When I think of crystal clear water, good food and stunning beaches the first place that comes to mind is always Greece. Over 6,000 islands make up the Greek Islands scattered in the Ionian Sea. We recently spent one week exploring the island of Paros, and here are the top things to do in Paros Greece.
How to Get to Paros
How to Get to Paros
There are two ways to reach the island of Paros, by plane or by ferry.
- Plane: You can fly directly to Paros from Athens. The flight is under an hour and the airport in Paros is located around 10km away from Parikia, in the area of Kampos.
- Ferry: A more popular option is to take the ferry. There are multiple routes to Paros from Athens as well as the other Greek Islands. High-speed ferries operate all year round. I would recommend in high season to book your tickets in advance as they can sell out. Find more information about the ferry schedules from and to Paros here.
Where to Stay
The two main towns that most people stay in are Parikia and Naousaa, if however, you want to branch out a stay somewhere a bit more secluded this is also possible. We stayed in Drios at the stunning Blue Wave Suites and Apartments and just rented a car to explore the island.
Top Things to do in Paros Greece
Explore Parikia
If you are arriving by ferry then you will be heading to the port of Parikia. This town with whitewashed streets, old churches and cute shops and restaurants has all the charm you could expect from a small village while also being more authentic as locals go about their everyday lives between the hordes of tourists.
You probably wouldn’t need more than a day to explore this town but it is definitely worth adding to your Paros list even if just for the huge array of restaurants and culinary scene, as well as the sunset bars that line the coast.
Things to do in Parikia Explore the historic Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church Stroll through the old town and Frankish Castle. Go shopping in the Old Market Street.
Visit Naoussa
One of the best towns on the island and where most people tend to stay is the stunning town of Naoussa. Don’t skip Naoussa when planning your top things to do in Paros Greece. This is the second largest town on the island and a more upmarket and expensive version of Parikia. It has plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as shops, boutiques and even a winery. It has been described as Mykonos 20 years in the past.
Some people don’t even leave the town as it has everything they could possibly want with beaches, nightlight and a taste of Greek culture. Staying in Naousaa means you have plenty of time to explore this charming town, alternatively, you could spend a day or even longer exploring all there is to offer at this end of the island.
For food make sure to check out Daverona, where we had one of the best meals in the whole of Paros.
Relax at Kolymbithres Beach
One of the best and most popular beaches near Naoussa is the famous Kolymbithres beach. You can drive or take a ferry from Naousaa to reach this charming and unique area in Plastira Bay. The beach is surrounded by huge boulders of granite that many tourists can be found sunbathing on.
There are bars and restaurants nearby and the water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It is easy to spend the whole day here relaxing. If you want to add a bit more activity into your day take a hike to the nearby lighthouse with a manageable 27. km out and back hike. You will get a stunning view back across the bays.
Wander Around Lefkes Village
One of our favourite villages to explore was the inland town of Lefkes. In the hills of Paros, with a backdrop of olive groves and pine forests, is the quintessential town of Lefkes.
If you are looking for a photogenic town with classic architecture, inviting taverns, and friendly locals then look no further than Lefkes Village.
Built in the 17th century this small town was once the capital of Paros, now it’s a popular day trip for those wanting to experience a more traditional village. Tourism has seen a boom in locals returning to call this village home keen to bring the town back to its former glory.
Mentioned things to do in Lefkes include walking the Byzantine Road, exploring the stunning alleys dripping with bougainvillaea, satisfying the taste buds with a Greek Pastry at the historical Stratis baker, discovering the Triada Chruch or stopping for lunch at one of the local Taverns.
Take a Day Trip to Antiparos
Just a short ferry ride from Paros, Antiparos is the perfect day trip for those seeking quieter beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere. I wouldn’t miss this island when planning the top things to do in Paros Greece. Known for its crystal-clear waters, sea caves, and charming village centre, Antiparos is a hidden gem. The ferry departs regularly from Parikia, and the journey takes less than 10 minutes.
Once on the island, explore the stunning Antiparos Cave, renowned for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Afterwards, unwind at the pristine beaches of Psaralyki or Soros, where you can soak up the sun or grab a bite at one of the seaside tavernas. For those who enjoy hiking, the island offers scenic trails with beautiful coastal views. Antiparos is a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the more touristy areas of Paros.
Enjoy Windsurfing at Golden Beach
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) is a windsurfer’s paradise and one of the most famous beaches in Paros for watersports. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, this 700-meter stretch of fine golden sand is blessed with consistent winds, making it the ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned windsurfers.
Take a Boat Trip to Explore Coves
For a truly unforgettable experience, set sail on a boat trip to explore the hidden coves and secret beaches around Paros. Numerous boat tours depart daily from Naoussa and Parikia, taking you to some of the most secluded spots that are only accessible by sea.
On these trips, you’ll discover turquoise lagoons, untouched bays, and unique rock formations. Most tours include stops for swimming and snorkelling, allowing you to dive into the crystal-clear waters. Most tours include a traditional Greek meal on board, making this a perfect way to spend a day.
Paros offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re wandering through charming villages or lounging on beautiful beaches, this island has something for everyone. Paros truly encapsulates the magic of the Greek Islands. So use this guide for the top 7 things to do in Paros Greece.