Overview of Paros
It is no coincidence that Paros is such a highly popular destination worldwide. It is multifaceted, friendly and able to deliver original Greek island vacations to visitors of various ages, tastes and profiles. Paros, one of the largest in Cyclades, gets overcrowded in peak season, but remains absolutely delightful. It has excellent infrastructure, with good transportation network, accommodation options for everyone, sports facilities, restaurants, shops and of course a vibrant nightlife scene to enjoy – gentler than the one in Mykonos.
In some parts Paros seems fairly commercialized, however despite the touristic and housing growth, its architectural style and atmosphere is purely Cycladic. The island features a wide range of sandy beaches to relax, swim, party or practice water sports in their crystal blue waters. If we also add the villages, churches, ancient sights and “hidden” spots, Paros indeed has it all. Its centre is located at the capital Parikia. Half of the island’s action takes place here: at the busy port, the modernized waterfront, the shops, bars and restaurants, but also at the whitewashed Chora, the 13th century Venetian castle, the windmills and narrow streets. Parikia’s trademark byzantine Church Ekatontapiliani (in Greek it means “one hundred gates”) stands out as one of the most iconic monuments among the Greek islands, a testimony of history, culture and religion.
The “significant other” of Parikia is Naousa, a picturesque, touristic coastal resort with cosmopolitan aura. Its colorful caique harbor, nightlife and beautiful Chora create an enchanting atmosphere. Quieter, traditional settlements in Paros include low profile Piso Livadi, peaceful Aliki with its two beaches, as well as medieval Marpissa, historic Marmara and many more. Whatever you choose, Paros will never let you down. After all, as an all time classic Greek island, it’s everybody’s favorite.
Find more information on Paros at the official website for Greek Tourism VisitGreece.gr
Photo gallery of Paros
BeachesFoodThings to see & do
Kolimbithres
: Perhaps the most famous beach in Paros, due to its surreal granite rock formations that look like sculptures. Quiet and organized, it can also get crowded. 9.0
Chrisi Akti (alias Golden Beach)
: The longest beach in Paros has golden sand and it’s 100% organized. Every year it hosts the Windsurfing World Championship. 8.0
Santa Maria
: Golden sand, many facilities, the island’s famous campsite of the same name and favorable winds make this beach a haven for both sunbathers and windsurfers. 8.0
Parasporos
: Fine sand, beach bars, young crowd, sun beds, umbrellas and other amenities guarantee fun under the sun. 8.0
Agia Irini
: Small bay with an exotic-like scenery thanks to its palm trees. A campsite and places to eat can be found nearby. 7.0
Pounta
: A crowded, “party beach”, similar to Mykonos’ Paradise. Dancing and kite surfing are youngsters’ favorite pastime here. 7.0
Franca Scala
: Parikia, Greek, Mediterranean cuisine 9.0
Soso
: Naousa, Greek cuisine 9.0
Yemeni Taverna
: Naousa, Greek cuisine 8.0
Thalassa mou
: Aliki, Greek cuisine 8.0
Levantis
: Parikia, Contemporary cuisine 7.0
Lefkes village
: One of the most beautiful and unspoiled of all the Greek islands, it is the only mountain settlement in Paros. Picturesque, calm, amphitheatrically built among lush greenery, it preserves its traditional character intact: Cycladic and neoclassical houses, an imposing temple at the top, oil presses and mills. No motor vehicles are allowed. From there, you can also follow the byzantine marble path that leads to the medieval village of Prodromos (one hour walk). 9.0
Paros’ ancient highlights
: These include the 8th century cemetery near Parikia port, the Dilion (ruins of a 5th c. temple of Delian Apollo) and the Asklipiion (relics of a 4th c. sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, god of medicine). 8.0
Pop to the charming island of Antiparos (it’s less than 30 minutes from Parikia port)
: Also, visit nearby Naxos (one hour by boat). 8.0
The island is famous for its wonderful wines (labeled PDO=Protected Designation of Origin)
: You can also try “souma” (the local type of Greek alcohol drink tsipouro). 7.0
Valley of the Butterflies (gr. Petaloudes)
: Smaller than the famous one in Rhodes, this lush green habitat is a shelter for Tiger moth butterflies, open to visitors. 7.0
Time for action
: Paros offers quality facilities to practice windsurfing, kite surfing, diving, horse riding and trekking. 7.0
Ancient Marble Quarries
: Located near Marathi village, this site is literally a history walk in the place where the famous parian marble was extracted from ancient times until the 19th century. The marble was the cornerstone of Paros’ economy for all of this time and also the prime material for many of the most important works of architecture and sculpture in classical Greece. 7.0
Map of Paros
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