At the ancient times, Paros had been the centre of the pre-Cycladic civilization. Significant monuments and ancient ruins testify to its great history.
Today Paros is one of the most popular summer destinations with a great variety of experiences to offer to its visitors. You can hike its nature’s paths or ride the waves on its windy beaches, walk through ancient stones and ease your mind in its numerous monasteries. Swim in its beautiful waters, enjoy its great nightlife, its gastronomy and the hospitality of its people.
What to see
Walk the Environmental & Cultural Park of the island or arrange an excursion to one of the most important natural habitats, on the road that connects Paroikia with Alyki, by the river, the Valley with the butterflies.
At Parikia, visit the 4th century Byzantine monument of Panayia Ekatontapiliani. The Castle, the ruins of the ancient temple of Apollonas at Dilio, and the ruins of Asklipiio.
At Naousa, the Palaiopyrgos, the ancient capital of Paros, and the Byzantine Museum.
At Alyki, the Folklore Museum and the Dryo, the cave of Kalpaki with the stalactites and stalagmites.
Where to swim
Kolympithres is the most famous, popular beach of Paros. The rocks surrounding the beach resemble sculptures. Not far from Kolympithres, hidden and almost secluded, the beach of Babou, with stubbles running down to the water edge. Surfers would love the Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti), the Pyrgaki and Glyfa Lolantonis, as well as the Tserdakia on the southeast of the island.
On the south and protected by the winds, lies the sandy Souvlia beach, with quiet shallow waters, ideal for children. At Piso Livadi and Logaras you’ll find natural shades and small tavernas nearby to eat after swimming.
Where to stay
At Naousa, the Arokaria Beach Studios and Arokaria Dreams Apartments (+30 51923), both featuring the traditional Cycladic architecture, with elegant and sophisticated interiors and a view to the Aegean.
At Agios Andreas, about 1km far from the Kolympithres beach, Swiss Home (+30 51633, +30 51387 www.swisshome.gr), ideal for newly weds. Petres (52467), lavishly accommodated with a pool, a tennis court, gym and saunas.
At Naousa, Kanale’s Rooms&Suites (+30 52044 www.kanales.gr), only 5 minutes walk from Piperi beach, built on a hill’s slop offers breathtaking view to the port.
At Kolympithres, Astir of Paros (+30 51976-84 www.astirofparos.gr), a 5 star hotel practically built on the sea with a great variety of activities for children and adults.
Bangalows Marina (+30 51204, +30 52819 info@parosmarina.gr) at Naousa. Stone architecture in a quiet, lavishly bloomed garden. Fully equipped.
At Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti), the Golden Beach Hotel (+30 41194), or if you prefer a close to nature stay, the Okreblue (53249) has no TV or air-conditioning, or instant coffee breakfasts, instead offering yoga sessions, healthy food, peace and quiet.
Where to eat
At Naousa La Piazza (+30 52657), excellent Greek-Italian food.
Moshonas (+30 51623), traditional Greek food, by the sea.
Meltemi (+30 51263), open all day, reservation required.
At Ambela: Damianos, on the beach for fresh fish.
At Parikia: Argonaytis (Mantos Mavrogenous Square, +30 22303), all fresh local products and ingredients, cooked on the spot. Haroumenes Prasines Agelades (+30 24691), fusion cuisine served in an ethnic-chic atmosphere.
At Xifaras: Siparos (+30 52785), from noon till midnight with the island’s traditional recipes.
Night life
Parikia: Pirate Bar (+30 697 9194074) one of the oldest and most celebrated spots.
Evinos, for coffee or funky cocktails under the sunset.
Selini, opens at noon until very late at nights. Brit-pop, indie, punk music exclusively.
Brazil, on Livadia beach, for the best “caipirinha” on the island.
Alga (+30 22387), for refreshing cocktails.
Pebbles (+30 22283), for the “jazzy” scenery.
Naousa: Fotis Café Bar, by the sea, for coffee or cocktails.
Agosta (+30 51345), warm, friendly atmosphere. You won’t stop…drinking.
Takimi (+30 6973 735416), a reference to the old traditional “coffee joints” of Paros.
Dryos: Lourides Beach Bar, on the beach for freshly squeezed juices.
Resalto, by the bay, with “rock” attitude.
Marpissa: Punda Beach Club (+30 41717), hilled-up, with an amazing view to the deep blue of the Aegean.
Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti): Rebel Beach Bar & Lourides Apts (+30 42189, +30 41714), right on the sandy edge, drink the essence of absolute freedom.
Souvlias Beach / Delfini: Magaya Beach Bar (+30 23791), ethnic atmosphere, Asian gourmet bites and lots of cocktails. Live gigs and parties also on its daily “agenda”.
