If you’re looking for a cosmopolitan yet relaxing destination in Greece, then Paros is the place for you. Beautiful azure waters coupled with elegant and chic cocktail bars and restaurants, calls for the ultimate Cycladic destination. There are so many things to do and see in Paros that you will find yourself reluctant to leave this island when the time comes!
Things to do in Paros
Visit Lefkes Village
Lefkes is a small little village hidden between the mountains, perfect for escaping the loud tourist areas by the sea. This beautiful village, also the former capital of Paros, is full of white houses, narrow stone streets, and Venetian architecture. You can find traditional restaurants, shops, cafes and a classical Byzantine church dating back to the 15th century in this town. Lefkes is perfect for visiting after a long day at the beach to watch the sun set behind the mountains.
Try Water Sports
For all my athletic, thrill seeking readers out there, you will be pleased to know that Paros is a great destination for wind surfing and other water sports. Indeed, the Windsurfing World Championships were actually held for many years at the Golden Beach found in Paros. You can find sports like surfing, wind surfing, kite surfing, canoeing, kayaking, jet skiing, scuba diving and more at beaches like Golden Beach, New Golden Beach and Santa Maria.
Visit Antiparos
Antiparos, the sister island to Paros is just a 10 minute ferry ride from Pounda (7km from Parikia, the capital). Ferries run every half hour until late in the evening. Antiparos is a quiet and calm island ideal for anyone who is seeking a relaxing escape. Filled with little traditional taverns and secluded beaches, this island offers a serene atmosphere. Just a short walk from the port you can find several beaches including the famous Camping site beach. Here, you can find people playing volleyball on the beach, others playing music with newly found friends, while others chose to sunbath in the nude. This laidback beach is a famous destination for young people looking for an alternative to touristic beaches. On the southern side of the island you can find an impressive cave with stalagmites known as the Cave of Antiparos. Daily boat excursions around the island can also be found at the local tourist office.
The Best Beaches in Paros, Greece
Kolymbithres: Just a short boat or car ride from Naoussa with crystal clear waters. You do not want to miss this one!
Golden Beach: Blue flag beach ideal for water sports due the strong winds on that side of the island.
Punda Beach: Daily beach parties can be found here; ideal for young adults looking to have fun.
Monastiraki Beach: A small secluded beach that can be reached by boat or car from Naoussa. I recommend climbing over the hill to reach the beach behind the old church. The waters are cleaner than the crowded beach in front of the restaurant.
Santa Maria: An organized sandy beach close to Naoussa. Ideal for families or watersports.
Other nice beaches include: Logaras, New Golden Beach, Farangas and Ambelas.
Other Useful Information about Paros, Greece
For dessert: Try homemade ice cream at Nonna Crema or Μπατίστας Bakery for freshly made island treats covered with chocolate.
For gyros: Βy far the best gyro I’ve had in my life: “O Κάργας” (O Kargas).
For cocktails: Agosta, Barbarossa, Linardo, Vavagias’s, or Big Blue: all can be found in the same picturesque square near the old port. This is the place to be once nighttime arrives.
For seafood: Ouzeri Ton Naftikon, Siparos and Taverna Glafkos.
For shopping: La vie en rose, Planet Mushroom and Blue Dot Concept Store.
