A Trip to Paros: The 10 Things You Shouldn't Miss!

If you're looking for a cosmopolitan island where you can also relax and unwind, then Paros is the ideal destination for you this summer! With serene, crystal-clear waters, unique cocktail bars, and restaurants featuring renowned and celebrated chefs, it's the ultimate treasure of the Cyclades! There's so much to see and do that you won't want to leave!

Less popular than neighbouring Santorini and Mykonos, Paros is slowly emerging as the star of the Cyclades, and it's not hard to see why.

The island has a character and authenticity rarely found elsewhere, making its exploration a pure delight.

Filled with the ever-present elements of Greek islands, such as historic villages, magical sunsets, sun-drenched hilltop towns, bougainvillea-covered alleyways, endless golden beaches and hidden coves, Paros is the quintessential Greece, and a visit to this island is a must this summer.

To help you have the best possible holiday, we've put together this handy guide to the island of Paros.

From what to see and do, where to stay and eat, and the best villages to visit, to the finest culinary and wine experiences and essential transport options, our guide gives you all the information you need to enjoy the island of Paros.

How to get to Paros?

By plane

Paros has a national airport, with 2 to 4 flights from Athens daily, depending on the season. The flight takes just 35 minutes! Paros airport is located in the south of the island, 10 km from Parikia.

To check prices and itineraries, you can simply visit travelo.gr and in a very short process you will find the most affordable flights to Paros!

By ferry

You can also take a ferry to Paros, from the port of Rafina or the port of Piraeus. There are many daily routes between these two ports and Paros. The journey takes from 2.5 to 6 hours, depending on the departure port and the size of the ferry.

If you are already in the Cyclades, you can go to Paros from Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini, Amorgos, Andros and other islands.

Book cheap ferry tickets through the travelo.gr page! You will see all available routes from all ports in our country and the collaborating ferry lines!

To plan your ferry trips, it's a good idea to book your tickets at least a month in advance, especially during the high season!

Car rental in Paros

During your stay in Paros, you should rent a car. It's clearly the best way to discover every corner of the island!

Through car24.gr you will be able to book the car you will have for your holidays in Paros and any other destination immediately!

car24.gr

Car24.gr is an easy-to-use website that allows you to:

• Choose your preferred car category.

• Compare prices from all car rental companies in Paros.
• Select where you want to pick up your vehicle, from Paros airport or port.
• Car rental in Paros costs from 25 to 50 euros per day depending on the period.

The 10 things you must do in Paros

# Parikia

Parikia is the first town you'll encounter in Paros, as it's the island's main port. If you arrive by ferry from Athens or another Greek island, you'll end up here.

The capital of Paros is also one of the island's most important tourist attractions. Here you'll find many cafes, restaurants, and small shops selling handmade goods, mainly jewellery.

Top attractions in Parikia include:

- The old town and its charming cobbled alleyways.

- The Kastro (Castle): Built in 1260 by the Venetian Duke of Naxos on the ruins of a temple dedicated to Athena, using stones from other ancient buildings of Paros. It has a circular structure and a rectangular tower.

- The Church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani: One of the most significant Byzantine monuments in Greece. Built in the 4th century and also known as "The Church of 100 Doors".

- The Byzantine Museum with its collection of icons, accessible from the church courtyard.

- The Archaeological Museum of Paros, where you can see many ancient finds from the island.

- The Ancient Cemetery with tombs dating from the 8th century BC.

From Parikia, you can walk for 15 minutes to Livadia beach, north of the port. Although it's usually busy, it's the closest option for beach relaxation, especially if you're staying in Parikia and don't have a car.

# Naoussa

Naoussa is Paros' elegant seaside resort, renowned for its shopping and fine dining. When the island became more touristy, this former fishing village leveraged its ideal beachside location and transformed into Paros' most fashionable spot.

In Naoussa, you'll find many luxury boutiques and restaurants, mainly along the waterfront. Although it doesn't feature iconic monuments, you can wander through its alleyways and admire the typical Cycladic architecture.

Near Naoussa, there are many beautiful beaches, as well as some of the best hotels in Paros. You'll find these at the end of this guide.

# Lefkes

Lefkes, built in a natural amphitheatre on the slopes of Agiou Panteos (the island's highest mountain), is one of the most interesting spots in Paros. It is said to be one of the most beautiful villages on the island!

The former capital of Paros is just 10 km from Parikia, in the centre of the island. To visit Lefkes, you'll need to park in one of the free car parks above the village and walk through its alleyways to the Church of Agia Triada. This cathedral is truly impressive, with its two bell towers framing the central building.

From Lefkes, you can hike several beautiful trails in the mountains. The most famous is the Byzantine Path that connects Lefkes with Prodromos, taking about an hour and is one of the best things you can do while in Paros!

# Piso Livadi

The picturesque harbour of Piso Livadi is located on the east coast of Paros, close to several beautiful beaches. The village doesn't have the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Parikia or Naoussa, offering a quieter and more family-friendly vibe. It's an ideal destination for family holidays!

While exploring Paros, it's worth making a stop in Piso Livadi for a lunch break. Here, you'll enjoy the freshest and most delicious grilled fish on the island.

# The best beaches in Paros

We continue our guide with the most beautiful beaches in Paros, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

These are the top beaches you should visit:

- Kolymbithres Beach: Stands out for its huge rocks reminiscent of the Seychelles!

- Lageri Beach: A quiet beach with fine sand and crystal-clear waters.

- Monastiri: Located in Paros Park, with a restaurant and water sports.

- Naoussa Beach: The closest to cosmopolitan Naoussa.

- Santa Maria Beach: An extensive beach with a private section, ideal for windsurfing.

- Piso Livadi Beach: With its family-friendly atmosphere.

- Logaras Beach: Also ideal for families with children.

- Punda: With its famous beach club, perfect for entertainment.

- Messada: Popular with nudists.

- Golden Beach: One of the largest beaches in Paros, where the Paros WindOdyssey, an international windsurfing competition, is held.

- New Golden Beach: Ideal for surfing and windsurfing.

- Farangas Beach: A nice semi-private beach with shallow waters, often busy.

- Livadia Beach: The closest to Parikia.

- Parasporos Beach: You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas.

- Agia Eirini: A calm beach, accessible only by path.

- Pounta: A paradise for kitesurfers, but not for swimming.

# Paros Environmental Park

Although Paros is mainly known for its beaches, there's plenty more to do on the island.

One of these is to visit Paros Park.

This 80-acre park is located in the north of the island, west of Naoussa. You can hike on 3 marked trails along the coast.

The best way to explore Paros Park is to walk all 3 trails one after another. The full tour takes about 2 hours and isn't particularly difficult: you'll enjoy superb views of the coast and the Korakas lighthouse.

After your hike, relax and take a dip at Monastiri beach, near the park entrance. It's a great spot with shallow waters, where you can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas.

# The most beautiful villages in Paros to visit

Apart from Lefkes, Paros boasts many other charming villages worth visiting.

The three most well-known are Prodromos, Marmara, and Marpissa.

You'll adore these traditional Cycladic villages, with their cobbled alleyways and stunning white houses adorned with colourful flowers. Their pedestrian streets are usually quiet and perfect for relaxation.

Here you'll find many small cafes and tavernas, ideal for sampling local delicacies.

# Butterfly Valley

Butterfly Valley is another place worth seeing in Paros. Don't confuse it with the more famous Butterfly Valley located in Rhodes.

This valley is situated between Parikia and Pounta, near the Monastery of Christ of the Forest, in a place called "Petaloudes" (Butterflies).

The area is known for its many butterflies, specifically the Jersey Tiger moth. The valley features a unique habitat with plane trees, laurels, olive trees, and fruit trees. The butterflies arrive here between May and July to reproduce, departing in August and returning in September. This is the best time to observe them!

The valley is open daily from 9 am to 7:30 pm. Admission costs €2.50 per person.

It is recommended to visit only if you have already seen the main attractions of Paros.

# Antiparos

A ferry connects Pounta port with Antiparos every 30 minutes. The journey takes only 10 minutes, and you can take your rental car with you.

During the summer, small boats depart from Parikia to Antiparos (for pedestrians only).

In Antiparos, you'll arrive at the island's main village, where you can stroll along the beach and discover the many shops and tavernas. The tourist zone is limited to the port, while the rest of the island is much quieter. So grab your car and explore Antiparos! If you don't have a car, you can use local buses to discover the island's beaches and coves.

On some beaches, you can enjoy water activities such as:

- Wakeboarding

- Stand-up paddleboard yoga lessons

- Guided paddleboard tours on the sand

- Diving

You can also visit the Cave of Antiparos, 10 km from the port (accessible by bus). The stalactites and stalagmites are impressive, and the cave is one of the most famous in Greece!

At the tip of the island, in Agios Georgios, you can take a half-day cruise to Despotiko island. There, you can visit an archaeological site and relax on a beautiful beach.

The cost is approximately €25 per person, and for more information, you can see here.

# Visit a Paros winery

Visiting a Paros winery is one of the best things to do while you're there if you enjoy drinking wine. The island is home to some top wineries. One such place is Moraitis Winery, located near the village of Naoussa. It's known for its fantastic underground cellar, where you can pair your wine with a platter of local cheeses.

Another excellent option is the Loudidis winery. It's located halfway between Prodromos and Piso Livadi, off the main road, and is quite easy to find—just keep an eye out for the winery sign. Before arriving at the winery, call ahead, as you'll need to book an appointment before visiting.

Fantastic red, white, and rosé wines have been produced in Paros thanks to the Cycladic climate. Driving around the island, you might notice that the vines are left to grow naturally along the ground. This is done to prevent the grapes from being blown away during the meltemi, the strong winds that blow through the region from July to September.

Where to eat and drink in Paros

As on many Mediterranean islands, the bounty of the land and sea makes Parian cuisine truly delightful. One of the best things to do in Paros is to discover the unique and wonderful flavours on offer.

All over the island, tavernas showcase local produce and dishes, such as chickpeas baked in clay pots, fava bean dip, kakavia (fish soup), courgette fritters, tomato fritters, various local cheeses, and a plethora of fresh seafood.

You certainly won't go hungry in Paros, and with the incredible variety of restaurants, the culinary options are endless.

Some of the best restaurants on the island include:

Mario

You can't leave Paros without dining under the stars at Naoussa harbour, and Mario is arguably the best restaurant there. The atmosphere is magical, especially from around 8:30 pm, when the harbour fills with people and the lights begin to twinkle.

Katsounas Tavern

A meal at Katsounas is like sitting in your grandmother's courtyard in summer, enjoying food made with love. Our favourite dishes were the fried calamari, baked chickpeas, local apple salad, and fried aubergine.

Thalassamou

A long, leisurely meal under a Mediterranean pine tree with the sea lapping just metres away is truly idyllic. Thalassamou is another Paros institution, serving fresh seafood and many Parian dishes. Try the grilled calamari and truffle risotto.

STOU FRED  |  Bougie fine dining in the centre of Parikia.

In a beautiful garden, Stou Fred offers a French menu that changes weekly. Ideal if you're looking for an alternative to Greek cuisine. Book in advance, as it might be the best restaurant in Parikia.

CHRISOULA MEZES TAVERN

An institution in Lefkes, serving authentic, homemade Parian cuisine with arguably the best view in Lefkes. Try the chickpea stew and the bourzourdi (feta, tomatoes, capers, and chilli flakes).

YEMENI WINE RESTAURANT

Gourmet Greek cuisine with a farm-to-table approach, in the heart of Naoussa. Try the moussaka and dolmades, along with something from their extensive wine list. Book in advance.

ALMOND LIVING WELL

Serves fresh, creative, and inventive dishes and excellent coffee. Don't miss it.

Paros nightlife

Paros also boasts many excellent bars, particularly around Naoussa harbour and Parikia's Frankish Castle, where cocktails are accompanied by enchanting sunset views.

The nightlife on the island is very good and much calmer compared to Mykonos.

Here are some of the best places to go out on the island:

COME BACK BAR

Right by the sea, Comeback Bar is one of those places where you sit for a drink and end up staying for hours. The cocktails are excellent – we tried the Paros' Spritz (€13), which was as perfect as the sunset. It's also a lively spot for late-night parties.

SANTE COCKTAIL BAR

In a beautiful square shaded by a eucalyptus tree, Sante is an excellent destination for cocktails, a lovely atmosphere, and unparalleled hospitality. The cocktails are fantastic, and the energy of the place makes you want to be there every night.

I TRIA

On the corner of a busy street, I Tria is an excellent bar with a superb cocktail menu, in the heart of Naoussa.

KOSMOS BAR

A wonderful little bar in the heart of Naoussa, serving excellent cocktails and boasting a relaxed atmosphere. At Kosmos, they create special cocktails based on your preferences (sweet, spicy, etc.), so choose wisely.

DODO

In the heart of Naoussa, Dodo is a bar reminiscent of Southeast Asia – the drinks are cheap, the decor minimalist (you sit on the floor!), and the atmosphere youthful and fun.

HOPS AND COLORS

A wonderful craft beer bar located in the Frankish Castle, unlike anything else on the island. It offers a wide selection of Greek craft beers, ideal for enjoying the sunset.

Where to stay in Paros

Accommodation in Paros

The two most well-known locations, Parikia and Naoussa, are the primary choices for many visitors to Paros. Piso Livadi has also recently gained popularity due to its superb beach and excellent dining options. If you're looking for a quieter stay away from the tourist hustle, Drios or Ambelas are ideal choices. Let's explore all the places you can stay in Paros:

Parikia

As the main port of Paros, Parikia is the island's capital and the first place you'll see upon arrival. On one side of the road, you'll find many restaurants, cafes, and bars, while on the other there's a large beach. Additionally, Parikia features lively boutiques and picturesque alleyways with unique shops. In recent years, new shops and businesses have opened, giving the area a pleasant atmosphere. If you want to stay near the port and the centre of the action, this is an excellent choice. Also, from here you can take the ferry to Antiparos.

PAROS AGNANTI HOTEL | The Paros Agnanti is one of the top luxury hotels in Paros. Some rooms have sea views. Some feature hot tubs. Some have swimming pools – and some have a combination, so you can take a dip in a private setting and watch the beach. A difficult choice!

BETHLEHEM HISTORIC TOWNHOUSE | Despite being located in the centre of Parikia, with its winding alleyways and squares that come alive on summer nights, Bethlehem Townhouse is a haven of peace for a relaxed family stay.

Lefkes

Lefkes village is an alpine village with a strong personality. Although far from the sea, its beauty makes up for it. This small community, nestled between two mountains, reveals the true face of the Greek islands. Don't miss visiting the Church of Agia Triada, built in 1830. From Lefkes, several hiking trails start and pass through, leading to beautiful places such as Lagada, Drios, Aspro Chorio, and Agaria Kamariou. Although the village can be busy during the day, many tourists don't stay there, so evenings are quieter.

Ambelas Mare Apartments

Naoussa

Naoussa is one of the liveliest places in Paros, with excellent restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. Its picturesque atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and cosmopolitan shops make it a beloved destination for many visitors.

PARILIO DESIGN HOTEL | One of the best luxury resorts in Paros is Parilio. It features designer furniture, a huge pool, an on-site spa, a gym, and a restaurant serving contemporary Greek delicacies.

CENTRAL BOUTIQUE HOTEL | An excellent mid-range hotel, the Central Boutique Hotel is located in the centre of Naoussa. The rooms are carefully designed, balancing white and charcoal with pops of vibrant modern art, and the pool is unlikely to get too crowded.

Piso Livadi

Piso Livadi has emerged as a popular destination in recent years due to its beautiful beach and excellent culinary options. It's ideal for those who want to combine sea and good cuisine.

Drios and Ambelas

If you're looking for a quiet stay away from the noise, Drios and Ambelas are ideal choices. These areas offer tranquillity and natural beauty, perfect for relaxing holidays.

Paros offers many accommodation options, from lively and cosmopolitan areas to quiet and relaxed destinations. Choose the destination that best suits you and enjoy your holidays on this beautiful island.

Paros is an island that combines traditional Greek charm with modern comfort, offering unique experiences for every visitor. Whether you choose to explore the picturesque alleyways of Parikia and Naoussa, enjoy the gastronomic delights of Piso Livadi, or relax in the tranquillity of Drios and Ambelas, the island has something to offer everyone.

Discover the history and culture in Lefkes, enjoy the vibrancy of the nightlife, or simply relax on one of the island's many beautiful beaches.