Lefkes is one of the most beautiful villages in Paros. Tucked away in the mountains, it became Paros’ medieval capital because it was hidden from pirates, and today it’s largely hidden from mass tourism. The tiny, narrow streets are pedestrian-only, preserving a sense of tranquility, even as the crowds gently swell after the first bus arrives around 11am. Since it’s not on the water, like the larger villages of Parikia and Naousa, fewer tourists stay here and the village can feel a little like the village that time forgot.
Lefkes is surrounded by hillside covered in olive trees and pine trees, and from the town, which is 350m above sea level, you can see all the way to neighbouring island Naxos.The village gets busy each day after around 11am, when crowds start to arrive by the local bus. Since we’d hired a car, we were able to get to the town in the morning before busloads of tourists started arriving, and for a long time we had the place nearly to ourselves!
This post has too many photos, but I am too in love with Lefkes to cut out any more than I already have.
Church of Agia Triada
We spent an hour or so wandering through the pretty streets, before we reached the Church of Agia Triada, an early 19th century Byzantine-style basilica. We stopped for a fresh lemonade at Marigo’s Kafenion, a cafe in the square opposite the church and revelled in the peace and quiet of the town – such a breath of fresh air compared to New York City!
Lefkes Doughnut House
On our way back out of town, we stopped at Lefkes Doughnut House which is near the entrance to the village. We bought one vanilla custard and one jam doughnut, and ate them from the shop’s terrace, which has views over the surrounding countryside. I have to admit, I can’t remember much about the doughnut, because as we were leaving the shop, poor David whacked his head on the low stone door way – he is too tall for most of the Greek islands (and Tokyo!).
How to get to Lefkes, Paros
Lefkes is in the centre of the island of Paros, and it’s a twenty minute drive from both Parikia and Naousa. I recommend visiting early in the morning, before 11am, when tourist buses start to arrive and quickly fill the town.
Have you been to Lefkes, or to the Greek Islands? Would you like to? Let me know in the comments!
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Hello! I’m an Australian travel blogger, living in Melbourne, Australia. I grew up in Brisbane, studied in Paris, lived & worked in New York City and now live in Melbourne, Australia.
I love sharing specific and useful recommendations, itineraries and guides for the most beautiful things to see, do, experience & eat wherever I go.
My favourite travel destinations are Australia, New York City & surrounds, France, Greece & Japan, but I’m always excited to explore somewhere new!
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