The third-largest island of the Cyclades in the middle of the Aegean Sea, Paros is perhaps one of the most beautiful islands of this archipelago. With its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, its typical landscapes, and traditional Greek villages, Paros attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world every year. In addition to the beaches, Paros has a cultural heritage visible in the architecture of its buildings and its gastronomy and two large natural gulfs, Naoussa and Parikia.
So what are you waiting for? With friends, family, or as a couple, fly to Paros!
Today, let's head for Paros to discover this small rocky pearl in the middle of the Aegean Sea. Dream holidays guaranteed.
Strolling in Naoussa, the most typical village of Paros
Only a few kilometers from the capital, the small village of Naoussa is one of the most typical of Paros. With its whitewashed streets, cubic houses, blue shutters, and colourful trees, it is worthy of a postcard landscape.
There is nothing better than to spend a day strolling through the narrow streets between small shops, restaurants, and tavernas. Don't miss the colourful fishing boats moored on the jetty, a typical scene of the Greek landscape.
If you also want to discover some of the natural landscapes of the area near the city, make a stop at the grove of Saint Nicholas, an exceptional nature reserve whose blue-domed chapel is named after him.
Visit Kolymbithres Beach
Located in Naoussa's bay, Kolymbithres is one of the most famous beaches in Paros. It stands out by its large granite rocks uniquely sculpted by the sea and wind and scattered across the beach, making it one of the most stunning beaches in the Cyclades islands. You can sunbathe under these natural sculptures, enjoy a pleasant swim in crystalline waters or lounge around on a cosy hammock. It also boasts wild coves lined up in a row and beach bars where you can sink your feet into the creamy sand.
Explore Parikia Village
Parikia, the island's capital, will surely be your first impression of Paros as it is home to the main port, where you will dock by ferry. This beautiful village is characterized by its narrow cobbled streets, ancient churches, quaint shops, and blue and white houses. Known as one of the loveliest villages in Paros, along with Naoussa, you can enjoy a cheerful environment with its many cafes and restaurants along its coastline. After dark, Parikia comes alive with a cosmopolitan nightlife. Meet up with friends or family at BeBop, a charming terrace bar facing the turquoise sea and featuring live jazz. Enjoy a few cocktails and let the music take you away!
You can also visit the famous church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, which means "the church of 100 doors", a 6th century ecclesiastical complex with beautiful frescos. At the top of the village, you can also discover a well-preserved mill and a 17th-century Venetian castle.
Discover its Gastronomy
To fully appreciate a destination and its culture, trying their traditional dishes is essential.
The island of Paros offers visitors an array of delicious cuisines to discover. Their gastronomy is based on the Mediterranean diet, where seafood, fish, cheeses, wines and olive oils predominate.
Their must-try local seafood delicacies are gouna, a sun-dried roasted mackerel, or kakavia, their traditional fish soup.
Other typical cuisines include grilled octopus, which you can try at the fabulous Aliki Restaurant in the coastal village of Aliki. Karavalas, consisting of big snails with a tasty garlic sauce-- the Greek version of the French Escargot. And the delicious Saganaki, a pan-fried cheese dish, commonly found on Greek menus.
Lefkes is one of the most authentic villages of Paros. This mountainous village, situated 300 meters above sea level, is home to white old stone houses built in an amphitheater and beautiful windmills perched on its hills. During the day, it is common to hear the song of the cicadas, and at nightfall, you will hear the melody of the owls and crickets.
The Karavalas Festival takes place every year in the last week of August to mark the end of the summer. During this festival karavalas (large snails), you have to eat Greek cheese and wine!
Learn about its Culture and History
One of the best ways to get acquainted with Paros's history is by visiting its fascinating museums, where you will gain insights into the island's past, art and culture. Home to various archaeological sites since palaeolithic times, Paros is reminiscent of an island museum.
Its most important museums are the following:
The Archaeological Museum of Paros - Christoi Konstavtopoiloi 2, Paros 844 00, Greece
Byzantine Museum - Ανδρέα Συγγρού, Paros 844 00, Greece
Naoussa Byzantine Museum - Naousa 844 01
Sculpture Museum - Marpissa 844 00
Skorpios Folklore Museum - Post Box 47047, Aliki 84400
Byzantine Art Museum - Marpissa 844 00
Practice some Water Sports at its Paradise Beaches
The island of Paros is the best place in the Cyclades for water sports! It is also a paradise for kitesurfers and windsurfers, attracting every summer visitors from all over the world to participate in competitions or enjoy the festivities! Punta is one of the most famous beaches for kitesurfing, and for windsurfing, there are the beaches of Chrissi Akti, Tsoukalia, Santa Maria, New Golden beach, and Golden Beach.
Only 10 minutes by boat from its big sister Paros, Antiparos is a small island of only 35km square. With trips scheduled every half hour from the port of Pounda, you can reach Antiparos quickly to enjoy a fun day out with family and friends. One of the island's must-see attractions is the famous cave with thousands of stalactites and stalagmites.
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