The Greek islands, from party-centric Mykonos to the stunning caldera of Santorini, are beloved vacation spots. Yet, Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards crowned Paros the world’s best island, surpassing all others globall
Paros earned the top spot in Travel + Leisure’s annual rankings, a first for the island, despite its consistent presence on their best European islands list. Famous during the Cycladic era for its Parian marble—used in iconic sculptures like Venus de Milo and Nike of Samothrace—Paros has a storied past, having been governed by Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans before joining modern Greece in 1832.
Paros, Greece
Today, Paros captivates with its relaxed beaches, boutique shopping, and diverse dining. Its appeal, as voted by thousands of T+L readers, lies in its versatility. One reader praised Paros for offering “surprises in every corner.” Highlights include Golden Beach, a windsurfer’s paradise, and Naoussa, the island’s lively second-largest town, brimming with upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and vibrant bars like Meltemi. In Parikia, the capital, visitors explore ancient churches, castle ruins, and museums showcasing the island’s Archaeological and Byzantine heritage.
Paros is a dream for island enthusiasts. Curious about the other top islands? Here’s the full list of the world’s 10 best islands for 2025:
- Paros, Greece
- Palawan, Philippines
- Bali, Indonesia
- Ischia, Italy
- Fiji
- Maldives
- Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
- Hvar & the Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
- Madeira, Portugal
- Mallorca, Spain
