My Guide to Paros, Greece

Greece › Paros Travel Guide
Updated: December 8, 2025 • By Santorini Dave

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Paros is the ultimate all-rounder of the Cyclades. Located centrally, it is a convenient 3 to 4-hour ferry ride from Athens and just 2 hours from Santorini. I often describe Paros as the perfect blend of Mykonos and Naxos: you get the chic nightlife, trendy dining, and cosmopolitan vibe of Mykonos, mixed with the fantastic sandy beaches and authentic mountain villages of Naxos. It offers the best of both worlds without the extreme crowds or price tag of Mykonos. Paros is also the exclusive gateway to Antiparos, a charming, smaller island a short ferry ride across the channel.

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My wife and I in Paros.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Paros

See Also: Greece: Tips & Information for First-Timers

How Many Days Should I Stay in Paros?

Paros is larger and more diverse than many visitors realize. It is not just one town and a beach; it has two distinct main hubs (Naoussa and Parikia), a mountainous interior, and a satellite island (Antiparos) that is a must-visit.

The Short Answer: Plan for 4 full days (5 nights). This is the sweet spot. It allows you to see the highlights without rushing and gives you the necessary time for the day trip to Antiparos.

3 Days (4 Nights): The Minimum
If you are tight on time, 3 full days is the absolute minimum to get a feel for the island.

• Day 1: Explore the maze of Naoussa, visit the Venetian fortress, and have a seafood dinner by the harbor.
• Day 2: Take the ferry to Antiparos. Explore the Chora, visit the Cave of Antiparos, and swim at a beach like Soros or Faneromeni.
• Day 3: Visit the mountain village of Lefkes in the morning and spend the afternoon at a beach club on Santa Maria or Golden Beach. End the night with sunset in Parikia.

5 Days (6 Nights): The Ideal Trip
With 5 days, you can truly relax and explore the island’s diversity.

• Beach Hopping: Dedicate a full day to the incredible rock formations at Kolymbithres Beach and the party vibe at Punda.
• Boat Tours: You have time for a full-day sailing catamaran cruise around Antiparos and Despotiko, which is one of the best things to do in the Cyclades.
• Dining Depth: You can dine in both Naoussa (cosmopolitan) and Parikia (traditional) without rushing, and perhaps find a hidden gem in the village of Piso Livadi.

Why you shouldn’t stay for just 2 nights:
Many travelers treat Paros as a quick stopover between Mykonos and Santorini. This is a mistake. Paros is physically large. With only 2 nights (1 full day), you will see one village and one beach, missing the interior and Antiparos completely. You might leave feeling you missed out.

What’s the easiest way to get to Paros – fly or ferry?

The “easiest” choice depends entirely on where you are starting your journey.

Fly to Paros if…

• You are already at Athens Airport: Since most flights to Paros originate in Athens, hopping on a 40-minute connecting flight is much faster and easier than taking a taxi to the ferry port.
• You get seasick: The Aegean can be windy (especially in July/August), and high-speed ferries can be bumpy. Flying avoids this completely.
• You want to save time: While the ferry is efficient, the flight is just 40 minutes. If you can time your connection right, it is the fastest way to reach the island.

Take the Ferry to Paros if…

• You are in Athens City Center: It is easier to take the Metro to Piraeus Port than to trek back out to the airport. Paros is the first major stop for many ferries, making the trip relatively short.
• You are Island Hopping: If coming from Santorini, Mykonos, or Naxos, the ferry is your standard option. Connections are frequent and fast.
• You have heavy luggage: Ferries have no weight limits and no extra fees for bags. The small planes to Paros often have strict luggage limits.
• You want the scenic route: Conventional ferries (like Blue Star) allow you to sit on the open deck and enjoy the sea, which you cannot do on a plane or a high-speed ferry.

My wife and I arriving in Paros by ferry.

How Long is the Ferry Ride?
Ferry times vary by vessel type (High-Speed vs. Conventional):

• From Piraeus (Athens): 3 hours (High-Speed) to 4 hours (Blue Star). Paros is one of the closest Cycladic islands to Athens.
• From Rafina (Near Airport): 3 to 6 hours. Rafina is a great option if you are landing at the airport but prefer the ferry; it is only a 30-minute taxi ride away.
• From Santorini: 2 hours (High-Speed) to 3 hours (Blue Star).
• From Mykonos/Naxos: 45 minutes to 1 hour.

How big is Paros?

Paros has a population of around 12,500 and a land area of 196 sq. km (more than 3 times the size of Manhattan). The length of the island is around 22 km, and it measures around 13 km at its widest point. It takes about 30 minutes to drive the longest way (north to south) from one end of the island to the other.

What is the best month to visit Paros?

Paros is a diverse island with great beaches, nightlife, and traditional villages. The best time to visit depends on whether you want the buzz of Naoussa’s nightlife or a quiet hiking and beach holiday.

High Season: July & August (Peak Summer)

• The Vibe: Lively and energetic. The village of Naoussa is packed every night with a chic, cosmopolitan crowd. The beach clubs (like Punda Coast) are in full party mode.
• Weather: Hot (30°C+) and windy. The Meltemi winds are strong in August. While this can make boat trips choppy, it makes Paros a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing during these months.
• Crowds: Very busy. Accommodation prices peak, and you need reservations for the best restaurants in Naoussa. Ferries to Antiparos are often full.

Shoulder Season: June & September (The Sweet Spot)

• The Vibe: This is the ideal time for most travelers. The island feels vibrant but not overcrowded. You can stroll through Parikia and Naoussa without shoulder-to-shoulder traffic.
• Weather: Excellent. June is green and fresh; September has the warmest swimming water of the year. The winds are generally calmer than in August.
• Value: You get the full summer experience – everything is open – but hotel rates are 20-30% lower than in peak season.

Low Shoulder: May & October (Nature & Sightseeing)

• The Vibe: Relaxed and peaceful. These are perfect months for hiking the Byzantine Road or exploring the mountain village of Lefkes without the heat. Nightlife is very quiet.
• Swimming: The sea is brisk in May (19°C) but often still comfortable in early October (22°C). Beach bars begin opening in May and closing in mid-October.

Low Season: November to April (Local Life)

• The Reality: Paros is quieter than Santorini but livelier than Mykonos in winter because it has a substantial permanent population. While beach resorts close, the main port of Parikia remains a functioning town with open cafes, bakeries, and shops for locals. It is authentic, but don’t expect a beach holiday.

My Recommendation:
For the perfect balance, visit in September. The sea is like bathwater, the Meltemi winds have died down, and the evenings in Naoussa are lively but not overwhelming.

What is the best way to get around Paros?

Paros is larger than Mykonos, so getting between the main towns (Parikia and Naoussa), the mountain villages (Lefkes), and the beaches requires a bit of planning. The public transport system is excellent, but renting a vehicle unlocks the whole island.

Public Bus (KTEL): Paros has one of the best and most reliable bus systems in the Cyclades.

• Hubs: There are two main terminals: Parikia (right next to the ferry port) and Naoussa. Most routes originate from Parikia.
• Key Routes: Buses run frequently between Parikia and Naoussa (often every 30 mins in summer). Other major routes connect Parikia to Aliki, Punda (for Antiparos ferry), and the east coast beaches (Golden Beach, Piso Livadi).
• Pros: Very cheap (€2-€3), air-conditioned, and reliable. It’s the best way to move between the two main towns without worrying about parking.
• Cons: Can be standing-room only in July/August. Service to remote beaches ends in the late afternoon.
• Timetables: Check the KTEL Paros website or the boards at the stations.

The Parikia “bus station” as seen from an approaching ferry. Paros is well served by bus and buses are clean, comfortable, and have lots of room for luggage.

Rental Car: The best way to see the “real” Paros.

• Pros: Essential for visiting the mountain villages (Lefkes, Kostos), remote beaches (Faragas, Kalogeros), and dining at out-of-the-way tavernas. Paros has good roads and is a pleasure to drive.
• Cons: Parking in Naoussa is a nightmare. In high season, the public lots fill up by sunset. If you stay in Naoussa, ensure your hotel has parking. Parikia parking is also difficult but slightly better.
• Best For: Families, groups, and anyone wanting to explore beyond the main bus routes.

Water Taxi / Small Boats: A scenic and fun way to reach the best beaches.

• From Naoussa: Small traditional boats (caiques) depart frequently from Naoussa harbor to the stunning rock formations of Kolymbithres Beach, Monastiri Beach, and Lageri. It costs about €10 return and is much more fun than the bus.
• From Parikia: Boats run across the bay to Krios and Marcello beaches (about €6 return). These are the best beaches near the port.

Taxis:
Like Mykonos, there is a shortage of taxis on Paros, though it is slightly less severe.

• Availability: There are taxi ranks at the Port (Parikia) and the main square in Naoussa. In July/August, expect long waits.
• Cost: Expensive. A ride from Parikia to Naoussa costs about €25-€30.
• Tip: Do not rely on taxis for dinner reservations. Pre-book a transfer or drive yourself.

From Paros Airport (PAS):

• Bus: There is a public bus from the airport to Parikia. From there, you must transfer to reach Naoussa or other villages.
• Taxi: There is a rank outside arrivals, but queues can be long. Fare to Parikia is about €20, to Naoussa €35.
• Transfer: Highly recommended. Book a Welcome Pickup or hotel transfer.

From the Ferry Port (Parikia):

• Walk: If staying in Parikia, many hotels are walkable (5-15 mins).
• Bus: The main bus terminal is right next to the ferry quay. It is incredibly convenient.
• Taxi: The taxi rank is to the right as you exit the ferry.

My Recommendation:
If you are staying in Parikia or Naoussa, you can easily manage with just the bus and water taxis for a few days. However, renting a car for 1 or 2 days is highly recommended to drive the loop of the island, visit Lefkes, and explore the south coast beaches.

What are the main towns in Paros?

Paros has two primary hubs – Parikia (the port) and Naoussa (the chic resort town) – along with several charming smaller villages.

1. Parikia (The Capital & Port)
Located on the west coast, Parikia is the island’s capital and main ferry port. It is a bustling, lived-in town with a beautiful historic center.

• The Vibe: Traditional, lively, and family-friendly. It has a stunning maze of pedestrian alleys (the Old Market) leading to the Frankish Castle and the historic Panagia Ekatontapiliani church.
• Beaches: Livadia Beach is right in town. The excellent beaches of Krios and Marcello are accessible by a short, fun boat ride across the bay. (Parasporos is also nearby but requires a bus or taxi).
• Best For: Convenience, sunsets, and easy access to the bus/ferry network.

The enchanting pedestrian-only lanes of old town Parikia are lined with Venetian balconies.

2. Naoussa (The Cosmopolitan Hub)
Located on the north coast, Naoussa is built around a picturesque fishing harbor protected by the ruins of a Venetian fortress.

• The Vibe: Chic, trendy, and upscale. This is the “Mykonos” side of Paros. The harbor is lined with high-end seafood restaurants, cocktail bars, and boutiques. It comes alive at night.
• Beaches: Piperi Beach and Agioi Anargyroi are within walking distance. Small boats depart from the harbor constantly to the famous rock formations of Kolymbithres Beach and Monastiri.
• Best For: Nightlife, fine dining, and couples.

3. Lefkes (The Mountain Gem)
Located in the center of the island, Lefkes is the former medieval capital. It is a quiet, amphitheater-style village with neoclassical buildings and zero car traffic (you park outside). It is the starting point for the famous Byzantine Road hike.

4. The Fishing Villages (Piso Livadi & Aliki)

• Piso Livadi (East Coast): A relaxed harbor with excellent seafood tavernas and easy access to Golden Beach. Great for families.
• Aliki (South Coast): A charming, sheltered fishing village with a playground and calm waters, perfect for young children and relaxed dining.

Where is the best place to stay in Paros?

For most travelers, the best places to stay in Paros are Naoussa or Parikia.

• Stay in Naoussa if you want luxury hotels, chic shopping, and the best nightlife and dining scene. It feels like a boutique resort village.
• Stay in Parikia if you want a convenient base near the ferry port, better prices, and a more traditional, year-round Greek feel.
• Stay in Aliki or Piso Livadi if you want a quiet, family-friendly beach holiday away from the crowds.

Antiparos is also a fantastic option for a more secluded, celebrity-style escape, just a 7-minute ferry ride from Paros.

The strange and beautiful rock formations at Kolymbithres Beach – located about 2km west of Naoussa.

What are the best beaches in Paros?

Paros has fantastic beaches, but they are all different.

• Best for Scenery: Kolymbithres. Famous for its moon-like granite rock formations and clear shallow water.
• Best for Swimming/Sand: Santa Maria and Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti). Long stretches of golden sand with beach bars and watersports.
• Best for Families: Aliki Beach or Monastiri. Shallow, calm water protected from the wind.
• Best for Beach Clubs/Partying: Punda Beach (Punda Coast). The island’s main party hub with loud music, swimming pools, and a high-energy day-club vibe.
• Best for Windsurfing: Golden Beach and New Golden Beach are world-class spots for wind and kitesurfing.

What is the history of Paros?

Paros has a history defined by two things: its strategic central location and its incredibly valuable white marble.

Ancient History & The Marble Era
First inhabited around 3200 B.C. (Cycladic era), the island was later settled by Arcadians under a leader named Paros, giving the island its name. In antiquity, Paros became wealthy beyond measure due to its unique, translucent marble known as “Lychnites” (mined by lamplight). This marble was used to create some of the world’s greatest masterpieces, including the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. During the Persian Wars, Paros sided with the Persians against Athens, a decision that led to later punishment by the Athenian general Miltiades.

Byzantine & Venetian Rule
In the Byzantine era, the island became a religious center with the construction of the Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors) in the 4th century AD, founded by Saint Helen. In 1207, Paros fell under Venetian rule as part of the Duchy of the Archipelago. The Venetians built the Frankish Castle in Parikia (using marble columns from ancient temples) and the fortress at the harbor of Naoussa to protect against pirates.

Ottoman, Russian, & Modern Eras
The pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa conquered the island for the Ottomans in 1537, devastating the population. A fascinating but lesser-known chapter occurred between 1770 and 1777, when the Russian Fleet used the bay of Naoussa as its naval headquarters during the Russo-Turkish War. The fortifications you see at the Naoussa harbor today were significantly used and reinforced by the Russians. Paros eventually joined the independent Greek state in 1832.

The 20th Century & The Rise of Tourism
During World War II, Paros was occupied first by the Italians and then the Germans. The island suffered significantly, leading to a wave of mass emigration in the post-war years as locals left for Athens and abroad. The island’s fortunes changed in the 1970s and 80s. Originally discovered by backpackers and hippies looking for a quieter, cheaper alternative to Mykonos, Paros slowly evolved into a major destination. Today, it has transformed from a quiet agricultural and fishing community into a cosmopolitan hub, with Naoussa now rivaling Mykonos for luxury and style.

What are the best things to do in Paros?

Paros offers a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and nightlife. Here are the absolute must-dos:

• Explore Naoussa: Wander the chic, whitewashed alleys of this fishing village, visit the ruins of the Venetian fortress at the harbor, and enjoy a cosmopolitan dinner by the water. It is arguably the most stylish village in the Cyclades.
• Swim at Kolymbithres Beach: This is the island’s most famous beach, known for its moon-like granite rock formations and crystal-clear shallow water. It’s unique and beautiful.
• Day Trip to Antiparos: Take the 7-minute ferry from Punda port to Antiparos. Explore the charming Chora, visit the massive Cave of Antiparos, and swim at pristine beaches like Soros or Faneromeni.
• Hike the Byzantine Road: Walk the ancient marble-paved path (about 1 hour) connecting the mountain village of Lefkes to the village of Prodromos. It offers stunning views and unmatched tranquility.
• Visit Paros Park: A fantastic environmental and cultural park on the peninsula north of Naoussa. It features hiking trails to a lighthouse, an open-air cinema, the sheltered Monastiri Beach, and unique rock formations.
• See the Church of 100 Doors: Located in Parikia, the Panagia Ekatontapiliani is one of the oldest and most important Byzantine monuments in Greece. It is spectacular and well worth a visit.
• Take a Boat Tour: Book a full-day catamaran cruise around Antiparos and the uninhabited island of Despotiko. You will swim in turquoise waters (the “Blue Lagoon”) that are inaccessible by car.

What are the most romantic areas, beaches, and hotels for couples in Paros?

Paros is an ideal couples’ destination because it offers a balance of chic nightlife and secluded relaxation without the intensity of Mykonos or the cruise crowds of Santorini.

The Best Towns for Couples

• Naoussa: The most romantic village on the island. The Old Port, with its Venetian castle ruins and dining tables right at the water’s edge, is magical at night. It is perfect for couples who want boutique shopping, high-end cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
• Parikia: The sunset capital. Staying here allows for romantic evening strolls along the waterfront promenade and through the quiet, maze-like alleys of the Old Market.
• Piso Livadi: For a quiet, low-key escape. It is a charming fishing port on the east coast with excellent seafood tavernas and no loud clubs.

The Most Romantic Beaches

• Kolymbithres: Famous for its sculpted granite rocks. Arrive early or late to claim one of the small, private coves formed by the rocks.
• Lageri: A secluded, undeveloped beach on the north coast. It requires a walk to reach, meaning fewer crowds and a quiet atmosphere. (Note: It is popular with naturists).
• Martselo/Krios: Located across the bay from Parikia, these beaches offer crystal-clear water and stunning views of the main town.

Best Hotels for Couples

• Parīlio (Naoussa): A stunning Design Hotel located just outside Naoussa. It features a massive pool, minimalist luxury suites, and a serene, exclusive vibe.
• Cosme (Naoussa): A luxury beachfront resort with a chic beach club and high-end service. Perfect for couples who want to be pampered.
• Lilly Residence-Boutique Suites (Naoussa): An adults-only favorite. It offers champagne breakfasts, private plunge pools, and is an easy walk to the Naoussa nightlife.
• Calme Boutique Hotel (Drios): For total seclusion. Located on the quiet east coast, it features rooms with private pools and panoramic sea views. Ideally requires a rental car.
• Paros Agnanti (Krios): Located across the bay from Parikia, this hotel offers some of the best sunset views on the island, private pools, and a romantic water taxi ride into town.

How do you get to Antiparos?

Antiparos is a smaller, chic island located just west of Paros. It is a must-do day trip.

This is the ferry that runs from Parikia to Antiparos in the high season. There is also a year-round car and foot passenger ferry that travels between Pounta and Antiparos. There are regular buses from Parikia to Pounta.

There are two ways to get to Antiparos:

• From Pounta Port (The Main Way): Pounta is located 10 minutes south of Parikia. A small open-deck ferry (taking cars and passengers) runs constantly back and forth across the channel.
  • Frequency: Every 20 to 30 minutes, from early morning until well after midnight (often 2:00 AM in summer).
  • Duration: 7 minutes.
  • Tickets: Buy on board (cash only). About €2 per person and €7 per car.
• From Parikia Port (Summer Only): Small passenger-only boats (no cars) depart from the main port in Parikia. This is convenient if you are staying in Parikia and don’t have a rental car. The ride takes about 30 minutes.

Why go? Antiparos has a charming, pedestrian-only Chora (main town), a massive vertical cave, and excellent beaches. It is also the summer retreat for celebrities like Tom Hanks. If visiting for the day, having lunch at the family-run taverna To Stathero (near the port) is highly recommended for fresh seafood.

What currency is used in Paros?

The currency is the Euro (€).

Cash vs. Credit Cards in Paros

• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Naoussa and Parikia, including most hotels, boutiques, and restaurants. American Express is less common outside luxury hotels.
• When you need Cash: Paros has more “local” villages than Mykonos. You will definitely need cash for:
  • Buses: Drivers do not take cards.
  • Small Villages: In places like Lefkes, Prodromos, or Aliki, smaller tavernas and kiosks may prefer cash or have “broken” card machines.
  • Beach Clubs: While the big ones (Punda) take cards, smaller family-run cantinas on remote beaches often do not.
• ATMs: Plentiful in Parikia and Naoussa. In smaller villages, they can be scarce or depleted on Sundays.

Important Tip: Always Pay in Euros
When using your card, the machine will often ask: “Pay in EUR or [Your Home Currency]?” Always choose Euros. If you choose your home currency, the merchant’s bank applies a terrible exchange rate with hidden fees. Let your own bank handle the conversion.

Most restaurants in Paros, like the friendly and affordable Mouragio in Aliki, accept credit cards.

Is Paros expensive?

Paros occupies the middle ground in the Cyclades. It is generally cheaper than Mykonos and Santorini, but noticeably more expensive than Naxos or Milos.

• Accommodation: Prices vary wildly by location. Naoussa has become very upscale; luxury suites here can rival Mykonos prices. Parikia remains excellent value, with plenty of mid-range and budget options.
• Dining: You can find everything from €4 gyros to €100+ seafood dinners. Naoussa is the hub for high-end dining, while the fishing villages (Aliki, Piso Livadi) offer great value for fresh fish.
• Beach Clubs: This has changed in recent years. At popular spots (like Santa Maria, Monastiri, or Punda Coast), expect to pay €30 to €60+ for a set of sunbeds in high season. The “free with a drink” model still exists, but mostly at quieter, family-run tavernas on less famous beaches.
• Transport: The bus is cheap (€2). Taxis are expensive. Renting a car is moderate but essential for exploring.