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 infinite 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 among the greatest places to visit in Greece.

We visited Paros final 12 months for 8 days and might say that wow, this island actually is beautiful! Undoubtedly hire a automobile to discover, make sure that 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’ll be able to anticipate all of this, plus cheap costs, glorious vacationer amenities, 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 travel itinerary.

They are saying Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years in the past. It has all of the appeal and ambiance however with out the heaving crowds and steep costs which is among the primary the explanation why my associate and I fell in love with it.

A lot so, we now have been again 4 years working now and actually think about ourselves to be amongst household after we go to.

There are such a lot of issues to do in Paros, and it’s simply the appropriate dimension. It actually does tick all of the containers and there actually is one thing for everybody. Right here is a few sensible data for Paros. When you’d prefer to skip this and bounce to the Issues To Do in Paros part, click here.

When to Go to Paros Island

Ideally, the best time to visit Greece is between Might and October, and the identical is true for Paros. The climate is nice and the ‘season’ is open — many locations shut for enterprise in the course of 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 energetic sufficient however not so busy.

The ‘Meltemi‘ is a robust wind that blows by the Cyclades down from Turkey often between July and September. It may be very highly effective and for that reason, Paros may be very widespread with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics but it surely’s additionally straightforward to discover a protected bay, road, or quiet nook so the wind will be manageable.

Methods to Get to Paros Island

You may get to Paros by boat or aircraft. Resulting from 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 usually the primary cease within the Cyclades for lots 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 train link direct to the port from the airport.

The airport on the island was fully 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 guide tickets we advocate Ferry Hopper. 

Getting Round Paros Island

Paros has a fantastic 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 experience is only one.80 Euro ($2.09 USD). You will discover a timetable here.

There are additionally loads of rental locations across the island the place you’ll be able to hire vehicles, quad bikes, and scooters. Be warned they’ll guide out shortly within the peak season so plan forward in case you are visiting in Summer time.

We booked our automobile by Uncover Vehicles and undoubtedly advocate having your individual wheels to discover Paros. Click here to see the latest rates on rental vehicles with Uncover Vehicles.

Paros has began issuing fines in case you are driving with out a world driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.

With regards to quad bikes and scooters, be sure you test your insurance. Many individuals discover out the exhausting approach that they aren’t 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 greatest.

1. Go to Parikia

The capital and primary port of the island, Parikia can also 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 model, it’s a labyrinth of slender whitewashed streets and a fantastic place to remain if you wish to be near every thing.

The entire main banks and providers are positioned right here as are laundries, supermarkets, the hospital, and numerous vacationer providers.

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 among Greece’s most necessary Byzantine monuments. Constructed initially within the 4th century it’s also referred to as the Church of a Hundred Doorways.

Legend has it that 99 doorways have been discovered within the Church and that the one 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.

Tackle: Ekatontapiliahs, Paros 844 00, Greece. Discover the church on the map, here. 

3. Discover the Fishing Village of Naousa

Situated within the North of the island about 20 minutes drive from Parikia, this energetic fishing village is the place we desire to remain. It’s slightly quieter than Parikia in the course of the day however actually comes alive at evening when it may be fairly the get together 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, but it surely’s additionally attainable to get an affordable and cheerful meal in one of many many winding again streets. Click here for instructions.

Goats On The Street Notice: We stayed in Naousa and extremely advocate it. There are many guesthouses round. We stayed at Irini Rooms and might advocate it. Click here to 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 among the greatest issues to do in Paros.

It’s a stunning city to go to for a day and you could find some glorious handmade native pottery, jewellery, and different crafts, in addition to issues comparable to honey and figs offered by the street.

Some individuals love to remain right here yearly and it’s attainable to search out some very cheap rooms on Booking.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 among the greatest things to do in Greece — be sure you don’t miss the mussels right here! 

As soon as a really small and quiet bay, it has grow to be extra widespread lately and is the principle port to embark on sailing adventures over the Small Cyclades islands or to Antiparos. Click here for a preferred crusing journey.

6. Golden Seaside (One of many Prime Issues to do in Paros if You’re Feeling Lively!)

Just a little additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seaside, thought-about by many to be one of many best beaches in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.

In addition to some superb resorts and tavernas, additionally, you will discover quite a few locations to hire windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wakeboards.

There are additionally some beautiful and slightly 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 record of issues to do in Paros.

Rental costs differ from place to position and 12 months to 12 months 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 seashore. Click 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 among the greenest villages in Paros.

Right here you’ll be able to take pleasure in typical Cycladic hospitality, delicious cuisine, and really tranquil environment. It’s attainable to rent a little room proper on the seashore for the worth of a pleasant meal and there are a selection of quiet sandy seashores, together with a nudist one shut by.

Make sure you try Aspro Chorion, the small charming settlement above Drios. Get directions to Drios here.

8. Laze on Kolombithres Seaside

The seashore at Kolimbithres is among the most well-known in Paros and is positioned 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 seashore which has among 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 seashore.

9. Loosen up on Santa Maria Seaside

One other very fashionable seashore that’s well-known for its windsurfing, water snowboarding, and scuba diving amenities.

Santa Maria is positioned a few 10-minute drive east of Naoussa and is surrounded by seashore bars, tavernas, and eating places which provides it a extra cosmopolitan really feel and has been a favorite of Scandinavian households for many years.

Tackle: Paros 844 01, Greece. Discover this lovely seashore here on the map.

Planning a visit to different locations in Greece? Don’t miss the superior things to do in Ios, the enjoyable things to do in Zante (Zakynthos), and the unimaginable things to do in Corfu! Kefalonia Island is crammed 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 things to do in Athens, and the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries.

10. Go to the Village of Ampelas

Ampelas is a small village and seashore about quarter-hour drive from Naousa. There’s a small man-made seawall that ensures calm water virtually daily and a few superb tavernas on the seashore, together with the very fashionable Thalami and Christiana.

There may be additionally a great fashionable restaurant/seashore membership on the seashore known as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. A fantastic spot for a protracted, lazy lunch and swim — with hardly some other individuals round. Find Ampelas on the map here.

11. Test Out the Small Village of Aliki

Aliki means ‘salt marsh’ in Greek and this village obtained its identify 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 events 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 glorious seafood tavernas and small rooms and guesthouses to remain in. Click here to search out Aliki on the map.

12. Expertise Butterfly Valley

Situated 5km south of Parikia, close to the Monastery of Jesus of Woods, this valley is known as Petaloudes, which suggests Butterfly in Greek.

Yearly in the course of the summer time months (beginning in June), the valley is verdant because the Jersey Tiger Moths appear to wrap the complete valley, creating a very breathtaking pure phenomenon.

Tackle: Petaloudes, 84400, Paros- Greece. Get directions 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 in case you 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.

If you have a rental car, you’ll be able to catch the automobile ferry from the township slightly additional south of Parikia in Punda, after which the journey is just 7 minutes.

Antiparos is house 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 slightly sail to Antiparos, hop aboard a catamaran! This beautiful 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. Find out more here. 

14. Day Journey to Mykonos or Santorini

You don’t want to remain on the 2 most costly islands in Greece to take pleasure in them. There are ferries quite a few occasions a day to Santorini and a number of other can even cease at Naxos and Ios. A day journey to close by islands is certainly one of many high 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 nice journey and price it to see what all of the fuss is about (belief me, it’s price it!). Click here for ferry listings.

Mykonos is just 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 get together, you’ll must spend the evening in case your price range permits it. If not, day trips from Paros to Mykonos are attainable and nonetheless pleasurable.

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 will have a automobile to get to most of them particularly in case you are pressed for time.

St. George seashore on the southern finish of Naxos city is a stunning calm seashore, nice for households, and there are a selection of wonderful tavernas proper on the sand. When you can undoubtedly go to on a day journey from Paros, there are numerous things to do in Naxos and excellent villas to rent…you could need to spend the evening!

16. Sail the Small Cyclades

Crusing across the Greek Islands generally is a lot harder, and costly than individuals understand. On Paros, nevertheless, it’s attainable to affix a ship, or privately constitution one, from both Naousa or Piso Livadi.

Get pleasure from a shocking day journey across the Small Cyclades, a gaggle of spectacular islands on the southern finish of Naxos which embody 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 period of the journey, and the way many individuals are on board.

Anticipate to pay wherever from 20 euros ($23) per individual to 150 euros ($165). Click here to learn more about one of many extremely rated boat journeys across the Small Cyclades.

17. Go Buying

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 effectively.

There are small markets, high-end boutiques, and native Greek designer put on and jewelry, a lot of it very inexpensive. When you’re seeking to discover one thing particular to take house out of your journey this could undoubtedly be the place to do it.

18. Go to a Vineyard

There are a few glorious wineries on Paros. Established in 1910, Moraitis Winery 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.

Chances are 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 in the course of the Meltemi (robust winds that blow by the Cyclades from July – September).

When you’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is among the high issues to do in Paros. For many who would slightly go on a tour with a driver so you are able to do as many tastings as you need, this is a great winery tour option.

Moraitis Vineyard Tackle: Epar.Od. Naoussas-Marpissas, Naousa 844 01, Greece. Get directions here.

19. Attend a Pageant

The Greeks love a pageant and there are greater than 10 non secular festivals on Paros between July and September alone! Discover a full record here.

The Pirates Festival is a vibrant celebration representing the raids of the pirates in Paros that have been typical in Medieval occasions. Younger boys costume in conventional pirate costumes and bounce from the caciques (fishing boats) working by the group to grab the younger women away. Fireworks, conventional music, and dancing coincide with a lot feasting and frivolity.

One other very fashionable occasion is The Fish and Wine Pageant 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 guide festivals are scheduled in direction of the tip of the summer time. These festivals and occasions are among the many high cultural issues to do in Paros.

20. Take pleasure in High quality Eating

Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a selection of wonderful effective 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 lately.

21. Watch the Unimaginable Sunsets

The entire Cycladic islands supply unimaginable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s straightforward to search out many west-facing areas.

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 great 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

1. Lease Your Personal Boat: A enjoyable solution to discover the island is to hire your individual boat and be a captain for a day! These small speedboats are a whole lot 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 too can rent a captain. Find out more and book your boat here.
2. Cooking Lessons: When you’re eager about native experiences, meals, and cooking, you gained’t need to miss this incredible 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 associates, and luxuriate in a meal with wine and ouzo. Be taught extra about this highly-rated expertise here. 
3. 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 here.
4. Go Kayaking: Searching for lively issues to do in Paros? Sea kayaking is an superior possibility! 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 effectively. Click here to learn more.
5. Go Horseback Driving: Whether or not you need to experience early within the morning or throughout sundown, there’s a visit obtainable. During the sunset trip, you’ll discover the world of Kakapetra together with your teacher, and in case you opt for the morning trip, you’ll experience Paroikia’s hidden trails. Click here to be taught concerning the sundown experience, and click here for particulars on the morning horseback using journey.

Visiting Paros: FAQ’s

Now You Know What To Do in Paros

There are such a lot of issues to do in Paros (and eat!) that I might go on ceaselessly. The “island for everybody” actually does stay as much as its fame and for that purpose, we’ll proceed to go to every year.

If you’re fortunate sufficient to be visiting Greece for the primary time and even your thirtieth time, make sure that Paros is in your itinerary.

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