21 Finest Issues To Do in Paros in 2023

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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.

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 possibly can anticipate all of this, plus cheap costs, wonderful vacationer amenities, and pleasant individuals who know the true that means of hospitality. It’s simple to see why many regard Paros because the quintessential Island for any Greece journey itinerary.

visiting paros greece

They are saying Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years in the past. It has all of the allure and environment however with out the heaving crowds and steep costs which is likely one of the important explanation why my companion and I fell in love with it.

A lot so, we’ve been again 4 years operating now and actually contemplate 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 proper measurement. It actually does tick all of the packing containers and there really is one thing for everybody.

Right here is a few sensible info for Paros. Should you’d prefer to skip this and bounce 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 nice and the ‘season’ is open — many locations shut for enterprise through 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 powerful wind that blows via the Cyclades down from Turkey often between July and September. It may be very highly effective and because of this, Paros may be very fashionable with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics nevertheless it’s additionally simple to discover a protected bay, road, or quiet nook so the wind might be manageable.

The right way to Get to Paros Island

ferry boat in paros greece

You may get to Paros by boat or airplane. On account 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 usually the primary cease within the Cyclades for lots 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’s 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’s 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 advocate Ferry Hopper. And, take a look at my web site for extra Greece journey recommendation.

Getting Round Paros Island

Paros has an incredible 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). Yow will discover a timetable right here.

There are additionally loads of rental locations across the island the place you possibly can hire automobiles, quad bikes, and scooters. Be warned they will guide out shortly within the peak season so plan forward in case you are visiting in Summer time. Click on right here to see the most recent charges on rental automobiles with Uncover Vehicles.

This 12 months, they’ve began issuing fines in case you are driving with out a world driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.

On the subject of quad bikes and scooters, ensure you test your insurance coverage. Many individuals discover out the arduous approach that they aren’t lined and accidents on the islands might be troublesome to handle, to not point out, costly.

Finest 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 finest.

1. Go to Parikia

visiting parikia in paros greece

The capital and important port of the island, Parikia can also be the industrial and enterprise hub. There are various eating places and cafes alongside the waterfront and thru a maze of alleys within the previous city.

In true Cycladic type, it’s a labyrinth of slim whitewashed streets and an incredible place to remain if you wish to be near every part.

All the main banks and providers are situated right here as are laundries, supermarkets, the hospital, and numerous vacationer providers.

There are additionally some very fascinating historic monuments and factors of curiosity together with an historic windmill and an enchanting Church (see subsequent level).

2. See Panagia Ekatontapiliani

Ekatontapiliani church in paros greece with trees in front

That is one in all Greece’s most vital 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 one hundredth will probably 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

things to do in paros visit naousa for nightlife

Positioned within the North of the island about 20 minutes drive from Parikia, this full of life fishing village is the place we favor to remain. It’s a little bit quieter than Parikia through the day however actually comes alive at night time 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 most costly, nevertheless it’s additionally potential to get an affordable and cheerful meal in one of many many winding again streets. Click on right here for instructions.

4. Go to the City of Lefkes

things to do in Paros visit 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 stunning city to go to for a day and yow will discover some wonderful handmade native pottery, jewellery, and different crafts, in addition to issues akin to honey and figs offered by the highway.

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

piso livadi is one of the best things to do in Paros

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 finest issues to do in Greece — ensure you don’t miss the mussels right here! 

As soon as a really small and quiet bay, it has turn out to be extra fashionable 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 well-liked crusing journey.

6. Golden Seashore (one of many prime issues to do in Paros in case you’re feeling energetic!)

21 things to do on Paros greece visit the beach

A little bit additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seashore, thought-about by many to be one of many finest seashores in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.

In addition to some superb inns and tavernas, additionally, you will discover various locations to hire windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wakeboards.

There are additionally some beautiful and fairly 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.

Should you’re into watersports, a visit to Golden Seashore must be in your checklist 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 seaside. Click on right here for particulars.

7. Go to Drios

drios on paros island at sunset

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 possibly can take pleasure in typical Cycladic hospitality, scrumptious delicacies, and really tranquil environment. It’s potential to hire a little bit 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.

Make sure you take a look at Aspro Chorion, the small charming settlement above Drios. Get instructions to Drios right here.

8. Laze on Kolombithres Seashore

sunbathing at Kolimbithres beach is one of the best things to do in Paros

The seaside at Kolimbithres is likely one of the most well-known in Paros and is situated 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 wonderful taverna proper subsequent to the seaside which has a few of the finest residence cooking on the island.

You possibly can 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 Seashore

santa maria beach paros greece with clear water and sand

One other highly regarded seaside that’s well-known for its windsurfing, water snowboarding, and scuba diving amenities.

Santa Maria is situated 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.

Deal with: 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 unbelievable 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, 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

visit Ambelas village in paros greece

Ampelas is a small village and seaside about quarter-hour drive from Naousa. There’s a small man-made seawall that ensures calm water nearly on daily basis and a few superb tavernas on the seaside, together with the highly regarded Thalami and Christiana.

There’s additionally fashionable restaurant/seaside membership on the seaside known as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. An ideal spot for an extended, 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

things to do in paros visit aliki village

Aliki means ‘salt marsh’ in Greek and this village acquired 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 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 stunning village with various wonderful seafood tavernas and small rooms and pensions to remain in. Click on right here to seek out Aliki on the map.

12. Expertise Butterfly Valley

butterflies on trees at the butterfly valley in paros

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 through the summer season months (beginning in June), the valley is verdant because the Jersey Tiger Moths appear to wrap your complete valley, creating a really breathtaking pure phenomenon.

Deal with: Petaloudes, 84400, Paros- Greece. Get instructions right here.

13. Take the Ferry to Antiparos

antiparos in paros

Antiparos is a really picturesque and laid-back island situated 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.

You probably have a rental automotive, you possibly can catch the automotive ferry from the township a little bit additional south of Parikia in Punda, after which the journey is just 7 minutes.

Antiparos is residence 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.

Should you’d fairly 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

visit mykonos on a day trip from paros

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 instances 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 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 value 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 just 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 night time in case your price range permits it. If not, day journeys from Paros to Mykonos are potential and nonetheless fulfilling.

15. Take a Day Journey to Naxos

things to do in Paros take a day trip to naxos

Naxos is a wonderful 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 automotive 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 stunning calm seaside, nice for households, and there are a variety of wonderful 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 hire…you could need to spend the night time!

16. Sail the Small Cyclades

sailing around paros

Crusing across the Greek Islands generally is a lot tougher, 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 surprising day journey across the Small Cyclades, a gaggle of spectacular islands on the southern finish of Naxos which embrace 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 length of the journey, and the way many individuals are on board.

Anticipate to pay wherever from 20 euros ($23) per particular person to 150 euros ($165). Click on right here to study extra about boat journeys across the Small Cyclades.

17. Go Buying

shopping is a popular thing to do in Paros

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 effectively.

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

18. Go to a Vineyard

visiting a winery is one of the top things to do in paros

There are a few wonderful 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 best 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 an alternative of on a trellis. That is so the wind doesn’t blow the grapes away through the Meltemi (robust winds that blow via the Cyclades from July – September).

Should you’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is likely one of the prime issues to do in Paros.

Moraitis Vineyard Deal with: Epar.Od. Naoussas-Marpissas, Naousa 844 01, Greece. Get instructions right here.

19. Attend a Pageant

fireworks in the sky

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 Pageant is a vibrant celebration representing the raids of the pirates in Paros that had been traditional in Medieval instances. Younger boys gown in conventional pirate costumes and bounce from the caciques (fishing boats) operating via the group to grab the younger ladies away. Fireworks, conventional music, and dancing coincide with a lot feasting and frivolity.

One other highly regarded 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, concert events, theatrical performances or guide festivals are scheduled in direction of the top of the summer season. These festivals and occasions are among the many prime cultural issues to do in Paros.

20. Bask in High quality Eating

wine being poured into a glass at a restaurant fine dining in paros

Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a variety of wonderful high quality eating decisions too.

Unbelievable 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.

The Seven Senses Gastronomy in Drios is efficiently filling a niche on the southern finish of the island, and in case you’re in search of a change from seafood and Greek delicacies, Le Sud in Naousa is value a glance.

21. Watch the Unbelievable Sunsets

watching sunset is one of the most popular things to do in paros

All the Cycladic islands supply unbelievable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s simple to seek out many west-facing areas.

On Paros, Parikia and west-located villages like Punda have one of the best 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

A enjoyable strategy to discover the island is to hire your personal 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 bounce off for a swim, and have the liberty to go the place you need. Should you don’t really feel snug driving, you can even rent a captain. Discover out extra and guide your boat right here.

Should you’re curious about native experiences, meals, and cooking, you gained’t need to miss this unbelievable cooking class.

Create a tasty meal with a chef who grew up in Paros. By the expertise, you’ll study her grandmother’s recipes, make new associates, and luxuriate in a meal with wine and ouzo. Be taught extra about this highly-rated expertise right here

If artwork is extra your factor, head out to create your personal marble sculpture. The proper memento from Paros! Discover out extra about this enjoyable expertise in Paros right here.

Lastly, for some nice recollections of your journey to Paros, head out on an epic buggy tour to a few of the coolest pure points of interest like caves, and waterfalls and luxuriate in a scrumptious BBQ lunch. Be taught extra right here.  

Visiting Paros: FAQ’s

What’s Paros finest recognized for?

Paros is finest recognized for its high-quality white marble, enjoyable festivals and events, and naturally, its lovely seashores.

Is 2 days sufficient for Paros?

With 2 days in Paros, you’ll have the ability to discover a number of of the villages and seashores. Lease a automotive to discover at your personal tempo and cease the place you need 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 chill out and unwind.

What’s one of the best factor to do in Paros?

The very best factor to do in Paros is to get out on the water! Be part of a catamaran or sailboat journey and benefit from the day. Or, rent your personal boat to discover the shoreline. Lastly, in case you don’t need to be out on the water, you possibly can merely take pleasure in swimming from one of many many lovely seashores.

Which is nicer Naxos or Paros?

Naxos and Paros are each lovely islands in Greece. Paros has a bit extra happening 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 might go on endlessly. The “island for everybody” actually does dwell as much as its popularity 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.

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