Paros: a white pebble in an azure sea

It is no coincidence that Paros is among the top island destinations in Europe since many leading travel magazines chose it among many other places.

Golden sandy beaches with blue-green waters, picturesque coves and fertile plains around the mountain complex of Agioi Pantes, in the center of the island, complete the geographical identity of the island.

Interesting archaeological sites, Byzantine and medieval monuments, old monasteries, remarkable churches and picturesque chapels coexist harmoniously with traditional settlements and seaside resorts.

If you add to these the excellent tourist infrastructure, the wonderful combination of the white of the houses with the blue of the sea, all create the ideal conditions for unforgettable holidays.

Access to the island and its main port in Parikia is through daily routes from both Piraeus and Rafina, while there is also a connection with other islands of the Cyclades. Access to the island can also be by air, with flights from Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens, while in the summer months it is connected with direct flights to other international airports.

Strolling through the city, at every step one comes across cafes, taverns and restaurants serving delicious dishes from local, Greek and international cuisine, while in the streets around the Castle (old market) and on the beach road there are shops of all kinds.

The sunset douses Parikia in hues of unique beauty. As soon as the colors of the evening fade, the night life of the city begins.

The dozens of bars, cafes, venues with live music, clubs are full of life and the fun doesn't end until the early morning hours.

From Parikia but also in the wider area one finds wonderful beaches with easy access (Livadia, Krios, Marcello, Kaminia, Souvlia, Parasporos, Agia Irini).

Of course, in Parikia and a short distance from the port, is the sacred jewel of Paros, the church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. One of the most important early Christian monuments of Greece.

The biggest celebration of the island is the feast of the Virgin Mary on August 15, when the religious celebration is accompanied by a large folk festival.

Other monuments include the Frankish Castle which is located near several churches, one of them is Agios Konstantinos, and the Archaeological Museum of Paros which exhibits Neolithic findings. Finally, the Ancient Cemetery of Parikia, which contains graves from ancient times, and the ancient Asklepiion health sanctuary located on the grounds of Agia Anna are also of interest.

Naoussa, the most famous fishing village

Just 10km from Parikia is the settlement of Naoussa, one of the best fishing villages in Greece.

It is an important tourist center during the summer season, as its picturesque port is flooded with people every day. The interior of Naoussa is shaped by narrow streets, whitewashed according to the traditional Cycladic style. Its continuous connection with the rest of the island, either by taxi or bus routes, gives the visitor great access to transportation.

Aliki, Ampelas, Dryos, Logaras, Molos and Piso Livadi are some coastal tourist settlements that are worth visiting. Of course, you should not miss visiting Marpissa which is built amphitheatrically on a hill, a short distance from the sea, 17 kilometers east of Parikia.

Among the attractions of Marpissa, the Sculpture Museum of Perantinos, the great Byzantine church of Metamorfosi and the monument of Nikolas Stellas stand out.

One of the most characteristic images of Paros is the one with the four windmills in the central square of Marpissa. From here, a path leads to the monastery of Agios Antonios.

Other parts of Paros also have exceptional landscapes. The ancient marble quarries in Lefkes, a picturesque traditional village in the hinterland of Paros, the Kalpaki cave in Dryos and the butterflies in Psychopiana settlement stand out, for those interested in outdoor activities in nature.

Beaches for all tastes

Beaches fit for postcards, with golden shores, family friendly, for water sports lovers, Paros has everything to satisfy every taste.

Clean, different from each other, with easy access, the beaches of Paros are considered among the best in the Cyclades.

The beaches

Kolymbithres: one of the most famous beaches and in itself an attraction of Paros. Very close to Naoussa, the beach attracts almost everyone since it is a true paradise with golden sand and blue waters.

Chrysi Akti-Golden coast: is exactly what the name implies... and one of the classic spots for windsurfing on the island. Guests have endless options for water sports, with kite and wind-surfing being the most popular. Before visiting, especially if you have children, find out if it is windy. In this case, look for the small but enchanting beach of New Golden Coast-Nea Chrysi Akti, which is located nearby as well as the beach of Lolandonis.

Santa Maria and Little Santa Maria: two beaches with white sand and green waters that will enchant you. If you are a fan of water sports, Santa Maria offers you this option which also attracts a lot of people.

Monastiri: The beach with white gold sand and blue-green waters. Its shallow waters make it one of the best choices for families since it is ideal for children.

Punta and the fun on this beach never stops. Crazy dancing at endless beach parties on this particular beach promise unforgettable times.

Farangas: A long beach with fine sand and crystal clear waters that is protected from the winds. Farangas is one of the most popular beaches and is fully organized but also provides space for those that want to feel free.

Kalogeros: The legend says that once a priest jumped and found his death on the rocks of the beach. It is known for its clay sand which is considered to have beneficial properties for the skin and you can enjoy a natural spa.

Aliki: A quiet beach protected from the meltemia -the strong summer winds- on the south coast of Paros. It is organized but with free space and tamarisk trees that provide shade. It is ideal for families with small children.

Marcelo: one of the favorite beaches of the youth. If you visit her, it's hard to tear yourself away from her. It is a very long sandy beach with golden sand, a natural continuation of the beach of Krios: also, always protected from the winds.

Langeri: the hidden gem of Paros. A beach with the ultimate exotic setting with sand dunes, turquoise waters and cedars.

Where to stay: depending on what you can afford, you will find in Chora and in the other villages of the island a multitude of hotels and rooms for rent that satisfy every expectation.

Tip: Don't miss visiting the small island of Antiparos which is only 4.5 nautical miles from Parikia of Paros, to which it is connected by ferry.

Its capital and port of the island is Antiparos or Kastro, a picturesque settlement that spreads around the Venetian castle of the 15th century.

The cobbled streets, the whitewashed narrow alleys, the flower-covered houses and the large (central) square with the eucalyptus create a wonderful island atmosphere, while on the hill of Agios Ioannis is the enchanting cave of Antiparos with wonderful stalagmites and stalactites.