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 limitless 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 among the greatest 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! Positively lease 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 count on all of this, plus cheap costs, wonderful vacationer services, 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 journey itinerary.
They are saying Paros is like Mykonos was 20 years in the past. It has all of the appeal and environment however with out the heaving crowds and steep costs which is among the primary the explanation why my companion and I fell in love with it.
A lot so, we’ve got been again 4 years working now and actually contemplate 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 packing containers and there actually is one thing for everybody. Right here is a few sensible info for Paros. If you happen to’d wish 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 perfect 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 sizzling and windy then too. Personally, we love June or September when it’s nonetheless vigorous sufficient however not so busy.
The ‘Meltemi‘ is a strong wind that blows through the Cyclades down from Turkey usually between July and September. It can be very powerful and for this reason, Paros is very popular with avid windsurfing and wakeboarding fanatics but it’s additionally straightforward to discover a protected bay, road, or quiet nook so the wind may be manageable.
Find out how to Get to Paros Island
You will get to Paros by boat or aircraft. Attributable to its place and significance, Paros is linked not simply to Piraeus (the port of Athens – one of many busiest passenger ports on this planet!) but additionally to Rafina which is nearer to the airport.
Paros is usually the primary cease within the Cyclades for most 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 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 potentialities 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 important public bus system that may take you to most seashores and cities on the island. That is particularly handy for anybody on a finances because the bus trip is just one.80 Euro ($2.09 USD). You could find a timetable right here.
There are additionally loads of rental locations across the island the place you’ll be able to lease automobiles, 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 season.
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 in case you are driving with out a global driver’s license so it pays to journey with one.
In relation to quad bikes and scooters, ensure you verify your insurance coverage. Many individuals discover out the exhausting approach that they don’t seem to be coated and accidents on the islands may be troublesome 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 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 model, it’s a labyrinth of slender whitewashed streets and an important place to remain if you wish to be near every part.
The entire main banks and companies are positioned right here as are laundries, supermarkets, the hospital, and numerous vacationer companies.
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
That is considered one of Greece’s most essential Byzantine monuments. Constructed initially within the 4th century it’s also called 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.
Deal with: 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 vigorous fishing village is the place we desire to remain. It’s somewhat quieter than Parikia through the day however actually comes alive at night time 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, 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.
Goats On The Street 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 among the greatest issues to do in Paros.
It’s a beautiful city to go to for a day and yow will discover some wonderful 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 potential to search 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 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 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 grow to be extra widespread 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 Seaside (One of many High Issues to do in Paros if You’re Feeling Lively!)
Slightly additional south from Piso Livadi is Golden Seaside, thought-about by many to be top-of-the-line seashores in Greece for water sports activities, if not the world.
In addition to some superb accommodations and tavernas, additionally, you will discover quite a few locations to lease windsurfers, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and wakeboards.
There are additionally some beautiful and fairly funky little beach-inspired outlets and boutiques. It may be very windy when the Meltemi is blowing however for many individuals, that’s a part of its enchantment.
If you happen to’re into watersports, a visit to Golden Seaside needs to be in your checklist of issues to do in Paros.
Rental costs range from place to position and 12 months to 12 months however are comparatively cheap. For one hour of windsurfing, count on 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 among the greenest villages in Paros.
Right here you’ll be able to take pleasure in typical Cycladic hospitality, scrumptious delicacies, and really tranquil environment. It’s potential to lease somewhat room proper on the seaside for the value of a pleasant meal and there are a variety of quiet sandy seashores, together with a nudist one shut by.
Make sure to take a look at Aspro Chorion, the small charming settlement above Drios. Get instructions to Drios right here.
8. Laze on Kolombithres Seaside
The seaside 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 easy sunbathing platforms.
The water right here is shallow and crystal clear and there is a superb taverna proper subsequent to the seaside which has a number of 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 seaside.
9. Loosen up on Santa Maria Seaside
One other very talked-about 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.
Deal with: Paros 844 01, Greece. Discover this stunning 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 provide 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 daily and a few superb tavernas on the seaside, together with the very talked-about Thalami and Christiana.
There may be additionally an excellent fashionable restaurant/seaside membership on the seaside known as Aspro that gives solar loungers and beachside service to diners. An excellent spot for an extended, lazy lunch and swim — with hardly another individuals round. Discover Ampelas on the map right here.
11. Examine Out the Small Village of Aliki
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 beautiful village with quite a few wonderful seafood tavernas and small rooms and guesthouses to remain in. Click on right 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 through 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.
Deal with: 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 if 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 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 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 after they go to every summer time.
If you happen to’d fairly sail to Antiparos, hop aboard a catamaran! This stunning 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 costliest islands in Greece to take pleasure in them. There are ferries quite a few instances a day to Santorini and a number of other will even cease at Naxos and Ios. A day journey to close by islands is unquestionably 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 price 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 get together, you’ll should spend the night time in case your finances permits it. If not, day journeys from Paros to Mykonos are potential and nonetheless pleasurable.
15. Take a Day Journey 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 want a automobile 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 beautiful calm seaside, nice for households, and there are a variety of wonderful 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 wonderful villas to lease…you could wish to spend the night time!
16. Sail the Small Cyclades
Crusing across the Greek Islands is usually a lot harder, and costly than individuals understand. 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 elegance of the boat, which islands you go to, the length of the journey, and the way many individuals are on board.
Count on to pay anyplace from 20 euros ($23) per individual to 150 euros ($165). Click on right here to study 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 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 reasonably priced. If you happen to’re trying to discover one thing particular to take house out of your journey this could positively be the place to do it.
18. Go to a Vineyard
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 circumstances 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 (sturdy winds that blow via the Cyclades from July – September).
If you happen to’re into wines, a visit to a vineyard is among the prime issues to do in Paros. For individuals who would fairly go on a tour with a driver so you are able to do as many tastings as you need, it is a nice vineyard tour choice.
Moraitis Vineyard Deal with: Epar.Od. Naoussas-Marpissas, Naousa 844 01, Greece. Get instructions right here.
19. Attend a Pageant
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 Pageant is a vibrant celebration representing the raids of the pirates in Paros that have been common in Medieval instances. Younger boys gown in conventional pirate costumes and bounce from the caciques (fishing boats) working via the group to grab the younger ladies away. Fireworks, conventional music, and dancing coincide with a lot feasting and frivolity.
One other very talked-about 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 gala’s are scheduled in direction of the tip of the summer time. These festivals and occasions are among the many prime cultural issues to do in Paros.
20. Take pleasure in Wonderful Eating
Whereas conventional tavernas abound throughout the island, there are a variety of wonderful positive 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 not too long ago.
21. Watch the Unimaginable Sunsets
The entire Cycladic islands provide unimaginable vistas of the well-known Mediterranean sunsets and it’s straightforward to search out many west-facing places.
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 massive and units fairly slowly. It’s a really hypnotic impact!
Different Actions in Paros
Hire Your Personal Boat: A enjoyable technique to discover the island is to lease your individual boat and be a captain for a day! These small speedboats are a number 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. If you happen to don’t really feel comfy driving, you can even rent a captain. Discover out extra and guide your boat right here.
Cooking Lessons: If you happen to’re desirous about 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 study her grandmother’s recipes, make new associates, and luxuriate 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 luxuriate in a picnic as effectively. Click on right here to study extra.
Go Horseback Driving: Whether or not you wish to trip early within the morning or throughout sundown, there’s a visit out there. Throughout the sundown journey, you’ll discover the world of Kakapetra together with your teacher, and if you happen to go for the morning journey, you’ll trip Paroikia’s hidden trails. Click on right here to study in regards to the sundown trip, and click on right here for particulars on the morning horseback driving journey.
Visiting Paros: FAQ’s
What’s Paros greatest identified for?
Paros is greatest identified for its high-quality white marble, enjoyable festivals and events, and naturally, its stunning seashores.
Is 2 days sufficient for Paros?
With 2 days in Paros, you’ll be capable to discover a number 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 part of a enjoyable boat tour, a cooking class, go to a vineyard, and have time to chill out and unwind.
What’s the perfect 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 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 take pleasure in swimming from one of many many stunning seashores.
Which is nicer Naxos or Paros?
Naxos and Paros are each stunning 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 wonderful seashores and eating places, and because of the winds, Naxos and Paros are identified 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 ceaselessly. The “island for everyone” actually does stay 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, make sure that Paros is in your itinerary.
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