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 limitless 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 greatest locations to go to in Greece.
We visited Paros final yr for 8 days and may say that wow, this island actually is beautiful! Positively lease a automobile to discover, make sure that to cease off at little seashores and coves, go to wineries, and eat unbelievable 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’ll be able to anticipate all of this, plus affordable costs, wonderful vacationer services, and pleasant individuals who know the true that 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 allure and ambiance however with out the heaving crowds and steep costs which is likely one of the essential 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 take into account 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 correct measurement. It actually does tick all of the packing containers and there actually is one thing for everybody. Right here is a few sensible data for Paros. In the event you’d prefer to skip this and leap to the Issues To Do in Paros part, click on right here.
When to Go to Paros Island
Ideally, the greatest time to go to Greece is between Could and October, and the identical is true for Paros. The climate is nice 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 scorching 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 normally between July and September. It may be very highly effective and because of this, Paros may be very in style with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics but it surely’s additionally straightforward to discover a protected bay, avenue, or quiet nook so the wind may be manageable.
How one can Get to Paros Island
You may get to Paros by boat or aircraft. As a consequence of its place and significance, Paros is linked not simply to Piraeus (the port of Athens – one of many busiest passenger ports on the earth!) but additionally 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 best way 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 may be now a brand new prepare hyperlink direct to the port from the airport.
The airport on the island was utterly rebuilt in late 2016 and there may be now a brand new small terminal and an extended runway. There are numerous prospects each on the island and to locations past. For details about the ferry routes and to e-book tickets we advocate Ferry Hopper.
Getting Round Paros Island
Paros has a terrific public bus system that may take you to most seashores and cities on the island. That is particularly handy for anybody on a funds because the bus trip is just one.80 Euro ($2.09 USD). You will discover a timetable right here.
There are additionally loads of rental locations across the island the place you’ll be able to lease automobiles, quad bikes, and scooters. Be warned they’ll e-book out rapidly within the peak season so plan forward in case you are visiting in Summer season.
We booked our automobile by Uncover Vehicles and undoubtedly advocate having your individual wheels to discover Paros. Click on right here to see the most recent charges on rental automobiles with Uncover Vehicles.
Paros has began issuing fines in case you are driving with out a global driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.
Relating to quad bikes and scooters, be sure to verify your insurance coverage. Many individuals discover out the laborious manner that they aren’t lined and accidents on the islands may 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 here are the 21 greatest.
1. Go to Parikia
The capital and essential port of the island, Parikia can also be the industrial and enterprise hub. There are numerous eating places and cafes alongside the waterfront and thru a maze of alleys within the previous city.
In true Cycladic model, it’s a labyrinth of slim whitewashed streets and a terrific place to remain if you wish to be near every little thing.
The entire main banks and companies are positioned right here as are laundries, supermarkets, the hospital, and numerous vacationer companies.
There are additionally some very attention-grabbing historic monuments and factors of curiosity together with an historic windmill and a captivating Church (see subsequent level).
2. See Panagia Ekatontapiliani
That is one in all Greece’s most essential Byzantine monuments. Constructed initially within the 4th century it’s often known as the Church of a Hundred Doorways.
Legend has it that 99 doorways have been discovered within the Church and that the a centesimal can 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.
Deal with: 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 want 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 celebration 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 costliest, but it surely’s additionally attainable to get an inexpensive 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 advocate it. There are many guesthouses round. We stayed at Irini Rooms and may advocate 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 greatest issues to do in Paros.
It’s a beautiful city to go to for a day and you could find some wonderful handmade native pottery, jewellery, and different crafts, in addition to issues resembling honey and figs bought by the highway.
Some individuals love to remain right here yearly and it’s attainable to seek 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 various 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 greatest 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 turn out to be extra in style in recent times and is the principle 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 Prime Issues to do in Paros if You’re Feeling Lively!)
A bit additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seaside, thought-about by many to be one of many greatest seashores in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.
In addition to some superb resorts and tavernas, additionally, you will discover various locations to lease windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wakeboards.
There are additionally some beautiful and somewhat 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 attraction.
In the event 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 put and yr to yr however are comparatively cheap. For one hour of windsurfing, anticipate 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 worth of a pleasant meal and there are a selection of quiet sandy seashores, together with a nudist one shut by.
Be sure you 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 positioned west of Naousa in Plastira Bay. It has enormous boulders of granite positioned into the ocean that has been worn away over the centuries into easy 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 greatest house cooking on the island.
You’ll be able to 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. Loosen up on Santa Maria Seaside
One other very fashionable seaside that’s well-known for its windsurfing, water snowboarding, and scuba diving services.
Santa Maria is positioned a few 10-minute drive east of Naoussa and is surrounded by seaside bars, tavernas, and eating places which provides it a extra cosmopolitan really feel and has been a favorite of Scandinavian households for many years.
Deal with: Paros 844 01, Greece. Discover this stunning 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 unbelievable 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 supply travellers a plethora of sights and actions. Plus, in case 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 virtually on daily basis and a few superb tavernas on the seaside, together with the very fashionable Thalami and Christiana.
There may be additionally a very good trendy restaurant/seaside membership on the seaside known as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. An incredible spot for a protracted, lazy lunch and swim — with hardly some other individuals round. Discover Ampelas on the map right here.
11. Test Out the Small Village of Aliki
Aliki means ‘salt marsh’ in Greek and this village received 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 beautiful village with various wonderful seafood tavernas and small rooms and guesthouses to remain in. Click on right here to seek 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 suggests Butterfly in Greek.
Yearly throughout the summer season months (beginning in June), the valley is verdant because the Jersey Tiger Moths appear to wrap your entire valley, creating a very breathtaking pure phenomenon.
Deal with: Petaloudes, 84400, Paros- Greece. Get instructions right here.
13. Take the Ferry to Antiparos
Antiparos is a really picturesque and laid-back island positioned 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 house to various 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 after they go to every summer season.
In the event you’d somewhat sail to Antiparos, hop aboard a catamaran! This stunning 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 a number of other may 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 enormous 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 nice 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 celebration, you’ll need to spend the evening in case your funds 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 enormous island however you’ll need a automobile to get to most of them particularly in case you are pressed for time.
St. George seaside on the southern finish of Naxos city is a beautiful calm seaside, nice for households, and there are a selection of fantastic tavernas proper on the sand. Whilst you can undoubtedly go to on a day journey from Paros, there are quite a few issues to do in Naxos and wonderful villas to lease…chances are you’ll need to spend the evening!
16. Sail the Small Cyclades
Crusing across the Greek Islands is usually a lot harder, and costly than individuals understand. On Paros, nonetheless, it’s attainable to affix a ship, or privately constitution one, from both Naousa or Piso Livadi.
Take pleasure in a shocking 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.
Anticipate 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 Procuring
There are some nice little boutiques and shops in each Parikia and Naousa and even a number of funky locations within the smaller villages as properly.
There are small markets, high-end boutiques, and native Greek designer put on and jewelry, a lot of it very reasonably priced. In the event you’re trying to discover one thing particular to take house out of your journey this might undoubtedly 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 situations 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 a substitute 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).
In the event you’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is likely one of the prime issues to do in Paros. For individuals who would somewhat 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 Deal with: Epar.Od. Naoussas-Marpissas, Naousa 844 01, Greece. Get instructions right here.
19. Attend a Competition
The Greeks love a competition 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 have been typical in Medieval occasions. Younger boys gown in conventional pirate costumes and leap from the caciques (fishing boats) operating by the gang to grab the younger ladies away. Fireworks, conventional music, and dancing coincide with a lot feasting and frivolity.
One other very fashionable 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 gala’s are scheduled in the direction of the tip of the summer season. These festivals and occasions are among the many prime cultural issues to do in Paros.
20. Take pleasure in Positive Eating
Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a selection of fantastic tremendous eating decisions 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 lately.
21. Watch the Unimaginable Sunsets
The entire Cycladic islands supply unbelievable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s straightforward to seek out many west-facing places.
On Paros, Parikia and west-located villages like Punda have the very best 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 massive and units fairly slowly. It’s a really hypnotic impact!
Different Actions in Paros
- Lease Your Personal Boat: A enjoyable technique to discover the island is to lease your individual boat and be a captain for a day! These small speedboats are quite a lot of enjoyable – pull up at secluded coves, moor up and leap off for a swim, and have the liberty to go the place you need. In the event you don’t really feel snug driving, you can even rent a captain. Discover out extra and e-book your boat right here.
- Cooking Courses: In the event you’re keen on native experiences, meals, and cooking, you received’t need to miss this unbelievable cooking class. Create a tasty meal with a chef who grew up in Paros. Via the expertise, you’ll be taught her grandmother’s recipes, make new pals, and revel 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 proper memento from Paros! Discover out extra about this enjoyable expertise in Paros right here.
- Go Kayaking: In search of lively 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 revel in a picnic as properly. Click on right here to be taught extra.
- Go Horseback Driving: Whether or not you need 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 realm of Kakapetra together with your teacher, and in case 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 greatest recognized for its high-quality white marble, enjoyable festivals and events, and naturally, its stunning seashores.
With 2 days in Paros, you’ll have the ability to discover a number of of the villages and seashores. Lease a automobile to discover at your individual tempo and cease the place you need to. Give your self extra time if you wish to be part of a enjoyable boat tour, a cooking class, go to a vineyard, and have time to loosen up and unwind.
One of the 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, in case you don’t need to be out on the water, you’ll be able to merely get pleasure from swimming from one of many many stunning seashores.
Naxos and Paros are each stunning islands in Greece. Paros has a bit extra occurring than Naxos. Paros is a flatter island whereas Naxos is extra mountainous. Each of the islands have wonderful seashores and eating places, and as a result of 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 eternally. The “island for everybody” actually does stay as much as its repute and for that motive, we are going to proceed to go to annually.
In case you are fortunate sufficient to be visiting Greece for the primary time and even your thirtieth time, make sure that Paros is in your itinerary.