Paros

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. However you get here, whatever your heart desires, one thing is certain: Paros has it all!

What to do on Paros island

Get to know the world-renowned marble of Paros

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.
 

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. 
 

Live it up in charismatic yet traditional Naoussa

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.

Take a walking tour around Naoussa

Enjoy the water sports, expert or beginner 

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.
 

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.

Hidden gems of Paros island

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.
 

Lefkes, Paros’ first capital

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.
 

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.

Explore the traditional villages of Paros