20 Amazing Things to Do in Paros (Greece)
The island of Paros is a real gem in Greece and one of the most fascinating islands of the Cyclades. There are so many unique things to do in Paros. This island pearl is most famous for the romantic port town of Naoussa, which is considered one of the most picturesque white towns in the Greek island world. But there are many other breathtaking attractions, extraordinary places and dream beaches to discover on a visit to Paros. You will also fall in love with the mountains of the island, the romantic hidden places in the hinterland and the picturesque fishing villages with their traditional taverns that exude an incomparable Greek charm. Moreover, along the coast you will also find paradisiacal beaches, ideal for a beach vacation. Whether sightseeing, culture, nature, sports or simply relaxing by the sea, a vacation on the dream island of Paros is an unforgettable experience and many come back again and again!
In this travel guide, you will find all the important information and tips about Paros in Greece. We show you great pictures, the best things to do in Paros, the most amazing beaches, exclusive insider tips and where to find great accommodation!
Good to know!
If you are still looking for a fantastic place to stay in Paros, we can recommend the Cove Paros in Naoussa with a pool in a prime location on the beach.
The dream island of Paros is a true bathing paradise for sun-seeking beach vacationers. Here you will find the most beautiful beaches in Paros at a glance.
Paros can be reached either by plane or by ferry from Athens or the surrounding islands. On Ferryhopper you can find all travel times as well as ferry tickets.
While vacationing in Paros, you can go on really cool excursions and take beautiful cruises along the coast. Check out GetYourGuide for great deals.
General Information about Paros
Paros is an incredibly beautiful island in the heart of the Cyclades, just a short ferry ride from the neighboring islands of Antiparos, Naxos and Mykonos. It is now also popular with the international public, and every year a large number of tourists from all over the world travel to this magical pearl of an island to spend their holidays. Often referred to as a party island, Paros offers a vibrant nightlife, especially in the capital Parikia and the trendy town of Naoussa. The rest of the island, however, is quiet, very tranquil and ideal for a relaxing Greek vacation. The months of June, July and August are the most popular times to visit Paros. The low season of April, May, September and October is perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Paros has an area of 197 km² and about 13,700 inhabitants. Since the island is not too big, you can easily explore the most beautiful attractions and beaches on your own with a rented car or a quad bike. In the center of the island there is a wonderful mountain range, there are several marble quarries, white churches and monasteries and also some picturesque villages like Lefkes and Marpissa are hidden in the hinterland. Along the coast you will also find countless breathtaking bays and many dreamy fishing villages where you can still experience the unique Greek flair.
The Best Things to Do in Paros
A vacation in Paros is full of beautiful places, exciting activities and fantastic attractions. Here we have summarized all the highlights and the best things to do in Paros, including many expert travel tips:
Naoussa
A visit to the town of Naoussa, with a population of 2,500, is undoubtedly one of the most famous things to do in Paros. It is the second-largest settlement on the island, and its snow-white old town with the Faneromeni church at the top is really famous in the Cyclades. There are also many beautiful beaches around the city that invite you to swim and enjoy. However, the highlight is the old town, where there are many attractions to discover and numerous boutiques to shop. A landmark of Naoussa is the small fishing port with its colorful taverns and the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, where you can enjoy the authentic island flair of Paros with a glass of wine. Also worth seeing is the old Venetian fortress from the 15th century. It is located directly in the sea and offers a magnificent view of the town.
Tip: Naoussa is the most popular place for a vacation in Paros. A recommendation is the Cove Paros with a wonderful pool and the best location on the beach.
Parikia
The capital Parikia, where the ferry port is situated, is one of the most beautiful places on the island of Paros. It has a population of about 4,500, and in the summertime, many tourists flock to the city and its wonderful beaches. As the center of Paros, there is always something going on. In the evenings, the white alleys of the old town fill with life, there are chic boutiques for shopping and a lively nightlife for going out. Some of Paros’ most important attractions are also located here, such as the 4th century Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church, the Archaeological Museum and the trendy Market Street. Also worth seeing are the well-preserved windmill at the harbor and the Venetian castle “Frankish Castle” from the 13th century. A real insider’s tip is the church of Agios Konstantinos on the Kastro hill, where you can watch the most spectacular sunsets.
Tip: There are many beautiful sandy beaches around Parikia. For a vacation, check out Paros Agnanti Hotel, located in a beautiful bay with a picture-book atmosphere.
Panagia Ekatontapyliani
The church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani, often called the Hundred Doors or Panagia Katapoliani, is certainly one of the best places to see on Paros. It is located in the capital Parikia and a visit is a must-do on any trip. This Byzantine church complex dates back to the 4th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Greece. Even today, many tourists and locals come to admire this building, which is one of the most famous Marian pilgrimage sites in the Aegean. A real eye-catcher from the outside, you should definitely visit the interior of the church. The magnificent frescoes, the wood carvings and the marble baptismal font in the former baptistery are particularly noteworthy.
Golden Beach
Definately a beautiful beach in Paros is the gorgeous Golden Beach, often called Chrissi Akti Beach. This fabulous coastal strip is ideal for a beach vacation! It is in the south of the island and is a true paradise for sun worshippers and beach lovers. The calm and relaxed atmosphere that surrounds this bay is particularly fascinating. The sea shines in the most beautiful turquoise colors and the mountains in the background give this beach an absolute postcard setting. It even flies the Blue Flag, an award for the best beach and water quality and facilities! In addition, there are a number of water sports schools in the area where you can learn how to windsurf.
Tip: The Golden Sand Paros is a fabulous tip for a vacation on the island. Guests love the beautiful grounds and the wonderful location right on the dream beach.
Lefkes
The small village of Lefkes is a true gem of Paros that should not be missed on any round trip. Nestled in a picturesque landscape, this small town sits majestically on a hill inland. The romantic Cycladic village, which was once the capital of the island, still has about 545 inhabitants. Walking through the car-free center of the village, you will be amazed by the many charming alleys and squares with their impressive neoclassical buildings. You can browse in small galleries, discover beautiful museums, shop in boutiques and enjoy traditional specialties in numerous cafés. The main attraction is the church of Agia Triada, built in 1835. It is made of marble and is a popular place for taking pictures.
Tip: An insider’s tip is the Byzantine Road. This marble road, which is over 1,000 years old, runs from Lefkes to Prodromos for 4 km and offers magnificent views.
Kolimbithres
The coastline of Kolimbithres, called “the baptismal pool” by the locals, is unique in Paros and one of the most popular photo spots on the island! Many people come by rental car or quad bike, but Kolimbithres beach can also be easily reached by taxi boat from Naoussa! Upon arrival, you will be amazed by the snow-white, round granite rock formations that have made this seascape a real place-to-be on Paros. There are also two paradisiacal sandy beaches with gorgeous water colors, both perfect for swimming. In any case, a visit in the morning is recommended because then you can enjoy these dream beaches all to yourself. A magnificent natural attraction that must be seen on any trip to Paros!
Aliki
The charming coastal town of Aliki is located in the south of Paros and offers both a relaxed vacation atmosphere and an extremely picturesque setting. With a unique combination of traditional island flair, stunning beaches and excellent gastronomy, this charming seaside resort is still a true oasis of tranquility. The main attractions of Aliki are undoubtedly the velvety sandy beaches that surround the village. But also the romantic center with the harbor and the stone pier is an absolute eye-catcher. The picturesque promenade is lined with charming taverns overlooking the sea where you can taste fresh fish and other Greek delicacies.
Tip: There are several nice places to stay in the village, such as the Aphrodite Boutique Hotel, an affordable and tastefully decorated small family hotel.
Paros Park
Certainly, one of the best things to do is to visit Paros Park, also known as Ai Yiannis Detis. This picturesque nature reserve is located on a peninsula of about 8 km² on the north coast of the island and is a popular destination in the area. Thanks to its relatively small size, you can easily explore the most spectacular parts of the park on short, beautiful hikes. In a distance of about 7 kilometers, one can discover fascinating landscapes with picturesque rocks, caves and hidden bays. A real attraction is the old lighthouse at the top of the nature park, which gives the park an absolute fairytale setting. The sandy beach of Monastiri, one of the most attractive beaches on the island of Paros, is also located at the edge of the park.
Tip: A visit to the Paros Park is especially recommended in the spring time. At this time of the year, the meadows are in full bloom and the whole nature reserve is at its most beautiful.
Butterflies Nature Reserve (Butterfly Valley)
An insider tip for nature lovers is definitely the Butterfly Valley in Paros, an enchanting attraction also known as Butterflies Nature Reserve. Located almost 7 kilometers west of Parikia, it is a highly recommended tourist destination for the whole family. During a walk through the small nature park, visitors will find a truly idyllic setting. The centuries old trees are fed by the spring water of the valley, and the green vegetation provides the best conditions for the butterflies that have made their home here for more than 100 years. The butterflies take a rest in the bushes and are therefore very easy to photograph.
Tip: The best time to visit this unique place is during the hot summer months, when the leaves and stems of the ivy are covered with swarms of butterflies.
Marpissa
Picturesque Marpissa is one of the most charming Cycladic villages of Paros. This magical village of 582 inhabitants is located in the interior of the island, about 2 kilometers from the sea, and a visit is still a real insider’s tip for exploring Paros off the typical tourist paths. Strolling through the center of the village, you will feel like you have stepped back in time, admiring the magical atmosphere of the authentic, car-free old town. There are old windmills, beautiful white churches and houses decorated with flowers. There is also a small museum of local history. A highlight is the so-called “Pink House”, which has become a popular motif for photographs.
Tip: In Marpissa there are also some really nice taverns, like the Mylos or the Charoula’s Tavern, which are perfect for stopping and taking a sightseeing break.
Piso Livadi
The dreamy fishing village of Piso Livadi is located on the romantic east coast of the island and is a real pearl for a relaxing time on Paros. Here you have the opportunity to get to know the island away from the famous resorts. The whitewashed houses with blue painted window frames give this coastal village a magical atmosphere. A real jewel is the charming port with excellent restaurants where you can taste some of the best fish dishes on the island. Around the small village there are many wonderful sandy beaches, such as Logaras beach, which is 300 meters away and is ideal for a quiet beach vacation in Paros.
Tip: In Piso Livadi there are some good accommodations. Great are the affordable apartments of Elena Studios & Apartments. The beach and the center are within walking distance!
Prodromos
The charming village of Prodromos is one of the most beautiful Cycladic villages in the hinterland of Paros. A visit is a magical experience and definitely a small highlight of any island tour. Strolling through the labyrinth of white alleys, there is something pretty to discover at almost every corner. Fall in love with the white churches and houses, which create a unique backdrop with their traditional blue shutters and flowers. Along the way, there are always cute little taverns and bars where you can enjoy the gorgeous ambience. A real insider tip for a sightseeing break is the Byzantino, a small hidden tavern with traditional Greek cuisine.
Agia Irini Beach (Palm Beach)
The Paralia Agia Irini, better known as Palm Beach, is a real highlight on Paros! This paradisiacal palm beach is considered to be one of the most stunning on the island, and a trip there is a must on every traveler’s list. This small cove is truly breathtaking and exudes a Caribbean feeling at its best, with extraordinary blue water colors, velvety soft sand and palm trees. The sea is beautifully clear, and the natural environment invites to go snorkeling. In addition, there are two very nice beach clubs right on the beach, where you can enjoy cocktails and snacks in a wonderful vacation atmosphere.
Cyclades Folklore Museum
The Folklore Museum of the Cyclades is unique in Paros and a real must for all fans of Greece! A visit to this family-run open-air museum will give you an extremely interesting insight into the island world of the Cyclades. This private exhibition was created and founded by the artist Benetos Skiadas. The most beautiful monuments of each island are presented in miniatures that have been built with great attention to detail over more than 40 years. Not to be missed is the small museum of ship models, reproduced in great detail to the amazement of visitors.
Windsurfing & Kite Surfing in Paros
One of the coolest activities in Paros is definitely windsurfing and kite surfing. A hotspot for water sports is the legendary Pounta Beach on the windy west side of the island. This part of the coast offers the absolute best wind conditions and has been a meeting place for the kite scene for years. There are several surf schools in the area that offer beginner courses and equipment rentals. There are also some nice taverns and beach bars where you can meet other surfers. The best place for windsurfing is the legendary Golden Beach, where you will find perfect conditions and several good windsurfing schools have settled in this area.
Antiparos Island
During your vacation in Paros you have the possibility to visit the beautiful island of Antiparos. This little sister island is located directly across from Paros and is one of the most picturesque small islands in the Cyclades. A real gem is the picturesque capital of Antiparos, where snow-white houses in typical Cycladic style and charming alleys create a picture-book atmosphere. Antiparos also has beautiful sandy beaches, such as the famous Faneromeni Beach and the breathtaking Ubini Rocks. A must-see is the cave of Antiparos. It is one of the most famous attractions of the island and is visited by many tourists from Paros on a day trip.
Tip: The island can be reached from Paros either by ferry or as part of a guided boat tour. There are also some fantastic excursions available on GetYourGuide.
Where to Stay in Paros
Paros offers its visitors a wide range of fantastic accommodations. From beautiful beach hotels, gorgeous boutique hotels, cute guesthouses, top equipped apartments and even backpacker hostels, everything is represented here. Here are our recommendations for the best places to stay on the island of Paros in Greece…It’s worth a look!
- Dream Hotel in Naoussa: The Cove Paros is a stunning 5-star boutique hotel with a beautiful pool and a prime beachfront location.
- 5-Star Hotel on Golden Beach: The Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa is a fantastic place to stay for that very special holiday in Paros.
- Affordable Apartments: The Elena Studios & Apartments offer great vacation rentals at a great price in the charming fishing village of Piso Livadi!
- Apartments by the Sea: The Evita Apartments have an unbeatable location right on the beach in the beautiful seaside town of Aliki.
Find the best accommodation in Paros:
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