Naoussa, Paros

A fishing village on the north coast of Paros, one of the most picturesque in the Cyclades: whitewashed lanes, blue doors and bougainvillea, and a little harbour full of fishing boats, overlooked by a ruined Venetian fort. The harbour tavernas serve fresh fish and octopus hung out to dry in the sun.

In the evening, the village is lively with bars and restaurants. Beaches nearby include Kolymbithres, Santa Maria (good for windsurfing) and Monastiri. Paros is easy to reach, with many ferries a day from Piraeus and other islands and an airport, and it's a great base for island hopping in the Cyclades.