15+ Best Things To Do In Paros, Greece (100% worth doing)

Where to Stay in Paros

Still at the planning stage of your trip to Paros? Well, before completing your list of must do in Paros, you might first need to book your home base there. So let me help you with some good recommendations.

• ✅ Best Hotel – Kontaratos Studios & Apartments: located in Parikia near the beach, this hotel’s rooms are spacious and comfy with plenty of facilities in the vicinity.
• 💰 Best Budget Hotel – Ariti Apartments: these lovely and cozy studios provide outstanding sea views. And you’d be staying in Naousa, which is perfect for further exploration of the island.
• ✨ Best Luxury Hotel – Villa Isabella: this hotel stands out for its Cycladic decoration, big terraces with views over the bay of Naoussa, and its numerous services.

Not satisfied with these hotel options? To get more recommendation, check this dedicated guide to discover more great hotels in Paros.

All the Top Things do to in Paros

If you’re wondering what to do in Paros, look no further. I’ve gathered all the top things to do in Paros right below.

1. Visit the picturesque village of Naoussa

Start your island adventure with a visit to its most picturesque place – the village of Naoussa. The easiest way to explore the island is by car, and renting a car in Paros is super affordable and straightforward.

Naoussa fishing village is located just a 10-minute drive from the port and is where you will find typical Cycladic architecture with traditional houses and white-washed alleys. Enjoy the view of its fishing harbor, stroll along the waterfront, shop for souvenirs from local stores, or grab a bite to eat at one of its excellent tavernas specializing in delicious freshly-caught seafood.

As the sun sets, Naoussa comes alive with a vibrant nightlife, offering many bars and clubs where you can dance the night away or indulge in a refreshing cocktail while enjoying the lively ambiance.

2. Relax at Kolimbithres Beach

Kolimbithres Beach is one of the most unique beaches in Paros. It’s located near the Naoussa and boasts turquoise crystal-clear waters and a stunning backdrop of rocky formations. You could believe it’s the Seychelles!

Marco Verch / CC BY

The beach also offers plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on a sunbed with a good book. In peak season, a few beach bars are open, offering a great selection of snacks and drinks.

3. Kayak in the tranquil bay of Monastiri Beach

Tucked in a tranquil bay, Monastiri Beach is the perfect place to enjoy kayaking or practice your balance on a standup paddle board (SUP). The water here is crystal clear with a pretty shade of turquoise that contrasts against the rusty orange color of the rocks.

The beach’s gentle slope into the sea is also perfect for swimming and safe for families with young children. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a relaxed day under the Greek sun from the Monastiri Bar and enjoy a refreshing cocktail served directly to your sun lounger.

Don’t forget to check out the nearby Monastery of St. John’s of Deti that clings on the hillside overlooking the beach. It is one of the most iconic sights in Paros, and the best part is that you can visit it for free.

4. Explore the old town of Parikia

Parikia is the capital and main port of Paros. It’s a charming town with beautiful narrow streets, white-washed houses, and Cycladic-style churches. It is also a great place where to stay on Paros for travelers on a budget and for those who plan to stay in Paros only for a couple of days.

Take a stroll through the historic center of Parikia, and make sure you check out the ruins of a Venetian castle and the Holy Church of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani, featuring Byzantine architecture and interesting icons in its interior.

For sunset, head to Saint Constantine Church, boasting panoramic views of the harbor and the sea.

To really get a feel for the local scene, make sure you hang out at one of the traditional tavernas or cafés lined along the coast. And don’t forget to grab some souvenirs from local stores that sell handmade ceramic items and artworks unique to Paros.

5. Bask on the Golden Beach

Golden Beach, also known as Chrissi Akti, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Paros. It’s a long beach boasting soft golden sand (as the name suggests), perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Here you can rent a sun lounger at one of the beach tavernas and spend a relaxing day, or rent out a SUP or a kayak if you rather get more active. Try Rebel Beach Bar for a laid-back vibe or Sal Y Mar Beach Club for a more upmarket experience.

The northern end of Chrissi Akti is famous for kite and windsurfing and an ideal place to learn surfing for the first time thanks to the Meltemi.

6. Sail to the nearby island of Antiparos

Antiparos is a small island situated just across Paros. It’s a hidden paradise with crystal-clear waters and rugged landscapes that offer visitors an authentic laid-back island vibe and an escape from tourist crowds.

You can either visit independently by taking a small boat from Pounta Port or book an organized tour, which I think is way more fun!

Antiparos has a charming old town and many unspoiled beaches. Also, don’t forget to check out the famous Antiparos Cave, where you can see stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

Ready to sail to Antiparos? 👉 Book your boat tour to Antiparos here.

7. Visit the traditional village of Lefkes

The traditional village of Lefkes is located on the top of a hill in the center of Paros and has been declared a protected settlement. It’s an ideal place to soak in the atmosphere and take some pictures of typical Cycladic architecture.

Stroll through its narrow streets, admire the colorful bougainvillea blossoms that contrast against white-washed walls, and visit the main square to sip a coffee with locals in one of its traditional cafés.

Also, make sure you check out the Holy Trinity Church of Lefkes, which is perched on a hill boasting panoramic vistas of the village and the surrounding area. Don’t forget to pop inside and check out its exquisite frescoes and icons.

8. Party at Punda Coast

Punda Coast is one of the most popular beach clubs in Paros and also a great place to watch the sunset. Located on Agia Irini Beach, Punda is also a famous hotspot to stay in Paros for partying late into the night.

The atmosphere here is always fun and upbeat, with live DJs playing music all day long. So, if you enjoy being surrounded by a young party crowd, come to Punda Beach Club for the day. The sun bed rates start at €30, and the club boasts an extensive menu of light bites, snacks and, of course, cocktails.

9. Hike to the Lighthouse of Cape Korakas

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that Paros boasts a range of scenic hiking routes.

One of them is a hike to Cape Korakas and a picturesque lighthouse, which is the northernmost point of Paros near Monastiri Beach. The hike is a bit challenging, but once you reach the top, the view is more than worth it.

yavor.dinkov / CC BY-ND

You can leave your car or ATV vehicle at a public car park near the Monastiri Bach Bar and take a path that starts near the parking lot. The trail is also marked well and visible on Google Maps, so you shouldn’t have any trouble following it. The best time to do the hike is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the day’s heat.

10. Visit Moraitis Winery

If you’re a wine enthusiast like us, Moraitis Winery is a must-visit for an amazing wine-tasting experience. All visitors get a guided tour of the cellars and a brief but interesting introduction to the wine-making heritage of the island.

The wine-tasting packages start at just €12 and come with delicious bites of homemade bread and cheese, and they have a variety of wines, including the local favorite Assyrtiko, that you can sample.

We absolutely loved visiting this family-owned winery during our stay in Paros and sampling all the tasty local wines. The winery is located in Naoussa, and it also is a fantastic place to enjoy dinner. If you like their wines, also visit their chic wine bar located in the center of Naoussa.

11. Relax at Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach is a picturesque beach located in the south of Paros. It boasts a wide stretch of sand and crystal-clear shallow waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and standup paddle boarding. Part of the beach is unorganized, which means you can just bring your own towel and enjoy it free of charge.

And, for those who seek a more comfy experience, Santa Maria Beach also offers loungers and umbrellas available for rent at the organized part of the beach. Here you can also grab a refreshing drink or some snacks served directly to your lounger and enjoy music and lively vibes.

💸 Best deal: Sea Kayak Trip with Snorkeling and Snack or Picnic on Paros

12. Discover Piso Livadi

Located on the east coast of Paros, the picturesque little port of Piso Livadi will delight all travelers.

Just a 20-minute drive south of Naoussa and a 30-minute drive east from Parikia, you’ll find charming tavernas where you can sample traditional dishes and seafood.

Piso Livadi also has a quieter, family atmosphere. The port is less chic and more traditional than others on the coast, and beautiful beaches such as Paralia Logaras and Paralia Piso Livadi are nearby.

13. Stroll through the Butterflies Valley

Not far from the Monastery of Agios Arsenios and the village of Pounta on the west coast, lies a site often forgotten by tourists: the Butterfly Valley.

Archway Andres / CC BY-NC-ND

This nature reserve is a unique biotope where Tortoiseshell and Callimorpha butterflies have been breeding for at least a century, hence its name.

With its many trails, this park is an ideal place for a stroll. The lush vegetation which includes cypresses, plane trees, ivy, wild olive trees, a natural spring, and more invites you to take a soothing break.

14. Walk the Byzantine Road

This hike in Paros is probably one of the most popular on the island. Starting from Lefkès and passing through Marpissa to Prodromos, you’ll be walking along Paros’s oldest and yet best-maintained path!

Marpissa on the Byzantine Road

This easy hike covers 6 6-kilometer round trip, averaging 1.5 to 2 hours, and promises some spectacular scenery.

If you’re looking for authenticity and a trip inland, the Byzantine Road is the right choice: olive groves, bridges, rivers, mills, Mediterranean vegetation, hills – it’s all there!

15. Experience Paros Park

Paros Park is a nature reserve and one of the best things to do Paros has to offer.

This environmental park stretches across the sublime peninsula of Ai Yannis Detis, a protected area at the very north of the island, and offers a host of activities. The most popular is, of course, hiking on the peninsula. There are a number of well-marked paths to choose from, offering magnificent panoramic views.

You can also visit the Ai Yiannis Detis Monastery, see the Korakas lighthouse, or discover unspoiled deserted beaches. A museum, festivals, and cultural events are also held here.

16. Take a day trip from Paros

Paros is surrounded by several other beautiful islands, such as Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos, and Ios, which can be visited from Paros on a day trip. Take a ferry or a small boat, and explore these nearby islands.

Santorini

There are lots of local tours available to discover the other Cycladic islands in a day from Paros, which is perfect if you seek a hassle-free experience. Here are some of the best-rated day trip tours from Paros:

• Santorini Full-Day Boat Trip: starting from Piso Livadi on Paros, spend the whole day on the beautiful island of Santorini with a guide.
• Full Day Trip to Mykonos: departing from Naoussa, this tour includes hotel transfer to the port and round-trip boat ticket for you to worry about nothing but enjoying your time in Mykonos.
• Delos & Mykonos Full Day Boat Trip: this 10-hour day trip takes you to one of the most important archeological sights in Greece and to the popular Mykonos, pick-up and drop-off included
• Iraklia and Schinoussa Sailing Cruise with Lunch: while more off-the-beaten-path than the others, this tour is exceptional as you’ll be able to have fun snorkeling in the clear waters of the Aegean sea and taste Greek food.

Each island has its own unique charm and attractions, but I particularly recommend a visit to the more off-beaten-track island of Naxos known for its incredible beaches.

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So, here are Paros best things to do! Hope you could complete your to-do list and you’re ready for your trip. But wait before leaving, I have a few more useful advice and tips for you right below, so keep reading!👇

Best Time to Visit Paros

Paros enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant, rarely cold temperatures. In fact, the average annual temperature is 20°C / 68°F! So basically, you can go to Paros all year round, but here are a few tips & info to choose the best period to visit for you:

➡️ If you can, avoid July and August: these months are the very high season in Paros, which means crowds of tourists and expensive prices for both flights and accommodations. Temperatures are hot (about 30°C / 86°F) but great for enjoying sunbathing and water activities.

➡️ Shoulder seasons are marvelous: the best time to go to Paris is from mid-May to the end of June and from September to mid-October. Temperatures ranging from 16°C / 60.8°F to 30°C / 86°F are perfect for any kind of activity including swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Plus, there are way fewer tourists and prices are affordable.

➡️ Don’t go during school breaks: generally, you should avoid booking your trip during school breaks all year round as crowds are always more important.

➡️ Winters are okay: winter in Paros is calm with lots of activities, stores, and restaurants closing their doors. But the weather is pleasant, quite dry and sunny, perfect if you need to escape the cold of your home country. So depending on what you’re looking for, you should consider visiting Paros in winter. Avoid November, December, and January though as these are the rainiest months.

Ready to book your trip? Get the best rates and deals thanks to these resources.

How to Get to Paros

Paros is well connected to the other Greek islands and to the mainland. You can reach it either by air or by sea, depending on where you’re coming from.

✈️ By plane: Paros has a national airport located in the southwest of the island about 10 min drive to Aliki and 30 min drive to Naoussa. It only handles domestic flights, mainly to and from Athens and Thessaloniki.

The flight from Athens airport to Paros airport takes about 40 minutes. As an easy and quick transfer, most tourists fly to Paros or any other Cycladic islands after spending a day or 2 in Athens.

🛳 By boat: Most visitors to Paros come by boat or ferry from either Piraeus (the closest port to Athens) or other Greek islands. There are a lot of ferries serving Paros every day with the possibility to take your car with you if you have one, which is very convenient.

• From Athens: you need to take a train line M1 to Piraeus station, then take the Blue Star Ferries or the Sea Jets to Paros. The whole trip takes around 4 hours 30.
• From any other island: you can simply take a ferry from your departure island’s seaport as most of them are connected to Paros such as Santorini or Mykonos.

You can book your ferry tickets on Ferries.gr.

How to Get Around in Paros

There are a lot of options to get around in Paros and discover the island’s most beautiful sights:

🚗 Getting around Paros by car: this is the most convenient option as you’ll be free of your movement, but also because you can carry more than 2 people.

You can find car rental services almost in any town on the island (also near the harbor or the airport), but prefer booking it online to make sure you get a car and avoid queues and unnecessary stress. Check the best rates here.

🚌 Getting around Paros by bus: the Paros transport network (KTEL) is quite well developed and organized, at least during the high season. It’s cheap, but not the best option if you’re planning to move around a lot.

Buses don’t run regularly: you can expect between 30 minutes and 2h30 waiting between buses, depending on the city. So be sure to check the timetable before you set off.

First buses start their rounds around 7.30 am, and the last ones run until 1 am on the busiest routes.

Fares are very affordable. For example, a full-fare Parikia-Naoussa bus ticket costs €1.80 (€2.20 at night). Check all ticket prices here.

🏍 Getting around Paros by scooter, motorcycle, or quad bike: Cycladic motorcycling is very popular, and it’s not just fun – it’s super convenient! With a scooter, you can zip around anywhere hassle-free without the parking woes.

During the summer, renting a scooter for the day can range from €20 to €35, which is less expensive than renting a car.

FAQ About Visiting Paros

Is Paros worth visiting?

Paros is definitely worth visiting. With a historical heritage dating back almost 7,000 years, a significant cultural and architectural heritage, and a pleasant Mediterranean climate (over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year), crystal-clear beaches, picturesque villages, and mountains in the center, the island has everything to appeal to all tastes.

What is Paros best known for?

The island of Paros is best known for its fine sandy beaches with turquoise waters, water sports, and traditional villages, but also for the serenity it exudes, unlike other more dynamic Cycladic islands.

Is 2 days enough for Paros?

You can visit Paros in 2 days, but you can also stay for a whole week without getting bored.

But if you’re island hopping in the Cyclades and Paros is only a short stop on your itinerary, 2 days are enough to get a feel for it, although you won’t be able to discover all its secrets.

Is Santorini or Paros better?

It’s not an easy choice, as the 2 islands have a lot to offer.

On the one hand, Santorini is a huge volcanic crater invaded by the sea. On the other, Paros is an ordinary rocky island, but that doesn’t mean it’s charmless.

Santorini is very easy to reach thanks to direct flights to and from international destinations. To get to Paros, you’ll either have to make a stopover in Athens or take the ferry.

Santorini is clearly victim of its own success, and is overcrowded with tourists, especially during the high season. Paros, on the other hand, is much calmer and more serene.

There are sights to visit on both islands (museums, churches, and monasteries), as well as beaches. Santorini stands out for its iconic landscapes, and Paros for its truly heavenly beaches.

So to sum up, depending on what you’re looking for, one or the other is better. Personally, I prefer Santorini despite the crowds of tourists. You just have to go off-season 🙂

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Paros

I hope you enjoyed all the best things to do on Paros island mentioned in this post. Paros is a small island that can be visited in just two days, which is a good length of time to check off the list of its highlights.

However, I strongly recommend extending your stay for a more fulfilling experience. 4 to 7 days in Paros will allow you to immerse in the island’s relaxed vibe, explore the exciting range of activities, and even visit some of the hidden gems off the tourist path.