Paros is an island of the Cyclades island complex. Combining modern with traditional elements in the most unique way, it is a mixture of traditional Cycladic architecture, intense nightlife, magical beaches, enchanting rural villages and historical monuments.
Whether you're after a relaxing holiday or more of a thrill seeker, the island of Paros will give you exactly what you want!
It is one of the most popular Greek islands ! With a beautiful natural landscape and coastline 120 kilometers, Paros Greece has endless beaches with blonde sand, verdant mountains and clifftop villages galore.
A short ferry ride from Athens, it is easily accessible from the port of Piraeus and the port of Rafina. Additional, its proximity to popular islands of the Cyclades, like Mykonos, Santorini and Naxos, making it the ideal base for island hopping in Greece!
The two main villages of Paros, Greece (and where the heart of the island's nightlife beats) they are Parikia and Naoussa .
Full of traditional taverns, luxury restaurants and sophisticated bars, Parikia and Naoussa are overflowing with young crowds every night.
If the crowded places and loud music are not, however, you can wander in the quiet traditional villages of Lefkes and Marpissa.
You will be pleasantly surprised by the different faces of Paros!
The monastery of Panagia Ekatontapyliani is located near Parikia and is one of the oldest churches of Paros. Tradition says that this monastery was built by order of Saint Helen, while she was traveling to the Holy Land to find the Cross of Jesus Christ.
The Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros is located on the peninsula of Agios Ioannis Detis, behind the beach of Monastiriou, in an area of approx 80 acres with remarkable rock formations, caves, hidden coves and coasts with crystal clear waters in an authentic Cycladic landscape. The primary aim and objective of the Park is to serve as a showcase for social service, providing a unique perspective on cultural and sustainable tourism in the Aegean islands and in Greece.
The small Venetian Castle located in the old port of Naoussa was originally built in the 15th century and served as an observatory. Today only part of this fortress is preserved and it is the most characteristic point of the city.
The sanctuaries of Asclepius and Pythian Apollo are located on a hill overlooking Parikia, the capital of Paros. Today only a few ruins can be seen in the area, but still, this is one of the few archaeological sites on the island.
A must visit place in Paros is the bustling town of Naoussa, the second largest city and the center of nightlife, with excellent restaurants and luxury hotels.
Being a real Cycladic gem, Naoussa has gracefully preserved its traditional architecture and authentic essence despite the substantial development of the tourist industry.
Naoussa is built around its harbor and offers a variety of excellent shops, seafood taverns, bars and activities.
It tends to get very crowded at dinner time, for’ this is best visited in the early hours of the morning to capture a unique view of hundreds of colorful fishing boats and the blue-domed chapel of Agios Nikolaos!
Find the "Fur" fish drying in the sun at the entrance of most restaurants, as well as the photogenic white and fuchsia Bar Linardo .
The city is also surrounded by glitters, sandy beaches. The Monastery , the Kolymbithres , Santa Maria is easily accessible by local bus routes and even by boat (small traditional boat) from its port.
Parikia is the capital and the main port of Paros, as well as the center of commercial and cultural life.
Although it is the largest town of Paros, has preserved its authentic Cycladic architecture.
The neighborhood of Kastro is full of whitewashed cubic houses with wooden doors located in narrow alleys, where bougainvillea give a colorful touch to the landscape.
Taking a walk in Parikia, you will come across small boutique shops, centuries-old churches, ruins of the Frankish castle , museums (the Archaeological and the Byzantine ) and of course the important landmark of the monastery of Panagia Ekatontapyliani , located near the port.
In the port and in the picturesque neighborhoods of the city you will find a multitude of hotels, restaurants and cafes.
As part of the Cyclades, Paros showcases wonderful underwater landscapes, ideal for snorkeling.
Coupled with the view of its sparkling shores, joining a boat trip around the island is definitely an ideal thing to do on your vacation. Observe the magnificent marine life first hand, dive into the refreshing Aegean and enjoy the idyllic view of Parian.
Escape the bustling crowds for a fun day at sea, enhancing your Greek summer.
The Environmental and Cultural Park is located on the northernmost peninsula of Paros, a short distance from Naoussa.
For more than a decade, this innovative amusement park with over 800 acres hosts carefully selected cultural events along with a host of environmental awareness activities.
It operates mainly on volunteers and offers high quality experiences to every visitor. It is easily accessible by road and sea, by water taxi from the port of Naoussa.
The Park is ideal for geology lovers, of culture and history, as well as for everyone who loves a simple walk in a well-kept natural area.
As one of the most multidimensional places in Paros, it's definitely one of the top things to do on your Greek island vacation.
Near the vast park of Paros is the charming little bay of Monastiriou , engulfed by breathtaking rocky hills. It is part of the wider coast of Agios Ioannis, with the homonymous church of Agios Ioannis Detis on the right side. It is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent next to the large tavern overlooking the beach.
The culinary scene of Paros is undeniably diverse, first class and delicious.
Meals made with love and fresh local or Greek products are served in many taverns and restaurants that can be found all over the island.
The majority of them are located in the cities of Naoussa and Parikia.
The cobbled alleys hide elegant seaside restaurants or cozy taverns, the,whatever you choose, one thing is certain: the quality and quantity of flavors that will satisfy every palate.
Both traditional and modernized Greek or Mediterranean recipes are the main choice, available at moderate prices, with some even more luxurious options.
When you visit a seaside tavern or restaurant, highly recommended to try the local seafood delicacy known as "Fur" (breaded and grilled mackerel) or "Naughty" (fish soup).
The Thalassa mou , Mario , Siparos and Soso are some restaurants where you can try fine Greek seafood .
Alternatively, for those who prefer to switch between cuisines and tastes, there are excellent international restaurants in both of the island's main towns, with varied menus, from Italian and French to Thai or Japanese .
A Greek escape without lasting, delicious taverna meals by the sea are definitely incomplete. As in any other Greek island, an important part of your vacation in Paros should ideally be spent over a table full of local delicacies and warm conversations, accompanied by a glass of wine or ouzo. From traditional Greek taverns to fancy restaurants, one thing is certain: the culinary experience on the island leaves no one disappointed! During lunch or dinner in Paros, you will have to choose from a multitude of positions.
On a quick note: The best restaurants of Paros that you definitely shouldn't miss are: Constant , Mario restaurant , Thalassa mou , Siparos , Soso and Halaris .
Click on ” read more ” to discover more information about the restaurants of Paros: where to eat, what to order, why Paros is considered a culinary delight along with additional information about restaurants on the island.
Grandma cream: Nonna Crema is a popular ice cream shop on the island of Paros. Daily, friendly and kind owners make high quality, homemade ice creams, using fresh, local milk. Choose from a wide range of flavors and have a great time sitting outdoors, feeling the fresh Cycladic air.
2) Pezoula Tis Lichoudias: The pastry shop and the small cafe “Pezoula Tis Lichoudia” is located in the charming mountain village of Lefkes of Paros, famous for its traditional architecture consisting of stone walls, distinctive doors and windows in bright shades and marble churches.
3) Vanilla ice cream shop: Vanilla Gelateria is a popular ice cream shop in Paros. According to many, serves some of the most delicious ice creams on the island. The ice creams at Villa Gelateria are literally made in front of you, always fresh and quality. You can choose whichever flavor you prefer, among a wide variety of flavors, all of which satisfy every palate.