Paros is the third largest island in the Cyclades. It has everything to seduce travelers from all over the world. Villages with incredible architecture, a rich historical heritage, sun-drenched beaches and mountains at the center. Paros is a paradise for wandering and hiking, and water sports enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. Added to this are pure moments of pleasure over local gastronomy or an idyllic sunset. Thinking of discovering one of the wonders of Aegean Greece? Here are 15 good reasons to set your sights on Paros.
1. Stroll through the narrow streets of Parikiá
Parikiá is the largest town on Paros, and one of Greece's must-sees. The first thing to do is stroll through its streets and alleys to admire the white houses and churches, typical of the Cyclades. The main roads are lined with craft stores and restaurants where you can sample the island's typical cuisine. The 6th-century Basilica of Panaghia Ékatontapyliani stands out from the other churches in the area with its exposed stonework. Parikiá is home to two museums: the Archaeological Museum of Paros, one of the most important in Greece, and the Byzantine Museum of Paros, which houses a large collection of icons and religious objects.
2. Stop off in Lefkès
This village on Paros, which lies inland high in the mountains, was for a time the island's capital. Once again, it's well worth a stroll to admire the white houses with their colorful shutters, photograph the shimmering flowers and stop for a drink in the shade. The good news is that cars are not allowed in the village. This contributes to the extreme sense of serenity. Lefkès is surrounded by beautiful countryside to explore, sometimes verdant, sometimes more arid in summer. After visiting the village, you're free to take to the trails!
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3. Discover the typical village of Naoussa
This fishermen's village is a marvel on Paros, one of the 10 most Instagrammable spots in Greece, with its white houses with blue shutters and small churches. The seaside resort attracts an elite clientele, seduced by its picture-postcard landscapes. That's why it's home to so many luxury brands and trendy spots. But Naoussa has also retained some of its authenticity, particularly around the harbour, with its Venetian remains. Here you'll find traditional tavernas serving seafood, with views of colorful fishing boats. Naoussa is also within easy reach of several pretty beaches.
4. Hiking at Capo Korakas
Paros, one of Greece's must-see islands, has countless breathtaking seascapes. But Cape Korakas on the island's north-western tip exudes a special atmosphere. It's an inviting place to hike in the heart of a rocky desert landscape, with rocks covered here and there by marine shrubs. Put on your good shoes, take in the endless panoramic sea views and, above all, don't miss the opportunity to visit the foot of the lighthouse, perched 60 m above the sea on a rocky outcrop. Bring your camera. There's clearly plenty of material for great souvenir photos.
5. See the picturesque little port of Pisso Livadi
At first glance, this small fishing port on the east coast of Paros seems to have many similarities with the island's other towns. But in reality, it has a much quieter seaside atmosphere. In fact, it is distinguished by the translucent waters of the beach that runs alongside the village. Pisso Livadi is an ideal destination for a family holiday. It's also a gourmet's delight, with numerous tavernas serving local specialities and seafood. Don't hesitate to visit!
6. Butterfly Valley
It's time to take an interest in the local wildlife of Paros! On the west side of the island, the Valley of the Butterflies is a natural site that immediately catches the eye. It is densely vegetated, with species such as plane trees, cypresses, laurels, ivy, fruit trees and olive trees. The place is best explored in summer. The reason? Quite simply because it's at this time of year that the area attracts large numbers of "tortoiseshell" and "callimorph" butterflies, which come here to breed. Most of the time, they rest on the leaves of the trees. Be careful not to disturb them.
7. Lazing around Golden Beach
Golden Beach is one ofthe most popular beaches on Paros. Facing Naxos, it unveils a large expanse of fine golden sand where couples, families and groups of friends love to soak up the sun and enjoy a swim. There are also deckchairs and straw huts for those who prefer it. The shallow waters are highly recommended for those traveling with children. It's also a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, especially windsurfers.
8. Enjoy nature at Paros Park
Open since 2009, the Paros environmental and cultural park was founded with the aim of enhancing the peninsula of Saint John Detis. The first activity is to hike along the trails to enjoy the natural landscape, with its rugged coastline and unspoilt coves. Paros Park is also a place of entertainment. There's an exhibition area, a cinema and an amphitheatre where numerous shows are held. The monastery of St. John Detis is another place to discover the area. A place that brings together nature, art, architecture and entertainment is not to be missed!
9. Take in the sights at Kolimbithres beach
Cyclades oblige, and you're soon on the lookout for a paradise beach on Paros. Kolimbithres is one of them! Once there, it's hard not to be seduced by the turquoise waters, the unusual rocks reminiscent of Seychelles beaches and the surrounding rolling countryside. The enormous granite blocks, sculpted by the sea and wind, have formed natural basins in which to swim and snorkel. No need to worry about spending the whole day there. There are plenty of places to eat and drink nearby.
10. A succession of villages: Marmara, Marpissa and Prodomos
The discovery of typical villages is one of the highlights of a trip to Paros. In just one day, you can set yourself the goal of visiting the 3 sublime villages of Marmara, Marpissa and Prodomos. These inland villages boast pretty cobbled streets lined with white houses decorated with flowers. Each has its own little place to stop for a bite to eat and some local specialities. There's a very calm atmosphere in these towns, which is a welcome change from the crowds on the coast.
11. Water activities
Paros' magnificent coastline is ideal for a wide range of water sports. Santa Maria beach, for example, is one of the best spots for canoeing and kayaking. Travelers who have always wanted to try out water skiing can head for Golden Beach or Punda Beach. These two stretches of sand are also ideal for kite surfing. In Santa Maria, Golden Beach, Naoussa and Parikiá, professionals offer scuba diving sessions. Reefs, hidden coves and wrecks are all worth exploring on Paros.
12. Schedule a boat trip
With its translucent seas and breathtaking neighbouring islands, it would be a shame to stay on Paros without planning a boat trip. Accompanied by a skipper or not, the choice is yours. You can opt for a simple tour of the island, with stops near unsuspected coves for swimming or snorkeling. Another option is to head for Antiparos to discover some of the wonders of the neighboring island. Day cruises by sailboat are also available to discover the small Cyclades, a string of heavenly islands, notably from the port of Pisso Livadi. A chance to swim, sunbathe on the boat and sample local culinary and wine specialties.
13. Take an excursion to Antiparos
Antiparos is a small island just opposite Paros. Ferries run from Pounda and Parikiá. Once there, you can take to the paths to admire the emblematic Cycladic landscapes and stop off at the most beautiful beaches, such as Soros and Livadia. Another attraction on the island is the Grotte des Stalactites. This cave was inhabited during the Neolithic period, and the geological formations it contains are truly magnificent. Last but not least, don't forget to stop off in the village of Antiparos to enjoy its boutiques and gourmet addresses, stroll through its fortified mini-village and photograph its charming chapels. To do this, we recommend booking a day cruise from Paros to Antiparos, Despotiko and the Blue Lagoon. Unforgettable memories guaranteed!
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14. Follow the Byzantine Trail
The Byzantine Trail links Lefkès to the village of Prodromos. It was laid out almost 1,000 years ago with marble and stone slabs. It's a fairly short hike, just 3.5 km long. No problem for children. Along the way, walkers enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Lefkès, the mountains, the local vegetation and the sea. Once you've reached Prodromos, take the opportunity to visit the village, which has just a handful of inhabitants, but boasts magnificent narrow streets, houses and churches.
15. Tasting Paros wines
Wine-lovers can take advantage of their vacation on Paros to sample some of the local vintages, as the island's vineyards cover 600 hectares. White or red, the choice is yours. One of the estates to discover is that of the Moraitis family, located near the beach of Aghioi Anargyroi in Naoussa. With tours of the estate and vineyards, explanations of winemaking techniques and wine tastings, this getaway is sure to appeal to wine lovers. The "Paros Oak Fermented" is particularly delicious. Aged in oak barrels for four years, it is a wine with floral and citrus aromas, as well as hints of vanilla and dried nuts.
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Where to stay in Paros?
As the Cyclades are a tourist area, there's plenty of accommodation on all the islands, including Paros.
- The Akrotiri Hotel, for the view
This 30-room hotel offers a magnificent view over the bay of Parikiá, and can be booked here. The rooms are finely decorated and very bright. Comfort is the order of the day. Krios beach is nearby, and for those who wish, a large swimming pool is available for a dip. A hearty breakfast gets the day off to a good start.
- Kanale's Rooms & Suites, for proximity to Naoussa
Naoussa is one of the most beautiful towns on Paros. The hotel offers quick access to the port and beach. Rooms are bright and airy, and arranged on several levels. An atypical swimming pool is available to cool off when the thermometer climbs. There's also a restaurant and lounge bar. The hotel can also be booked on a half-board basis, so check rates and availabilityhere !
- Aloni Hotel, pure Cycladic style
This hotel in Pisso Livadi has rooms with balconies overlooking either the village or the sea, which you can book here in just a few clicks . The swimming pool is original, and we love spending time here in the evening when relaxing music is playing. It's also ideally located for quick access to the sandy beach of Piso Livadi, lined with tavernas serving local specialties.
What to do in Paros in 3 days
3 days in Paros allows you to see some of the splendors of the Cycladic island.
Day 1: The first day starts with a stroll through the streets and alleys of the largest town, Parikiá. On the program: heritage discovery, lunch in a taverna, then, in the afternoon, off to Livadia to enjoy the beach. On sunny days, you can spend your time reading on a deckchair, sipping a cocktail and taking a swim.
Day 2: On the second day, we head to Naoussa for a stroll around its picturesque and lively port. We wander the cobbled streets of the center, before returning to the harbor to enjoy seafood with a view of the traditional boats. In the afternoon, we hike to Cap Korakas to see the lighthouse overlooking the sea and enjoy the nature trails.
Day 3: On the last day, we head for Lefkès to visit this pretty mountain village, before following the Byzantine trail to Prodromos. In the afternoon, relax at Golden Beach. Those who can't stand still can take part in water sports.
Getting around Paros
Getting around Paros is fairly straightforward. Local buses connect the main towns. Tickets are available at the Parikiá and Naoussa bus stations. What's more, fares are very reasonable, with the option of a day ticket. Alternatively, renting a car is a good way of getting around from north to south and east to west. It's best to rent one when you arrive at the airport. You can also rent a scooter.
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