The Greek islands are incredibly popular holiday destinations, particularly the nightlife hub of Mykonos and the ridiculously picturesque caldera of Santorini. But, according to the Travel + Leisure awards, one island is a cut above the rest – not only in Greece, but across the entire planet.
Recommended: The 10 best Greek islands, according to a local expert
The travel publication has named Páros the best island in the world in their annual World’s Best Awards. The island rose to fame during the Cycladic civilization for its Parian marble, which was used in masterpieces like Venus de Milo and Nike of Samothrace. It’s been ruled by the Romans, Venetians and Ottomans until 1832, when it finally became part of the modern Greek state.
Today, Páros is known for its laidback beaches, shopping and dining. It’s featured on T+L's best European islands list since the category was created, but this is the first time the island has been crowned the best in the world.
So, what makes Páros so great? According to the thousands of T+L readers who voted for this Cyclades island, it comes down to versatility.
One of their readers noted that Páros held 'surprises in every corner'. Maybe they were thinking of the island's Golden Beach, famous for its optimal windsurfing conditions. Or possibly, they thought of the nightlife in Naoussa, Páros's second largest town, fully stocked with high-end restaurants, elevated hotels and bars aplenty, like Meltemi. Perhaps it was Páros's capital, Parikia, that caught the reader's attention, where tourists delve into the island's history by visiting ancient churches, castle ruins or the Archaeological or Byzantine museums.
Whatever the reason, we’re sold. It sounds like Páros is an island lover's dream. Curious about where else was featured on the list? Read on.
These are the world’s 10 best islands right now
-
Páros, Greece
-
Palawan, Philippines
-
Bali, Indonesia
-
Ischia, Italy
-
Fiji
-
Maldives
-
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
-
Hvar & the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
-
Madeira, Portugal
-
Mallorca, Spain
ICYMI: This is officially the most beautiful place in the world, according to Time Out.
Plus: The Italian island named the world’s most colourful destination.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news and best stuff happening across the world.