Paros Island, the most beautiful island in the world for 2025.
Credit: Shutterstock, Aerial Motion
What comes to mind when you think of the most beautiful island on earth? What comes to mind when you think of the Caribbean? Remote Pacific escapes like Bora-Bora?
You’ll have to look closer to home this year. In a surprise twist, Paros—a sun-kissed Greek island in the heart of the Aegean Sea—has been voted the world’s most beautiful island for 2025 by the globetrotters at Travel + Leisure.
How Paros became the most beautiful Island in 2025
Let’s forget about far-flung paradises in the tropics for a minute. Travel + Leisure, a respected travel magazine, asked more than 180,000 readers to vote on their dream islands. Who are the contenders? The contenders? Yet it was Europe—and specifically Paros—that stole the show this year.
Paros, though it has many beautiful beaches, was not the only factor considered. Travellers rated the islands on:
- Beaches and natural beauty
- Activities and attractions
- Restaurants, food and dining
- Locals are very friendly
- Value for money
Paros topped the rankings by ticking every box—and then some.
What makes Paros so special?
You will soon hear about Paros. This Cycladic Island has quietly charmed visitors for years away from their bigger sisters, like Santorini or Mykonos. It’s now on the global stage and has the award to prove it.
“Fresh seafood, boutique shopping, stunning nature, and a warm Greek welcome”—that’s how Travel + Leisure described Paros’ appeal. Paros has something for everyone. There are secluded coves, golden beaches, and lively tavernas that serve mouth-watering dishes from the local cuisine.
Paros, as a gem, is no longer a secret. It attracts more tourists every summer. The whitewashed villages are filled with laughter and the smell of grilled octopus. Even so, it’s not as overrun as the Canaries or Mallorca—at least, not yet.
Returning visitors and locals are worried about the strain tourism puts on the unique eco-system of the island. Prices of properties are increasing and there is more discussion about protecting Paros’ natural charms for the future. But for now, Paros still feels a world apart—a place where life moves to its own easy rhythm.
Is Paros Really Better Than the Caribbean
Travel + Leisure voters agree. In fact, many regulars argue that Paros offers everything you’d want from an “island paradise”—without the jetlag or the sky-high prices. It’s hard to argue with the mix of blue-domed church, sun-drenched terrasses and famous Greek hospitality.
Paros is worth a visit, even if you are loyal to Spain’s island treasures. This Greek island is a hotspot for adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the local lifestyle.
Planning your Paros adventure
You might want to consider something different if you’re planning a summer holiday. Flights to Paros are easier than ever from across Europe, and with its new “world’s best” title, now’s the moment to see what makes this island so special—before the rest of the world catches up.