The Complete Guide to Paros, Greece

Looking for the best things to do in Paros, Greece? Keep reading and plan your idyllic trip.

Updated: 2026 newest hotel openings,

Whitewashed houses and tiny churches, rustic stone pathways, pretty beaches, breathtaking viewpoints, crystal-clear waters, and the cutest kitties roaming sleepy alleyways. It didn’t take long for me to realise that Paros has it all.

Often described as the sister island of Mykonos, Paros hasn’t yet succumbed to the same crowds or eye-watering prices. Yet it shares much of the same appeal. Charming villages spill down hillsides, iconic windmills dot the landscape, and the island’s rugged terrain and sparkling coastline are every bit as captivating.

It’s an island made for exploring. Good roads crisscross the countryside, making it easy to rent a car, scooter, or ATV and discover hidden beaches, traditional villages, and panoramic hilltops at your own pace.

Paros was once best known for its wind, which still draws windsurfers and kitesurfers from around the world. But after spending five days exploring the island thoroughly, I quickly realised that’s only a small part of its appeal.

During my recent trip around the Greek islands, I found that each destination had its own distinct personality. I spent considerable time on both Paros and Milos on this trip, and while Milos stole the show with its dramatic beaches, Paros won me over with its beautiful towns, scenic hiking trails, and easygoing rhythm of life.

Here’s your complete guide to Paros, Greece, including all the top beaches, towns, stays, eats and best things to do in Paros so you can plan the perfect trip.

*This ‘things to do in Paros island Greece’ post contains affiliate links meaning I might make a small commission if you choose to book at no extra cost to you.

Read more: The Best Beaches in Paros

Planning a trip to the Greek Islands? Read my complete Milos travel guide to compare the two islands.

How to Get to Paros, Greece

You’ll most probably arrive in Paros by ferry from Athens or from another Greek Island. Ferries in and around Greece are super easy to book in advance and travel on, and routes connect most of the islands at different rates.

For booking ferries around Greece and beyond, I always use Ferryhopper — it’s the easiest way to search, compare, and book tickets at the best rates. Instant e-tickets, no hidden fees, and a huge selection of routes across the Greek islands and beyond. It takes the stress out of ferry travel completely. Book your ferry with Ferryhopper.

Paros has an airport, and it is also possible to fly to the island. Currently, Paros National Airport primarily handles domestic flights, with regular services from Athens operated by Aegean Airlines (via Olympic Air) and Sky Express.

The flight from Athens to Paros typically takes around 40 minutes. While the airport has been undergoing upgrades to accommodate international flights, as of now, it mainly serves domestic routes.

Getting Around

Paros is a fairly large island, and if you want to experience more than just the main towns, having your own vehicle is almost essential.

Public buses connect the bigger villages and beaches, but they can be slow and crowded in summer. I rented a scooter during my stay and wouldn’t do it any other way. It gave me the freedom to explore sleepy inland villages, pull over at hidden coves, and chase sunset viewpoints whenever I felt like it.

Scooters and ATVs are popular options, especially if you’re travelling light, though I’d recommend a car if you’re planning to cover the whole island comfortably. I usually book my rental in advance through Discover Cars to get the best rates and widest choice of vehicles.

Best Things to Do in Paros, Greece

Rent a Vehicle and Explore

Paros has a public bus network that links many of the island’s main destinations, and it’s a perfectly workable option if you’re travelling on a budget or prefer not to drive.

That said, the real joy of Paros lies in its spontaneity. Being able to linger over lunch in a mountain village, stop at a beach that catches your eye, or stay out late in one town without worrying about the last bus makes a huge difference.

Fortunately, renting a vehicle here is straightforward. The roads are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, even if you haven’t driven in Greece before. Cars are the most comfortable option, especially during the hotter months, but scooters and ATVs are also widely available and a fun way to experience the island with the sea breeze at your back.

During peak season (July/August), you might need to rent a vehicle in advance as they tend to book up quickly. For this, I personally use and highly recommend Discover Cars for the best rates and customer service.

Watch the Sunset or Sunrise

There are so many places to catch the epic Greek sunsets on this island. I would recommend exploring and finding some great places on your own.

My favourites were St Antonio’s Monastery just outside Marpissa and Parikia for sunset, and Naoussa and Molos Beach for sunrise. The sunsets in Greece are truly epic, and you’re not going to want to miss a single one.

Perfect Your Watersports Skills

Some of the most popular things to do in Paros Greece, are watersports. Paros is a world-class windsurfing destination, so why not have a go or refresh your current skills? Many beaches also rent out SUPs and kayaks.

For the more avid water sports addicts, you can even do some jet-skiing, water-skiing and wakeboarding.

The best beaches for water sports are New Golden Beach and Santa Maria Beach due to their strong winds and water sports infrastructure.

Take a Day Trip to Antiparos

Antiparos is a small island just to the west of Paros, and it’s the perfect place to escape to if you fancy a little more exploring.

From the village of Pounta, take the ferry over to Antiparos, where you can spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches, quintessentially Greek villages and the ever-popular white houses.

Antiparos is a popular destination in the peak season for people who want to escape from the crowds, and while Paros is yet to be as popular as Mykonos or Santorini, it can get busy.

Some of my favorite things to do here are to explore the beaches and the main town. Beach House Antiparos is a great way to spend the day. If you’re looking to stay the night, The Rooster Antiparos is the most idyllic stay on the island, but it is a splurge.

Go Hiking

Paros is one of the best Greek islands for hikes, and there are many paths and directions to choose from. Walks range from easy 3 hrs hikes to more demanding full-day excursions.

Be careful, however, on long hikes in the summer months, especially in the centre of the island as temperatures can reach baking point and water isn’t always available.

A great resource to look into is Paros Hikes for detailed guides for all the hiking routes.

Visit Piso Livadi

Just past Marpissa, you’ll find the fabulous, sleepy, fishing village of Piso Livadi.

Walk along its prominent harbour wall admiring the fishing boats and the bluest water below or why not go for a swim at any of the village’s sandy beaches?

There are so many great restaurants to have lunch in here too making it the perfect little village to drive through for lunch before going back to the beach.

Climb to St Antonio’s Monastery Church

While going out of your way to find a church, especially one up a hill, may not be your idea of fun, but you might want to make an exception just this once.

This whitewashed church is small and secluded but it’s not the church that’s worth the effort of coming up here, it’s the view.

From here you can see Molos Beach, Kalogeros Beach and the villages of Marpissa and Piso Livadi, all surrounded by golden fields and olive trees. It really is the most stunning viewpoint on the whole island, especially at sunset.

The road up here is steep, however, and you’ll only be able to make it in a small car or powerful scooter. A standard 50cc scooter won’t do it- especially if you’re a couple. Look out for the steep turns.

Go Beach Hopping

Paros is blessed with an absurd number of beautiful beaches. Some are long stretches of golden sand lined with beach clubs and tavernas, while others are tiny coves with translucent water and little more than a few tamarisk trees for shade.

I spent much of my trip beach hopping around the island, and narrowing this list down wasn’t easy.

Below are my favourite beaches on Paros, from lively bays to quieter escapes. If you’re planning to spend a big chunk of your trip by the sea, I’ve also put together a separate guide to the best beaches in Paros with more detail on facilities, where to stay nearby, and my personal tips for visiting.

The best beaches to visit in Paros are:

Kolymbithres Beach – The most iconic beach on Paros, famous for its smooth granite rock formations that have been sculpted by wind and sea over thousands of years. The shallow turquoise water is calm and crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming.

Golden Beach – A long sweep of golden sand on the southeast coast, Golden Beach is one of the island’s best spots for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Even if you don’t partake, it’s a beautiful place to spend the day with plenty of sunbeds and beachfront tavernas.

Monastiri Beach – Nestled in a sheltered bay within the environmental park, Monastiri combines calm waters with dramatic scenery. The beach is small but scenic, and there are hiking trails and viewpoints nearby if you fancy stretching your legs.

Santa Maria Beach – Located close to Naousa, Santa Maria is one of Paros’ liveliest beaches. Expect soft sand, beach bars, watersports, and a social atmosphere that attracts everyone from families to groups of friends.

Kalogeros Beach – One of the most unusual beaches on Paros, Kalogeros is known for its natural clay cliffs. You can cover yourself in the mineral-rich clay before rinsing off in the sea, creating a makeshift spa experience. The beach itself is small and pebbly, but the striking setting and crystal-clear water make it well worth the detour.

Faragas Beach – Tucked away on the island’s south coast, Faragas feels a little more secluded. The water is incredibly clear, the bay is protected from strong winds, and the beach club here strikes a nice balance between stylish and relaxed.

Lageri Beach – One of the quieter beaches on the island, Lageri is backed by sand dunes and low vegetation rather than beach bars. It’s a peaceful spot with wonderfully clear water and a more natural feel.

Parasporos Beach – Parasporos strikes a happy medium between lively and relaxed. It’s known for its beach clubs and music, but there’s still plenty of space to spread out on the sand and enjoy the crystal-clear sea.

Lolantonis Beach – Hidden away on the southeast coast, Lolantonis remains one of Paros’ lesser-known gems. The water here is a dazzling shade of blue, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal if you’re looking to escape the busier beaches.

For more on the best beaches, read The Best Beaches in Paros.

Best Towns in Paros, Greece

If there’s one thing Paros does exceptionally well, it’s towns. Wandering their narrow stone streets, lingering in shady squares, and discovering tiny boutiques and tavernas ended up being some of my favourite moments on the island. In fact, exploring Paros’ villages is easily one of the best things to do here.

Each town has its own personality. Some are lively fishing ports buzzing with restaurants and nightlife, while others are sleepy mountain villages where little seems to have changed for decades. Together, they offer a glimpse into the island beyond its beaches and are a big part of what makes Paros so special. These are the best towns and villages to visit in Paros.

Naousa

Naousa is the prettiest town on Paros and an absolute must-visit. By day, it’s a charming fishing village of whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and bobbing fishing boats.

By night, it transforms into the island’s social hub, with stylish boutiques, lively bars, and some of the best restaurants on Paros.

I based myself here for most of my five days on the island and wouldn’t hesitate to do so again. In fact, I think Naousa makes one of the best bases when thinking about where to stay as a base for Paros. It’s the perfect place to wander aimlessly, linger over dinner by the harbour, and soak up the quintessential Cycladic atmosphere.

Parikia

Parikia is the island’s capital and main ferry port, making it the busiest town on Paros. But step away from the waterfront, and you’ll find one of the prettiest old towns in the Cyclades, a maze of whitewashed alleyways, flower-filled courtyards, and tiny chapels tucked around seemingly every corner.

I loved wandering here without a map. The best moments come when you stray from the main streets and stumble upon a quiet square, an old windmill, or a hilltop church with sweeping views over the Aegean.

Lefkes

Lefkes is one of the most beautiful villages on Paros and a welcome change of scenery from the coast. Perched in the hills at the island’s centre, it’s surrounded by olive groves and offers sweeping views across the countryside and out to the sea.

The joy of Lefkes is simply wandering. Its narrow marble streets twist between whitewashed houses, tiny shops, and shaded squares where locals linger over coffee. Find a café, order an iced coffee or a crisp glass of white wine, and settle into the slower pace of village life.

Marpissa

Marpissa is one of Paros’ most photogenic villages, perched on a hillside amid fields and crowned by beautiful blue-domed churches and old windmills. It’s quieter than Naousa or Parikia, with an authentic, lived-in atmosphere that makes it well worth the detour.

Visit early in the morning or around sunset when the village comes to life. Locals gather in the small squares, chatting over coffee as golden light spills across the whitewashed streets, creating some of the prettiest scenes on the island.

Where to Stay in Paros, Greece

Paros has seen an explosion of beautiful boutique and luxury hotels in recent years. From stylish seaside retreats to intimate guesthouses tucked into the hills, there are now incredible places to stay all across the island.

The main decision is where to base yourself. Most visitors choose either Parikia, the bustling capital and ferry port, or Naousa, the chic fishing village on the north coast that has become Paros’ most sought-after destination.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider Lefkes in the island’s interior or the slower-paced southern coast. Personally, though, I’d recommend Parikia or Naousa, but particularly Naousa (or just outside for a quieter stay) if you’re also up for the nightlife.

Both offer excellent restaurants, boutiques, supermarkets, and easy access to rental vehicles, making them ideal for exploring.

I stayed in Naousa for most of my five days on Paros and loved it. It’s close to some of the island’s best beaches and strikes a wonderful balance between lively and laid-back.

Need help choosing? I’ve put together a dedicated guide to the best hotels in Paros. In the meantime, here are a few favourites.

Parilio – Perfectly positioned between Kolymbithres Beach and Naousa, Parīlio is one of the island’s most stylish stays. The 33 suites blend Cycladic minimalism with natural materials and calming tones, many featuring private terraces, jacuzzis, or shared pools. Add a serene spa and excellent restaurant, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best luxury choices on Paros.

Cosme – Set just outside Naousa, Cosme is a sophisticated beachfront retreat that combines contemporary luxury with Cycladic charm. The suites are elegant and understated, while the private beach club and excellent restaurant make it an easy place to spend an entire day without wanting to leave.

Uncover other top stays in Paros:

Where to Eat in Paros, Greece

There are so many eating options in Paros, mainly located in Parikia, Naoussa, Lefkes, and Marpissa. I found the standards of food to be really high, and I didn’t have a bad meal on the island. Some of my favourite eats included:

Siparos Seaside Restaurant – Located just outside Naoussa, Siparos is renowned for its creative Greek cuisine and stunning seaside views, making it a perfect spot for a sunset dinner. Make sure to book ahead

Barbarossa restaurant – Situated in Naoussa’s picturesque harbor, Barbarossa combines fresh seafood dishes with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both dining and nightlife. It’s one of the most popular spots in town so book ahead.

Stilvi – Tucked away in Naoussa’s charming alleys, Stilvi offers a refined Mediterranean menu with contemporary twists, all set within a serene courtyard ambiance. The grilled fish here was amazing.

Sigi Ikthios – one of Naousa’s standout seafood restaurants, serving impeccably fresh fish and classic Greek dishes right by the water. Come for the grilled catch of the day and stay for the romantic harbour setting as fishing boats bob gently beside your table.

Thalassamou – Set right on the beach in Aliki, Thalassamou offers fresh Greek-Mediterranean dishes crafted by chef Marios Salmatanis, providing a delightful dining experience by the sea.

Souvlakia Kargas– A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Kargas serves up some of the best gyros and souvlaki on the island, perfect for a quick and casual meal.

Lefkiano Restaurant – located in Lefkes and has a gorgeous outdoor patio and roof- allowing you to watch the world go by as you eat. A focus on local, fresh food, the Greek salad here was simple but so fresh and delicious. 

Ragoussis Bakery – a superb breakfast option, they serve all the traditional Greek pastries and breads including danishes, breakfasts, sandwiches, great coffee and fresh juice.

Where to Shop in Paros

Scattered between its whitewashed alleyways and hidden courtyards, you’ll find a handful of thoughtfully curated shops and studios that capture the island’s effortlessly chic spirit. Whether you’re after handmade ceramics, breezy Greek fashion, or jewelry that feels like a modern-day treasure, here are a few of my favorite spots to explore:

Medusa Concept Store – Tucked away in the heart of Naoussa, Medusa Concept Studio is a beautifully curated boutique showcasing flowing dresses from Greek designers and elegant homeware pieces you’ll want to redesign your whole house around.

Yria Ceramics Studio – For something truly one-of-a-kind, Yria Ceramics Studio offers handmade pottery inspired by the colors and textures of the Cyclades—perfect for taking a little piece of Paros home with you (without the sand).

Saline Concept Store – Minimalist but warm, Saline brings together fashion, accessories, and lifestyle pieces that capture that impossibly cool Greek island aesthetic you’ll want to wear long after you leave.

Zina Fragi Designer Jewellery – If you’re in the mood to splurge on something sparkly, Zina Fragi’s Designer Jewellery fuses contemporary design with traditional Greek craftsmanship, resulting in bold, sculptural pieces that feel both timeless and totally on-trend.

Top Tips for Visiting Paros, Greece

Best time to go: May-October, prepare for high season in July and August. I went late-June and it was perfect. Getting around: Scooter, Car, ATV or public transportation Currency: Euro, credit cards accepted and ATMs located in Paraika, Naousa and Lefkes.

↠ Tap water is NOT drinkable on Paros. Check out this reusable water bottle with a built-in filter to make sure you keep your plastic consumption low. Alternatively, get this personal water purifier for drinkable tap water everywhere.

↠ All beaches are public and free to visit for all. You might have to just pay extra for the rental of umbrellas or sun loungers.

↠ Tipping is common courtesy in Paros, especially in restaurants where you’re expected to leave a 10% tip.

↠ Renting a car or scooter is easy in Paros, you’ll need a valid International Driving License (I used my UK license, and all was fine). Some rentals might also need you to have a credit card with enough space on it to cover the cost of the rental.

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What are your thoughts and feelings on the things to do in Paros, Greece? Share them below, I’d love to hear from you!

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Planning a trip right now? These are just some of my favorite websites I use to book everything from hotels to rental cars!

Discover Cars for quick and easy car rentals worldwide

Booking.com and Agoda for great deals on hotels

Ferryhopper for booking ferries across Greece

Viator for tours and adventures around the world

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