Many of the best shops on Paros are found in Naoussa, the most stylish town on the island, and Parikia, the capital. In addition to the boutiques listed below, it’s worth visiting the Moraitis Winery to pick up a bottle or two of its excellent Parian wines. You may also wish to buy some pungent local herbs — especially oregano and thyme — which will brighten your cooking once you get home. (Just make sure they’re packed in air-tight glass containers to satisfy the curiosity of U.S. Customs officials.)
This family-owned business, founded in 1935, handcrafts its durable sandals from Cretan cowhide. With a variety of styles for men and women, they are chic, unique and comfortable.
Atelier 1935
Market Street, Parikia. Tel. (30) 228-402-7590
Stop by this witty concept store in Parikia for beach wraps, carry-all bags, T-shirts and throws. It also carries an eclectic selection of jewelry, housewares, framed prints, delicious local jams and other goods.
Melissa
Ekatintapilianis Square, Parikia. Tel. (30) 228-402-7759
Founded by two young potters in 1977, this small Paros studio produces mostly porcelain contemporary ceramics, including tableware, platters, sconces, vases and bowls. It also does a popular line of porcelain jewelry. The aesthetic of Yria Studio is variously inspired by ancient Greece, the Byzantine world and modern design. The atelier also produces handmade tiles, which are often used by local architects.
Yria Studio
Lochagou Kourtinou, Parikia. Tel. (30) 228-402-4359
On a hillside just outside of Naoussa, young farmer Alkis Downward grows capers, figs, lavender, oregano, olives and other products on the 24-acre family farm he decided to revive after a spell studying political science in San Francisco. It uses organic fertilizers and is run according to the principles of biodynamics, a branch of agriculture that is a holistic, ethical approach to farming. Visitors are welcome, and they can taste and buy the produce.
Petra Farm
Kolympíthres, Naoussa. Tel. (30) 694-431-1988
Located in fashionable Naoussa, this sleek modern boutique showcases handmade contemporary jewelry from the leading Greek jewelry designers and labels. It also sells silk scarves, pocketbooks and hats. The main branch is in Athens.
Zina Fragi
Naoussa Limáni, Naoussa. Tel. (30) 228-405-5473