Amazing Things to Do in Paros, Greece (With a Free Printable Packing List!)

Right in the center of the Aegean Sea, Paros has turned into the main hub of Greece for those discovering the wonders of the Cycladic islands. Whitewashed houses, solitary churches, ancient monasteries, and archaeological sites make it a unique destination in the Mediterranean.

📋 At the end of the post, I’ve included a free printable packing list to download and keep with you when it’s time to pack for your summer adventure in Paros!

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The most amazing things to do in Paros

I’ve written this guide to show you the gorgeous spots on the island of Paros. I’ll take you to unique beaches and tranquil villages. You’ll also find tips about local food and where to stay. Paros has a mountain landscape that blends with the turquoise waters of the sea. Here, colorful bougainvillea gives life to the whitewashed houses and picturesque hidden alleys. 

Those ready to explore other islands can combine Paros with a short stay in nearby Antiparos, where they can experience quiet beaches and walking paths in the mountains.

Enjoy the Mediterranean scenery of exotic landscapes and solitary chapels where wildflowers and aromatic herbs combine with crystal waters. Experience an authentic Greek character. Sail away and enjoy the best things to do in Paros!

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What to Do and See in Paros this Summer!

Paros is a very popular island of the Greek Cyclades and a favorite destination among Greeks. However, Paros has recently seen an increasing number of foreign tourists.

Situated in the center of the Aegean Sea, it attracts an eclectic range of visitors, from solo travelers to water sports fans, families with kids, groups of friends, and honeymooners.

Local traditional villages include the beautiful port of Naoussa, the capital Paroikia, and the central village of Lefkes. Stone-cobbled streets and alleys, white cubic houses, and blue-domed churches are at the core of the Parian facade. 

Exotic beaches such as Kolymbithres or Santa Maria are popular with those who love crystalline waters and soft sand. The southeastern part of the island, with beaches like Chryssi Akti (also known as Golden Beach), attracts hundreds of windsurfers every year.

The local gastronomy is foodie heaven. Paros is famous for its seafood and cheese and an excellent selection of local wine. If you want to try a beloved dish from Paros, I recommend a short trip to the mountain village of Lefkes. Here, local tavernas are famous for the snails with skordalia, a delicious creamy dip made with potatoes, garlic, and olive oil. 

Getting to Paros

Paros is easy to reach from Athens by sea or by flight. Ferryboats to Paros depart from the Port of Piraeus and Rafina (another port in Athens, near Athens International Airport). You can read more here to learn how to get to Paros.

GETTING TO PAROS BY FERRY

Paros port is easily accessible from Athens through the ports of Piraeus and Rafina, whereas there is also a connection with other islands. The trip from Athens lasts 3-5 hours, depending on the type of boat.

The Port of Parikia is a ferry hub in the Aegean. Ferries arrive and depart from and to every island in the region, serving almost all the Cycladic Islands and some islands in the Dodecanese. Ferries also depart from the port of Naoussa on special occasions. Always check your ports of arrival and departure beforehand and pay special attention if you arrive and depart from different ports.

Paros is on the route of the ferries reaching the Cyclades, but can also be reached from Crete and the Dodecanese. It can take from 3 to 5 hours to get to Paros from Athens (depending on the ferry service you choose). Companies traveling to Paros include Blue Star Ferries, Golden Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and Sea Jets.

GOOD TO KNOW: There are 3 to 5 daily ferries from the Port of Piraeus and one weekly ferry from Lavrio Port that stops on the Kea and Kythnos islands.

GETTING TO PAROS BY PLANE

The airport of Paros is about 12 km from the capital, Parikia. Depending on the season, direct flights from Athens (with Olympic Air) reach Paros 2 to 4 times daily. Once you make it to the airport of Paros, you can either hire a taxi, rent a car, or take the bus that — in summer — takes you to the island’s capital.

Moving around in Paros

Car rental is always a good idea on the Greek islands. It’s usually cheap and convenient, allowing freedom of movement and last-minute decisions. You won’t depend on public transport schedules. 

Always check in advance what kind of driving license you need. Europeans can drive with the European Driving License, but drivers from other countries might need an international permit.

Bigger Greek islands, such as Paros, Naxos, or Mykonos, have an efficient bus service that makes it convenient to reach different beaches and villages. Bus rides cost from €1.80 to €2.00. Taxis are also convenient on Paros and in many other parts of Greece.

➡️ Head here, to see the bus schedules for Paros.

Essentials for your trip to Paros

Remember to bring a packable beach hat and sunscreen, especially if you travel with kids. The prices of those two essential items can be really high in coastal villages, so it’s always better to buy them in advance. 

When venturing on long hikes among the mountains, water is also essential. Do not underestimate the midday sun in the Aegean, it can lead to extreme dehydration and painful sunburn.

Best Places to See in Paros

Read on and discover the best towns and villages to explore on the island!

Parikia, the Capital

The best way to start your first morning in Parikia (sometimes spelled Paroikia) is with a visit to the Chora, the old town. This ancient village is a maze of alleys and squared Cycladic houses, with imposing Venetian buildings in the heart of the historic district.

Reach the impressive Medieval fortress or Frankish Castle, which stands above the village and overlooks the sea. Next, discover some of the old chapels built inside the fortress’s walls. This corner of the island offers spectacular views of the bay and the port.

Thanks to the wide range of accommodations offered, the number of bars and restaurants, and the animated nightlife, most visitors tend to forget that Parikia is a rather small village that has maintained its tradition and unique architecture, two characteristics that locals are proud of. 

The squares, the big windmill at the port welcoming tourists, but also the seaside promenade, are always bustling with traffic and people. Parikia is one of the best places to stay in Paros. There are banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, tourist offices, and a hospital.

Things to See and Do in Parikia

Panagia Ekatontapoliani and the museums

The church of Panagia Ekatontapoliani (or the Virgin of the Hundred Doors) is a perfect visit for your first afternoon in Paros. This Byzantine religious complex is enclosed by a fortified wall.

The legend says that only 99 doors have been found. The hundredth one will only be found when Istanbul again becomes Constantinople – and, therefore, Greek.

The entrance to the church is free. There’s also an important Byzantine Museum in the complex.

• Open between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
• Closed between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. in the low season
• Entrance fee, €2

The Archaeological Museum of Paros is located behind the church. Among its famous exhibits, there is a Winged-Victory Statue from the 5th century BC.

The ancient cemetery of Paroikia

The Ancient Cemetery of Paroikia is an important archeological site not far from the port. There, you can see tombs belonging to different historical periods and a mysterious mass grave unique in the Aegean. 

Not far, on a hill towards the south of Paroikia, there is the Sanctuary of Asclepius, from the 3rd century BC

• Open between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Closed on Mondays
• Entrance €2

The Valley of the Butterflies

In the area nearby, about 3 km (less than 2 miles) towards the center of the island, there is a place worth a visit, the Valley of the Butterflies. Also called just Petaloudes, it’s a little paradise of gardens and paths with an environment unique only to Paros and to the island of Rhodes (Dodecanese).

Petaloudes is a rich environment, very similar to a rain forest due to the lush vegetation of ivy plants. A butterfly species (Jersey Tiger) usually lays its eggs in August, while thousands of red and black butterflies can be seen in Spring. 

Best Beaches Near Parikia

If you are not the type who enjoys museums and history, consider spending your day on the beach.

Among the ones close to the city center, Piso Livadi often gets very crowded. The village of Piso Livadi is well worth a visit as well. In the restaurants of the port try the mussels and cuttlefish. For a more peaceful spot, Souvla, also known as Delfini, is a good beach close to the Sanctuary of Asclepius. 

Head further south to visit the bay of Agia Irini. Thanks to the palm trees surrounding it, this beach has a unique tropical flair, offering a very different landscape from what you would normally experience in Greece. 

Where to Eat in Parikia

• The Little Green Rocket is a trendy venue in the heart of Parikia. They serve delicious local food and knowledgeable staff is always available to suggest the best dishes. I recommend you to taste their mushrooms filled with feta cheese and any other seafood dish.

• Happy Cows is the place to go if you can’t do without red meat. They also serve good salads and a variety of pasta.

• For a romantic dinner with a view, Magaya is known for traditional Mexican dishes. A great seaside place also for a quick lunch.

Where to Stay in Parikia

• Paros Palace is a wonderful 4-star hotel fairly close to the beach with pretty views of the island.
• Pyrgaki Hotel has a beautiful swimming pool overlooking the sea.
• For those that prefer the comforts of a house, Paros Paradise Apartments are new holiday units meters from the sea.

Naoussa Village

This little town, relatively new to mass tourism, is a top place to visit during your holidays in Paros. Once a quiet fishermen’s village, Naoussa has become a cool area loved by locals and tourists alike. There are several beaches to visit in the area, too. 

This picturesque village is located in the north of the island, on a wide bay just 10 km from Paroikia. Considered one of the prettiest villages in Greece, Naoussa has managed to keep its authenticity despite the increase in tourism. 

Naoussa is an authentic Cycladic settlement. Common views include the well-known Greek chapels, little houses adorned with blossomed flowers, and a maze of stone-paved alleys.

Everything you need to move around in Paros is in the main square of Naoussa. There are taxi stops, buses, and car rental services. At the square, there are also ATM machines and tourist offices. 

It is less busy than the capital, and unique nightlife can still be enjoyed thanks to the many bars and nightclubs usually open until dawn.

Explore Naoussa, in Paros

The best way to start your day in the village is by heading to the quaint fishing port. Enjoy a nice breakfast here in Sousouro Cafe Bar, famous for the espresso and its Greek yogurt with honey and fruit. After breakfast, walk around the port and enjoy the view of fresh octopus hanging under the sun. 

The Venetian Fortress of Naoussa

You can see the old Venetian Fortress of Naoussa at the port, partially sunk but still impressive. The fort is connected to the land through a small rocky path. 

The fortress is a characteristic spot in the village. The Venetians built it in the 15th century as a watchtower to defend the island against pirate attacks. It was a front line in times of war, thanks to its perfect location to watch the Aegean Sea.

Its unique architecture made it difficult for enemies to approach the port where commercial ships used to dock. Only a few parts of the fort are still standing today; originally, there was a second watchtower that no longer exists. 

The Marina

Just opposite the fortress, you can visit the church of Agios Nikolaos, which has a typical Cycladic blue dome. The rest of the village continues towards a tiny fishing marina, with bars, ouzeries, and fish taverns where the Venetian storehouses used to be. 

The colorful caiques (boats) dock here, adding a romantic touch to the place. For a quick lunch, choose a taverna in the area.

Paros Wine Museum

Take a break and have a glass of wine for a great afternoon. Naoussa is home to the Paros Moraitis Wine Museum and Winery, an interesting place to visit on the island. In the museum, you can see the underground aging cellars and check out the wine-tasting hall. 

The third generation of the Moraitis family seeks to preserve the authentic quality of the local vineyards, which have roots in the ancient Cycladic era (3,200-2,000 BC). 

The museum offers an overview of Parian wine-making history and portrays different equipment and other agricultural tools. It is a wonderful display of the history of Greek wine.

Agios Antonios Monastery

Definitely leave the late afternoon for one of the most significant visits, the beautiful church, and the monastery of Agios Antonios. This traditional monastery has two domes and Ionic columns supporting the altar. The church, which dates back to 1500, is at the top of Kephalos Hill. The monastery is one of the oldest monasteries on the island. 

This whitewashed complex of buildings retains the true charm of Greece. The church is held with much reverence by the locals, Parians sincerely believe that the church of Agios Antonios watches over them when they leave to fish at sea. During the season, the monastery is open to the public.

The Archaeological Site of Koukounaries

Very close to the beach of Kolimbithres, Koukounaries is a hill home to a Mycenean Acropolis (1200 B.C.). Here, check out the wonderful temple in honor of the goddess Athena, dating back to the Geometric period. 

Koukounaris is listed among the most ancient Acropolis in the Aegean, the area presents fantastic panoramas and truly spectacular rock formations.

Best Beaches Near Naoussa

Naoussa Bay is home to Kolimbithres, not really a beach but a series of different bays divided by unusual rock formations. The rocks have been eroded by the water and the wind, giving them a peculiar shape and a smooth surface. 

These are shallow bays, safe for kids, with crystal clear waters. Include Kolimbithres in your Paros itinerary, spending the day here is a relaxing, unique experience. 

To visit Kolimbithres you can use your car or choose one of the tiny boats at the port of Naoussa (departures every half an hour).

Just 6 km East of Naoussa, another popular beach among families is Santa Maria, which is also loved by surfers. Santa Maria is probably the most popular beach in Paros; however, given its vastness, it never feels too crowded. 

This beach is easy to reach from Paroikia and Naoussa, even with the regular public buses.

In the same area, small bays, all going under the generic name of Santa Maria, offer quiet corners to spend a day in complete peace.

Where to eat in Naoussa

Paros’s gastronomic tradition relies on tasty fresh products and old-time recipes.

• In the old fishing port of Naoussa, different seaside restaurants will attract your attention. If you don’t mind paying extra for a view, try Mario, they serve good seafood and abundant fish platters. 
• However, if you prefer an inexpensive solution, one of the best places in town is Yemeni Wine Restaurant.

Where to sleep in Naoussa

• Madaky Hotel is in the center of the village, close to the beach and the port, and a pleasant atmosphere.
• For romantic couples, Porto Naoussa Adults Only offers great accommodation just a few meters from the port of Naoussa.
• One of the coolest options in Naoussa, with a unique swimming pool, is Maryo Village.

South Paros: Ambelas, Logaras, and the Golden Beach

Going even further towards the south, the village of Ambelas is home to Ambelas beach, the first of a long series of beaches you will find on your way. Ambelas is ideal for kids because the cove is protected from the winds.

There’s a beach club where you can have a bite or a three-course meal—it’s up to you! The club offers a laid-back environment with sunbeds and bar service on the beach.

You can also spend the day in Ambelas on one of the little shores of Glyfada, Tsoukalia, or Molos. Another favorite beach, Logaras, popular for the many bars, taverns, and hotels, is twenty kilometers south of this point.

Keep driving south for about 4 kilometers to visit one of the hottest beaches, Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti), one of the most beautiful on the island. It is loved by young people, couples, and families alike. 

This long, sandy beach is fully organized, with windsurfing facilities, beach bars, and tavernas. If you are into windsurfing or want to try it, check rates and services here. In the area, there are plenty of hotels and rooms for rent. Several buses departing from the capital get to the beach during the season.

Golden Beach is better-known for its ideal wind conditions, every August the beach hosts the Professional Windsurfing World Cup, gathering many windsurfing celebrities.

Villages

Lefkes

It’s a good idea to begin a day in Paros by driving towards the mountains. About 10 kilometers from Paroikia lies Lefkes, the first capital of Paros.

Lefkes is a gorgeous village surrounded by stunning pinewoods. Here, traditional whitewashed houses and a unique landscape call for peaceful walks. Don’t worry if you get tired: take a coffee break in one of the many old-time kafenia, or village cafés of Lefkes.

Spend some time visiting the Municipal Hostel of Lefkes, this building has been transformed into the House of Literature, a unique initiative by the Municipality of Paros and the European Translation Center.

They provide accommodation for writers, translators, and other artists who come to Lefkes to work and create in this peaceful environment. 

The sea and the nearby island of Naxos can be seen in the background. In fact, the first residents of this village were immigrants from Naxos and the more distant Greek island of Crete.

But many others were locals who built the village at a considerable altitude to seek protection against pirate attacks. The hills surrounding the village host restored traditional windmills, a postcard-like landscape that attracts many visitors.

Agia Triada Church

This imposing church dates back to the 19th century. It rises behind the village’s white houses and is the second-largest Paros church after Ekatontapiliani. 

Agia Triada is a three-aisle basilica with a raised center aisle. There are two beautiful marble bell towers on the left and right sides of the main gate

Traditions of Paros: Gastronomic festival of Lefkes

If you visit Paros in summer, you can’t miss the Feast of Karavolas, a moment of social gathering for locals and visitors alike (normally held at the end of August).

Lefkes’s most important tradition is its culinary roots. In the village, try the Karavoles, big snails served with skordalia (a local sauce made of garlic and potatoes). Lefkes is also known for its cheese production, the chickpeas in the oven, and the local wine. 

Marathi Marble Quarries

If you still have time during your visit to the village, take the inner road that connects Lefkes and Marpissa to visit the famous Marathi Marble Quarries. 

Famous Greek sculptors have always preferred Parian marble because of its consistency and transparency. Famous masterpieces, like the Venus de Milo, have been sculpted using the marble from Paros.

As you walk along the pathway to the quarry, check the abandoned buildings that used to belong to a French mining company operating in the area.

Moving Around in Lefkes, Paros

The only way to go around Lefkes is on foot, there are two parking lots at the village entrance, where you must park your car.

Where to Eat in Lefkes

• Flora has a fantastic view faces the whole village, the sea, and even the island of Naxos. This traditional restaurant has been serving a wide choice of local and international dishes for about 20 years and specializes in grilled meat.
• In the heart of the village, Lefkiano is a small restaurant with a friendly atmosphere. The fresh food has given the place a fantastic reputation. Try their traditional fried calamari with a glass of ouzo or a shot of the local drink, souma. For a refreshing dish, go with the Lefkes’ Salad, with rusks, tomatoes, onions, rockets, olives, and local sour cheese.

Spend the night in Lefkes

Choose the mountains of Paros as your place to stay on the island

Other Villages to Visit

Aliki and Agairia Villages

Aliki is a fishing village on the island’s southern coast, close to the Airport. Piso Aliki is a white-pebbled beach in the area where you spend the day. Choose one of the several bars or taverns for lunch and try a gouna made from sun-dried fish (usually mackerel).

From Aliki, it’s possible to visit another picturesque village closer to the mountains, Agairia, where you can walk and discover the Cycladic architecture. It’s no more than 3 km from the coast.

Drios Village

Wonderful turquoise waters are the perfect excuse to spend a day in the ancient port of the island, Drios. You can find this green and lush village on the southeastern coast. It’s a very laid-back location, ideal to spend a holiday away from more busy cities. Accommodation is good, some of the best villas in Paros are here. 

For those interested in sightseeing, check out the Cave of the Demons and the shipbeds where the ancient Parians would house their boats. Above Drios, the little village of Aspro Chorio is also great for a walk and traditional Greek coffee.

General Information about Paros

Where to start your day with a good cup of coffee

Meltemi is probably one of the best coffee bars in Paros. It is ideal for a cup of coffee in the morning and a relaxing cocktail in the evening.

What to eat in Paros

I’ve already mentioned the snails with Skordalia from Lefkes. However, that’s not all. Paros is famous for the different varieties of cheese, squid, mussels, and octopus.

In Naoussa, fried calamari and grilled octopus are other gastronomic staples. When in Paros, don’t miss a shot of souma; the local spirit is usually served after a meal with complimentary local sweets or fruit.

Packing List for Summer in Greece

Spend a Few Days in Nearby Antiparos

This small but bright Greek island is located right across Paros. At first sight, its traits and colors picture a typical Cycladic landscape: whitewashed houses, light blue doors, and church domes. 

However, unlike many other Cycladic islands, there are no massive groups of tourists. It’s a heavenly and lonely landscape. Laid-back and quiet, Antiparos is nothing but a hidden paradise. In complete harmony with nature, Antiparos is great for detoxing from city life. 

Where to stay in Antiparos

• Check my review of Kouros Village, a nice family hotel in a great location.

How to reach Antiparos from Paros

To reach Antiparos, take a ferry from Paros island. Boat departures become more frequent during the high season. Drive to the port of Pounda where ferries depart for Antiparos every 30 minutes. The crossing takes only 7 minutes and costs less than 10 € each way. You can also take a boat from Paroikia, with the same frequency.

Morning Coffee: Start your day with a good glass of cold coffee (frappé). Feel free to choose any of the tiny bars near the small port of Antiparos. For something more traditional, choose one of the Greek kafenia on the main square, they are picturesque spots with tables spread around a centennial eucalyptus. 

Lunch and Dinner: It’s a great idea to enjoy a picnic on the beach. Get all you need from the supermarket across the port. Bear in mind that it has a very limited stock. Once you have all you need, head to explore the beaches close to the main village. 

What’s the Weather Like in Paros and Antiparos

Just like in the rest of the Aegean, Paros enjoys mild weather in spring and autumn. These are the best months to visit. The weather is hot and dry during the summer. The Meltemi, a northern wind that most tourists dislike, helps endure the high temperatures. 

Winters in the south of the Mediterranean are mild, with few showers and some very cold days. Not many infrastructures remain open in winter. Choose May, June, or September to avoid extreme heat and crowded facilities.

Other Day Trips from Paros

Popular islands of the Cyclades are fairly easy to reach since Paros is located in the center of the Aegean. Daily ferry services go to Amorgos, Ios, or Naxos, as well as to the more exclusive Mykonos and Santorini.

If you have limited time in Greece but want to make the most of it, definitely check the ferry schedules. It’s not a bad idea to also check out the day trips offered by local tour agencies.