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Paros is one of those rare Greek islands that manages to feel both lively and laid-back, without the insufferable influx of tourists seen by nearby Greek Islands. Whether you are spending only one day in port or a few nights, there are plenty of memorable things to do in Paros. From wandering through the picturesque Naoussa Harbor and discovering its old Venetian Fortress to tasting local wines at Moraitis Estate, the island offers a perfect mix of culture, scenery, and relaxation. A boat ride around the island is a great way to take in its natural beauty, and of course, no trip is complete without some time at the beach. Plus, if you are a foodie, one of the best things to do in Paros is to simply enjoy the local cuisine—fresh seafood, traditional meze, and dishes made with ingredient grown locally right on the island.
The Best Things to Do in Paros
Your vacation to Paros is what you make of it. Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach, eating your way through seaside tavernas, or exploring the island's charming villages, there is no shortage of things to do in Paros or ways to enjoy the island. From my own trips to Paros, these are the things I have loved most and the experiences I would recommend to anyone visiting this slice of paradise in the Aegean Sea.
1. Visit Naoussa Harbor
Naoussa is one of the most beautiful and charming towns in all of the Cyclades. Located on the northern coast of Paros, this traditional fishing village has transformed into a stylish, yet laid-back vacation destination, without losing its authenticity. At the heart of Naoussa is Naoussa Harbor, an incredibly picturesque spot lined with whitewashed buildings, colorful boats, and waterfront tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood just steps from the sea. It is the kind of place that feels alive both day and night, whether you are sipping a freddo cappuccino in the morning sun, enjoying a glass of wine at sunset, or a fresh seafood dinner along the water after dark.
The crowning jewel of Naoussa Harbor is undoubtedly its 15th-century Venetian Fortress (also referred to as the Venetian Castle), partially submerged and lying in ruins, standing watch over the entrance to Naoussa Harbor. As its name references, this stone fortress was built by the Venetians who ruled over Paros (and many of the neighboring Cycladic Islands) during the Middle Ages. The Venetians ruled Paros for several centuries, and their presence is still visible today in the island's architecture and fortifications. The Venetian fortress in Naoussa is a prime example. Originally constructed to protect Naoussa from pirate attacks, the Venetian Fortress once housed cannons and served as a lookout point for approaching ships.
Today, you can visit the Venetian Fortress when the tide is low. There are no admission tickets required and entry is free, but you will want to exercise caution as the seawall leading out to the fortress can be slippery when wet. The interior of the Venetian Fortress does not have much to offer, but is worth a quick look if you are interested in seeing the Venetian Fortress up-close.
While you are in Naoussa, my favorite town in Paros, I highly recommend exploring the winding streets along the harbor. The area is filled with charming boutiques, restaurants, cafés, and more. Plus, the streets themselves are perfectly picturesque with whitewashed buildings and bright pink bougainvillea, set against the beautifully blue sky. If you are looking for souvenirs from Paros, I love Petra (πετra) in this area of Naoussa, which sells a variety of artisanal products from the island, including honey, seasonings (like Greek oregano), and other items that make fantastic souvenirs.
2. Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Moraitis Estate Winery
Greek wine has a history stretching back thousands of years. While islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Santorini are more widely known for their wine production, Paros is quietly experiencing a winemaking renaissance. The island's soil, sun-drenched climate, and native grape varieties make it an ideal environment for producing exceptional wine. At the heart of this revival is Moraitis Estate, the largest and most well-known producer on Paros. Family-owned and operated since 1910, Moraitis Estate is a short walk from Naoussa Harbor and the beach.
Moraitis Estate specializes in producing wines using indigenous grape varietals from Paros, including Monemvasia and Mandilaria. Moraitis Estate offers wine tastings and tours, educating the public on Parian wines. Moraitis Estate is also family-friendly, meaning if you are traveling with children, they are welcome to tag along with you. The staff at Moraitis Estate are equally wonderful, knowledgeable, welcoming, and always ready with thoughtful wine recommendations.
One of my personal favorites is their Damerale Rosé—a crisp, refreshing wine that perfectly captures the essence of summer in the Cyclades. I have had the pleasure of visiting Moraitis Estate a handful of times now and it is truly one of my favorite wineries anywhere, not just for the quality of the wine, but for the warmth and authenticity of the experience. If you are a wine lover, visiting Moraitis Estate is easily one of the best things to do in Paros!
During the winter months, wine tastings and tours are only available to those with advance reservations. During the summer months (June through September), no reservations are required for wine tastings. For up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Moraitis Estate website.
3. Embark on a Boat Ride Around the Island
One of the best ways to experience Paros is from the water. Taking a leisurely boat ride around the island offers a different perspective than just seeing Paros by land, allowing you to slow down and soak up the Aegean Sea. Whether you choose a traditional wooden fishing boat or a sleek catamaran, spending a day on the water is one of the most memorable things to do in Paros.
Taking a boat ride around the island allows you to cruise past secluded coves, see dramatic rock formations, and pristine beaches that are often only accessible by boat. Many boat operators include stops for swimming in the crystal-clear waters, where you can jump in and snorkel straight off the boat.
On the boat tour that I did on my very first trip to Paros in 2021, departing from Naoussa Harbor, we were served a delicious, freshly prepared meze on board. A meze is a selection of small dishes, like appetizers or tapas, served as a light meal. Meze dishes often include cheeses, cured meats, and olives, paired with wine, beer, or even ouzo. I still regularly think about the delicious tomatoes we were served on that boat ride, as they were the best I have ever tasted! Some boat tours also venture beyond Paros to explore nearby islands like Antiparos or Despotiko. Whether you are looking for a romantic sunset cruise or a full-day excursion with friends, a boat ride is one of the most relaxing and rewarding ways to enjoy everything Paros has to offer.
You certainly do not have to book your boat tour in advance of your visit. I booked mine a few hours before it left, directly from the provider in Naoussa Harbor. Additional providers sail from Parikia. However, if you are looking to book a boat excursion ahead of your visit to Paros, I recommend Anna Maria Cruises and Pantasoulas Daily Cruises. Some additional providers, which sail to nearby islands and/or offer private experiences, are also available to book through our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide. The highest rated boat tour providers in Paros are listed below.
- From Paros: Antiparos & Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise
- Paros Antiparos: Full-Day Boat Tour with Lunch & Drinks
- Paros: Catamaran Cruise with Swimming, Meal, & Drinks
- Paros: Paros Bay Boat Trip with Snorkeling
4. Relax at the Beach
Paros is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cyclades, and spending time on its sun-drenched shores is easily another one of the top things to do on the island. From long stretches of golden sand to rocky coves with surreal rock formations, there is something for every beachgoer. Golden Beach is one of the most famous, known for its soft sand, turquoise waters, and excellent windsurfing conditions. Kolymbithres Beach, near Naoussa, is especially unique. Kolymbithres Beach is famous for its smooth granite rock formations which create natural swimming pools and lounging spots that feel almost otherworldly. Marchello Beach, located just across the bay from Parikia, is a favorite for its calm waters and laid-back vibe. If you are visiting Paros as a day-tripper or cruise ship tourist, Marchello Beach is going to be your best bet! Plus, over at Paros Park, you will find a protected coastal area with beautiful walking trails, hidden coves, and a scenic beach that is ideal for a quiet afternoon swim.
In the summer months, the water temperatures in Paros are typically warm and inviting, ranging from around 73°F (23°C) in June to 79°F (26°C) in August. While the water is still a little chilly for this Florida girl who is accustomed to the extremely warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico (86°F/30°C) and Caribbean Sea (84°F/29°C) during the summer months, most tourists find the water temperatures in Paros perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply dipping in your toes to cool down.
Beyond the well-known beaches, the island is dotted with countless smaller bays and stretches of sand, so you are never far from a peaceful patch of coast. Just keep in mind that the Greek sun can be intense, especially in the peak of summer. Be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, seek shade when you can, and reapply sunscreen often, especially after a dip in the irresistibly blue Aegean Sea.
Beach Clubs in Paros
While Mykonos is the undisputed queen in the Cyclades when it comes to luxurious beach clubs, there are still a few worth visiting during your time in Paros if you are looking to rent sunbeds, enjoy food and drinks, and relax in the Parian sun. Two of the most popular beach clubs in Paros include: Cabana (Parikia) and Cosme Beach Club (Naoussa).
5. Indulge in the Local Cuisine
One of the best things to do in Paros, truly, is to indulge in the island’s local cuisine. Paros has a rich culinary scene rooted in fresh, local ingredients and simple, flavorful preparation. Being a Greek island, seafood naturally takes center stage, especially in Naoussa, where harborside tavernas serve the daily catch just hours after it is pulled from the water. One must-try local specialty is gouna, sun-dried mackerel that is grilled and typically served with lemon and herbs. It is a uniquely Parian dish that pairs perfectly with a chilled glass of white wine and a view of Naoussa Harbor. Other seafood favorites in Paros include grilled octopus, calamari, and whole fish simply prepared to let the natural flavors shine.
Of course, no visit to Paros would be complete without savoring some classic souvlaki. For those that are not familiar with souvlaki, souvlaki consists of skewers of marinated meat, usually pork, chicken, or lamb, grilled to perfection and served in warm pita with tomatoes, onions, and creamy tzatziki. Gyros are also extremely popular! You will find excellent souvlaki shops all over the island, with my personal favorite being Souvlakia Kargas in Naoussa. Whether you are dining at a family-run taverna or grabbing a quick bite after a day in the sun, the food in Paros is consistently fresh, satisfying, and deeply tied to the island's way of life.
Cooking Classes & Food Tours in Paros
Some of our most memorable travel experiences have been food tours and cooking classes, which let us savor authentic dishes while connecting with locals. These experiences offer insight into a region’s culinary traditions, local ingredients, and cooking techniques, making our travels even more enriching and unforgettable. A couple of the highest rated food tours and cooking classes in Paros are listed below.
More Things to Do in Paros
Even after visiting Paros twice, there are still a few experiences I have not checked off my list. If you are looking for even more ideas for things to do in Paros, here are a few suggestions that are still on my personal wish list. I have not had the chance to experience them myself—yet anyways—but they come highly recommended.
Visit Nearby Antiparos
Just a short ferry ride from Parikia, the charming island of Antiparos is one of the most popular day trips from Paros and for good reason. This smaller, quieter neighbor has a laid-back vibe, postcard-perfect beaches, and a picturesque town that is ideal for a leisurely stroll and a long, lazy lunch. The famous Antiparos Cave is also well-worth a visit, or so I have been told! Ferries run regularly between Paros and Antiparos throughout the day and the ride only take about 7 minutes, making it incredibly easy to hop over for an afternoon or even just a few hours. The ferries run from Parikia and tickets can be purchased onboard the ferry. Ferries typically operate between Paros and Antiparos from 7:15 AM to 11:30 PM daily, with extended hours during the peak summer months (May through September). Ferry service may be disrupted in the event of bad weather. For additional information, please visit the Antiparos Ferries website.
Fun Fact: Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks love Antiparos so much, they own a villa on the island and are often spotted spending their summers there. As much as it pains me to admit it, even after visiting Paros twice, I have yet to make it to Antiparos. However, it is at the very top of my list for next time—and it should definitely be on your list of things to do in Paros, too!
Spend Time Exploring Parikia
Most visitors, myself included to an extent, view Parikia as the transit hub of Paros and nothing more. However, this little town has some sites that are absolutely worth seeing! One of the top things to do in Paros is to visit the Church of 100 Doors (Panagia Ekatontapiliani), a 4th-century Byzantine church that is one of the most important in all of Greece. Parikia is also home to a charming old town with winding alleys, boutique shops, plenty of cafés that area great for people-watching, and a quaint Archaeological Museum of Paros. Nearby, you will find several lovely beaches, including Marcello Beach, perfect for a swim or a lazy afternoon in the sun. Whether you are staying in Parikia or simply passing through, it is worth taking the time to explore the town as there are plenty of things to do in Parikia beyond it just being a ferry stop. I definitely plan to spend some more time in Parikia on my next visit to Paros!
The Best Things to Do in Paros: Final Thoughts
Paros is one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. I have fallen completely in love with this island. Its beautiful beaches, charming villages, incredible food, and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. Whether you spend your days wandering around Naoussa Harbor, sipping wine at Moraitis Estate, lounging on a quiet beach, sailing around the island, or enjoying the local cuisine, there is no shortage of things to do in Paros.
However you choose to spend your time here, I truly do not doubt that you will have an amazing experience! Paros has a way of making you feel right at home. And, if you are anything like me, you will already be dreaming about your next visit before you have even left.
Looking for more information on Paros? Be sure to check out our Paros Travel Guide for hotel recommendations, restaurant suggestions, public transportation information, and even more things to do in Paros, Greece!
Have you visited Paros? We would love to hear from you!
Disclaimer: If you book a tour or experience through one of our GetYourGuide affiliate links in this blog post, we may earn a small commission.
