If you have never heard of Paros, I am glad you came across this Paros guide! Paros is a charming little Greek island in the Aegean Sea, filled with stone streets and beautiful white and blue buildings. The Greek islands have a terrific appeal; However, Paros holds a unique charm. If you want to fall in love with warm sunsets, beautiful seaside restaurants, and some of the bluest water in the Mediterranean, then consider Paros for your next big adventure.
What Makes Paros Special?
After visiting most of the more famous Greek Islands, such as Mykonos, Ios, Santorini, and Naxos, the most significant thing, I took away from Paros that I couldn’t find anywhere else was the water. The water was the most bright blue I have ever seen. Never before have I seen water so exquisite. Just off the coast of Paros, you can embark on snorkeling, diving, and swimming in this bright blue crystal clear wonderland.
Some Fantastic Areas Around the Island
Parikia
Parikia is the main center of Paros; when you first arrive on the ferry, you will be in Parikia. The streets of Parikia are arguably the most beautiful and charming in Paros. With many little jewelry shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, you will transform into the mama mia wonderland you have always dreamed of. Every corner is met with little white buildings and blue window shutters. Vines and flowers are filling the town, adding a unique appeal.
Naousa
There is a very convenient bus, for just four euros round trip, that takes you from the center of Paros main town to a cute neighboring village on the island, Naousa. If you are in Paros, Naousa is definitely worth the visit.
The bus ride is only twenty-five minutes, and you get to see Naousa, but the bus ride is also a fantastic way to catch a glimpse of parts of the island that you would otherwise never have seen.
Naoussa is also known for its great nightlife, so it may be a good idea to spend a night or two.
Antiparos
Many people have never heard of Antiparos, a lesser-known gem just seven minutes from Paros by boat. Antiparos is very small, with a huge attraction. The island is where many boat tours head, as there are many little caves, incredible beaches, and places to stop for snorkeling and diving.
How Do I Get to Paros?
Paros is super accessible and cheap to get to with a ferry. The best way to island hop around Greece is to book the tickets through Ferryhopper. You can choose multiple destinations and dates ahead of time, making it cheaper and more accessible, so you don’t have to keep booking them separately every time. The closest island to Paros is Naxos, with thirty minutes travel time.
Approximate travel times from Paros to surrounding Greek Islands:
- Paros to Ios: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Paros to Mykonos: 1 hour – 1 hour 30 minutes
- Paros to Santorini: 2 hours 30 minutes.
Where Should I Stay in Paros?
The great thing about accommodation in Paros is the range of options for different types of travelers. Maybe you are a budget traveler or want to stay at the best luxury resorts; either way, Paros can provide everything.
For Budgeters
As a twenty-year-old student, I always travel on a budget. Unfortunately, a common misconception is that traveling always costs a fortune, which isn’t true!
The hostel I stayed at, Paros Backpackers, is an excellent example of how you can travel cheaply. I enjoyed my stay at Paros Backpackers; the prices were excellent at fifteen euros a night, the rooms were spotless, and the staff was accommodating.
When staying in hostels, it is vital that you have all of your travel essentials ready. Hostels are generally safe, although keeping close watch of your belongings is a necessary protocol.
For Luxury Seekers
If you want to relax with a drink by a five-star resort pool, Paros has it all. There are so many different options in Paros for beautiful resort stays, such as Summer Senses Luxury Resort, Parocks Luxury Hotel, and Saint Andrea Seaside Resort, to name a few.
Air BnB
Greece is very popular for Air BnB. They are a great option because they can significantly range in pricing, from very high to very low; therefore, there is usually an option for everyone. Air BnB is also more personal than hotels, as many Air BnB are people’s homes, which will feel more authentic than a hotel stay. Air BnB is a great option to fully immerse yourself in the culture.
The Most Amazing Beaches in Paros
Pack your best travel guitar and get ready for some relaxing time with friends by the beautiful beaches of Paros.
Kalogeros Beach
- Village: Marpissa
- Distance From Paros Center: 20 minutes by car
- How to Get There: ATV, Taxi (3€), Bus
Faragas Beach
- Village: Aliki
- Distance From Paros Center: 23 minutes by car
- How to get there: ATV, Taxi (3€), Bus
Parasporos Beach
- Village: Paros (Parikia)
- Distance From Paros Center: 8 minutes by car / 20 minutes walking
- How to get there: Taxi, walking, ATV
Kolympethres Beach
- Village: Kolimpithres
- Distance From Paros Center: 17 minutes by car
- How to get there: Taxi, ATV, Bus
Great Bars in Paros
Paros is well known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures; however, the fun after dark is not forgotten. Paros has some great bars and lowkey nightlife.
Paros is not a vast clubbing destination like Mykonos or Ios, but you can grab some drinks and have a great night!
Agosta Bar
Location: Naoussa
The Agosta bar in the lively village is Naoussa attracts a young crowd. The bar is vibrant and fun.
Golden Garden Bar
Location: Chrissi Akti
The Golden Bar is tucked away from the main street, giving it a unique charm. Behind the doors, you will find a stunning patio with plants and greenery contrasting with the
Kosmos Cocktail Bar
Location: Naoussa
Kosmos cocktail bar brings all the Paros cheer with its fantastic signature cocktails and lively music. The bar is situated upon the vibrant streets of Naoussa, where all the action takes place.
Pirate Bar
Location: Parikia (Paros)
This beautiful bar gives you the excuse to visit one of the most pleasant streets of Paros. Pirate Bar is one of the oldest in all of Paros. This location has a unique feel, tucked between quaint buildings and beautiful stone streets.
Paros Activities
Snorkeling
As I mentioned, Paros and Antiparos have some of the most stunning blue water I have ever seen, perfect for snorkeling. The water is clear enough to see all the colorful fish and choral or the Aegean Sea.
When I was in Paros, I went on an eight-hour-long snorkeling boat adventure tour with a company called Royal Escapes. Food, drinks, beach stops, and more were also included, all for 60 euros, which I found to be worth it as it was such a remarkable experience.
Cliff Jumping
Surrounding the entirety of Paros, you will find stunning tall cliffs, naturally offering some great cliff jumping opportunities. Whether you are a beginner and prefer smaller drops, or a well-seasoned cliff jumper, Paros has it all.
During my boat tour, the guide stopped at a cliff specifically for cliff jumping, which was an incredible experience and another reason to book the tour!
Adventuring Off the Beaten Path
Some friends and I also found a very remote location with a natural cave close to Paros center, with a small cliff to cliff jump off. This destination was a bit off the beaten path; we could only access it with our ATV and then by hiking. Although it’s a bit challenging to get to, it is on the maps so you can go too! All you need to do is get to Monastiri beach and take the path northwest of it, following the signs toward “Ακρωτήρι Κόρακας.”
Rent an ATV
There is no better way to see the island of Paros than on an ATV. What is remarkable about adventuring on an ATV is that you can reach locations that cannot be reached by any other means of transportation. You can explore hidden gems and find countless wondrous destinations that aren’t available on google maps. Renting an ATV will take your Greek vacation to a whole new level.
How do I rent an ATV?
There are many rental shops all around Paros, as well as all of the other Greek Islands. All you need is a driver’s license and be eighteen years of age or older.
Cost: 30-60 euros
Try a Freddo Cappuccino
While staying in Paros and the rest of the Greek islands, I could not go a day without a Freddo Cappucino. Before arriving in Greece, I had no idea they existed. As a coffee lover, I was amazed. “Freddo cappuccinos” are iced cappuccinos with a creamy whipping on top that seeps into the rest of your expresso.
When you are in Paros, you must give Gregory’s a try! They have healthy options like vegan cookies and smoothies, and the owner is very kind. I loved getting Freddo Cappuccinos from Gregory’s every morning.
