Imagine a place where dazzling whitewashed villages meet endless stretches of golden sand, where the blue of the sea washes over ancient shores, and the pace of life feels unusually unhurried. This utopia can be found in Paros. The island beautifully balances tradition with sophistication, offering an authentic slice of Greek island life.
While neighbouring Mykonos and Santorini are famous for their vibrant nightlife and dramatic views, Paros exudes a quieter charm that attracts travellers looking for a more relaxed, yet equally delightful experience. Whether exploring its charming streets, indulging in fresh seafood, or visiting ancient ruins, Paros invites you to slow down, savour, and soak in its timeless beauty.
Stay on this page as we explore the magic of Paros, from its picture-perfect beaches, historical treasures and cultural landmarks to the best spots to eat, stay, and explore.
Things to be aware of…
“Paros is a delightful puzzle of villages and towns. While it is absolutely worth straying from the area where you are staying, it is also worth noting that there are very few taxis on the island. Consider hiring a car, enabling you to explore at your own pace. Or simply be aware that you may need to be a little flexible with your plans, to allow for the sporadic taxi services.”
– Ginnie, Managing Director
In the centre of the Cyclades, Paros is an island that truly has it all. Known for its scenic beauty, bustling villages, and vibrant Greek atmosphere, Paros offers visitors a refreshing escape from the busier tourist spots like Mykonos and Santorini. With its golden beaches, historic landmarks, and welcoming tavernas, this island is an adventurer’s paradise, brimming with things to see, do, and experience.
Whether you’re looking to unwind on serene beaches, stroll through ancient streets, or sample some of the best of Greek cuisine, Paros has something for everyone. From the picturesque fishing village of Naoussa to the cultural treasures of Parikia, every corner of Paros promises an unforgettable adventure.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top things to do on this island – from must-visit spots and hidden gems to insider suggestions that will make your time on Paros truly special. Get ready to discover what makes Paros a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Discover our list of the best things to do in Paros in our blog below.
With its sunny shores and crystal-clear waters, Paros is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the Cyclades. From energetic stretches of sand with beach bars and water sports to hidden coves perfect for tranquil R&R, Paros has a beach suited to every visitor, no matter your preferences or energy levels. The island’s diverse landscape offers everything from sandy expanses to unique rock formations and secluded bays surrounded by rugged cliffs, making it a beach lovers’ paradise.
Whether you plan to snorkel in turquoise waters, unwind under the sun, or explore scenic spots off the beaten path, Paros delivers in every way. Join us as we take you on a tour of the island’s best beaches and discover the gems that make Paros a must-visit destination for those seeking the perfect Greek island getaway.
Discover our list of the best beaches in Paros in our blog below.
While Paros is a fabulous destination for romantic escapes and solo travellers, it is also a fabulous spot for family getaways. With a safe, laid-back atmosphere, a collection of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a variety of activities for every age group, the island offers endless chances for creating memories to last a lifetime. From child-friendly days spent building sandcastles on the seashores, to the exploration of ancient ruins and exciting boat trips to neighbouring islands, Paros is a playground that will entertain families of all sizes and ages. From outdoor adventures to cultural discoveries, there’s something for every family to enjoy on this beautiful Greek island.
Discover our list of the best family activities in Paros in our blog below.
Paros is not just a feast for the eyes with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages but also a must-visit for foodies. With a diverse dining scene, Paros offers the perfect blend of traditional Greek flavours, and some modern twists, with something to satisfy every craving and every diner, no matter how picky.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy an easy lunch with a view, sample freshly caught seafood, or try traditional handmade pastries and local wines, Paros invites you to embrace its culinary variety. Join us as we explore the island’s best dining spots – from cosy tavernas in quiet villages to popular restaurants in the lively harbours. Paros has a wealth of options that celebrate the best of Mediterranean cuisine.
Discover some of the best restaurants in Paros in our blog below
No matter the season, Paros always has something special to offer. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on tranquil beaches, exploring quaint towns, or immersing yourself in the island’s rich history and archaeological wonders, there’s an experience waiting for you year-round. While certain activities are best enjoyed at specific times, every month brings its own unique charm to this Greek utopia. From the unmatched vibrancy of summer to the blossoming beauty of spring, the festive spirit of winter, and the serene atmosphere of autumn, Paros is a true heaven that will beckon you back time and time again.
Read on to explore the pros and cons of each season, helping you decide the best time to pack your bags and set sail for the ultimate Greek island experience.
Discover the best time to visit Paros in our blog below
Paros is accessible in several ways, depending on personal preference and price point. See our suggestions below to decide on the best option for you!
Reaching Paros is easy by plane. Many airports offer flights to Athens, the closest international hub to Paros. From Athens International Airport, there are frequent year-round flights to Paros that take about 40 minutes. Paros Airport is located around 10 minutes from its capital, Parikia. Be sure to book flights in advance for the best deals and check baggage allowances for all legs of your journey, as the different airlines and routes can be strict with luggage weight.
The Villa Agency is partnered with a hire car company at the airport in Paros who can speed up the process of getting your vehicle. GPS coordinates and instructions to reach the villa are provided by us, and it is all designed to be as simple as possible.
For those who prefer a more relaxed arrival, we also offer taxi transfers directly from the airport to your villa. Fully insured drivers will meet you at Arrivals and take you straight to your destination.
Alternatively, you can reach Paros by car, but you’ll need to take a ferry for the final leg of the journey. Depending on your start point, you can depart from various ferry ports, including Athens and nearby islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Crete, and Milos.
For those traveling by bus, it’s also necessary to board a ferry for the final part of the journey. Coaches and bus services run from major Greek cities to Athens, where you can catch a ferry to Paros from either Piraeus or Rafina ports. Piraeus is accessible via the Athens Metro, while Rafina, a smaller port, is closer to Athens International Airport.
Travelling to Paros by train is also an option, with many intercity and international train services running in Greece. A number of options might be best suited, depending on where you are coming from, though for those near Athens, it is easy to reach Paros from there. Visitors can get the Athens Metro to Piraeus port, where regular ferries go to and from Paros.
Unless you fly directly to Paros, you’ll need to take one of the frequent ferries that connect Paros with Athens and other nearby islands. Ferries are more frequent in the summer, though run year-round from Piraeus and Rafina ports in Athens. The island is also well-connected by ferry with Naxos (about 30 minutes), Mykonos (just under an hour), and longer routes from Crete, Santorini, and Milos. Be sure to check ferry schedules, as they vary by season, to ensure smooth transfers.
Paros is moderately priced compared to the other Greek islands, though the costs of food, car hire and accommodation can fluctuate depending on the time of year. Food, rentals, and beach facilities are all more expensive in the summer, which is the peak tourist season.
Paros is one of the more beautiful Greek islands, with golden sand, green mountains, and charming villages. It has 120km of coastline, several beaches and plenty of natural scenery to explore.
Paros is hilly towards its centre, with dirt roads and paths connecting its hills and mountains. As you get nearer the coastline, Paros becomes increasingly flatter and more accessible.
The main port of Paros, Parikia, is the most tourist-heavy part of the island, however, outside of this, Paros is not touristy at all. Compared to some of the other islands, Paros offers a true taste of authentic Greek life.
Paros is not a party island like nearby Mykonos. While there are some clubs and beach bars with a busy and vibrant nightlife, Paros is a lot calmer than some of the other well-known destinations nearby.
As well as our luxury villas in Paros to rent, we also have a portfolio of hand-picked properties in Crete, Portugal, Croatia, Mallorca and Ibiza. If you are considering other destinations and you need any advice, just contact us and let us know your wish list, concerns, deal breakers and budget and we will suggest the most suitable properties to help find your personal paradise.
We LOVE talking about villas and holiday destinations. Use our ‘Inspire Me’ section to discover the perfect property for you and your travelling companions. Remember, you can contact us anytime to discuss your holiday plans. With our first-hand knowledge and experience of each area and the properties within, we can guide you along the way to finding your dream holiday and can answer any queries you may have. We are holiday enthusiasts here at The Villa Agency and we are here to help!