Your Ultimate Guide to Paros
Do you want to enjoy all the luxuries of a Greek Island in the summer, but skip the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini?
Paros offers you the heart-stopping beauty the Greek Islands have become famous for, but with fewer crowds and less of the overdevelopment that comes with the traditional tourist track. If you’re looking for something altogether more exciting, it’s time to get up to speed with the hidden beauties of Paros, a true gem of the Cyclades.
Where in the world is Paros, anyway?
This hidden secret of the Greek Islands is part of the Cyclades island chain. It’s a little less developed than Mykonos, so don’t expect the pounding nightlife, but it has enough charms to woo even the hardest heart. It’s also an ideal destination for a mixed party where everyone wants to do something different, as it’s packed with a wide variety of activities and fun.
- Want to spend the day at the beach? The exquisite sand and achingly empty sky will soothe your soul
- Like to stay active? Water sports and day hikes await.
- Explore trendy bars and clubs off the beaten track? You’re sure to find something to please.
- Delight in wines and taste experiences? Even the most jaded heart will melt for the treats awaiting you.
- Love to explore? The traditional architecture and spectacular landscape will soon have you in its thralls.
Paros offers a little bit of everything, and it’s built for everyone, too. From young to old, from off-the-beaten-track vlogger to businessman, you’re sure to fall in love with this Greek secret over and over again.
How do I get to Paros, and where do I stay?
If you want to ease into vacation vibes, head to Paros by ferry from Piraeus Port. Alternatively, fly in from Athens or Thessaloniki. There is a local airport, but its international connections aren’t the best, so it’s easier to make a connection from the mainland. Personally, we love the bracing sea air and soothing charm of the ferry as the perfect way to ease into the holiday vibe.
July and August are the hottest months on the island, but they’re also the busiest. While there are far less crowds than some other Greek Islands, you still might want to explore a little out-of-season to get the most unique travel experience.
Paros’ main towns are Parikia, Naoussa, Piso Livadi, and Drios, and they’re also the best spots for accommodation. If you’re more of a digital nomad and will trade some mod-cons for affordability, try Lefkes instead. There’s a wide range of hotels to enjoy on the island, ranging from beach resorts to boutique hotels, so you’re sure to find the perfect match for your traveller’s spirit. We suggest renting a car for the easiest travel experience, although the local busses are surprisingly good and taxis will be available in most main towns.
6 Things to do in Paros
Paros offers the perfect blend of quaint traditional looks and modern conveniences. Let your soul get swept up in the romance of a Greek sunset as you sip cocktails under trailing ivy, or hop into the crowd at a bar to meet the locals. There’s a little bit of everything here, so go ahead and enjoy it all!
1) Jump in the water
If you can think of a water sport, you’ll find it here. Paros offers everything from kayaking to kiteboarding, so the adventurous will find plenty to get their adrenaline pumping. New Golden Beach is widely regarded as one of the best water sports beaches in the world, and both Golden Beach and Santa Maria Beach come highly recommended too.
2) Explore the sights
If you can think of a water sport, you’ll find it here. Paros offers everything from kayaking to kiteboarding, so the adventurous will find plenty to get their adrenaline pumping. New Golden Beach is widely regarded as one of the best water sports beaches in the world, and both Golden Beach and Santa Maria Beach come highly recommended too.
3) Explore the sights
Paros is packed with quaint traditional architecture, so we’d advise spending a day just to explore. You’ll find the main harbor at Parikia, and here lies twisting alleys rich in romance, restaurants enticing with smells of fresh-caught seafood, and elegant boutiques to enjoy. We particularly advise the Church of Panagia Ekantontapiliani and the ruins of the Frankish Castle.
Naoussa Village was once a ruined fishing village, but has become one of the island’s most cosmopolitan and desirable locals. Let the romance of the half-sunk Venetian Castle call to you, relish the blazing traditional white alleys as they twist and turn, hop in and out of bars and clubs as you pass, or poke around the magical old port. We won’t spoil the surprise, but it’s a can’t-miss for your itinerary.
4. Enjoy local wine
Naoussa also has its own vineyard and winery. Sip famous Greek wines like Malagouzia and Assyrtiko, or enjoy hidden local specialties like the Aidani Black, Vaftra, and Karampraimi. Pair it with fresh local produce for a delicious lunch.
5. Drink in the fresh air
Paros Park offers walking trails, spectacular rock formations, and an open-air cinema redolent in romance and summer scents. If you’re looking for the best sunset in Paros, head out on the Lighthouse trail in the evening hours. You won’t be sorry! There are three lovely beaches in the park, too
6. Bask on the beaches
Who comes to a Greek Island and doesn’t schedule a few days to work on the world’s best tan? Paros will give you plenty of inspiring beach vistas to enjoy while you soak in the sun and soothe your soul. Beaches can get a little crowded in peak season, so plan accordingly, but almost every beach destination in Paros is worth exploring. Head to Laggeri, close to Naoussa, for fine sand ringed with cedar trees, giving you a seamless blend of unspoiled nature and beach vibes.
We could write volumes about the experiences awaiting you in Paros- but why read about them when you could see them for yourselves?
Our hidden secret, just for you
Want to know an insider secret about Paros?
Lefkes offers spectacular mountain views and a village everyone should explore. Here you’ll find true peace and serenity, and an overall air of stepping back to simpler times. There’s fantastic hiking trails in the area, including the Byzantine Path, which dates from 1000 AD. Stop by Prodromos Village for coffee and chatter at the traditional Kallitechniko Kafenio. If you want to join in traditional Greek festivities, plan to visit for the June 23rd festival.
Paros is a dazzling blend of tranquillity, traditional architecture, and bustling fun. If you’re looking for an alternative to the usual Greek tourist trail, this is the perfect way to experience the magic of the islands for yourself without the same-old tired vibe.
