Paros: The ultimate guide
History
Although this beloved island was known by many different names in antiquity, it officially became known as Paros after the Dryopes settled there under the leadership of Paros, from whom the island took its name.
Paros has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was one of the centers of Cycladic civilization. In fact, on the hill of the castle in Parikia, remains of a settlement dating back to the great flourishing of Cycladic culture, around 3200–2000 BC, were discovered.
Over the following centuries, the island experienced remarkable cultural and economic growth. Lychnites, the highly valued marble of Paros, was one of the main reasons why numerous sculpture workshops were established on the island. Paros also had a strong artistic presence, with the great lyric poet Archilochus being one of its most important cultural figures.
With the rise of the Persians around 490 BC, Paros entered into alliances first with the Persians and later with the Athenians, after the defeat and fall of Persian power. During the Classical Period, one of the greatest eras of ancient Greece, Paros produced exceptional sculptors who worked on buildings, theaters and temples of high aesthetic value.
The centuries that followed, from the Hellenistic kingdoms to the Roman Empire, the Byzantine period and later the Frankish and Venetian occupation after the fall of Constantinople, were marked by political changes and shifts in power. This pattern continued until after World War II. It was during the 1960s that the people of Paros gradually stopped emigrating to Piraeus or abroad and began making use of the island’s greatest resource: tourism.
The most popular beaches in Paros
Paros is often included among the best beaches destinations in the Cyclades, thanks to its mix of organized shores, quiet coves and impressive natural landscapes.
Golden Beach
Golden Beach is undoubtedly one of the most popular beaches in Paros. It is located 22 kilometers from Parikia and very close to the seaside village of Drios. As its name suggests, this 700-meter-long beach is known for its fine golden sand. Here, you will find restaurants and cafes, while you can also enjoy water sports such as windsurfing. In addition, whether you rent a boat or take a small local boat, you can visit the uninhabited islet of Dryonisi, located opposite Golden Beach.
Punda
This beach is located 18 kilometers from Parikia, the capital of Paros, and 14 kilometers from Naousa, also often written as Naoussa, from where daily bus routes operate to Punda. It is known for its soft sand and deep blue waters, but even more for the endless party atmosphere at its beach bars, which starts around midday and continues until well after sunset. The beach is very well organized, with beach bars serving coffee and food, while the wider beach club scene makes Punda one of the liveliest spots on the island. A large number of hotels and rooms to let can also be found very close by.
Kolymbithres
The name of this beach comes from the natural formation of the granite rocks, which create small natural basins filled with seawater, resembling little swimming pools. These smooth rock formations make Kolymbithres Beach one of the most recognizable landscapes in Paros. You can reach the beach either by boat from Naoussa or by road and enjoy the landscape, the sea and the food offered by the many restaurants in the area.
Monastiri Beach
Close to Kolymbithres, Monastiri Beach is another popular choice for travelers who want calm waters, a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to organized facilities.You also must-visit it, if you want a beach that feels scenic without being too far from Naoussa.
Laggeri
Laggeri Beach, the “hidden” beach of Paros, is located between the village of Naoussa and Santa Maria Beach. Laggeri is a peaceful refuge away from the busy rhythm of Paros, as it is completely unorganized. Because of its untouched character, it naturally attracts groups of friends looking for calm, naturists and young couples.
Marcello
Marcello Beach is located in the bay of Parikia, opposite the capital of Paros. You can reach the beach either by road or by small boat from the port of Parikia, which will take you there in just 10 minutes. It is organized, yet still ideal for relaxation, with crystal-clear waters and a beautiful sea view towards the capital.
Beaches for families
Aliki
The village of Aliki is a favorite family destination, as it offers hotels, accommodation, cafés, restaurants and seaside tavernas, allowing families to enjoy their holidays peacefully and without unnecessary travel around the island. Especially at Piso Aliki Beach, with its low tamarisk trees, you may just find your own little paradise.
Krios
If you are staying on the Parikia side of the island, do not miss the chance to spend a day with your family at Krios Beach. Families love this beach for its open-sea view and sense of endless calm, as well as for its crystal-clear shallow waters, which are ideal for swimming with children.
What to eat in Paros
We could not begin this section without talking about the excellent local delicacies of Paros and, of course, where you can find them. Food is one of the easiest ways to discover a more authentic Greek side of the island.
Parian wine
On November 3, Paros celebrates the small church of Agios Georgios Methystis , Saint George “the Drunkard.” That alone says a lot. Parian wine is recognized as a PDO product, while Paros is the second most important wine-producing island in the Cyclades after Santorini.
The leading grape varieties are Mandilaria, used for red wine, and Monemvasia, used for white wine, as well as the sweet Malvasia Paros wines. The Assyrtiko and the red blend made from Mandilaria and Monemvasia by Roussos Winery will also convince you of the elegance of the island’s aromas and flavors. If you enjoy local experiences, a wine tasting in Paros is one of the most memorable ways to understand the island’s character.
Cheeses of Paros
Of course, before leaving Paros, do not forget to buy a few pieces of the island’s excellent cheeses to accompany your wine or grate over a delicious pasta platter. We recommend Parian graviera, which is gradually gaining a reputation alongside the famous graviera cheeses of Naxos and Tinos, as well as ladotyri, traditional kefalotyri and xinomyzithra.
Parian herbs
Oregano, rock samphire, thyme, sage and tribulus are all aromatic plants and herbs that grow in Paros, now also supported by excellent ecological initiatives. In the mountains of Paros, herbs have a different freshness and fragrance. What you can do is take a little of this herbal aroma home with you.
Pasteli
Given the excellent thyme honey produced on the island, it is no surprise that Paros also offers high-quality pasteli. These sesame-and-honey bars are a great choice both as souvenirs for friends and as a breakfast treat with a little orange juice, or as an energy-boosting snack during the day.
Where to eat in Paros
Whether you prefer relaxed family meals, romantic evenings or beautiful places to enjoy with friends, Paros offers options to suit every need. The island’s food scene combines Mediterranean simplicity with local ingredients and traditional Greek flavors.
Families visiting Paros usually look for places where they can enjoy their meal in a friendly and comfortable setting. In Naousa and Parikia, you will find seaside restaurants and tavernas with courtyards or play areas, ideal for younger visitors.
If you are traveling with your partner, Kolymbithres offers restaurants with sunset views. The mountain village of Lefkes, known for its picturesque beauty and cobbled alleys, is also ideal for quiet, romantic meals for couples.
For groups of friends, Punda is an excellent choice for those who want to combine food with entertainment, as many beach bars serve food and cocktails by the sea. In Naoussa, you will also find stylish waterfront restaurants, where seafood and island atmosphere come together beautifully.
Especially during high season, in August, making a reservation is essential. Prices vary depending on the area and the type of restaurant, so it is useful to keep a few extra euros in your daily budget.
Paros nightlife
In the heart of Naousa, you will find bars serving delicious cocktails and music that keeps the party going. Even if you are not usually a clubgoer, nightlife in Paros is an experience worth having. Open-air clubs create a tropical, idyllic setting, ideal for enjoying your cocktail in a more relaxed way, while the party indoors continues until the early morning hours.
Families usually prefer Piso Livadi for an evening walk and a drink. Others head to the square and the area around the port of Naousa, where lounge bars with relaxed music are perfect for a cocktail or an ice cream.
For couples, Parikia offers excellent rooftop bars with panoramic sea views. In Ambelas, you will also find romantic restaurants and bars serving refined drinks.
For a more energetic night out, Punda is the best place to enjoy a beach club atmosphere, while Naoussa is ideal for a more polished island vibe. Compared with Mykonos, Paros keeps a more balanced rhythm, making it lively without losing its Cycladic identity.
Paros is full of life, offering options that satisfy every preference and every type of traveler.
Excursions from Paros
If you are the kind of traveler who does not like staying in one place for the entire holiday, Paros offers connections to other popular islands. This makes it ideal for island hopping, especially if you want to combine Paros with other Cycladic islands such as Naxos, Santorini, Milos or Mykonos.
A day trip to Antiparos is one of the easiest excursions you can plan while staying in Paros. Antiparos is known for its relaxed rhythm, charming streets and beautiful beaches, while many travelers also choose a boat tour around Antiparos and nearby islets to swim in turquoise waters often described as a blue lagoon.
For a true ferry hopper, Paros is one of the most convenient bases in the Cyclades, as it allows you to explore more than one island without losing too much time on transfers. Below are some indicative travel times from Paros to other destinations:
- Paros – Koufonisi → 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Paros – Mykonos → an express 35-minute journey with SEAJETS!
- Paros – Naxos → 30 minutes
- Paros – Santorini → 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Paros – Milos → 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Paros – Ios → 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Paros – Heraklion, Crete → 3 hours and 55 minutes
- Paros – Syros → 40 minutes
- Paros – Tinos → 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Paros – Sifnos → 55 minutes
- Paros – Katapola, Amorgos → 3 hours and 15 minutes
If your time is limited, you can also read our guide on what to do in Paros in 3 full days. This practical travel guide can help you organize beaches, villages, food and excursions without feeling rushed.
Getting around Paros
Due to its strong tourism development, Paros has an organized transport network, including buses, rental vehicles, taxis and scooter rentals. The island is easy to explore, but choosing the right means of transport depends on where you are staying and how much freedom you want.
Getting around by bus
Paros has a KTEL bus network serving both residents and visitors, covering distances between the island’s different areas.
From Parikia, there is a main route covering Marathi, Kostos, Lefkes, Prodromos, Marmara, Marpissa, Piso Livadi, Logaras, Punda Beach, Golden Beach and Drios, as well as a wide range of routes to Naousa.
For the exact summer timetables, you can contact 22840 21395 / 21133, the official phone numbers of the Paros bus service.
Renting a car in Paros
Many car rental companies in Paros offer a wide range of vehicles, from mini and compact cars to larger and more luxurious models. The island has many car rental offices, but especially in summer, it is wise not to leave your booking until the last minute.
You can also choose the area of Paros from which you would like to rent your car.
Getting around by taxi
Taxi transport is another option in Paros. You will find taxi ranks mainly in Parikia and Naousa, while radio taxis are also available by phone.
Where to stay in Paros
Depending on how you want to spend your days in Paros, you can choose the area of the island that best suits your stay. It is true that Paros has two sides: one of clubbing and endless entertainment, and another of peace, relaxation and turquoise waters. Below are some of the most popular areas to stay.
Parikia
Parikia is the capital and main port of Paros. Its port, narrow alleys and Cycladic-style churches give it an authentic summer atmosphere. As a picturesque port town, it is one of the island’s main towns and a convenient base for first-time visitors.
At the same time, because it is the island’s capital, it offers many restaurants and bars for a calmer type of entertainment. You will also have no difficulty finding a hotel or room for your stay, as Parikia has a wide range of accommodation options. Many sights, restaurants and shops are within walking distance, which makes Parikia especially practical if you are not renting a car.
Naousa
Naousa is the second-largest town in Paros after Parikia, from which it is located 10 kilometers away. On this side of the island, nightlife reaches its peak, as Naoussa is especially famous for its bars and clubs. In this sense, it is the ultimate place to stay for groups of friends as well as couples who enjoy nightlife.
The small harbor still keeps the charm of a former fishing village, with whitewashed houses, colorful doors and alleys filled with bougainvillea. In terms of accommodation, in Naousa you will find everything from traditional Cycladic houses to luxury boutique hotels.
Golden Beach
Golden Beach is a smaller settlement in Paros, named after the famous beach with golden sand. It is a destination for families or couples who prefer peace and relaxation during their holidays. Visitors to Golden Beach can also enjoy water sports under the supervision of specialized professionals. The studios and accommodation options in Golden Beach offer the calm you want for your holidays, and you may even find rooms right by the sea.
Lefkes
Lefkes is a jewel of a village, located 11 kilometers from Parikia. It lies in the mountainous part of the island and is ideal for those who want to experience another side of Paros — a more picturesque and traditional one.
In Lefkes, you can find traditional houses available for rent through Airbnb and get a taste of the more historic side of this otherwise cosmopolitan island.
Old Town atmosphere
If you enjoy wandering through narrow alleys, discovering small shops and stopping for a drink after sunset, the old town atmosphere of Parikia and Naousa will be one of the highlights of your stay.
Hotels and accommodation in Paros
Paros offers a wide range of accommodation options for every type of traveler. From simple rooms and family-run stays to luxury hotels, the island can suit different budgets and travel styles. For those looking for a calmer stay, smaller guesthouses in villages or near the beach can feel like a true hidden gem.
How to get to Paros
There are several ways to travel to Paros, depending on your preferred means of transport. Most travelers arrive from mainland Greece, especially through the ports connected to Athens.
Paros ferry tickets
- From the port of Piraeus, the main port of Athens, there are multiple daily morning and afternoon routes to Paros, with the express journey taking 2 hours and 45 minutes.
- From Rafina to Paros, another convenient option for travelers coming from Athens, SEAJETS offers ferry tickets for a journey of just 3 hours and 35 minutes.
A comfortable ferry ride across the Aegean is part of the experience, giving you your first taste of the Cyclades before you even reach the island. For many travelers planning holidays in Greece, Paros is also a perfect starting point for exploring more Greek islands.
Useful phone numbers
- Paros Health Center: 22843 60000
- Police / Parikia: 22840 23333
- Paros Port Authority: 22840 21240
- Paros Airport: 22840 91257
- Parikia Taxi Station: 22840 21500
- Naousa Taxi Station: 22840 53490
- Parikia KTEL Bus Station: 22840 21395
- Naousa KTEL Bus Station: 22840 53490
Banks & ATMs
Paros has bank branches and ATMs in key locations around the island. More specifically, you will find three ATMs in Naousa and one in Parikia.
Travel tips for Paros
Before you visit Paros, keep a few practical travel tips in mind. Book accommodation early if you are traveling in July or August, make restaurant reservations during high season, and decide in advance whether you want to stay close to nightlife, beaches or traditional villages. With the right planning, Paros becomes one of the easiest and most rewarding islands to enjoy in Greece.