Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most famous Greek islands, and especially during the high season, they can be very crowded.
But, there is an island that, although it doesn’t have the fame and the nightlife of Mykonos and the – out of this world – beauty of Santorini, it has its own fans – and I am one of them!
And this is Paros island!!
Paros is one of my favourites for many reasons, and additionally, it has one big plus! It’s for everyone!
It has beautiful beaches; you can do sports activities; visit trendy bars and clubs; enjoy delicious local food; taste wonderful local wine; admire the traditional architecture and follow paths for trekking and hiking. The list, as you might understand, goes endless!
That’s why if you visit Paros, you will notice the variety of ages that visit it, from young people and students to families and older couples, which creates a fantastic mix that gives this island an extra dimension!
In this post, you will find out:
- When should you visit Paros?
- How to get to Paros?
- What to do?
- Best beaches
- Where to stay in Paros?
- A detailed map with all the best places to visit and stay!
Update: Due to Coronavirus, this summer might also be “special”. We wrote an article (more information here!) to explain the current measures and situation, and we will update it as often as possible!
See also our dedicated travel guides about Paros!
Mini guide on hiking in Paros!
When you should visit Paros island
July and August are the hottest months on the island – check the below table with the average temperatures. But these months are the busiest, and it can get quite crowded! My favourite months are May, June and September, which are ideal, as the island is quiet and much less touristy.
How to get to Paros island
You can visit Paros by ferry from Piraeus port, where there is a choice between a slow ferry and a fast (which is more expensive).
Alternatively, you can fly to the new international airport through Athens (the flight lasts around 45′!) or Thessaloniki (~1 hour) as the local airport in Paros isn’t so well connected yet.
Personally, when I have enough time, I prefer the ferry. Of course, it might take longer, but I am on holiday, so I am not in a hurry! Also, I like enjoying the view from the ship’s deck and feel the air by the sea!
The best platform for ferry tickets is the Ferryscanner. It is straightforward and user friendly to check prices and book online tickets!
Best Things to do in Paros
#Visit Antiparos island
You might wonder why I started the must-visit list with a suggestion of another island!! And that’s an excellent point!
Antiparos was really an island for total isolation and relaxation, but the recent years have changed a little bit as it attracts more tourists every year! Still, it is a picturesque island located very close to Paros, and it is ideal for a one-day trip or more! It is up to you!
From the port of Antiparos you can walk to the main village, the 15th-century Venetian castle and 7 beaches, Psaraliki 1 and 2 (the second beach has the Fanari beach bar), Snifeiko, Livadia, Agios Spiridonas, Panagia beach (~20 – 30′ walk) and the Camping beach which is also nudism friendly!
The best beaches are Agios Georgios and Faneromeni, but you will definitely need a car!
Ferries from Paros to Antiparos depart very frequently from Parikia or Pounta. Pounta might be a more preferable choice, as it has more frequent ferries, it last just 10′ and you can get a vehicle with you (not entirely necessary for one day trip). Here, you will find the timetable from Pounta here and here from Parikia.
#Visit Parikia and Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church
Parikia is the main harbour, and it has its own beauty with alleys, elegant boutiques, some impressive restaraunts, the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani and an open- cinema (check here the programme)!
On some travel guides, you may see the Frankish Castle ruins included on the top things-to-do list, but personally I believe that it is not so impressive as it sounds!
A local legend claims that 99 doors have been found in the Panagia Ekatondapiliani church, but the 100th will be discovered only when Constantinople (Istanbul) will become Greek again!
But this is just a legend, and the door has never found! You can look it for that if you want!! You never know!
To be frank, with you, the church hasn’t anywhere near 99 doors! But, let’s keep this between you and me!
#Enjoy Water Sports
If you like water sports, then Paros is an excellent choice for you, as you can do a wide range of sports, like surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing, kayaking and canoeing kiteboarding, etc. Some of the best beaches for water sports on the island are considered Golden Beach, New Golden Beach and Santa Maria.
Especially in New Golden Beach, the Professional Windsurfing Association’s (PWA) World Cup is held since 1993, and it is regarded as one of the tops in the world!
#Get lost in Naoussa village
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This was an old fishing village that has transformed the recent years into a cosmopolitan and picturesque place!
You will find there narrow alleys painted with the traditional white colour, amazing little shops and boutiques with local products, great restaurants with top local and international cuisine, amazing bars and clubs and many but many churches!
Just stroll around without any planning, and you surely pass by the old port, where all the magic happens! There you will find the half-sunken Venetian castle!
In case you stay there and prefer easy access to the beach, Naousa has 3 beaches (Piperi, Piperaki and Agioi Anargyri).
Naoussa is about 9 km from the ferry port in Parikia (20′ by bus) and about 20 km from the airport.
#Drink some local wine and visit an excellent winery!
The third-generation winemaker – since 1910 – produce high-quality wine and have created a beautiful winery, which you can visit and taste this distinctive local wine and be guided to the small museum with the old winemaking tools, old photos etc.
You will find famous Greek varieties, including Assyrtiko and Malagouzia, and local indigenous varieties like Monemvasia, Mandilaria, Aidani Black, Vaftra and Karampraimi.
It is open from Monday to Saturday (10:00 – 18:00) for tastings, and it is situated in Naoussa.
You can visit their website here!
#Visit Paros Park
This park is a protected area with walking trails, different rock formations, caves, where you can relax some beautiful views. Paros Park has an outdoor amphitheatre and runs the summer Festival at the park, with concerts & plays. There’s also a free open-air cinema by the sea with summer film showings! There you will find some beautiful and easy trails!
You can try the Lighthouse and Cape Almyros. Especially I recommend the Lighthouse route before the sunset as the scenery is even more stunning! More details here!
In Paros Park, you will find three beaches: Monastiri Beach, the Perikopetra and Turku Ammos.
On Monastiri beach, the main beach, there is a nice cafe restaurant for snacks, lunch and coffee! Note that the whole park is free to enter and open 24-hours a day. You can reach it by car, by bus and by water taxi from Naoussa.
#Enjoy Fantastic Beaches!
Paros is also famous for its beaches!
We have created here a detailed post with all the 24 best beaches on Paros island!
Now, on this post, we gathered the top ones, which you should visit:
Kolymbithres: Small beaches trapped between big rocks and the water provide for a beautiful setting! There you will find sunbeds and clear water. It is ideal for families with children. And have in mind. Don’t stop at the first bay, but check the others as well! There, you will also find a sailing centre offering windsurfing and small sailboat rentals and lessons; and in the area, kayaks and SUPs are available for rent.
Friendly warning: In July and August it can be very crowded!
Santa Maria: Santa Maria beach starts quite shallow – which is great for children (!) and then gently gets deeper. There are a few beach bars and restaurants and even some water sports available for rental. It is close to Naoussa, and a bus serves it. Maybe it isn’t ideal for the peak season if you are looking for a quiet and relaxing place!
Golden Beach: This is one of my favourite beaches, but perhaps I am a little biased as I have spent some lovely summers there! It has deep blue waters, golden sands and the beautiful Cycladic landscape! Also, there, you will enjoy everything from coffee to cocktails at the beach and from sandwiches to romantic dinners! If you are a surfer, don’t miss this location. One of the best places for wind-surf and incredible wind!!
Monastiri: Lovely beach, well organised with shallow and clear water, ideal for families! You can follow the rocky path (around 20′) toward the boats, and you will find a peaceful cove beach that is nude friendly and not organised.
Faragas: The lovely setting and the clear, light blue water make this beach high on my personal list. It has a lovely beach restaurant where you can have lunch or refreshments.
It is protected from the north wind, which is quite common in Paros island.
And many, many more beaches! We give an extra tip for a beautiful beach just below!
Now, the other big question comes to our mind.
Where to stay
The main towns that you can stay in are Parikia, Naoussa, Piso Livadi and Drios. Lefkes is also a good and affordable choice, especially if you don’t mind staying on the island’s mainland.
You can find here a complete list of the best hotels on Paros Island and a detailed map.
Now that we highlighted the top points for Paros, we will give some extra tips, some additional secrets!
Tip 1
Lefkes is probably the most famous mountainous village on Paros island, and really it’s worth spending some time wandering the alleys! This village keeps the serenity and the traditional colour of an era that has been passed!
Don’t forget to visit the Church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), which was built in 1830 and you will definitely notice it!
Also, from Lefkes begin and passes many hiking trails to Lagada, Drios, aspro Horio, Agkaria Kamari etc and you can learn more here!
We did the most famous one the Byzantium Path, which is a 3.5 km path, paved with slabs and Parian marble, and the history of this path goes back to Byzantine times (1000 AD).
The route is generally downhill, except for 150 to 200 meters, lasts about 45 minutes and is I think it would be ok for families with children and teenagers.
You will end up at the small and beautiful Prodromos village and you can have a drink or eat something from the “Tsitsanis” tavern or – my favourite – the traditional Kallitechniko kafenio (find the location here!)
Get lost in the white colour of the village and take as many photos as you want from the stunning white and blue churches! The name of Prodromos village comes from the temple of Agios Ioannis the Baptist and every summer, on June 23rd, one of the most important festivals of Paros takes place here!
Lefkes – Prodromos trail ©secretgreece
Tip 2
There are many beautiful beaches like Chrysi Akti, Pounta Bar Beach, Santa Maria, and Faraggas and Aliki. But, close to Naousa, you will find a lovely beach Laggeri with fine sand, spectacular dunes and cedars trees, offering the requested privacy for the lovers of unspoiled nature!
How to move around Paros
Paros is an island that you will need a car, as it has quite a few places to visit. But, if you prefer not to drive at all during your holiday, then I would like to inform you that the bus connection in Paros is one of the best in the Cyclades!! You can check here for timetables, tickets etc. Note that July and August can be quite busy, so bear this in mind. Also, there is the option to get a taxi.
You can find at the below map all the mentioned places and our extra tips!
Do you have anything secret to share with us about beautiful Paros? Just leave us a comment!
Hello! Many thanks for this information!
My friend and I are planning to go to Paros 30.8 – 6 September. We are a bit concerned about the situation there though and how it is to visit bars/restaurants if you’re not Covid vaccinated. Would you know?
We are also considering to perhaps go for 1-2 nights to Mykonos as we know this island and love the beach clubs/parties and the vibe there. Never been to Paros though, so thought we try something new. We are both single and in our late 30s so we prefer a place/island with some classy vibe. Is Paros still the right choice?
Thank you for advising!
PS.: if anyone is going there around the same time and want to get in touch, let us know!
Best, Annika
Hi Annika,
I think Paros is quite perfect for what are you looking for! It has excellent nightlife and a great vibe and energy! I am close to your age, and I enjoy my time there every time I visit the island!
Now about the covid situation, I will be frank with you. The things are not very optimistic. I mean, you can visit both islands right now, everything is open, but some restrictions are already in place, like no standing customers are allowed in restaurants, nightclubs and bars. Both islands have most of their restaurants, nightclubs and bar in open-air areas, so there is no need to show any vaccination passport (in contrast, when you visit indoor restaurants etc., you may need to show this kind of vaccination).
Note that Mykonos had an extra restriction 10 days ago (no music was allowed!), but this has been lifted now.
Things can change very quickly, so no ones knows what will happen next month!
Let me know if you need anything else. Happy to help!!
Hello! I’d like to know if Paros is more like Ios in average age for partying I am 35 years old and my friends went to ios and the parties were full of very young people (20 years old). Could you help me? I am between Paros, Milos and Rodhes. Witch one would be better for 35 years old people? We are going to Mykonos, Corfu and Santorini also.
Thank you very much
Hi Fernanda!
Paros is not like Ios for sure! There are parts of Paros island where you will meet more young people (20ish), like Pounta beach or in some specific clubs in Naousa/Parikia, but in general, it is a more all-around island! You will see many families or old couples or people around your age! You can do different activities in Paros like hiking, wine tasting, water sports, eating in beautiful restaurants, drinking cocktails in nice bars, enjoying the fantastic beaches etc.
I am close to your age, and I have every time a great time in Paros!
Milos is perhaps a better fit for couples, as I find quite romantic!
Rhodes is quite a large island, and if you want to get to know it, you have to spend some time going around.
Let me know if you have any other question!
Hi, thanks for all the information. We are planning a bachelor party for my friend. We will be in Greece from the 6th to 11th of September. Is Paros is still good time to go there if we want to go to the beach during the day and go out a night? Is there any night life at that time? We never been but I am reading nice things about Paros. Thank you for you help.
Hi Mike,
September isn’t a busy month and I can see that you will be there mainly during weekdays, which means that it can be quiet.
But, no worries, I think it will be still busy enough and all the bars and restaurants will be open, so I don’t think you will have any issues! Paros is a great place and has nice beaches and great nightlife!
Once you come back, let me know if you liked it!! Enjoy!
We are planning to visit Paros with a 2 year old at the end of August and stay for a week. Is it too windy at the end of August/beginning of September? I don’t like to be on the beach when it’s too windy. Should we go to another island where it’s leads windy? Thanks!
Hello hello!
I am afraid I cannot say for sure! Usually during August, in the Cyclades dominates the north wind (it is called meltemi) which can be quite strong.
I assume that the end of August/beginning of September will be better, but I cannot guarantee that!
Paros is quite large island and has different beaches with different orientation, so you will find some that are more protected from the wind.
Hi there!
We are planning on traveling to Greece the beginning of October.. We are planning on visiting Athens and Santorini, but are having trouble deciding on another island to visit. Do you have suggestions? I know things will start shutting down towards the middle/end of October, so looking for another island that will still be open (restaurants, shops, public transportation, etc.)
Also – will the weather still be warm enough to swim and go to the beach at this time of year? We are wanting to do a boat tour in Santorini and of course go to the beaches if warm enough!
Thank you!
Hi Caroline.
You are right! Things on most of the islands are starting to close down towards the middle/end of October. But, Santorini, Crete and some other big islands like Paros and Naxos are still open till quite late in the season.
Regarding the weather, it becomes a little bit of chill in October but usually, it is quite nice! I wouldn’t expect to have any issue with the weather in October. Last year, I was on the island, on a beach, swimming at beginning of October without any problem. 🙂
Let me know if you need anything else.
Dimitris
Hello! Thank you for the article! I am travelling with 2 little kids (5 y/o and 8 m/o). Could you please recommend us where to stay. And where kids friendly area is? Any recommendations would be helpful. Thank you so much again!
Hi Alexandra.
I can recommend you two hotels for families. One is Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa in Chryssi akti and the other one would be Margarita Studios Ambelas.
Let me know if you need anything else!
I have a bit of a odd question that hopefully someone here knows the answer. My wife and I are Canadians living in the US, and many years ago we got married in Paros. (Fabulous experience by the way)
Unfortunately we cannot locate our marriage certificate and need to get a copy. Does anyone know of an mail address for the local Paros government authority?
Hi Pat.
It is indeed an odd question! I searched it a little bit and I found two telephone numbers, one a generic one 1562 and the other one seems to be from the local registry office 0030 22843 60109 in Paros.
The only email that I found is from Kep Paros. Kep is Citizen Service Centres in Greece and they might be able to direct you. The email is [email protected]
Generally speaking, I don’t have a good experience of how the government authorities are communicating, but I will wish you all the luck! Let me know if you need anything else.
When you say Parikia is not the most beautiful place in Paros, is it because of the harbor? Is it because it is a busy transportation hub for ferries and water taxis which isn’t a nice (to look at) focal point? Anything particular you can share to explain this? My husband and I are planning an extended vacation in Paros for about a month in July. Our purpose is to have a full mental reset after a hard year. We will do work in the evenings and plan to enjoy the days doing various activities- beach, strolling the town, and visiting other sites when we can. We also plan on doing an overnight trip to Santorini and visiting a couple other islands for day trips when we can. The most important thing is walk out the door and love where we are and what we are surrounded with. We are really trying to figure out if we should stay in Parikia or Naoussa. We don’t mind getting a car, but do not want to be dependent on it like we are in the US. We would like to walk as much as possible. Good, fresh, healthy food is always a plus for us- but we figure that will be the same in all of Paros.
Hi Jordan,
I think it is a matter of taste! Paroikia is indeed nice! It has some narrow streets, a wonderful church, beautiful shops and bars and restaurants. But, it hasn’t the picturesque character of Naousa which has everything that Paroikia has, plus a more villagey feeling and a beautiful small fish harbour!
Personally, between this two, I would go to Naousa, but that’s my personal opinion and taste!
But, take into account that both places in July will be very busy! Both have bars and clubs and it gets quite crowded at nights. I am just highlighting this as you mentioned that you want to reset mentally. Not sure, if you have thought about Piso Livadi village, which is, of course, less picturesque than the other two but quieter with a lot of restaurants and cafe and a beach!
It is your decision! I think you will have a great time wherever you decide to go!
Let me know if you need any other help!
Hello! We are a couple and we plan to visit Paros for the first time! If none of us drives, what is the best place/side of the island to stay at, as we want to have a bit of everything in the minimum possible distance? (beach/taverns etc).
Also, can someone let us know the cost of a taxi ride (for example Piso Livadi-Naoussa or Parikia?) Thank you in advance!
Regards,
Jessica
Hi Jessica,
I would say Aliki and Piso Livadi are good options for you. Both, have lovely beaches and some taverns and bars. The only drawback for Aliki is that it is away from Naousa.
As you might know already, the bus network in Paros is very good. On the other hand, the taxis are quite handy but they can be expensive depending on the period. I have used taxis only a few times and therefore I am not sure about specific prices. If I remember correctly the cost of the following routes are Paroikia – Lefkes: 12-20 euros (depending on the month) and Paroikia – naoussa: 15-20 euros.
Planning on visitng Paros for the 4th time Sept 2021. Investigate real estate and prep for my eventual move there. Magical island with great people, nature, colours, beaches, food to name a few. Thanks for the article, just reminds me why I want to be there all the time!
Wow! Are you going to move to Paros island? That’s super! Hope all the best Diana! Really! Let us know once you move there or if you want any help with your visit in September!
I have always wanted to go! And now, I might finally have the time. Do you travel by yourself?
Are there any tour operators in England that have accommodation in Paros please.
Hi Sandra. I am not sure as I prefer booking my self the accommodation but I think you can try Olympic Holidays and Sunvil.
What island would you recommend besides Paros to spend a year on? We are an older couple who do not need to much night life. I am an artist but we would like to dine out a few times a week. Also, which island is the warmest in the winter? I do love Paros though.
Going for my first solo trip as a 66 year old young at heart lady September 2021.Paros looks perfect,can’t wait .
When are you going? Im also goign there in September 🙂
In a few years, my wife and I plan to move to Paros for a year, then come home. Rent our house in the US and use that money for rent in Paros. Do you have any suggestions, both good and bad, to live there full time for a year? Were older and don’t care about night life. We would most likely stay in Naoussa.
Hi Daniel,
That is a great plan! Lucky you! Naoussa is indeed a nice place to leave if you want proximity to the sea or even Paroikia. Marpissa or Lefkes would be nice if you want somewhere on the mainland. Τhe other villages are quite small so you might feel more isolated. Personally, because Paros is not very big so the places that you can live are not many, I would also recommend you to find the house first and then the village! Good luck with whatever you decide! If you need anything else, just let me know!
Daniel, My husband and I are also planning to move to Paros in about 1 yr. from now, hope we meet up.
Hello, Thank you for your blog post, it is very useful. I am planning to visit Paros in September. I like everything about it, my only concern is that i dont know how to swim and the timing is a bit tight to learn. Is it still safe of i stay near beach and still enjoy water? What do you think or water gets deep very quickly?
Hello Gizo! I don’t think that you will have any issue! Paros have many beaches with shallow water like Piso Aliki, Monastiri, Kolimpithres etc where you can enjoy the beach without really swim in deep water.
How is the disease or condition treated?
Hello! I have just written a post about the coronavirus in Greece. You can find more information here. If you have any further question, please don’t hesitate to ask me!
Did you know that Paros has more than 35 km of hiking trails? There are a large number of trails to choose and Lefkes is the departure point for the oldest trail on the island: the Byzantine Route.
Thank you for letting us know! Indeed Paros has many and beautiful hiking trails!
Are there any club/pubs open in January end
Hi Harshit.
Unfortunately the most of the clubs/bars are closed in January except the ones for the locals. It is definitely a non touristic period.
Hi there. My niece turns 18 years old in May 2020 and I am looking for the best island to help her celebrate, with her friend and my sister in law. She wants lovely beaches but also good nightlife/clubs. We can go in June if May is too quiet but i could use some tips if Paros would be a good option. Mykonos way too pricey.
thank you!
Oh that’s nice Victoria! I wish her all the best! You are right. Mykonos is THE party island but it is indeed very expensive! Paros has a good nightlife especially in Naousa where it has bars and clubs. Punta beach is quite famous for its day party for young people.
May would be definitely quiet and probably June. Universities and schools end at the middle of June, so at the end of June and beginning of July would be quite good for her! Drop me an email if you want some more information. Happy to assist!
We will be in Paros the 1st and 2nd an 3rd of October and it looks like there is no tours available. Is is advisable to hire a car or an AV? Any other tips for sightseeing?
Hi Patti, I hope you will hope a great time! You can share some photos or tips afterwards!
It will quiet as it is off season, but this is not a bad thing!!
Indeed, you can rent a car preferably. There are plenty of things to do, as they are described at the post. Lefkes and Naousa village, plenty of beaches like chryssi akti, Kolympithres, Faraggas etc, Paros Park and Anti Paros island and many more!
About the tours, what kind of tours are you interested in? Hiking, wine tasting,windsurfing? Because of the period the tours are quite limited, but I can have a look for you if you want.
My family is going to Greece during the two weeks of Christmas and New Year. Many people said it’s bad time due to weather. Do you have any recommendation? I plan to spend 2 full days in Athens, 2 in Santorini, 2 in Hydra and 2 in Milos. Is it too rush? Also, is it a good time to visit these islands? I was told many restaurants and stores will close during this time of the year so I’m a bit nervous.
Thank you!
Hi Kate,
I am afraid that the weather won’t be nice. The short answer is..no. It is not a good time to visit the islands. Everything is closed except very few facilities that are open for the locals. Santorini can be a little bit better in terms of stores that will be open, but still… Also Rhodes and Crete have better weather conditions. For Athens, you can find here the average weather condition per month. You can also visit the mainland. Delphi archaeological site, Meteora amazing landscape or going even more north, like the wonderful village of Metsovo, or the beautiful zagorohoria villages or visit some ski resorts.
Let me know if you want anything else. Happy to help!
We have been visiting Paros for 30 years, beautiful island, beautiful people. Janice Knight.
I couldn’t agree more on this Janice!! If you have any tip to add, please feel free to share! You have 30 years of Paros experience!
Greece in the most beautiful country in entire Europe. I loved the people and nature. They are really friendly.
I wish to go back again and again in Greece.
Thanks Amanda for the nice words! Hopefully you will visit it again! You are always welcome to Greece!
Beautiful Island to enjoy summer vacations, Paros is a Greek island which belongs in Cyclades group. It is the third largest island in the Cyclades. Thanks for sharing this amazing place information with us.