Paros

candid Greece tips

 

Why the
Greek Island of
Paros is special

Paros in the Cyclades Island group has many loyal vacation fans because of its first-rate sandy beaches, photogenic whitewashed villages, sun-filled days, and vibrant nightlife.

Top two villages

of Paros

Parikia

Most visitors arrive at the Parikia ferry wharf - it's noisy, traffic-clogged, and an eyesore. However, behind it you'll find some traditional Greek Island style neighborhoods worthy of Greece. The town also boasts a 4th century Byzantine architectural gem: The 4th-century Panagia Ekatontapiliani ("Our Lady of a 100 Doors") church.

Nauossa

I recommend you stay in this fishing village (see photo) instead of Parikia. Colorful fishing boats plus narrow lanes and whitewashed buildings make it one of the most photogenic villages in the Greek Islands. Nauossa has appealing restaurants, clubs and hotels.

Other top
Paros attractions

Beaches

Paros is noted for its soft-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. They come in dozens of flavors. Chryssi Akti ("Golden Beach") is ideal for windsurfers, Kolimbithres for families preferring shallow depths, Pounda for youths craving all-night DJ beach parties, and Agia Irini for sun worshipers seeking a quiet setting.

Marathi

This ancient quarry provided pristine translucent marble for celebrated statues including Venus de Milo that has become a cultural icon far beyond the borders of Greece.

Lefkes

It's a delightful mountain-hugging Greek Island village.

More tips & insights

Top party island

Currently, the unofficial title of "The Top Party Island of Greece" belongs to Mykonos (with Ios the runner-up). Over the last decade Paros has been growing into a serious contender and may someday take over the #1 spot in Greece.

Getting there
and accommodations

You can travel to Paros by plane or ferry (including hydrofoil). Accommodations on Paros cover the full budget-to-luxury spectrum.

Pronuncing Paros

The phonetic pronunciation is pah'-rohs

  

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