Paros Island Travel Guide in Greece

Paros Island Travel Guide in Greece


Paros was my favorite island in the Cyclades of Greece, yes, home to the most photographed island, Santorini, famous for its blue cathedrals and white buildings. Paros has all of this but is much less popular than Santorini or Mykonos. Whenever my friends ask me which island to visit in Greece, this is the number one I recommend.

Arriving to Paros

Paros actually has an airport with direct flights from Athens. Since I was island hopping, I used Ferry Hopper to take a ferry from a neighboring island. The ferry rides themselves are quite entertaining, and I had the opportunity to meet many locals and foreigners who shared amazing tips for each island.

Favorite Towns and Places to Stay in Paros

Bridge at night time in Naoussa, Paros, Greece

Paros is home to some of the most quaint and lovely villages, boasting the quintessential Greek island charm you’re yearning for. Whether you prefer the serene ambiance of a lofty seaside town or the authentic allure of a traditional Byzantine-style village, Paros offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every preference.

Naoussa

The village to the north is the most popular, and for good reason. It’s a stunning little harbor town that is home to a bustling local fishing community. You can find beautiful beaches nearby, excellent restaurants, and it’s easily accessible by bus if you wish to explore further. Google Map Link to Naoussa

Parikia

The port town where you’ll disembark if you take a ferry to Paros is, in my opinion, less picturesque compared to Naoussa. However, it offers a slightly wider range of activities and serves as the central hub for the island’s bus system. Despite its less scenic appearance, the town still possesses its own charm and provides convenient access to various destinations across the island.

Lefkes

Located in the heart of the island, Lefkes is a charming town that transports you back in time to the Byzantine Empire. Its winding cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea, and ancient stone pathways evoke a sense of historical nostalgia. As you stroll through its picturesque alleys, you’ll encounter quaint tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine and artisanal shops offering locally crafted goods. Lefkes also boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Aegean Sea, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and natural beauty.

Getting Around Paros Island

Digital Nomad driving a scooter around Paros Island, Greece

  • Bus system (recommendation) - The most cost-efficient way is the bus system, and it will pretty much take you around the entire island. You can find the Paros bus time tables here.

  • Rent a Car - Paros is a small island, and personally, I don’t really recommend renting a car. I much prefer the adventurous ATV route.

  • Rent an ATV (reccomend) - Available around the island are many places that will rent you a scooter or ATV at a fraction of the cost of a car rental. Please note that you may need a motorcycle license for a scooter (usually).

Paros Island Hit List

Adventures

  • Day Hike Byzantine Road - You can take a 3.7 km ( 2.3 miles) hike from Lefkes to Prodromos along the 1,000 year old marble paved road. All trails link to hiking Byzantine Road.

  • Rent an ATV and drive around the island to visit the beaches and towns. Paros is one small circle and is a great place to adventure around for the day.

    • Golden Beach - located southeast for the golden sands.
    • Kalogeros - eastern beach that is a bit isolated.
    • Damuli - eastern beach that sits below cliffs.
  • Take a boat to Antiparos island

  • [Saint Anna Winery](http://Saint Anna Winery) - ana amazing little winery in the middle of the island.

Food and Drink