Situated within the coronary heart of the Aegean Sea, Paros is one in all Greece’s most fascinating islands, providing the proper mix of conventional Greek allure and trendy sophistication. Whether or not you’re looking for pristine seashores, charming villages, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, this Cycladic gem has one thing for each traveler. Right here’s your complete information to one of the best issues to do in Paros.
We visited the island as a part of a visit with Yacht Getaways, the luxurious skippered catamaran firm. The Paros Explorer begins in Piso Livadi on Paros island, then travels on to Naoussa on Paros, earlier than heading to Naxos, Koufonisia, Schinoussa, Ios and Antiparos and ending again in Piso Livadi.
1. Discover the Picturesque Village of Naoussa
Usually thought-about the crown jewel of Paros, Naoussa is a postcard-perfect fishing village that embodies all the things magical in regards to the Greek islands. This charming harbor city options whitewashed Cycladic structure, slender cobblestone streets, and a bustling waterfront lined with conventional fishing boats.
Spend your morning wandering by the village’s maze-like alleys, discovering hidden boutiques, artwork galleries, and comfy cafés. The Venetian harbor, with its iconic fortress ruins, supplies the proper backdrop for sundown pictures. Don’t miss the colourful nightlife scene that comes alive after darkish.
Tip: while eating places like Barbarossa are well-known for his or her napkin-waving after sunset, do your self a favour and head to genuine native eateries reminiscent of Bountaraki in Parigia or Notos in Naoussa.
2. Calm down at Livadia Seashore
Only a quick stroll from Parikia, the island’s primary port, Livadia Seashore presents crystal-clear turquoise waters and gentle golden sand. This family-friendly seashore is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities. The shallow waters make it preferrred for youngsters, whereas the close by tavernas present contemporary seafood and chilly drinks all through the day.
The seashore is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas accessible for hire, and its proximity to Parikia makes it simply accessible for day journeys.
3. Go to the Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary (Panagia Ekatontapiliani)
Certainly one of Greece’s most important Byzantine monuments, the Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary dates again to the 4th century AD. This exceptional spiritual complicated, also referred to as the “Church of 100 Doorways,” is steeped in legend and historical past.
The cathedral options gorgeous Byzantine structure, stunning frescoes, and a formidable marble iconostasis. Based on native custom, the church will stay standing till 99 doorways are discovered – the one hundredth door will solely be found when Constantinople returns to Greek palms.
4. Wander By means of Parikia Chora
The island’s capital and primary port, Parikia, completely balances historic significance with trendy facilities. The outdated city options basic Cycladic structure with sugar-cube homes, bougainvillea-draped streets, and the well-known Frankish Citadel constructed from historical marble ruins.
Discover the archaeological museum, browse native outlets for handmade crafts, and luxuriate in waterfront eating at one of many many conventional tavernas overlooking the harbor.
5. Expertise Paradise at Golden Seashore (Chrysi Akti)
Golden Seashore lives as much as its title with stretches of tremendous golden sand and crystal-clear waters. This Blue Flag seashore on the island’s southeastern coast is a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers, due to the constant northern winds (meltemi) that blow throughout summer season months.
The seashore presents glorious amenities together with water sports activities facilities, seashore bars, and tavernas. Whether or not you’re an adrenaline junkie or favor to loosen up beneath an umbrella, Golden Seashore caters to all preferences.
6. Marvel on the Distinctive Fantastic thing about Kolympethres Seashore
Kolympethres Seashore stands out as one in all Paros’s most distinctive and photogenic locations. Situated close to Naoussa, this extraordinary seashore is legendary for its easy, sculpted granite rocks which were naturally carved by wind and waves over 1000’s of years, making a lunar-like panorama that’s actually distinctive within the Cyclades.
The seashore options a number of small coves and sandy patches nestled between these spectacular rock formations, providing each sheltered swimming areas and dramatic surroundings excellent for pictures. The clear, calm waters make it preferrred for households, whereas the placing geological options present a captivating pure playground to discover.
A number of seashore bars and tavernas are located close by, and the seashore is well accessible by a brief stroll from the principle street or by taking one of many common boat shuttles from Naoussa harbor throughout summer season months.
7. Dine at Notos Restaurant
Overlooking the harbor in Naoussa, Notos Restaurant presents an distinctive eating expertise that mixes conventional Greek flavors with modern culinary strategies. This trendy institution has earned a repute for its artistic Mediterranean delicacies and chic ambiance.
The restaurant options an attractive out of doors terrace excellent for romantic dinners, whereas their menu showcases the best native elements together with contemporary seafood, regionally grown greens, and premium Greek merchandise. Their progressive method to basic Greek dishes, mixed with a superb wine choice that includes each native and worldwide labels, makes Notos a standout eating vacation spot on the island.
8. Savor Recent Seafood at Bountaraki Restaurant
Located on the waterfront in Naoussa, Bountaraki Restaurant presents an distinctive eating expertise with gorgeous harbor views. Identified for his or her extremely contemporary seafood and inventive Mediterranean delicacies, this institution has turn into a favourite amongst each locals and guests.
The restaurant’s dedication to high quality elements and progressive preparation strategies has earned it recognition as top-of-the-line eating spots on the island.
9. Discover the Charming Port of Piso Livadi
As soon as a bustling marble-exporting port, Piso Livadi has reworked into an enthralling seaside village excellent for a peaceable getaway. The small harbor is surrounded by conventional tavernas, whereas the close by seashores provide glorious swimming and sunbathing alternatives.
The village serves as a superb base for exploring the jap a part of the island and supplies quick access to a few of Paros’s most stunning seashores.
10. Go to the Conventional Mountain Village of Lefkes
Perched excessive within the mountains of central Paros, Lefkes presents breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into conventional Greek island life. This picturesque village was constructed inland to guard residents from pirate raids and options stunning stone structure and slender marble-paved streets.
The Byzantine Street, an historical marble-paved path connecting Lefkes to Prodromos, supplies a superb mountaineering alternative by the island’s gorgeous inside panorama.
11. Bask in Wine Tasting at Moraitis Vineyard
Established in 1910, Moraitis Vineyard represents 4 generations of winemaking excellence on Paros. Situated in Naoussa, this family-owned vineyard produces distinctive wines utilizing each indigenous and worldwide grape varieties.
Take a guided tour of the amenities, study conventional winemaking strategies, and luxuriate in tastings of their award-winning wines whereas taking in views of the encompassing vineyards and shoreline.
12. Take a Day Journey to Antiparos
Only a quick ferry trip from Paros, the small island of Antiparos presents an ideal day journey vacation spot. Identified for its relaxed ambiance, stunning seashores, and the well-known Antiparos Cave with its spectacular stalactite formations.
The charming primary city options slender streets, conventional structure, and glorious tavernas. Don’t miss the chance to go to Tom Hanks’ favourite spots – the Hollywood actor owns property on the island and is usually noticed in native institutions.
We went to Antiparos as a part of our Paros Explorer yacht journey and loved trying across the trendy boutiques on the principle road in Antiparos city. Save room for Vicky’s Ice Cream close to the highest of the road!
13. Uncover Historical Historical past on the Archaeological Museum of Paros
Immerse your self within the wealthy historical historical past of Paros at this fascinating museum situated in Parikia. The Archaeological Museum of Paros homes a formidable assortment of artifacts that span 1000’s of years, from the Neolithic interval by the Roman period.
The museum’s highlights embody gorgeous marble sculptures, historical pottery, and inscriptions that inform the story of this traditionally important island. Check out the well-known Parian Chronicle, a marble pill that data necessary occasions in Greek historical past.
The museum supplies worthwhile insights into how this island performed a vital function in historical Greek civilization, significantly as a supply of the famend Parian marble utilized in many classical sculptures and buildings.
14. Discover Artwork at Fluxus Museum
Artwork fanatics shouldn’t miss the Fluxus Museum, which showcases modern artwork in a surprising setting. This distinctive cultural area hosts rotating exhibitions and installations that mix trendy creative expression with the pure great thing about Paros.
The museum supplies a refreshing cultural expertise and presents perception into Greece’s modern artwork scene.
The place to Keep in Paros
Select from charming boutique resorts in Naoussa like Paros Palace Suites, beachfront resorts close to Golden Seashore, or conventional lodging in Parikia for straightforward ferry entry. Alternatively, take a yacht journey across the Cyclades islands and keep on board! Earlier than embarking on our yacht journey, we stayed at Paros Palace Suites and located it to be an distinctive selection – our room was charming with stunning conventional touches, and the pool space is gorgeous with snug lounging areas.
Word that the pool shouldn’t be heated, which is refreshing in the course of the heat summer season months however is perhaps one thing to contemplate for those who’re visiting throughout cooler seasons.
Paros presents an genuine Greek island expertise that completely balances leisure, tradition, and journey. From pristine seashores and charming villages to distinctive delicacies and wealthy historical past, this Cycladic gem supplies unforgettable recollections for each kind of traveler. Begin planning your Paros journey right this moment and uncover why this stunning island continues to captivate guests from around the globe.
Ideas For Your Paros Journey
Tips on how to Get to Paros
Attending to Paros is less complicated than you would possibly assume, with a number of transportation choices accessible relying in your departure level and journey preferences.
By Air: At the moment, there aren’t any direct flights from the UK or US to Paros, however getting there’s simple with a connection by Athens. Fly from any main UK airport to Athens Worldwide Airport (ATH), then catch a connecting flight to Paros Nationwide Airport (PAS). US vacationers can fly from main cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, or Los Angeles to Athens, with airways reminiscent of Delta, American Airways, and Lufthansa providing connecting companies by way of European hubs.
The home flight from Athens to Paros takes roughly 45 minutes and operates frequently in the course of the summer season season. Airways like Olympic Air and Sky Specific service this route with a number of every day flights throughout peak season.
By Ferry: Ferry journey is likely one of the hottest and scenic methods to succeed in Paros, providing gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea and neighboring islands. Seajets operates high-speed ferries connecting Paros to quite a few locations together with Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos, and Piraeus (Athens’ primary port). The journey from Mykonos takes roughly 30-45 minutes, making it excellent for island hopping adventures.
Different ferry firms like Blue Star Ferries and Golden Star Ferries additionally service the Paros route with each standard and high-speed choices. From Piraeus, the journey takes 3-4 hours by high-speed ferry or 4-5 hours by standard ferry. Throughout summer season months, there are a number of every day departures, supplying you with flexibility in planning your arrival time.
Ferry connections are additionally accessible from different in style Cycladic islands together with Santorini (1-2 hours), Naxos (half-hour), and Ios (1 hour), making Paros a great base for exploring the island chain.
Retailer Your Baggage at Parikia Port
Maximize your time in Paros by benefiting from handy baggage storage choices at Parikia port. Whether or not you’re arriving early earlier than resort check-in, have a late departure, or wish to discover the island hands-free in your final day, a number of dependable storage companies can be found.
Bounce presents safe baggage storage with simple on-line reserving and aggressive charges. Their associate areas close to the port present a handy answer for storing baggage of any measurement whilst you discover Parikia or get pleasure from one final seashore day.
Baggage Deposit – Web Cafe supplies one other glorious choice proper within the coronary heart of Parikia. This native institution combines baggage storage companies with web entry, making it excellent for vacationers who want to remain linked whereas storing their belongings. Their central location makes it simple to drop off baggage after which discover the city’s points of interest, eating places, and outlets with out being weighed down by heavy baggage.
Each companies provide hourly and every day charges, making certain you solely pay for the time you really need. That is significantly worthwhile for ferry passengers who wish to benefit from their time on the island with out dragging suitcases round cobblestone streets or sandy seashores.
Greatest Time to Go to Paros
Could by October presents the warmest climate and calmest seas, although July and August might be crowded. For fewer crowds and nice climate, think about visiting in late spring or early fall.
Getting Round Paros
Hire a automotive or scooter to discover the island at your personal tempo, or use the dependable native bus system that connects main cities and seashores.
Have you ever visited Paros? Share your favourite experiences within the feedback beneath and assist fellow vacationers uncover the magic of this unimaginable Greek island.
