We traveled to Paros, one of the most popular islands in Greece and we present a guide to the best things to do when you are there.
Cycladic beauty, whitewashed alleys, picturesque villages and intriguing gastronomy compose the experience offered by Paros, one of the most popular islands in Greece. Whether you go for the first time or are coming back again, this island always has something new to offer you.
An island as white as its marble, with golden sandy shores, chapels with blue domes and magical sunsets. A multifaceted destination that uniquely combines tradition and hospitality with vibrant nightlife and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. One could say that Paros gathers all the magic of the Cyclades into its 195 square kilometers.
Parikia: A stroll through the capital of Paros
The first image you will encounter is the port of Parikia, the islands capital. Built amphitheatrically around the bay, Parikia blends traditional Cycladic architecture with bustling tourism and charming alleys full of life. Even if you do not stay in Parikia, a walk through its narrow lanes is a must.
Discover the whitewashed alleys of the old town around the Castle that stands on a hill above the port and travel through the centuries and the islands history via traditional Cycladic houses, neoclassical mansions, ancient monuments, little bridges, fountains and small churches. Late in the afternoon, climb up to the church of St. Constantine, at the highest point of the castle quarter, to enjoy the sunset. On the main Market street you will find everything from greengrocers to antique shops and boutiques.
Panagia Ekatontapyliani
One of the islands most impressive sights is the church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. It is one of the countrys most important religious monuments. The name "Ekatontapyliani" relates to its hundred gates (99 visible and one secret), as tradition says. The complex includes the main basilica, chapels, a baptistery and Early Christian structures, impressing with the simplicity and Byzantine grandeur of its interior. Ekatontapyliani is not only an architectural jewel, but also a living place of pilgrimage, especially on August 15 when it overflows with people.
Naoussa: The islands cosmopolitan side
Set on a sheltered little bay on the islands northern coasts, Naoussa with its small harbor and Venetian castle is considered one of the Aegeans most picturesque places. Naoussa retains its traditional character, with its beautiful, protected harbor that is always filled with dozens of colorful fishing boats and visitors who walk by the sea.
The fishermens old warehouses have been transformed into bars, restaurants and ouzeris that serve fresh meze and the famous local gouna (sun-dried salted fish). If you head inland, you will get lost in narrow lanes with whitewashed houses and bougainvillea.
There you will discover shops for your purchases, as well as bars and restaurants where you can sit, as Naoussa is also the beating heart of the islands nightlife. If you want to take an authentic island outing, hop on the fishing boat Soultana’s Fishing tour at Naoussas little harbor and learn all about fishing while also taking dips.
The picturesque villages of Paros
Paross hinterland hides tranquil villages that reveal to the visitor the islands "other" face. The villages of Paros are living jewels of the island, offering authentic images of Cycladic life away from the intense tourist bustle. Lefkes, built amphitheatrically at an altitude of 250 m in the center of the island, is among the largest villages of Paros. Its typical Aegean houses are built amphitheatrically and form many narrow alleys where cars do not enter and that is why they are ideal for walking. Take a stroll along Ramnos, the central cobbled street, to reach the Church of the Holy Trinity, which is the villages jewel.
It is worth following the Byzantine path with marble slabs that connects Lefkes with Prodromos, a delightful 7 km route among small vineyards, olive groves and fragrant shrubs. The village of Prodromos has a fortified urban layout and you will enter through an arch with a saddle roof that joins the churches of St. Spyridon and St. Nicholas.
The neighboring village of Marpissa is built on the top of a small hill 40 meters high, a short distance from the sea. It impresses with its narrow alleys and white houses, as well as the beautiful houses of the 16th and 17th centuries.
Museums and archaeological sites
If you are a lover of history and museums, make a stop at the Archaeological Museum where the rich exhibits from the islands archaeological sites (sanctuaries of Asclepius and Pythian Apollo, Delion, etc.) are ideally showcased. Also, a short distance from Parikia, near the settlement of Marathi, are the ancient quarries where the famous in antiquity Parian marble was extracted, from which Praxiteles Hermes and the Aphrodite of Milos were made.
Beaches with crystalline waters
Paros has beaches for all tastes, endless, golden, calm and organized. Follow the direction of the wind and you will always find a beach that is sheltered and serene, whatever season you visit the island. The most famous (and most special) is Kolymbithres in the bay of Naoussa. It is a beach of rare beauty – the result of the sea and wind acting on the granite rocks. Santa Maria is among the largest and most organized beaches for water sports.
If you are seeking peace, you will find it at Kalogeros, where you will also have a natural spa with clay straight from the rocks. Logaras is a large and organized beach, ideal for families but also for water sports. When the meltemia are at their peak, surfers meet at cosmopolitan Golden Beach. Kitesurf lovers choose Pounda, in the marine strait opposite Antiparos. On the western side of Paros you will swim at the organized beaches of Parasporos, Agia Irini, Voutakos and Faragas.
Paros Environmental and Cultural Park
The cultural heart of the island beats at the Paros Environmental and Cultural Park, which combines culture with the magic of a protected natural landscape, with great geological and historical significance. Visit the chapel of Agios Ioannis Detis, swim at Monastiri beach and live unique experiences at the Festival at the Park that every summer organizes enchanting artistic evenings for the islands visitors and residents.
Accommodation
- The Hotel Aegeon is located in the town of Parikia, just 5 minutes on foot from the traditional settlement and the beach. It is distinguished for its traditional Cycladic architecture, decor, amenities and hospitality for more than 30 years.
- The renovated rooms of Aegeon Garden will offer you relaxation next to the blooming garden that will remind you of home. The family business is in an ideal location in Parikia, with the beach and the citys sights a few meters away on foot.
- The Parian Boutique Hotel combines unique aesthetics and hospitality in one of the islands most unique and picturesque locations. It is located at the entrance of Agioi Anargyroi bay in enchanting Naoussa, a few meters from the sea. Enjoy sunbathing with a view to the sea.
- Warm hospitality awaits you at the Kalypso hotel and the villas that are located right on Agioi Anargyroi beach. The spot is ideal for swims as it has direct access to the sea, while at the same time it is close to picturesque Naoussa with its restaurants and shops.
- In a quiet location next to Aliki beach, you will find Parosland Hotel & Resort. You will take endless strolls in its blooming garden among olive trees, relax in its pool and enjoy dinner at its restaurant with Mediterranean dishes.
- In the fishing village of Aliki you will find the rooms Evi Rooms, a warm family business that gives priority to its guests. Each room has a balcony with a view to the sea or to the garden that resembles a country house.
Food, sweets, drinks
- The stylish Chora Restaurant & Bar stands out at Paros Marina. It operates all day with flavors that honor the rich traditions of the Mediterranean. In the evening, the bar offers cocktails made with care, so that you spend relaxed and also fun evenings.
- In Parikia you will find Greco, the traditional Greek taverna where locals and visitors gather daily. There the essence of Greece is reflected in every dish with traditional flavors from meats to seafood, with a unique view and a location by the sea.
- At Axinos you will enjoy refined dishes with an island aroma with a view to Naoussas caiques. The restaurant with elegant decor is open all day. Apart from the food it emphasizes entertainment, with the bar setting the rhythm of the islands nightlife.
- Right in the center of Naoussas little harbor you will find the fish taverna Tsachpinis Ouzeri Ton Naftikon. In the islands most picturesque spot, you will try seafood meze such as pasta with a variety of seafood, fresh grilled fish and other local dishes.
- In one of the most beautiful spots of Naoussa, at its little harbor, you will find Sigi Ikthios with tables that spread out in front of the sea. Among the meze you will try is the catch of the day, cooked with care and love for the island.
- For a romantic dinner at sunset time, choose Glafkos Taverna. Behind Naoussas little harbor on Agios Dimitrios beach the Parian breeze blows. The menu includes seafood and local flavors, such as pasta with seafood and fresh grilled fish.
- If you want to enjoy your coffee and breakfast by the waves, relax in the armchairs of Kiranos Cafe which is open from early. Continue with your lunch or your cocktail that can be accompanied by the flavors of the restaurant.
- From morning till night you can try the flavors of Ragoussis Bakery in the center of Parikia or Naoussa. It is much more than a simple bakery, as apart from coffee and pastries you will find everything from brunch to home-cooked dishes and local sweets to put in your luggage.
- If you have a sweet tooth a stop at Sugar Vibes in Naoussa is a must. At the little tables under the string lights you will enjoy a variety of flavors in ice creams, waffles, crepes and other treats that will win you over with the first bite.
Beauty services
- If you want to spend a day of pampering on your holidays, choose Her – Cultivated Beauty, a modern and impressive beauty space in the heart of Naoussa. There you will experience moments of calm and wellbeing, in a space that is contemporary and relaxing.
Getting around
- To get around the island, rent a car or motorbike from Paros Drive rent a car. It is in an ideal location at the port of Parikia and has a variety of vehicles for every need.
