Paros Travel Guide

An Introduction

Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Paros beckons with its timeless allure and captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This enchanting Greek island boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times, where it flourished as a center of trade, renowned for its prized white marble. The marble quarries of Paros produced some of antiquity's finest sculptures, including the Venus de Milo and Winged Victory of Samothrace, now housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Today, Paros retains its historical charm while embracing modernity. The island's main port and capital, Parikia, welcomes visitors with its winding alleys and whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. A short distance north lies Naoussa, a picturesque fishing village that has evolved into one of the trendiest vacation spots in the Cyclades. Naoussa enchants with its quaint harbor dotted with colorful fishing boats and waterfront restaurants offering freshly caught seafood, crowned by the imposing 15th-century Venetian fortress, built to defend against pirate attacks. Despite its stylish boutiques, chic cocktail bars, and upscale restaurants, Naoussa has managed to retain its authentic Greek charm, especially around its harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob alongside elegant yachts.

Beyond its two main towns, Paros entices with pristine beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters. Kolymbithres Beach, with its sculpted granite rocks, stands out as a natural wonder worth discovering. Windsurfing enthusiasts flock to Golden Beach, renowned for its ideal wind conditions and international competitions.

Whether you are looking to relax on golden-sand beaches, wander through postcard-perfect towns, or immerse yourself in centuries of history, Paros delivers it all without the overwhelming crowds of its more famous island neighbors. Here are some additional fun facts about the island of Paros:

Pirate attacks were once a real threat across the Aegean Sea, and Paros was no exception. In the 15th century, the Venetians, who ruled Paros, constructed a stone fortress at the entrance of Naoussa Harbor to help defend against pirate raids. Today, the remains of this fortress still stand; a picturesque reminder of the island's swashbuckling past. Naoussa continues to embrace this chapter of its history with the lively Barbarossa Pirate Festival, held every year on August 23rd.
Paros is quietly gaining recognition as a rising star in Greece’s wine scene. The island’s soil and sunny Mediterranean climate create ideal conditions for viticulture. Local wineries produce a range of exceptional wines using indigenous grape varieties like Monemvasia, known for its fruity aromas, and Mandilaria, which yields rich reds. Many of these wines have earned awards in international competitions, and visiting a family-run winery for a tasting is one of the most enjoyable experiences on the island.
Thanks to its postcard-perfect villages, dreamy beaches, and timeless Cycladic charm, Paros has caught the eye of filmmakers both in Greece and abroad. The island has served as the backdrop for several productions, including the Netflix series One Day and the Amazon Prime psychological thriller Malice.

Top Things to Do in Paros

No Paros travel guide would be complete without a curated selection of the island's top things to do! Paros is a beautiful, hidden gem in the Cyclades, filled with incredible food, friendly people, and gorgeous beaches. Whether you are visiting for an overnight getaway or an extended stay, these are the can't-miss attractions and top things to do in Paros, Greece!

We've highlighted all the attractions we visited and adored with the universal symbol of love, ♡.

Explore Naoussa Harbor & Venetian Fortress: ♡ Naoussa is a must-visit while in Paros and the highlight of Naoussa is undoubtedly its scenic harbor and Venetian Fortress. Despite Naoussa's growing popularity as a tourist destination, its picturesque harbor remains an active fishing port, where you can see colorful wooden fishing boats (known as kaikia in Greek) bobbing in the water.
Visit Moraitis Estate Winery: ♡ While Greek wine is traditionally dominated by the larger producers in Santorini and Crete, Paros has a fantastic winery of its own that is certainly worthy of a visit! Located in Naoussa, Moraitis Winery dates back to 1910 and is family-owned and operated. Located just a couple of blocks from the beach, this winery offers tours, tastings, and small bites to eat. For more information, please visit the Moraitis Estate website.
Enjoy a Boat Ride Around the Island: ♡ One of the best things we did on our very first trip to Paros was a boat ride around the island. It was incredibly relaxing and provided a great way to see the island! The boat ride we picked departed from Naoussa Harbor and it included local wine and lunch, lasting three hours. There were stops for swimming included in the boat ride, too. There are longer boat tours available, as well as tours that include visits to nearby islands like Antiparos and Despotiko. We recommend booking a boat tour directly from the providers at Naoussa Harbor and in Parikia. If you are looking to book a boat excursion ahead of your visit to Paros, we recommend Anna Maria Cruises and Pantasoulas Daily Cruises.
Relax at the Beach: Paros has beautiful, sandy beaches all across the island and no trip to Paros would be complete without a visit to the beach! Whether you are looking to spend a day at a beach club, or go for a swim to cool off from the hot Greek sun, there are plenty of options for your time in Paros.
Visit Nearby Antiparos: Just a short 7-minute ferry ride from Parikia, Antiparos is a smaller, even more peaceful island known for its secluded beaches, charming town, and relaxed atmosphere. It is the perfect day trip from Paros, offering crystal-clear waters and the famous Antiparos Cave, which features dramatic rock formations.

Landmarks & Attractions in Paros

As you plan your trip to Naoussa, here is a curated listing of some of the most popular landmarks and attractions in Paros.

Naoussa Harbor & Venetian Fortress: ♡ One of the most picturesque harbors in the Cyclades, Naoussa’s waterfront blends traditional fishing boats with chic cafes, wine bars, and seafood tavernas. Naoussa Harbor is lively from day to night and perfectly captures the blend of old-world charm and modern style that defines Paros. Naoussa's Harbor is crowned by the remains of a grand, stone fortress. Built in the 15th century by the Venetians, the fortress in Naoussa Harbor (also known as the Venetian Castle) was once part of the town’s coastal defenses against pirate attacks. Though partially submerged and in ruins today, its weathered stone and cylindrical tower remain a striking sight and a favorite photo spot, especially at sunset. You can visit the interior of the Venetian Fortress when the tide is low, however, proceed with caution as the seawall leading out to the Venetian Fortress can be slippery when wet. Entry is free and no tickets are required.
Windmill of Parikia (Windmill Roundabout): This whitewashed windmill at the central roundabout in Parikia, right across from Paros Port, is a symbol of the town and a classic example of Cycladic architecture. While its interior is not open to the public, the windmill makes a great backdrop for photos and is a helpful landmark when navigating the town.
Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani: Also known as the Church of 100 Doors or the Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapylianis, this impressive Byzantine complex in Parikia dates back to the 4th century AD and is one of the oldest and best-preserved Orthodox churches in Greece. The church is steeped in legend, supposedly having been founded by St. Helena, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Despite being known as the Church of 100 Doors, the church does not actually have 100 doors, only 99 doors. However, the local legend states that a secret, 100th door, will be revealed when the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul becomes an Orthodox church again. The church remains an important pilgrimage site, especially during the August 15th Assumption festival. Admission to the church is free.
Byzantine Museum of Ekatontapiliani: Located in Parikia, in the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani complex, this modest museum showcases religious artwork and ecclesiastical objects from the Byzantine period. Admission to the museum provides access to the baptistry and the upper gallery of the church, arguably the highlight of any visit. There is a small fee to enter (as of October 2024, it was €3 per person) and tickets can be purchased on-site.
Frankish Castle: Built in the 13th century by the Venetians using marble from ancient temples, the Frankish Castle is a well-known landmark in Parikia. While much of the Frankish Castle is now in ruins, sections of the walls and a tower are visible. Frankish Castle is located a 3-minute walk from the Parikia Bus Station.
Ancient Marble Quarries (Quarries of Marathi): Paros was famous in antiquity for its high-quality white marble, known as Parian marble, used in masterpieces like the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, and the Acropolis in Athens. You can still visit the ancient quarries at Marathi in Paros, where dark tunnels carved into the hillside and marble ruins scattered about hint at the island’s once-thriving marble industry. While the old mines themselves are closed to tourists due to safety concerns, there are hiking trails through the area.
Paros Park: Located on the northwestern tip of the island near Naoussa, Paros Park is a protected natural area offering hiking trails, beaches, the Monastery of Ai Yiannis Detis, a small museum, a café, and an open-air summer cinema. Paros Park is free and open to the public year-round. The on-site café, Monastiri Café, is open from June through September. Lifeguards are on duty at the beach during July and August only. For additional information, please visit the Paros Park website.
Archaeological Museum of Paros: This small but fascinating museum in Parikia houses artifacts from the Neolithic to the Roman periods, including marble statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Highlights include the Gorgon of Paros, a beautifully preserved sculpture, and fragments from ancient temples in the area. Opening hours are reduced during the winter months (November through March). The museum is closed on Tuesdays. For additional information, including opening hours and ticket cost, please visit the Archaeological Museum of Paros website.

Good Eats in Paros, Greece

We believe that one of the best ways to experience a culture is through its food. The food in Paros is among our favorites in the Greek Islands, with fresh seafood, especially fresh octopus, and mouth-watering souvlakia dominating the menus at restaurants around the island.

Must-Try Specialities in Paros

No trip to Paros would be complete without tasting at least one of the island's specialities, including:

Gouna: A true island delicacy, gouna is mackerel that has been butterflied and sun-dried before being grilled. Traditionally, local fishermen catch the fish in the morning, clean and butterfly it, then leave it to dry in the sun for several hours—preserving it without refrigeration. The result is a smoky, salty flavor with a slightly chewy texture that pairs well with ouzo or a crisp glass of local white wine. If you are lucky enough to be in Naoussa Harbor early in the morning, you might see fishermen butterflying their catches and laying them out to dry in the sun.
Xynomizithra (Xinomizithra) Cheese: This soft, white cheese has a slightly tangy, almost citrusy flavor that sets it apart from its sweeter counterpart, myzithra. Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, xynomyzithra is unaged and typically produced in small batches on the island, making it extra fresh and flavorful. You will often find it sprinkled over Greek salads, paired with tomatoes and olives, or spread on warm bread with a dash of olive oil and herbs.

Revithada: A beloved comfort dish on Paros, revithada is a slow-cooked chickpea stew that is both hearty and incredibly simple. Traditionally made in a clay pot and cooked overnight in a wood-fired oven, the chickpeas become tender and infused with the flavors of onion, bay leaf, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil. It is often served as a Sunday meal and enjoyed with crusty bread and local wine.

Restaurants in Paros

Since we have spent the majority of our time in Paros in Naoussa, most of the restaurants we have frequented on the island - and recommend - are located here. Some of our favorite eateries in Naoussa, Paros are listed below.

Souvlakia Kargas: Souvlakia Kargas is a local favorite in Naoussa, serving quick and casual street food, including, of course, souvlaki and gyros. Tables here are first-come-first-serve and since this is a popular spot, you may have to wait!
UMI Sushi Bar: A stylish sushi bar offering fresh, high-quality Japanese dishes with a Greek twist.
Kiranos Cafe: A charming café ideal for breakfast or a midday break, serving strong Greek coffee, fresh pastries, and views of Naoussa Harbor.
Come Back: A great, laid-back cocktail bar with a friendly vibe, especially as you watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea. Come Back also serves food.
Nonna Crema (Ice Cream): This artisanal ice cream shop serves the best ice cream in Naoussa!
Το Παραδοσιακό (Loukoumades): This small, unassuming spot serves our favorite loukoumades in the Greek Islands. We love them served with honey and cinnamon, just be careful not to burn your mouth as they come out piping hot!

If you are looking for even more restaurant recommendations in Paros, including in Parikia and elsewhere on the island, be sure to check out the links below.

CN Traveller: The Best Restaurants in Paros, Greece >
Tripadvisor: Restaurants in Parikia >

Wineries in Paros

Wine making on Paros is seeing a resurgence and no trip to Paros would be complete without trying a glass of local, Parian wine. Not all of the wineries in Paros are open to the public, but two are certainly worth a visit! These wineries provide a great atmosphere for enjoying some fantastic wine, while relaxing under the Parian sun.

Moraitis Estate (Naoussa): ♡ Located in Naoussa, Moraitis Estate is one of the most established wineries on Paros, founded in 1910. Moraitis Estate is known for producing high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties from both Paros and the greater Cyclades, including Monemvasia, Mandilaria, Aidani, Assyrtiko, and Malvasia. The winery offers tastings in a beautiful setting, often paired with local cheeses. Their tour also provides insight into the island’s long history of winemaking. Moraitis Estate is still family-owned and operated, providing exceptional hospitality and a family-friendly atmosphere. 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. Moraitis Estate's Damerale rosé, is one of our favorite wines, and Moraitis Estate is one of our favorite wineries in Greece! For up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Moraitis Estate website.
Louridis Winery (Marpissa): A smaller, family-run winery near the village of Marpissa, Louridis Winery focuses on small-batch wine production. The vineyard sits in a scenic location with views of the Aegean Sea, and tastings here feel intimate and personal. Louridis Winery produces wines from native grapes such as Monemvasia and Madilaria, offering a great chance to discover artisanal Parian wine. Louridis Winery is open daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. We recommend calling in advance of your visit to ensure space is available for a tasting.

The Best Beaches in Paros

Paros has beautiful, sandy beaches across the island. A few of the most popular beaches in Paros, include:

Golden Beach: Located south of Parikia, Golden Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches in Paros. The powdery sand and clear water make it a great place for families. There are some restaurants and beach bars along the beach as well. Golden Beach is also extremely popular for windsurfing!
Kolymbithres Beach: Kolymbithres Beach is located in Naoussa and is famous for its large granite formations. While there are some patches of sand, it is a more rocky beach than the other beaches in Paros.
Marchello Beach: Marchello Beach is one of the closest to Parikia and is a great option for those visiting Parikia for the day on a cruise ship. It is a really beautiful beach, with powdery sand and crystal clear water. The beach features a number of amenities, including beach bars and sunchair rentals.

Beach Clubs in Paros

Like Mykonos and many of the other islands in the Cyclades, beach clubs are a popular option in Paros, especially for those looking to rent sunbeds, enjoy food and drinks, and relax while on vacation. We recommend making your reservation for the beach clubs in Paros in advance of your visit. A couple of the most popular beach clubs in Paros are listed below.

Cabana (Parikia): Located just across the bay from Parikia and the Port of Paros, Cabana is one of the island's trendiest beach clubs. With sunbeds, umbrellas, food, and drinks, it is the perfect spot for a relaxing day at the beach. While the beach here is small, the calm, shallow waters also make it ideal for swimming. A resident DJ takes the stage at 5:00 PM, daily. Cabana is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM from June to October. Cabana is kid-friendly.
Cosme Beach Club (Naoussa): Cosme Beach Club blends high-end service with a serene, design-forward setting. Think elegant sunbeds, craft cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds. While it is part of a resort, non-guests can reserve sunbeds and dine at the on-site restaurant, making it a chic escape just minutes from the heart of Naoussa. Located at the Cosme Hotel in Naoussa, the Cosme Beach Club is open to the public from 10:30 AM to 7:00 PM, daily.

Transportation in Paros, Greece

The easiest way to get around Paros is with either a rental car or an ATV (quad). Most hotels also offer car services to the ferry port and airport, for a small fee. Taxis are also available in Paros, with a large taxi stand next to Paros Port in Parikia, but taxis can be quite expensive. If you are looking to use public transportation, please know that the public buses in Paros are easy to use and cheap, especially if you are planning on staying in just one place on the island (i.e., Naoussa) without plans to explore the rest of the island. More information about the public buses in Paros, as well as the airport and Paros port, are detailed below.

Public Buses in Paros

The main bus station in Paros is next to Paros Port in Parikia. The public buses in Paros are large, coach-style buses with luggage storage underneath the bus, which is free to use. Bus ticket(s) can be purchased at the bus station, or directly from the bus driver. Tickets purchased from the bus driver, onboard the bus, are sold at a slightly higher price. Bus fares vary based on the destination and route, but range between €2.00 and €3.50.

Bus Line #2 connects Parikia and Naoussa. The bus station in Naoussa is a short, 5-minute walk from Naoussa Harbor. Please note that if you are staying in Naoussa, the public bus only connects Naoussa with Parikia. If you are looking to visit other places on the island, you will need to take a second bus once you are in Parikia.

Other bus routes connect Parikia with other spots on the island, including Golden Beach and the airport. Buses generally run beginning at 7:00 AM, daily. If you are looking for more information on the buses in Paros, including bus schedules, please visit the Paros KTEL website.

Paros Port

If you are traveling to Paros via ferry or cruise ship, you will arrive and depart from Paros Port, in Parikia. Paros Port is small, but efficient. Cruise ships will provide tender services to the port, while ferries will dock. Nearby destinations, easily reached by ferry from Paros, include: Naxos (25 minutes), Mykonos (40 minutes), Tinos (75 minutes), Santorini (90 minutes), Milos (1 hour, 45 minutes), and Athens (3 hours, 35 minutes).

The best way to book ferries around the Greek Islands is by using Ferryhopper. We definitely recommend that you book your ferry tickets in advance since they can sell out, particularly during the peak summer months. We also highly recommend that you arrive to Paros Port at least one hour before your ferry's scheduled departure time.

Ferries to Antiparos

Ferries to Antiparos also depart from Parikia and take 7 minutes. Ferries run frequently between Paros and Antiparos and cost €1.50 for adults and €0.75 for children. If you are wanting to take an ATV, scooter, or car on the ferry, there is an additional cost. Tickets for the ferries can be purchased onboard. 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.

Paros Airport (PAS)

Paros Airport (PAS) is located approximately 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) from Parikia. Paros Airport is a small, domestic airport and the only airport on Paros. The majority of flights at Paros Airport are between Paros and Athens. However, additional flights to other domestic destinations, including Heraklion (Crete) and Thessaloniki, operate during the peak summer months. Paros Airport is serviced by Olympic Air, Aegean, and Sky Express airlines.

Why we love Paros

We absolutely adore Paros, and if you are planning a trip to the Greek islands, this gem deserves a spot on your itinerary. It is perfectly located between Mykonos and Santorini, making it an easy and natural stop when island hopping by ferry. Unlike its more famous neighbors, Paros has a quieter charm. Few cruise ships dock here, which means the island is blissfully free from the overwhelming crowds that can sometimes take over other destinations in the summer months. It also helps that hotels are far more affordable in Paros than what you will find on islands like Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, or Crete, giving you the chance to enjoy an incredible Greek Island getaway without blowing your travel budget.

What really makes Paros special for us is the blend of natural beauty, amazing food, and laid-back atmosphere. The sunsets here are breathtaking, the kind that stop you in your tracks and make you grateful to be exactly where you are. The food scene is also a huge part of why we love this island so much. Souvlakia Kargas is hands-down our favorite spot for a quick and delicious bite. Their gyros, souvlaki, Greek fries, grilled halloumi, and house wine are unbeatable. We also crave the loukoumades at Το Παραδοσιακό—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and drizzled with honey and cinnamon. For something a bit more upscale, UMI Sushi Bar in Naoussa serves some of the freshest seafood and sushi we have had in the Cyclades.

And then there is Naoussa itself; utterly adorable with its boutique shops, whitewashed alleys, and vibrant harbor lined with cafes and bars. It is the kind of place where you can spend an entire afternoon browsing local stores, enjoying a long lunch, and taking in the view without ever feeling rushed. Paros makes it easy to enjoy a bit of indulgence (shopping, dining, wine tasting, and sightseeing) without breaking the bank. Everything about this island invites you to slow down, relax, and soak up the beauty around you, and that is exactly why we keep coming back to Paros.

Naoussa

Naoussa (also spelled Naousa), located on the island’s northern coast, is a postcard-perfect fishing village that has grown into one of the most stylish destinations in the Cyclades. Its whitewashed alleyways wind through boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and chic bars, all centered around a picturesque harbor dotted with colorful boats and the ruins of a 15th-century Venetian fortress. Despite its glamorous appeal, Naoussa still retains its traditional character, especially in the early morning when fishermen unload their fresh catches. By night, the town comes alive with a lively but elegant nightlife scene, making it a favorite for couples, honeymooners, and even families. Both times we have visited Paros, we have stayed in Naoussa.

We love Angels Pillow in Naoussa! The rooms were spacious and the staff were so warm and welcoming. While it is a small boutique hotel, it is not lacking in amenities. The included breakfast is fantastic and their pool area makes an excellent setting for a relaxing afternoon. Some other hotels we recommend in Naoussa are listed below.

Parikia

Parikia is Paros’ capital and main port town. As the island’s capital and main port, it is often the first place visitors see when they arrive by ferry, and it leaves a lasting impression with its whitewashed buildings, bougainvillea-draped alleyways, and waterfront promenade. Despite being a transportation hub, Parikia is far more than just a place to pass through. Parikia offers a laid-back, authentic vibe, blending modern amenities with centuries of history. The town is home to important landmarks like the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani and the ruins of the Frankish Castle, built from ancient marble by the Venetians. Parikia also offers charming tavernas and easy access to some the best beaches on Paros, transportation, and island day trips. While we have not stayed in Parikia, some of the highest rated hotels in Parikia are listed below.

Our Thoughts on Paros

Of all the Greek islands we have visited, Paros is our favorite. Paros is our favorite not just for its beauty, but for the way it strikes the perfect balance between everything we love about the Cyclades. Paros blends the golden beaches and postcard-perfect whitewashed towns of Mykonos with the laid-back wine culture of Santorini, but without the intense crowds and high prices that can sometimes take away from the experience of those other islands. It feels effortlessly chic, yet wonderfully grounded—an island that invites you to slow down and enjoy each moment.

Our favorite spot on the island is Naoussa, a dreamy fishing village that somehow manages to feel both polished and deeply authentic. There is something so special about watching the local fishermen unload their catches in the early morning. These small, unscripted moments are what set Paros apart. It never feels like a manufactured resort town, but rather a living, breathing community that just happens to be breathtakingly beautiful.

We think three nights in Paros is the sweet spot. It is enough time to get a feel for the culture, explore both Naoussa and Parikia, visit a beach (or two), enjoy some great meals, and squeeze in a wine tasting. The island is very manageable in size, which means you can do and see a lot without feeling rushed. You do not need a car to get around Paros as there is a reliable public bus system that makes the island exploring easy. However, if you do choose to rent a car or ATV (quad), there is ample parking near the major sights.

If you are visiting Paros as a cruise ship passenger for the day, we highly recommend hopping on a public bus next to Paros Port in Parikia and heading straight to Naoussa. It is a short, 20-minute bus ride and well worth it. Spending a few hours in Naoussa, wandering through its picturesque town, enjoying lunch by the harbor, or sipping a glass of wine at Moraitis Estate gives you a great, albeit introductory, sense of the island's charm and character that Parikia does not offer.