Paros is an island within the coronary heart of the Cyclades Islands in Greece with over 10,000 inhabitants and 120 kilometers of shoreline. Serene landscapes, fertile valleys, and rolling hills are dotted with small church buildings and monasteries, complemented by countless sandy seashores with azure blue waters.
Not solely is the pure panorama beautiful, however there are quite a few issues to do in Paros to maintain you entertained. This is likely one of the finest locations to go to in Greece.
We visited Paros final yr for 8 days and might say that wow, this island really is beautiful! Undoubtedly lease a automobile to discover, ensure to cease off at little seashores and coves, go to wineries, and eat unimaginable seafood.
On Paros island, you’ll discover historic, medieval ruins and monuments, picturesque white sugar-cube cities and villages, and no scarcity of tavernas bars and cafes.
You possibly can count on all of this, plus affordable costs, wonderful vacationer services, and pleasant individuals who know the true which means of hospitality. It’s straightforward to see why many regard Paros because the quintessential Island for any Greece journey itinerary.
They are saying Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years in the past. It has all of the attraction and ambiance however with out the heaving crowds and steep costs which is likely one of the fundamental explanation why my companion and I fell in love with it.
A lot so, we now have been again 4 years operating now and actually think about ourselves to be amongst household once we go to.
There are such a lot of issues to do in Paros, and it’s simply the precise measurement. It actually does tick all of the bins and there really is one thing for everybody. Right here is a few sensible info for Paros. When you’d prefer to skip this and bounce to the Issues To Do in Paros part, click on right here.
When to Go to Paros Island
Ideally, the finest time to go to Greece is between Could and October, and the identical is true for Paros. The climate is sweet and the ‘season’ is open — many locations shut for enterprise throughout the different months.
The height season is July and August when the Europeans take their holidays and it may be each sizzling and windy then too. Personally, we love June or September when it’s nonetheless vigorous sufficient however not so busy.
The ‘Meltemi‘ is a powerful wind that blows by the Cyclades down from Turkey often between July and September. It may be very highly effective and because of this, Paros could be very in style with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics nevertheless it’s additionally straightforward to discover a protected bay, avenue, or quiet nook so the wind will be manageable.
The best way to Get to Paros Island
You may get to Paros by boat or airplane. Attributable to its place and significance, Paros is linked not simply to Piraeus (the port of Athens – one of many busiest passenger ports on the planet!) but in addition to Rafina which is nearer to the airport.
Paros is commonly the primary cease within the Cyclades for most of the ferries and is the stopping-off level on the way in which to Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Santorini, and all the opposite Cyclades Islands, in addition to linking with routes servicing the Dodecanese and Crete.
It’s solely 3 hours from Piraeus to Paros on the quick ferry and there’s now a brand new practice hyperlink direct to the port from the airport.
The airport on the island was utterly rebuilt in late 2016 and there’s now a brand new small terminal and an extended runway. There are numerous potentialities each on the island and to locations past. For details about the ferry routes and to e-book tickets we suggest Ferry Hopper.
Getting Round Paros Island
Paros has an incredible public bus system that may take you to most seashores and cities on the island. That is particularly handy for anybody on a price range because the bus trip is just one.80 Euro ($2.09 USD). You’ll find a timetable right here.
There are additionally loads of rental locations across the island the place you’ll be able to lease vehicles, quad bikes, and scooters. Be warned they’ll e-book out rapidly within the peak season so plan forward if you’re visiting in Summer season.
We booked our automobile by Uncover Vehicles and positively suggest having your individual wheels to discover Paros. Click on right here to see the newest charges on rental vehicles with Uncover Vehicles.
Paros has began issuing fines if you’re driving with out a world driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.
In terms of quad bikes and scooters, be sure to verify your insurance coverage. Many individuals discover out the exhausting manner that they don’t seem to be lined and accidents on the islands will be tough to handle, to not point out, costly.
Greatest Issues To Do in Paros, Greece
Let’s get into it. For such a small island, there actually are many issues to see and uncover in Paros. Listed below are the 21 finest.
1. Go to Parikia
The capital and fundamental port of the island, Parikia can be the business and enterprise hub. There are numerous eating places and cafes alongside the waterfront and thru a maze of alleys within the outdated city.
In true Cycladic fashion, it’s a labyrinth of slim whitewashed streets and an incredible place to remain if you wish to be near every thing.
The entire main banks and companies are situated right here as are laundries, supermarkets, the hospital, and varied vacationer companies.
There are additionally some very attention-grabbing historic monuments and factors of curiosity together with an historic windmill and an interesting Church (see subsequent level).
2. See Panagia Ekatontapiliani
That is one among Greece’s most necessary Byzantine monuments. Constructed initially within the 4th century it’s also called the Church of a Hundred Doorways.
Legend has it that 99 doorways have been discovered within the Church and that the one centesimal might be found when Constantinople (Istanbul) is returned to Greece once more.
Entrance right here is free, and opening hours (on the time of publication) are 7am‑9pm. Within the off-season: 7am‑2pm and 4pm‑8pm.
Handle: Ekatontapiliahs, Paros 844 00, Greece. Discover the church on the map, right here.
3. Discover the Fishing Village of Naousa
Positioned within the North of the island about 20 minutes drive from Parikia, this vigorous fishing village is the place we choose to remain. It’s just a little quieter than Parikia throughout the day however actually comes alive at evening when it may be fairly the social gathering city.
It’s nonetheless a fishing village at coronary heart and far of the nightlife revolves across the small compact harbour. This space is the most costly, nevertheless it’s additionally attainable to get an affordable and cheerful meal in one of many many winding again streets. Click on right here for instructions.
Goats On The Highway Word: We stayed in Naousa and extremely suggest it. There are many guesthouses round. We stayed at Irini Rooms and might suggest it. Click on right here to e-book.
4. Go to the City of Lefkes
A small medieval city nestled within the mountains behind Naousa with views over neighbouring Naxos. Lefkas has all of the makings of the Cyclades — white homes, blue doorways, and dripping vibrant pink Bougainvillea. A visit right here is likely one of the finest issues to do in Paros.
It’s a stunning city to go to for a day and yow will discover some wonderful handmade native pottery, jewellery, and different crafts, in addition to issues reminiscent of honey and figs bought by the street.
Some individuals love to remain right here yearly and it’s attainable to search out some very cheap rooms on Reserving.com, or simply by wandering by the village.
5. Discover Piso Livadi
A small and picturesque fishing port on the southeast of the island, Piso Livadi has quite a few charming tavernas well-known for his or her native seafood dishes. Don’t miss Ouzeri Halaris!
Sampling the regional delicacies is likely one of the finest issues to do in Greece — be sure to don’t miss the mussels right here!
As soon as a really small and quiet bay, it has grow to be extra in style lately and is the primary port to embark on crusing adventures over the Small Cyclades islands or to Antiparos. Click on right here for a preferred crusing journey.
6. Golden Seaside (One of many High Issues to do in Paros if You’re Feeling Energetic!)
A bit additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seaside, thought-about by many to be one of many finest seashores in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.
In addition to some excellent inns and tavernas, additionally, you will discover quite a few locations to lease windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wakeboards.
There are additionally some beautiful and moderately funky little beach-inspired retailers and boutiques. It may be very windy when the Meltemi is blowing however for many individuals, that’s a part of its enchantment.
When you’re into watersports, a visit to Golden Seaside ought to be in your checklist of issues to do in Paros.
Rental costs fluctuate from place to position and yr to yr however are comparatively cheap. For one hour of windsurfing, count on to pay round 25 euros ($29), SUP is round $20 euros ($23) for an hour, whereas kayaks go for 15 euros per hour ($17).
There are a number of rental locations proper on the seaside. Click on right here for particulars.
7. Go to Drios
One other small fishing village, Drios was as soon as the traditional port of the island and is likely one of the greenest villages in Paros.
Right here you’ll be able to get pleasure from typical Cycladic hospitality, scrumptious delicacies, and really tranquil environment. It’s attainable to lease just a little room proper on the seaside for the value of a pleasant meal and there are a variety of quiet sandy seashores, together with a nudist one shut by.
You’ll want to try Aspro Chorion, the small charming settlement above Drios. Get instructions to Drios right here.
8. Laze on Kolombithres Seaside
The seaside at Kolimbithres is likely one of the most well-known in Paros and is situated west of Naousa in Plastira Bay. It has big boulders of granite positioned into the ocean that has been worn away over the centuries into clean sunbathing platforms.
The water right here is shallow and crystal clear and there is a superb taverna proper subsequent to the seaside which has a number of the finest dwelling cooking on the island.
You possibly can drive round or catch the small public ferry over from Naousa. Whereas there are quite a few issues to do in Paros, don’t miss spending a day at this seaside.
9. Chill out on Santa Maria Seaside
One other highly regarded seaside that’s well-known for its windsurfing, water snowboarding, and scuba diving services.
Santa Maria is situated a few 10-minute drive east of Naoussa and is surrounded by seaside bars, tavernas, and eating places which supplies it a extra cosmopolitan really feel and has been a favorite of Scandinavian households for many years.
Handle: Paros 844 01, Greece. Discover this lovely seaside right here on the map.
Planning a visit to different locations in Greece? Don’t miss the superior issues to do in Ios, the enjoyable issues to do in Zante (Zakynthos), and the unimaginable issues to do in Corfu! Kefalonia Island is stuffed with issues to see and do, whereas Chios Island and Lesvos Island are extra offtrack and provide travellers a plethora of sights and actions. Plus, when you’re visiting the mainland, don’t miss the highest sights and issues to do in Athens, and the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries.
10. Go to the Village of Ampelas
Ampelas is a small village and seaside about quarter-hour drive from Naousa. There’s a small man-made seawall that ensures calm water nearly on daily basis and a few excellent tavernas on the seaside, together with the highly regarded Thalami and Christiana.
There’s additionally a superb fashionable restaurant/seaside membership on the seaside referred to as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. A fantastic spot for a protracted, lazy lunch and swim — with hardly another individuals round. Discover Ampelas on the map right here.
11. Verify Out the Small Village of Aliki
Aliki means ‘salt marsh’ in Greek and this village acquired its title from the adjoining one on the southern finish of the island.
Fairly near the airport in Aliki additionally, you will discover the Cycladic Folklore Museum. Many cultural occasions are held in Aliki, such because the feast of St. John of Klidonas in June, the feast of Christ the Savior on the sixth of August and the feast of the Holy Cross in September.
It’s a stunning village with quite a few wonderful seafood tavernas and small rooms and guesthouses to remain in. Click on right here to search out Aliki on the map.
12. Expertise Butterfly Valley
Positioned 5km south of Parikia, close to the Monastery of Jesus of Woods, this valley is known as Petaloudes, which implies Butterfly in Greek.
Yearly throughout the summer time months (beginning in June), the valley is verdant because the Jersey Tiger Moths appear to wrap the whole valley, creating a really breathtaking pure phenomenon.
Handle: Petaloudes, 84400, Paros- Greece. Get instructions right here.
13. Take the Ferry to Antiparos
Antiparos is a really picturesque and laid-back island situated simply off the coast of Paros. It’s an ideal day journey or you probably have the time, keep a day or two. Ferries from Paros to Antiparos depart each half-hour from Parikia and the journey is about 10 minutes.
In case you have a rental automobile, you’ll be able to catch the automobile ferry from the township just a little additional south of Parikia in Punda, after which the journey is barely 7 minutes.
Antiparos is dwelling to quite a few celebrities most notably Tom Hanks and his Greek spouse Rita Wilson. They’re much-loved (and guarded) by the locals and take part in lots of native occasions once they go to every summer time.
When you’d moderately sail to Antiparos, hop aboard a catamaran! This lovely boat will whisk you away to Antiparos, Panteronisi and Despotiko whereas having fun with swims within the crystal clear sea. All through the day, you’ll eat and drink conventional Greek meals and snacks. Wine and beer are included. Discover out extra right here.
14. Day Journey to Mykonos or Santorini
You don’t want to remain on the 2 costliest islands in Greece to get pleasure from them. There are ferries quite a few occasions a day to Santorini and several other will even cease at Naxos and Ios. A day journey to close by islands is certainly one of many prime issues to do in Paros.
The Blue Star ferries are big and extra like small cruise ships with nice eating places, bars and cabins. It takes about 3 hours to get to Santorini however it may be a pleasing journey and price it to see what all of the fuss is about (belief me, it’s value it!). Click on right here for ferry listings.
Mykonos is barely an hour away and it’s fairly attainable to pop over for lunch, though you’ll unlikely be there when the hard-core partying begins round midnight.
So, if you wish to benefit from the social gathering, you’ll must spend the evening in case your price range permits it. If not, day journeys from Paros to Mykonos are attainable and nonetheless pleasing.
15. Take a Day Journey to Naxos
Naxos is a superb island solely 20 minutes away from Paros and is each fascinating and enjoyable. There are some nice seashores on this big island however you’ll need a automobile to get to most of them particularly if you’re pressed for time.
St. George seaside on the southern finish of Naxos city is a stunning calm seaside, nice for households, and there are a variety of wonderful tavernas proper on the sand. When you can positively go to on a day journey from Paros, there are quite a few issues to do in Naxos and wonderful villas to lease…you could wish to spend the evening!
16. Sail the Small Cyclades
Crusing across the Greek Islands could be a lot harder, and costly than individuals notice. On Paros, nonetheless, it’s attainable to affix a ship, or privately constitution one, from both Naousa or Piso Livadi.
Get pleasure from a surprising day journey across the Small Cyclades, a bunch of spectacular islands on the southern finish of Naxos which embrace Koufanisi and Danousa.
The price of this tour varies dramatically relying on the dimensions and magnificence of the boat, which islands you go to, the length of the journey, and the way many individuals are on board.
Count on to pay anyplace from 20 euros ($23) per individual to 150 euros ($165). Click on right here to be taught extra about one of many extremely rated boat journeys across the Small Cyclades.
17. Go Purchasing
There are some nice little boutiques and shops in each Parikia and Naousa and even a couple of funky locations within the smaller villages as nicely.
There are small markets, high-end boutiques, and native Greek designer put on and jewelry, a lot of it very reasonably priced. When you’re trying to discover one thing particular to take dwelling out of your journey this is able to positively be the place to do it.
18. Go to a Vineyard
There are a few wonderful wineries on Paros. Established in 1910, Moraitis Vineyard is simply in the back of the city of Naousa and has an excellent cellar that additionally sells mild meals and cheese platters.
The perfect local weather circumstances of the Cycladic panorama have led to the manufacturing of some nice reds, whites and rose wines.
It’s possible you’ll discover as you drive across the island that the vines are left to develop on the bottom as an alternative of on a trellis. That is so the wind doesn’t blow the grapes away throughout the Meltemi (robust winds that blow by the Cyclades from July – September).
When you’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is likely one of the prime issues to do in Paros. For many who would moderately go on a tour with a driver so you are able to do as many tastings as you need, it is a nice vineyard tour choice.
Moraitis Vineyard Handle: Epar.Od. Naoussas-Marpissas, Naousa 844 01, Greece. Get instructions right here.
19. Attend a Competition
The Greeks love a pageant and there are greater than 10 non secular festivals on Paros between July and September alone! Discover a full checklist right here.
The Pirates Competition is a vibrant celebration representing the raids of the pirates in Paros that had been common in Medieval occasions. Younger boys costume in conventional pirate costumes and bounce from the caciques (fishing boats) operating by the gang to grab the younger women away. Fireworks, conventional music, and dancing coincide with a lot feasting and frivolity.
One other highly regarded occasion is The Fish and Wine Competition which takes place in Marpissa on the primary Sunday of July.
Small or bigger festivals involving artwork exhibitions, dance and music occasions, live shows, theatrical performances or e-book festivals are scheduled in the direction of the tip of the summer time. These festivals and occasions are among the many prime cultural issues to do in Paros.
20. Bask in Effective Eating
Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a variety of wonderful high-quality eating selections too.
Unimaginable sunsets and white tablecloth service is discovered at Siparos a couple of minutes’ drive previous Naoussa — we loved a really particular group birthday celebration right here not too long ago.
21. Watch the Unimaginable Sunsets
The entire Cycladic islands provide unimaginable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s straightforward to search out many west-facing places.
On Paros, Parikia and west-located villages like Punda have the perfect spots however there are eating places such because the above-mentioned Siparos that even have magnificent golden views within the evenings.
The fantastic thing about a Greek sundown is the solar is so giant and units fairly slowly. It’s a really hypnotic impact!
Different Actions in Paros
- Hire Your Personal Boat: A enjoyable strategy to discover the island is to lease your individual boat and be a captain for a day! These small speedboats are loads of enjoyable – pull up at secluded coves, moor up and bounce off for a swim, and have the liberty to go the place you need. When you don’t really feel snug driving, you can too rent a captain. Discover out extra and e-book your boat right here.
- Cooking Lessons: When you’re fascinated about native experiences, meals, and cooking, you received’t wish to miss this unimaginable cooking class. Create a tasty meal with a chef who grew up in Paros. By way of the expertise, you’ll be taught her grandmother’s recipes, make new mates, and luxuriate in a meal with wine and ouzo. Study extra about this highly-rated expertise right here.
- Make a Sculpture: If artwork is extra your factor, head out to create your individual marble sculpture. The right memento from Paros! Discover out extra about this enjoyable expertise in Paros right here.
- Go Kayaking: Searching for energetic issues to do in Paros? Sea kayaking is an superior choice! The guides are all licensed professionals, so you don’t have anything to fret about on the journey. Kayak, swim and luxuriate in a picnic as nicely. Click on right here to be taught extra.
- Go Horseback Using: Whether or not you wish to trip early within the morning or throughout sundown, there’s a visit obtainable. In the course of the sundown journey, you’ll discover the world of Kakapetra along with your teacher, and when you go for the morning journey, you’ll trip Paroikia’s hidden trails. Click on right here to be taught in regards to the sundown trip, and click on right here for particulars on the morning horseback using journey.
Visiting Paros: FAQ’s
Paros is finest recognized for its high-quality white marble, enjoyable festivals and events, and naturally, its lovely seashores.
With 2 days in Paros, you’ll have the ability to discover a couple of of the villages and seashores. Hire a automobile to discover at your individual tempo and cease the place you wish to. Give your self extra time if you wish to be a part of a enjoyable boat tour, a cooking class, go to a vineyard, and have time to calm down and unwind.
The very best factor to do in Paros is to get out on the water! Be a part of a catamaran or sailboat journey and benefit from the day. Or, rent your individual boat to discover the shoreline. Lastly, when you don’t wish to be out on the water, you’ll be able to merely get pleasure from swimming from one of many many lovely seashores.
Naxos and Paros are each lovely islands in Greece. Paros has a bit extra happening than Naxos. Paros is a flatter island whereas Naxos is extra mountainous. Each of the islands have wonderful seashores and eating places, and because of the winds, Naxos and Paros are recognized for his or her watersports (kitesurfing, crusing, windsurfing).
Now You Know What To Do in Paros
There are such a lot of issues to do in Paros (and eat!) that I may go on without end. The “island for everybody” actually does stay as much as its repute and for that cause, we’ll proceed to go to annually.
If you’re fortunate sufficient to be visiting Greece for the primary time and even your thirtieth time, ensure Paros is in your itinerary.