Greece › Paros › Parikia
By Santorini Dave
My Favorite Paros Hotels
• 5-Star: Cosme
• 4-Star: Opal
• Boutique: Stelia Mare
• Cheap: Villa Isabella
• Beach Resort: Cove
• For Couples: Mythic
• For Families: Poseidon
• Parikia: Argonauta
• Naoussa: Cosme
Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the Church of 100 Doors) in Parikia.
Staying in Parikia – My Tips
- 1. The Layout & Vibe
Unlike the polished resort feel of Naoussa, Parikia is a real, working Greek town. The waterfront is a lively mix of ferry traffic, waterfront cafes, and local shops. This gives it a vibrant, authentic atmosphere year-round. Embrace the energy of the port, watch the ferries come and go, and enjoy being in the true commercial and cultural heart of the island.- 2. Get Lost in the Old Town
The real magic of Parikia is found by stepping one street back from the busy harbor front. Here you’ll discover a Cycladic maze of narrow, whitewashed alleys that make up the historic Old Town. It’s a beautiful and charming area to wander through, full of boutiques, small chapels, and the remains of a 13th-century Venetian castle (the Kastro), which was famously built using the marble from an ancient temple that once stood on the site.- 3. Visit One of the Most Important Churches in Greece
Parikia is home to Panagia Ekatontapiliani, often called the Church of 100 Doors. This is not just another Greek church; it’s one of the most magnificent and best-preserved Byzantine churches in the country, dating back to the 4th century. Even if you’re not a history buff, the sheer scale and beauty of this ancient stone complex is breathtaking. It’s a must-see.- 4. Hub for the Island’s Best Bus System
This is Parikia’s superpower. The island’s main bus station is conveniently located right at the port. From here, cheap and reliable buses will take you literally anywhere you want to go on the island: north to Naoussa, to the inland village of Lefkes, to the east coast beaches like Piso Livadi, and to the ferry port for Antiparos. If you do not want to rent a car, Parikia is the most convenient base for exploring Paros.- 5. Best Beaches Near Town
While Parikia has a long, sandy town beach (Livadia), the best nearby beaches are across the bay. From the main harbor, a fleet of small water taxis shuttles passengers back and forth to Krios and Marcello beaches. These are two fantastic, well-organized beaches with soft sand, crystal-clear water, and excellent tavernas. They also offer a beautiful view looking back at Parikia town.- 6. Take a Day Trip to Antiparos
A day trip to the charming, laid-back island of Antiparos is essential. From Parikia, you have two options. The main route is to take the 10-minute bus ride to the small port of Pounta, where a car ferry makes the 10-minute crossing to Antiparos all day long. In high season, a smaller, passenger-only excursion boat also makes the scenic 30-minute trip directly from the Parikia harbor (which is my preferred route).- 7. Enjoy the Sunset from the Western Waterfront
Because Parikia faces west and northwest, its long waterfront promenade is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset. Find a table at one of the many seaside cafes or restaurants, order a drink, and watch the sun sink directly into the Aegean Sea. This is a spectacular daily event that you don’t get in the east-facing harbor of Naoussa.The 3 Best Hotels in Parikia, Paros
1. Argonauta Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 22840 21440
Warm and inviting hotel in the town center, a short walk from the ferry port. The single, double, and triple rooms are modern, elegantly furnished, and cozy, and several feature private balconies. It’s one of my favorite places to stay in Parikia. Excellent central location and wonderful breakfasts at its restaurant set on the main square.2. Apollon Boutique Hotel
Hotel phone: +30 22840 22364
Small midrange boutique hotel a minute’s walk from Livadia Beach. Every room is cozy and uniquely designed with an elegant decor, luxury amenities, comfortable beds, and modern bathrooms. The hotel offers a delicious Greek buffet breakfast, snack bar, massages, a laptop/tablet in the room on request, free parking, garden with outdoor furniture, and a TV lounge. The port, downtown, and several restaurants, taverns, and shops are within walking distance.3. Pension Sofia
Hotel phone: +30 22840 22085
Excellent midrange hotel amidst a vibrant green garden full of roses and bougainvilleas. There are only two types of rooms – doubles and triples – all cozy and nicely furnished to give a homey vibe. Each room has a small balcony with chairs and tables. The hotel also offers breakfast, a cafe, outdoor furniture in the lush garden, playground, TV lounge with business center, and warm and friendly service. The town center, Livadia beach, port, great restaurants and taverns, and shops are close by.
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