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 gorgeous, 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 12 months for 8 days and might say that wow, this island actually is gorgeous! Undoubtedly hire 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 may anticipate all of this, plus affordable costs, glorious vacationer services, and pleasant individuals who know the true which means of hospitality. It’s simple 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 predominant explanation why my associate and I fell in love with it.
A lot so, we’ve got been again 4 years working 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 actually is one thing for everybody. Right here is a few sensible info for Paros. In case you’d wish to skip this and soar 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 Might and October, and the identical is true for Paros. The climate is sweet 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 scorching and windy then too. Personally, we love June or September when it’s nonetheless full of life sufficient however not so busy.
The ‘Meltemi‘ is a robust wind that blows via the Cyclades down from Turkey normally between July and September. It may be very highly effective and for that reason, Paros could be very well-liked with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics however it’s additionally simple to discover a protected bay, road, or quiet nook so the wind may be manageable.
The way to Get to Paros Island
You may get to Paros by boat or airplane. As a result of its place and significance, Paros is related not simply to Piraeus (the port of Athens – one of many busiest passenger ports on this 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 may be now a brand new prepare hyperlink direct to the port from the airport.
The airport on the island was fully 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 guide tickets we suggest Ferry Hopper.
Getting Round Paros Island
Paros has an awesome 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 experience is only 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 hire automobiles, quad bikes, and scooters. Be warned they will guide out rapidly within the peak season so plan forward if you’re visiting in Summer time.
We booked our automobile via Uncover Automobiles and positively suggest having your individual wheels to discover Paros. Click on right here to see the newest charges on rental automobiles with Uncover Automobiles.
Paros has began issuing fines if you’re driving with out a world driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.
In the case of quad bikes and scooters, be sure you test your insurance coverage. Many individuals discover out the onerous manner that they aren’t coated 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 below are the 21 finest.
1. Go to Parikia
The capital and predominant port of the island, Parikia can be the business and enterprise hub. There are a lot of eating places and cafes alongside the waterfront and thru a maze of alleys within the previous city.
In true Cycladic fashion, it’s a labyrinth of slender whitewashed streets and an awesome place to remain if you wish to be near every thing.
All the 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 an interesting Church (see subsequent level).
2. See Panagia Ekatontapiliani
That is one in all 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 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.
Handle: Ekatontapiliahs, Paros 844 00, Greece. Discover the church on the map, right here.
3. Discover the Fishing Village of Naousa
Situated within the North of the island about 20 minutes drive from Parikia, this full of life fishing village is the place we desire to remain. It’s somewhat quieter than Parikia in the course of the day however actually comes alive at evening when it may be fairly the occasion 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, however it’s additionally potential 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 Be aware: 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 guide.
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 beautiful city to go to for a day and you could find some glorious 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 potential to seek out some very cheap rooms on Reserving.com, or simply by wandering via the village.
5. Discover Piso Livadi
A small and picturesque fishing port on the southeast of the island, Piso Livadi has a variety of 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 you don’t miss the mussels right here!
As soon as a really small and quiet bay, it has turn out to be extra well-liked 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 Prime Issues to do in Paros if You’re Feeling Lively!)
Somewhat additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seaside, thought of by many to be one of many finest seashores in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.
In addition to some superb resorts and tavernas, additionally, you will discover a variety of locations to hire 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 attraction.
In case you’re into watersports, a visit to Golden Seaside ought to be in your checklist of issues to do in Paros.
Rental costs range from place to put 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 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 potential to hire somewhat room proper on the seaside for the worth of a pleasant meal and there are a variety of quiet sandy seashores, together with a nudist one shut by.
You should definitely 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 wonderful taverna proper subsequent to the seaside which has among the finest residence cooking on the island.
You may 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 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 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 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, if you happen to’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 day by day and a few superb tavernas on the seaside, together with the very fashionable Thalami and Christiana.
There’s additionally a superb trendy restaurant/seaside membership on the seaside referred to as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. An incredible spot for a protracted, lazy lunch and swim — with hardly another 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 obtained 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 a variety of glorious 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
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 whole valley, creating a very 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 positioned simply off the coast of Paros. It’s an ideal day journey or when you’ve got 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 in case you have a rental automobile, you’ll be able to catch the automobile ferry from the township somewhat additional south of Parikia in Punda, after which the journey is simply 7 minutes.
Antiparos is residence to a variety of 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.
In case 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 most costly islands in Greece to get pleasure from them. There are ferries quite a few occasions a day to Santorini and several other may also cease at Naxos and Ios. A day journey to close by islands is unquestionably one of many high 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 pleasing journey and price it to see what all of the fuss is about (belief me, it’s price it!). Click on right here for ferry listings.
Mykonos is simply an hour away and it’s fairly potential 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 occasion, you’ll should spend the evening in case your funds permits it. If not, day journeys from Paros to Mykonos are potential and nonetheless fulfilling.
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 will want 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 beautiful calm seaside, nice for households, and there are a variety of fantastic 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 glorious villas to hire…it’s possible you’ll wish to spend the evening!
16. Sail the Small Cyclades
Crusing across the Greek Islands is usually a lot harder, and costly than individuals notice. On Paros, nevertheless, it’s potential 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 bunch of spectacular islands on the southern finish of Naxos which embody Koufanisi and Danousa.
The price of this tour varies dramatically relying on the scale 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 anyplace from 20 euros ($23) per particular person 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 effectively.
There are small markets, high-end boutiques, and native Greek designer put on and jewelry, a lot of it very inexpensive. In case you’re trying to discover one thing particular to take residence out of your journey this may positively be the place to do it.
18. Go to a Vineyard
There are a few glorious wineries on Paros. Established in 1910, Moraitis Vineyard is simply behind the city of Naousa and has an excellent cellar that additionally sells gentle 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 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 via the Cyclades from July – September).
In case you’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is likely one of the high 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, this can be 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 spiritual 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 typical in Medieval occasions. Younger boys costume in conventional pirate costumes and soar from the caciques (fishing boats) working via the gang 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 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 guide festivals are scheduled in the direction of the top of the summer time. These festivals and occasions are among the many high cultural issues to do in Paros.
20. Bask in Advantageous Eating
Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a variety of fantastic high quality 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 just lately.
21. Watch the Unimaginable Sunsets
All the Cycladic islands supply unimaginable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s simple 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
- Hire 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 numerous enjoyable – pull up at secluded coves, moor up and soar off for a swim, and have the liberty to go the place you need. In case you don’t really feel snug driving, you may also rent a captain. Discover out extra and guide your boat right here.
- Cooking Courses: In case you’re interested by native experiences, meals, and cooking, you gained’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 associates, 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 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 revel in a picnic as effectively. Click on right here to be taught extra.
- Go Horseback Driving: Whether or not you wish to experience early within the morning or throughout sundown, there’s a visit obtainable. Through the sundown journey, you’ll discover the realm of Kakapetra along with your teacher, and if you happen to go for the morning journey, you’ll experience Paroikia’s hidden trails. Click on right here to be taught concerning the sundown experience, 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 be capable of 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 loosen up 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, if you happen to 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 occurring than Naxos. Paros is a flatter island whereas Naxos is extra mountainous. Each of the islands have glorious 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 perpetually. The “island for everybody” actually does dwell as much as its status and for that motive, 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, ensure Paros is in your itinerary.
