially if you opt for luxury hotels or cave villas. However, one could argue the price is worth the stunning views from Oia and the unique rocky beaches.
  • Paros is a very budget-friendly option, offering great value for accommodation, food, and activities. Whether it’s staying in a cozy Airbnb for $50 a night or dining at local tavernas, Paros allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Cyclades without emptying their wallets. Mopeds and ATVs, which are the easiest way to get around, are cheaper in Paros ($30 a day), and so are many of the island’s activities and meals.

Winner: Paros

Conclusion: Which Island Should You Visit?

Choose Santorini if you want:

  • Iconic, dramatic landscapes with volcanic beaches
  • Upscale dining and luxury experiences
  • High-end boutique shopping
  • A vibrant nightlife scene in Fira

Choose Paros if you prefer:

  • Relaxing, soft-sand beaches with fewer crowds
  • Authentic, affordable Greek cuisine
  • Local artisan shopping and charming towns
  • A quieter, more laid-back atmosphere

Ultimately, both islands offer unforgettable experiences, but your choice depends on what kind of adventure you’re seeking. For the type of travelers we are, we preferred Paros over Santorini due to the fewer crowds and better quality/price tradeoffs. If you want a more relaxing, authentic, and budget-friendly trip, Paros will steal your heart. But if you’re after luxury and don’t mind the price, Santorini is the quintessential Greek island.

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