Your Guide to the Greek Islands, Rome and Paris.
It’s Euro summer, and the majority of us are ditching this brutal New Zealand winter for clearer skies. Despite being immensely jealous that I won’t be partaking in the European sunshine this year, I thought I would share my top tips and must-sees in Paros, Santorini, Rome and Paris.
The saying ‘travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer’ is my favourite quote of all time. I’ve been lucky enough to travel far and wide throughout my life and I really do believe it’s helped shape me into who I am today. Discovering new corners of the world, creating life-long memories and meeting people from all walks of life - it's an indescribable experience.
My most recent trip to Europe was incredibly spontaneous and hence organised at the very last minute (I would certainly not recommend this, airfares were significantly higher and a lot of accomodation was booked). We spent two short but beautiful weeks starting in the Greek Islands and making our way through Rome and Paris.
Disclaimer: We travelled in a group of three on somewhat of a ‘budget’, so kept our accommodation quite minimal and splurged on the places we were really excited about such as Paris. We spent 2-3 nights in each location and/or accomodation and really only spent a total of $869 NZD per person on hotels/airbnbs the entire trip.
5th-9th June
Parikia, Paros Island, Greece
Where we stayed: Golden Sunset. Sadly this accomodation seems to have permanently closed, however the White Blossom Hotel would be next on our list and there are so many beautiful airbnb’s located in Parikia and Naoussa - Parikia is the capital of Paros therefore can tend to be a little more crowded, whereas Naoussa is a 15-30 minute drive out of the town and is much more traditional (personally my favourite).
If you are a lover of architecture and beautiful secluded beaches then Paros should be next on your list!
To Do’s:
Piso Livadi Beach. There is a hidden gem along Piso Livadi Beach, down some stairs near the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church that you absolutely must visit. The clearest of waters, it is just breathtaking.
Explore Lefkés Village (arrive as early as you can to avoid the crowds).
Eat dolmades… bias because I’m Greek, but they are divine.
Visit Naoussa for seaside restaurants, INCREDIBLE food and a taste of traditional buildings.
If you can, hire an ATV! We absolutely regret not doing this.
Our Favourite Restaurants:
Axinos Seafood Restaurant
Giacomo - the most picture perfect spot and also the restaurant where Matisse and Jackson got engaged so that’s saying something.
9th-11th June
Santorini, Greece
Where we stayed: Fira Livin Cave Rooms. This accomodation was one of our cheaper options on the trip. Santorini can be super expensive but if this is your first time visiting, I think you should absolutely spend the extra money to book. We didn’t love this accomodation but it was reasonably central and within walking distance to the city centre.
I have been to Santorini twice now and as much as it is a must-visit if this is your first time in Greece, usually once is enough in my opinion. It is incredibly overcrowded and overpriced.
To Do’s:
Perch yourself at a rooftop restaurant and watch the sunset in Oia. The most magical part of Santorini and one of my favourite sunsets to date (pre-book your restaurant or get there as early as you can to avoid the crowds).
Watch the sunrise at Kamari beach. It was virtually empty that early in the morning so we managed to secure a gorgeous little cabana for the day.
Visit the Three Bells of Fira - one of the most iconic landmarks in Santorini.
Shop in Fira
Explore Oia Village
Our Favourite Restaurants:
Santorini Sunsets (in spite of being overpriced, this restaurant has one of the best rooftop views in Oia)
11th-13th June
Rome, Italy
Where we stayed: Our accomodation was an apartment in Campo de’ Fiori which I can no longer find the link for unfortunately, however as a whole, Campo de’ Fiori is right in the historical centre and heart of Rome. We were within walking distance to the most beautiful village markets, all of the landmarks we wanted to visit and everything in between. Rome was not a place I would visit again, but was an absolute must and a very special experience nonetheless.
To Do’s:
Trevi Fountain
Pistachio croissants at Forno
Spanish steps
Dinner and wine in front of the colosseum
Explore the streets of Rome - the book stores and pop up shops are divine
Gelato at Maestro del Gelato
Visit San Carlo al Corso Church
Pasta, literally anywhere
Visit Vatican City
14th-17th June
Paris, France
Where we stayed: Hotel La Comtesse. The most beautiful hotel overlooking the city and Eiffel Tower. We splurged on this accomodation and do not regret a thing…
Paris easily became my favourite destination on our trip - regardless of who you visit with, it has such a romantic feel with so much to see. I am a huge lover of architecture, fashion, art, food and wine so Paris was my absolute haven. If you’re questioning Paris, undoubtedly add it to your list!
To Do’s:
Breakfast and the famous hot chocolate at Café de Flore
Picnic along the river Seine
Stroll Jardin des Tuileries (go as early as you can as it can get quite crowded)
Visit the Louvre Museum
Wine and cheese board under the Eiffel Tower
Try snails!
Macaroons at Ladurée
Watch the Eiffel Tower light up
Our Favourite Restaurants:
*Unfortunately, we didn’t get in quick enough to book these spots but will definitely be going next time. Don’t forget, you’ll need to reserve absolutely everything well in advance!
Loulou
Girafe
Gigi
In spite of a very short and spontaneous trip, it has by far been my most memorable and luckily, very smooth sailing. We did Europe boujee on a budget and there really isn’t much I would change about our time!
Now to start planning 2024…