Paros, Greece
Locavy ratings
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
2.5/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
4.5/5
Value
4/5
Transport Links
2.5/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Renowned for its gastronomic delights, white sandy beaches, and the iconic charm of Naoussa, Paros beckons as a must-visit destination for those seeking an affordable and rejuvenating holiday experience.
Party
For the ultimate nightlife experience in Paros, head to Naoussa, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. The old port area is particularly renowned for hosting the island’s best clubs. Additionally, Parikia, the island’s capital, offers a fantastic nightlife scene, boasting an array of bars scattered throughout the town. Don’t miss iconic spots like Cavo Paradiso or Barbarossa in Naoussa.
Sightseeing
Immerse yourself in the allure of Naoussa, the island’s most renowned sight, offering captivating cobbled streets, iconic white-washed structures, and a charming port that beckons exploration. Beyond Naoussa, Paros unfolds as a visual feast with numerous stunning beaches and hidden coves, solidifying its status as one of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque islands.
Relaxation
Paros emerges as a perfect destination for relaxation. Strolling through the enchanting streets of Naoussa provides a tranquil escape, while basking in the sun on Paros’ picturesque beaches offers a serene coastal retreat. Furthermore, a brief boat ride to Antiparos unveils elegant villages and golden beaches, ensuring a peaceful getaway devoid of crowds.
Value
Paros stands out as a budget-friendly destination, offering reasonably priced options for restaurants and hotels, making it accessible to a range of travelers. It’s worth noting, however, that certain premium experiences such as scuba diving, sailing, and cooking classes, while enriching, may come with a higher price tag.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
While Paros does not have an international airport, convenient short propeller flights from Athens are readily available. Offering regular schedules, these flights provide a swift and efficient alternative for reaching the island.
Train
Paros does not have a train station, so transportation on the island primarily relies on buses, taxis, and other road-based options.
Drive
While Paros boasts an efficient bus network, opting to rent a car presents an excellent alternative for island exploration. Especially advantageous for travelers keen on discovering the secluded beaches tucked away in the southern corners of the island.
Experiences
Paros offers a range of captivating experiences. A sailing excursion along the island’s breathtaking coastline provides a serene and picturesque journey. The scuba diving adventures in Santa Maria unveil the vibrant marine life of the Aegean Sea. Additionally, a day trip to the neighboring island of Antiparos is a highly recommended escape for those seeking a more laid-back exploration of the Cyclades.
Best Things To Do
1. Naoussa
Discover the enchanting village of Naoussa, nestled in the far north of Paros. Admire its picturesque port and iconic white-washed houses, making it one of the most beautiful villages in Greece.
Explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems; Naoussa’s charm lies in its quaint corners.
2. Spend the Day at the Beach
Paros is a beach lover’s paradise, offering pristine shores across the island. Head to Kolymbithres beach in the northwest or explore the serene Lolantonis beach in the south for a relaxing day by the sea.
Bring your snorkeling gear; Paros’ crystal-clear waters offer fantastic underwater visibility.
3. Sail Along the Coast
Embark on a boat trip, a quintessential Paros experience. Whether you rent a catamaran or sail along the coast, enjoy the island’s beauty from a unique perspective.
Opt for a sunset cruise for a magical experience on the tranquil Aegean Sea.
4. Island Hopping
Take a day trip to Naxos and Antiparos, Paros’ charming neighbors. Explore Naxos’ diverse landscape and indulge in its excellent cuisine, or unwind on the serene beaches of Antiparos.
Check ferry schedules in advance for a seamless island-hopping adventure.
5. Scuba Diving
Dive into the vibrant underwater world with scuba diving tours, a popular activity in Paros. Santa Maria, in the far northeast, is a hub for thrilling scuba experiences.
Book a guided dive to explore underwater caves and marine life safely.
6. Parikia Pleasures
Explore Parikia, the capital of Paros, located on the west coast. Enjoy boat trips, lively bars, and restaurants. Marvel at iconic churches and elegant cobbled streets, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.
Visit the ancient Panagia Ekatontapiliani; its history dates back to the 4th century.
7. Hiking
Immerse yourself in Paros’ natural beauty through hiking. Try a coastal hike or the Byzantine trail, both offering breathtaking views of the island.
Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle for a comfortable hiking experience.
8. Charming Churches
Delve into Paros’ religious and architectural heritage by visiting iconic blue-capped churches and the renowned Panagia Ekatontapiliani.
Respect local customs when entering churches; modest attire is appreciated.
9. Cooking Class
Experience Paros’ gastronomic scene through a cooking class, immersing yourself in local culture, traditions, and culinary skills.
Sample local wines during your cooking class to enhance the gastronomic experience.
10. Moraitis Winery
Explore Moraitis Winery, one of Paros’ most famous wineries, located on the outskirts of Naoussa. Take a tour of the grounds and indulge in tastings for a delightful day trip.
Secure your spot by booking in advance; Moraitis Winery is a popular destination.
1. Naoussa
Discover the enchanting village of Naoussa, nestled in the far north of Paros. Admire its picturesque port and iconic white-washed houses, making it one of the most beautiful villages in Greece.
Explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems; Naoussa’s charm lies in its quaint corners.
2. Spend the Day at the Beach
Paros is a beach lover’s paradise, offering pristine shores across the island. Head to Kolymbithres beach in the northwest or explore the serene Lolantonis beach in the south for a relaxing day by the sea.
Bring your snorkeling gear; Paros’ crystal-clear waters offer fantastic underwater visibility.
3. Sail Along the Coast
Embark on a boat trip, a quintessential Paros experience. Whether you rent a catamaran or sail along the coast, enjoy the island’s beauty from a unique perspective.
Opt for a sunset cruise for a magical experience on the tranquil Aegean Sea.
4. Island Hopping
Take a day trip to Naxos and Antiparos, Paros’ charming neighbors. Explore Naxos’ diverse landscape and indulge in its excellent cuisine, or unwind on the serene beaches of Antiparos.
Check ferry schedules in advance for a seamless island-hopping adventure.
5. Scuba Diving
Dive into the vibrant underwater world with scuba diving tours, a popular activity in Paros. Santa Maria, in the far northeast, is a hub for thrilling scuba experiences.
Book a guided dive to explore underwater caves and marine life safely.
6. Parikia Pleasures
Explore Parikia, the capital of Paros, located on the west coast. Enjoy boat trips, lively bars, and restaurants. Marvel at iconic churches and elegant cobbled streets, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.
Visit the ancient Panagia Ekatontapiliani; its history dates back to the 4th century.
7. Hiking
Immerse yourself in Paros’ natural beauty through hiking. Try a coastal hike or the Byzantine trail, both offering breathtaking views of the island.
Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle for a comfortable hiking experience.
8. Charming Churches
Delve into Paros’ religious and architectural heritage by visiting iconic blue-capped churches and the renowned Panagia Ekatontapiliani.
Respect local customs when entering churches; modest attire is appreciated.
9. Cooking Class
Experience Paros’ gastronomic scene through a cooking class, immersing yourself in local culture, traditions, and culinary skills.
Sample local wines during your cooking class to enhance the gastronomic experience.
10. Moraitis Winery
Explore Moraitis Winery, one of Paros’ most famous wineries, located on the outskirts of Naoussa. Take a tour of the grounds and indulge in tastings for a delightful day trip.
Secure your spot by booking in advance; Moraitis Winery is a popular destination.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Ferrys
Ferrys are the primary transportation method to and from the island, offering reliable and frequent services to the mainland and neighboring islands.
6.
Bottled Water
The tap water in Paros is non-potable, making it essential to drink bottled water during your visit.
2.
Windy Warnings
Paros is renowned for its strong winds, especially in summer. Consider this when planning a beach day to ensure an enjoyable experience.
7.
Where to Stay
Naoussa is the preferred destination for tourists, offering the best in nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. The capital, Parikia, is also a popular accommodation choice.
3.
When to Visit
Paros experiences an off-season from November to April, with reduced tourism. The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder season or spring for pleasant weather without the summer tourist rush.
8.
Pre-Book Popular Activities
Ensure availability by booking popular activities like boat tours and visits to places such as Moraitis Winery in advance.
4.
Navigate with Local Buses
Utilize the local buses for convenient and reliable transportation across the island, connecting to various towns and villages.
9.
Siesta Culture
Embrace the siesta culture, as many shops and attractions close during the afternoon. Plan activities accordingly to make the most of your visit.
5.
Safety
Paros is a safe destination with low crime rates. While generally secure, it’s advisable to remain vigilant, especially at the beach, to prevent petty thefts like pickpocketing.
10.
Take Cash
Cash is essential in Paros, especially in smaller towns and villages that may not accept cards. Be mindful of minimum spend limits in shops requiring cash transactions.
6.
Bottled Water
The tap water in Paros is non-potable, making it essential to drink bottled water during your visit.
7.
Where to Stay
Naoussa is the preferred destination for tourists, offering the best in nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. The capital, Parikia, is also a popular accommodation choice.
8.
Pre-Book Popular Activities
Ensure availability by booking popular activities like boat tours and visits to places such as Moraitis Winery in advance.
9.
Siesta Culture
Embrace the siesta culture, as many shops and attractions close during the afternoon. Plan activities accordingly to make the most of your visit.
10.
Take Cash
Cash is essential in Paros, especially in smaller towns and villages that may not accept cards. Be mindful of minimum spend limits in shops requiring cash transactions.