Cycladic beauty finds its beat in the heart of the Aegean. Popular Paros is ideal for any kind of holiday. On this island in the Cyclades, natural beauty and rich history effortlessly meet modern-day pleasures.
Multilayered, multidimensional Paros has the potential to offer whatever you desire. If you want to spend your days swimming, you’ll find beaches large and small, secret and well-known all around Paros. And if you chase the wind, you’ll rejoice in the world-famous kitesurfing and windsurfing sites. Changing scene, you’ll be intoxicated by the smell of jasmine and bougainvillea and the maze of hidden alleyways in Parikia, and leisurely afternoons in Naoussa’s tiny marinas. And if you’re looking to turn up the volume, you’ll enjoy exotic cocktails and loud music at lively beach bars and clubs, day or night, for which Paros has become known. It’s also possible to time travel on Paros, visiting the most significant early church in the Aegean, the awe-inspiring Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors). Or you could climb to the Venetian castle at the port and visit the Byzantine Road at Lefkes.
Hard and ductile at the same time, Parian marble is one of a kind, unsurpassed thanks to its unique transparency and purity. Just a few of the most famous works sculpted in this fabulous medium include the Venus de Milo, Hermes of Praxiteles, Nike of Delos, the Temple of Apollo and the Treasury of Sifnos in Delphi.
You’d never imagine that the marina of Naoussa was once one of the busiest pirate dens in the Cyclades. The music echoing from the bars, the perpetual motion of restaurant tables and chairs, young crowds that want to live every night to the full, all combine to create a cinematic ambience.
Sea sports with the wind in the strait that divides Paros with the islands of Antiparos and Naxos have no end. With winds that blow strong and steady, Paros an ideal destination for those who love sea sports, especially kitesurfing and windsurfing. It has been home to international tournaments for years. And if you aren’t already a pro, you can have lessons at Chrysi Akti or Pounta.
Whitewash and marble preside in this symphony in white. This was Paros’ first capital, with houses built in tiers up the hill like an amphitheatre. You’ll find Cycladic architecture, neoclassical buildings and boutique accommodation all coexisting harmoniously. Park your car and walk, wandering through its peaceful alleys and admiring the flower-filled patios. Don’t forget to see the Byzantine road, a 1,000-year-old marble-paved path, built to connect Marpissa with Parikia.
The main town and port of Paros captures all the magic of the Cyclades: sugar-cubed houses with colourful doors and balconies, cobblestoned alleyways and the scent of jasmine. After being greeted by the windmill in the port, you’ll be seduced by the Cycladic architecture, especially up in the Castle district. Look for the church of Panagia Ekatondapyliani (a hundred doors) and the Archaeological Museum. And on an island famous for its swagger, pop into the lively cafes and bars as well as the gorgeous boutiques. Exploring Parikia should definitely be top of your list of things to do in Paros.The population is around 14,500.
Admire Kolymbithres, sculptured by wind and sea. Golden sand embroidered around granite rocks, smoothed by the wind and sea into incredible shapes, the seawater sculptures that locals have named Kolymbithres look as if they were dreamed up by an artist. If you’ve seen photos of Paros, there’s a good chance this will be it.
Enjoy the one-of-a-kind beaches for a styles. From hidden coves to organised beaches, Paros’ famous swimming spots come in many forms and rival the best in the Cyclades. Chrysi Akti, Santa Maria, Pounta, Kalogeros, Kolymbithres: You’ll find it difficult to choose, but you’re sure to experience many that will stay in your heart.
The Monastery of Ai Yiannis Detis. Time slows down at Ai Yianni Detis and the tranquility and charm of the white monastery permeate this entire bay on Paros. Here you can swim, walk and contemplate.
Marpissa, Prodromos and other Cycladic villages. Two inland villages that are worth a visit. At Prodromos, the entrance to the village is a vaulted roof and steeple. Admire the traditional Cycladic homes before making your way to Marpissa, a 16th-century village with traditional windmills and churches.
How to Get There :
The most preferred way to reach Paros is the ferry. The island also has a national airport, receiving domestic flights from the International Airport of Athens. You can also get to Paros from other islands (Naxos, Santorini, Mykonos, etc.) directly, the ferry.
Famous For :
Right in the heart of the Cyclades, Paros is an Aegean island famous for its great beaches, water sports and the fantastic vibe of its main town. And just a 10-minute boat trip away is its perfect little brother, Antiparos. But it’s also got another side you’ll love discovering, blending style and tradition in an irresistible way.
