Discover Paros

The Capital of Paros

The Settlement of Parikia, also known as Hora, is the capital of Paros located on the northwest side of the island. Built on the remnants of the ancient city of Paros, the charming town is the cultural and commercial center of the island. The settlement spreads amphitheatrically around the harbor with the traditional architectural style of the Cyclades. The windmill of Parikia is the landmark of Paros. One of the most interesting areas of the settlement is the castle district that boasts an impressive architecture with complicated stonework and elements of fortified buildings. Inside the castle district, one will find the majestic church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani. Another sight worth visiting is the archaeological museum of Parikia along with the sanctuary of Asclepius in the wider area.

The Ancient Marble Quarries

The Ancient Marble Quarries are located in the village of Marathi. The marble of Paros was renowned since the ancient times as one of the finest marbles of the world. Some of the great masterpieces of art including Aphrodite of Milos, Hermes of Praxiteles and the Temple of Apollo in Delphi were sculptured with Parian marble. There, one will have the opportunity to discover the remnants of the deserted marble quarries of Paros that has been known since the Cycladic period (3.200 – 2.000 BC). Also, the deserted buildings were owned from a French company that supplied France with Parian marble in order to construct the tomb of Napoleon in 1844. Getting to the marble quarries is easy. Just hop on into a bus!

The Castle of Parikia

The Castle of Parikia is one of the most important monuments of the island. The castle was constructed from the Venetian Marco Sanudo in 1260. According to scholars, the castle was built on the foundations of the ancient acropolis, as shown from the remnants of the temple of Demeter that once stood there. The castle boasts an impressive architecture with complicated stonework and elements of fortified buildings. The majestic church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani lies within the castle district.

The Island of Antiparos

The Island of Antiparos is a tiny island lying at the heart of the Cyclades just one nautical mile from the island of Paros. The natural terrain of the northwest side of the island is blessed from sceneries of pristine natural beauty and endless sandy beaches. On the other hand, the southeastern part of the island invades to the sea and creates a wild geomorpholohy surrounded from cliffs plunging into the sea forming a succession of caves. Hora is the charming capital and harbour of Antiparos that spreads around the Venetian Castle located on at the northeastern part of the island. Antiparos has a distinctive Cycladic beauty and mysterious sceneries with whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows decorated from flowery courtyards of purple bougainvillea and scattered picturesque chapels. However, the majestic gem of the island is the Cave of Antiparos, a natural wonder with exquisite stalagmites and stalactites that is considered to be one of the oldest caves in Europe.  This island is a small dot on the map embellished with the most charming aspects of a Cycladic island. Where beauty exceeds the size, Antiparos has a diversity of stunning seashores with striking natural beauty, golden sandy beaches and secluded coves with emerald waters that create a tranquil atmosphere worth exploring.

The Monastery of Panagia Ekatodapyliani

The Monastery of Panagia Ekatodapyliani is one of the best preserved paleochristian monuments of the country located in the castle district of Parikia. According to the legend, the original church was constructed from Saint Constantine, the first Emperor of Constantinople, following the offering of his mother, Saint Helene. During her journey to the Holy Land, a storm brought her in the island of Paros and promised to build a church to the Virgin if her quest for the Holy Cross was successful. The church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani was constructed from her son after her death. Today, the church has paleochristian, byzantine and post byzantine elements made through the centuries. The name of the church means the church with the hundred doors. According to tradition, the church has ninety nine doors and one secret door that will open only when the church of Hagia Sofia in Constantinople will be Orthodox again. The monastery celebrates on August 15 with a large religious festival.

The Rocks of Kolibithres

The Rocks of Kolibithres is an interesting natural phenomenon located on the north side of the bay of Plastiras. The area has caldron form concaves reminiscent of baptismal fonts lying among granite rocks. Fragmentation of the rocks was caused from the cooling of the granitic magma that led to the creation of rectangular parallelepipeds through the granite. When the granitic rocks were brought to the surface, the effect of disintegration and wind erosion from the waver created forms with an ellipsoid shape. Kolibithres in Greek means baptismal fonts.

The Valley of Butterflies

The Valley of Butterflies is located close to the monastery of Christos Xilon. Every summer, the valley is verdant and the Jersey Tiger Moths Butterflies wrap the entire valley creating a unique natural phenomenon. The valley is a very important biotope together with the valley of butterflies in the island of Rhodes. Lovers of exploring will have the opportunity to discover the valley through the numerous trails.

The Village of Lefkes

The Village of Lefkes is one of the most beautiful villages of Paros located on the central part of the island. The mountainous settlement lies in a verdant hill offering panoramic views of the island of Naxos.  Lefkes used to be the capital of the island. The settlement has an authentic character embellished with traditional houses and buildings of Venetian architecture along with lovely dovecotes and whitewashed windmills. The central alley of the village is Ramnos that leads to the charming square of Lefkes. The most important monuments of the village include the imposing church of Agia Triada made from the fine local white marble and the folklore museum. Lovers of exploring can follow the byzantine footpath leading to the village of Prodromos. Late August, one of the largest celebrations of the Aegean, known as Karavola, takes place in the settlement accompanied from traditional music, dancing, food and wine.

The Wine Museum of Paros

The Wine Museum of Paros is one of the most interesting museums of the island located in the village of Naoussa. The museum was founded in 1910 with the intention of presenting the history of winemaking of Paros. The vision of Manolis Moraitis is to preserve the authentic character of the local vineyards.

Windsurfing and Kitesurfing in Paros

Paros is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of windsurfing. Chrissi Akti, also known as Golden Beach, is considered as one of the best spots of windsurfing. A championship of windsurfing is organized on this beach every summer. Also, the beach of Santa Maria offers ideal conditions for windsurfing. Numerous windsurfing centers operate on both beaches. Pounda Beach is considered as one of the best spots of kitesurfing in Europe. A championship of kitesurfing is organized on this beach every summer. A kitesurfing center operates on the beach.

The Ancient Marble Quarries are located in the village of Marathi. The marble of Paros was renowned since the ancient times as one of the finest marbles of the world. Some of the great masterpieces of art including Aphrodite of Milos, Hermes of Praxiteles and the Temple of Apollo in Delphi were sculptured with Parian marble. There, one will have the opportunity to discover the remnants of the deserted marble quarries of Paros that has been known since the Cycladic period (3.200 – 2.000 BC). Also, the deserted buildings were owned from a French company that supplied France with Parian marble in order to construct the tomb of Napoleon in 1844. Getting to the marble quarries is easy. Just hop on into a bus!

The Ancient Cemetery of Paros is located at the harbor of Parikia. The cemetery is considered to be one of the most important ancient cemeteries of the Cyclades. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remnants of the ancient cemetery dating back to the 8^th century BC. Also, numerous sarcophagi were discovered in the area, which are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Paros.

The Archaeological Site of Tris Eklisies lies on the way from Parikia to Naoussa. It is a complex of byzantine churches with marbles from ancient temples. Under the remnants of the three churches of the 17^th century, an early Christian basilica of the 6^th century AD was uncovered.

The Hellenistic Mosaics are located in the area of Kastrovouni. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remnants of three Hellenistic housing complexes. The most remarkable remains are the Hellenistic mosaics dating from the 3^rd century BC. The mosaics are coloured depicting a central lozenge framed from bands and a running dog pattern.

The Mycenaean Acropolis of Paros is one of the most important archaeological sites of Paros located in the area of Koukounaries above the beach of Kolibithres. According to historical evidence, the acropolis was constructed in the 13^th century and destroyed from an earthquake. Archaeological excavations have brought to light also the remnants of a geometric settlement of the 10^th century. From there, one will enjoy superb views of the surrounding areas.

The Sanctuary of Asclepius lies on the hill of Agia Anna on the southwest side of Parikia. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remnants of a temple dedicated to the god of medicine. Today, only the foundations of the buildings have been preserved.

The Sanctuary of Delion lies on top of a hill on the northern side of Parikia. The area showcases the remnants of the temples of Apollo and Artemis. Delion was constructed on that place so that the birthplace of Apollo, Delos, could be seen from the top. Important findings are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Paros.

The Castle of Parikia is one of the most important monuments of the island. The castle was constructed from the Venetian Marco Sanudo in 1260. According to scholars, the castle was built on the foundations of the ancient acropolis, as shown from the remnants of the temple of Demeter that once stood there. The castle boasts an impressive architecture with complicated stonework and elements of fortified buildings. The majestic church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani lies within the castle district.

The Fortress of Naoussa is one of the most characteristic spots of the town located in the old harbor. The fortress was constructed from the Venetians in the 13^th century as a watchtower for pirate invasions and enemy attacks. Today, parts of the fortress are the sole significant remains along with the half submerged watchtower.

The Church of Agios Antonios is one of the most beautiful churches of the island lying in the village of Naoussa. Built in the traditional architectural style of Cyclades, this charming whitewashed church is believed to be the protector of the fishing boats. On January 17, the church celebrates the name day of the saint with a traditional feast.

The Church of Agia Triada dominates the center of the village of Lefkes. The church was constructed in 1830 following the liberation of the island from the Ottoman Empire. The monumental entrance and the bell towers of the church have a distinctive architectural style made from the renowned Parian marble. The cathedral is decorated with numerous ecclesiastical icons, hagiographies and a bishop’s throne also made from Parian marble. The bell towers are the masterpieces of ecclesiastical architecture.

The Monastery of Christos Dasous is a female monastery located close to the village of Sotires. The monastery used to be the residence of the Mavrogenis family, until the family donated to the Monastery of Panagia Ekatodapyliani. In 1805, the monastery housed the first monastic community. On January 31, the monastery celebrates the name day of the saint while the removal of the relics is held on August 18.

The Monastery of Logovarda is located five kilometers on the northeast side of the capital of Paros. The monastery was constructed from the monk Paleologos in 1638 and it is dedicated to Zoodohos Pigi (Life Giving Source). The monastery boasts an impressive architecture. Inside the monastery, one can admire a rich collection of wall paintings and valuable icons along with an interesting library.  Also, an hagiography workshop operates from the monks. Keep in mind that the monastery can be visited only from men.

The Monastery of Panagia Ekatodapyliani is one of the best preserved paleochristian monuments of the country located in the castle district of Parikia. According to the legend, the original church was constructed from Saint Constantine, the first Emperor of Constantinople, following the offering of his mother, Saint Helene. During her journey to the Holy Land, a storm brought her in the island of Paros and promised to build a church to the Virgin if her quest for the Holy Cross was successful. The church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani was constructed from her son after her death. Today, the church has paleochristian, byzantine and post byzantine elements made through the centuries. The name of the church means the church with the hundred doors. According to tradition, the church has ninety nine doors and one secret door that will open only when the church of Hagia Sofia in Constantinople will be Orthodox again. The monastery celebrates on August 15 with a large religious festival.

The Archaeological Museum of Paros is housed in the building of the high school of Parikia. Exhibits include findings from the numerous archaeological sites of Paros. Some of the most important exhibits include a marble statue of Nike and the Naked Lady of Saliangos, the oldest Cycladic figurine found so far.

The Byzantine Art Museum of Paros is located in the center of the village of Marpissa. Exhibits include numerous religious artifacts from the byzantine period. One will have the opportunity to admire holy icons from the 15^th century.

The Byzantine Museum of Paros is located in the center of the village of Naoussa. The museum displays a rich collection of artworks from the prehistoric times showcasing the rich history of the Cyclades. The collections are housed inside the monastery of Agios Athanasios.

The Folklore Museum of Skorpios is located in the area of Aliki. The museum houses a rich collection of miniature models of sailing ships and fishing boats. Also, the museum displays objects of a traditional Parian house, a traditional coffee house, a windmill and traditional weaving equipment.

The Sculpture Museum of Paros is located in the village of Marpissa. The museum was established in honor of the local artist namely Nikos Perantinos. Exhibits include works of sculpture and engraving. Every summer, the sculpture museum organizes courses in Paros to honor the work of the great artist.

The Wine Museum of Paros is one of the most interesting museums of the island located in the village of Naoussa. The museum was founded in 1910 with the intention of presenting the history of winemaking of Paros. The vision of Manolis Moraitis is to preserve the authentic character of the local vineyards.

The Environmental Park of Ai Giannis Detis is one of the most beautiful areas of the island. The entire area has been transformed into a model environmental and cultural park from the municipality of Paros with cultural and ecological activities. The outdoor theatre of the area hosts cultural events. Numerous hiking paths have been designed throughout the park.

The Rocks of Kolibithres is an interesting natural phenomenon located on the north side of the bay of Plastiras. The area has caldron form concaves reminiscent of baptismal fonts lying among granite rocks. Fragmentation of the rocks was caused from the cooling of the granitic magma that led to the creation of rectangular parallelepipeds through the granite. When the granitic rocks were brought to the surface, the effect of disintegration and wind erosion from the waver created forms with an ellipsoid shape. Kolibithres in Greek means baptismal fonts.

The Valley of Butterflies is located close to the monastery of Christos Xilon. Every summer, the valley is verdant and the Jersey Tiger Moths Butterflies wrap the entire valley creating a unique natural phenomenon. The valley is a very important biotope together with the valley of butterflies in the island of Rhodes. Lovers of exploring will have the opportunity to discover the valley through the numerous trails.

Aliki is a seaside village located on the south side of the island. The beautiful settlement has an atmosphere of tranquility and peacefulness retaining its traditional character. The locals of Aliki stand out for their kindness while the village is also known for its delicious traditional products. The beaches in the wider area are ideal for the lovers of windsurfing. Worth visiting sights include the Cycladic folklore museum, known as the folklore museum of Skorpios, with numerous exhibits including a rich collection of miniature models of sailing ships and fishing boats.

Drios is one of the greenest islands of Paros located on the southeast side of the island. The charming settlement has striking landscapes of vegetation, an unusual phenomenon for the Cyclades. Drios is a beautiful village ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. Worth visiting sights include the cave of Demons with impressive stalactites and stalagmites and the neighboring charming settlement of Aspro Horio.  One can discover the dreamlike beaches of the eastern seashore of the island from the village of Drios. One of the most beautiful ones is the beach of Loladonis with its emerald waters and the delicious fish taverns.

Kostos is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. Characterized as one of the balconies of Paros, the charming settlement has an authentic character with whitewashed houses and charming chapels. The trees of the square of Kostos provide shade for the visitors to enjoy refreshments in the traditional cafeteria. On July 17, the traditional celebration in honor of Agia Marina is held in the village. In a close distance from the settlement lies the village of Marathi renowned for its marble quarries.

Lefkes is one of the most beautiful villages of Paros located on the central part of the island. The mountainous settlement lies in a verdant hill offering panoramic views of the island of Naxos.  Lefkes used to be the capital of the island. The settlement has an authentic character embellished with traditional houses and buildings of Venetian architecture along with lovely dovecotes and whitewashed windmills. The central alley of the village is Ramnos that leads to the charming square of Lefkes. The most important monuments of the village include the imposing church of Agia Triada made from the fine local white marble and the folklore museum. Lovers of exploring can follow the byzantine footpath leading to the village of Prodromos. Late August, one of the largest celebrations of the Aegean, known as Karavola, takes place in the settlement accompanied from traditional music, dancing, food and wine.

Marathi is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. The charming settlement is well known for the marble quarries of Paros. The marble of Paros was renowned since the ancient times as one of the finest marbles of the world. Some of the great masterpieces of art including Aphrodite of Milos, Hermes of Praxiteles and the Temple of Apollo in Delphi were sculptured with Parian marble.

Marmara is an agricultural village located on the east side of the island. The name of the village means marbles, named after the numerous marble fractures found in the area. The traditional settlement has an authentic atmosphere with whitewashed houses and stone houses. However, the most intriguing part of the village is the well preserved mansions and the historical church of Taxiarhis.  The haven of the village is Piso Livadi. The imposing archaeological site of Iria with the remnants of the temple of Dionysus is located close to Marmara. The most important religious celebration of the settlement is held of September 8.

Marpissa is one of the most authentic villages of Paros located on the east side of the island. The traditional settlement has a beautiful atmosphere with whitewashed houses, charming chapels and labyrinthine alleys. On the top of the hill of Kefalos, one can visit the remnants of an old castle along with the remains of the monastery of Agios Antonios. However, the most intriguing part is the panoramic views of the endless blue. Worth visiting sights include the sculpture museum of Perantinos along with the byzantine church of Metamorphosis. On the central square of Marpissa, one can admire one of the most photographed areas of Paros with the charming whitewashed windmills. Marpissa is known for its religious celebration of Easter.

Naoussa is a seaside village located on the north side of the island. Considered as one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades, the charming settlement has managed to retain its traditional character with whitewashed houses and labyrinthine alleys. The lovely settlement spreads amphitheatrically around the tiny harbor and the remnants of the Venetian fortress. The beaches of the wider area include Agios Ioannis, Kolibithres and Monastiri. One can admire panoramic views of the entire village from the imposing church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary built on the highest spot of the settlement. On August 23, a great festivity is celebrated in the settlement where a representation of the pirate raids is performed from the local people while fireworks are thrown followed from food and wine. Worth visiting sights of the wider area include the monastery of Logovarda, the Mycenaean acropolis in the area of Koukounaries, the fortress of Naoussa and the folklore museum of Naoussa.

Parikia, also known as Hora, is the capital of Paros located on the northwest side of the island. Built on the remnants of the ancient city of Paros, the charming town is the cultural and commercial center of the island. The settlement spreads amphitheatrically around the harbor with the traditional architectural style of the Cyclades. The windmill of Parikia is the landmark of Paros. One of the most interesting areas of the settlement is the castle district that boasts an impressive architecture with complicated stonework and elements of fortified buildings. Inside the castle district, one will find the majestic church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani. Another sight worth visiting is the archaeological museum of Parikia along with the sanctuary of Asclepius in the wider area.

Piso Livadi is a seaside village located on the east side of the island. The charming settlement is the haven of the village of Marpissa. Piso Livadi is renowned for its delicious fish taverns. One can embark on a boat to visit the islands of Amorgos, Ios, Santorini and Koufonisia. During the celebration of the Ascension Day, the biggest religious celebration of the settlement is organized accompanied from food and wine.

Prodromos is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. Built in the traditional architectural style of Cyclades, the charming settlement is embellished with whitewashed houses and beautiful churches. The most intriguing part of the village is the defensive fortified architecture of Prodromos dating from the 17^th century.  One of the most charming aspects of the settlement is the traditional cafeteria of Prodromos overlooking the traditional houses of Paros. On June 23, a traditional celebration with local festivities is held in the settlement.

Spot: Beach of Kolibithres, North Paros

Spot: Beach of Lageri, North Paros

Spot: Lighthouse of Korakas, North Paros

Spot: Harbor of Naoussa, North Paros

Boat Tour: The circumnavigation of the island of Paros is a beautiful experience. One will have the opportunity to discover the inaccessible areas of the island including the turquoise waters of the island of Panteronissi and the island of Gaidouronissi, the magical caves of Pirates, the crystal waters of Agios Myron and the red beach of Kalogeros. Excursion boats operate from the harbor of Naoussa and Parikia.

Boat Trip: The Island of Antiparos is a tiny island lying at the heart of the Cyclades just one nautical mile from the island of Paros. The natural terrain of the northwest side of the island is blessed from sceneries of pristine natural beauty and endless sandy beaches. On the other hand, the southeastern part of the island invades to the sea and creates a wild geomorpholohy surrounded from cliffs plunging into the sea forming a succession of caves. Hora is the charming capital and harbour of Antiparos that spreads around the Venetian Castle located on at the northeastern part of the island. Antiparos has a distinctive Cycladic beauty and mysterious sceneries with whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows decorated from flowery courtyards of purple bougainvillea and scattered picturesque chapels. However, the majestic gem of the island is the Cave of Antiparos, a natural wonder with exquisite stalagmites and stalactites that is considered to be one of the oldest caves in Europe.  This island is a small dot on the map embellished with the most charming aspects of a Cycladic island. Where beauty exceeds the size, Antiparos has a diversity of stunning seashores with striking natural beauty, golden sandy beaches and secluded coves with emerald waters that create a tranquil atmosphere worth exploring.

Boat Trip: The Island of Naxos is a genuine island of the Cyclades. Elegant and Venetian when she wants, traditional and folklore when she changes her mood, intense summery when she lies in the endless beaches, lively and stunning when observed from the village and endlessly romantic when posing in the dusk, Naxos is a genuine island of the Cyclades. One could say, perhaps, that Naxos is an entire universe by herself!  Being the largest island of the Cyclades, Naxos has managed to keep alive the long history of this place with impressive archaeological monuments, mountainous and traditional villages and an endless coastline full of beaches. Your first impression will be reflected from the imposing temple of Portara on the islet of Palatia lying opposite of one of the most historical medieval villages of Greece, witnessing the glorious history of the once powerful duchy of the archipelago. Literally, Naxos has it all! Beaches with unimaginable beautiful turquoise waters and white sandy dunes shaded from imposing cultural monuments and important wetlands. Naxos hides mysterious discoveries and surprizes you probably did not expect to find in the middle of the Aegean. Byzantine monuments and Venetian towers, traditional settleements and imposing waterfalls, important wetlands and magnificent beaches, wild landscapes and cedar forests are just a glimpse of the universe of Naxos observed from the highest peak in the Cyclades. Naxos is blessed from nature, as it is the most fertile island of the Cyclades; maybe it was also blessed from God Dionysus and Goddess Demeter!

Bicycling: Paros is blessed with beautiful sceneries of nature. Numerous trails cross the island offering the opportunity to enjoy walks in the countryside and discover the rich biodiversity of Paros. Discover more information from the Paros Cycling Club.

Camping: Are you a camping lover? You will find camping sites in the beaches of Agia Irini, Krios, and Santa Maria.

Diving: The varied coastline of Paros offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. Shipwrecks, sunken aircrafts and sea caves are some of the most interesting diving spots. Recommended areas for diving include the shipwrecks of Baufighter and the shipwreck of Marianna along, the sea cave of the island of Panteronissi. One can find diving centers in the beaches of Aliki, Hrisi Akti, Pounda and Santa Maria.

Hiking: Paros hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) The Byzantine Trail of Paros is one of the most beautiful hiking trails of the island. One can access the trail from the village of Lefkes that leads to the village of Prodromos. The remarkable trail is one thousand years old and it crosses olive groves and vineyards. (2) The Environmental and Cultural Park of Ai Giannis Detis is one of the most beautiful areas of Paros. The entire area is crossed from numerous sign posted trails. (3) Another interesting route includes the one starting from the village of Marpissa that passes through the windmills and the cemetery at the edge of the village on the hill of Kefalos. There, you will find the monastery of Agios Antonios that offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Horse Riding: Paros offers invigorating experiences of riding a horse along the seashore. You can find the riding school on a short distance from Naoussa.

Kitesurfing: Paros is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of kitesurfing. Pounda Beach is considered as one of the best spots of kitesurfing in Europe. A championship of kitesurfing is organized on this beach every summer. A kitesurfing center operates on the beach.

Sailing: The location of Paros in the center of the Cyclades makes it an ideal sailing destination. The main harbor of Parikia offers protection from the north and south winds. One can moor inside the port or offshore. Also, the charming harbor of Naoussa can fit a specific number of boats. Other anchorages include the area of Agios Ioannis, the bay of Faragas and the bay of Ambelas.

Spearfishing: The islet of Drionisi opposite the village of Drios, the islets opposite the harbor of Naoussa, the beaches of the village of Ambelas and the islets opposite the village of Aliki are ideal for the lovers of spearfishing.

Windsurfing: Paros is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of windsurfing. Chrissi Akti, also known as Golden Beach, is considered as one of the best spots of windsurfing. A championship of windsurfing is organized on this beach every summer. Also, the beach of Santa Maria offers ideal conditions for windsurfing. Numerous windsurfing centers operate on both beaches.
Yoga: Are you a yoga enthusiast? Alonissos offers the opportunity to enhance your stay by joining one of the regular yoga classes of Aliki Yoga School.

Agia Irini is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. The palm trees of the beach create tropical sceneries. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. However, the beach usually gets crowded due to its close proximity to Parikia.

Agios Fokas is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Paros ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Boudari is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Fykia is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the north side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Hrisi Akti is one of the most beautiful beaches of Paros located on the southeast side of the island. It is a golden sandy beach with turquoise waters ideal for the lovers of windsurfing. The beach is organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Kalogeras is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Kaminia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most secluded beaches of Paros ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Kolibithres is one of the most beautiful beaches of Paros located on the north side of the island. It is an impressive beach owing to the huge blocks of granite sculpted from shapes of the sea and the wind. Actually, the beach consists from small sandy coves. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available in some beaches.

Laggeri is one of the most beautiful beaches of Paros located on the northern side of the island. Laggeri is an ideal beach for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Livadia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. Due to its close proximity to Parikia, it is one of the most popular beaches of Paros with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Logaras is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the south side of the island. Awarded with a blue flag, the beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars.

Messada is a white sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Paros ideal for those looking for tranquility. Also, Messada is an ideal spot for windsurfing lovers.

Molos is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Paros ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation.

Monastiri is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the north side of the island. Lying in front of the monastery of Agios Ioannis, Monastiri is a beautiful beach with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns. During the summer, numerous musical events take place on the beach.

Parasporos is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Paros with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars. Parasporos is conveniently located next to a campsite.

Pounda is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Paros with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars. Pounda is renowned for its endless beach parties.

Santa Maria is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It actually consists from numerous smaller sandy beaches and coves. Santa Maria is one of the most popular beaches of Paros with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars. The beach offers beautiful views of the island of Naxos.

Coffee Corners

Captain Yannis: Coffee, Piso Livadi

Gefsis tis Sidrofias: Coffee, Lefkes

Kafeneio Marigos: Coffee, Lefkes

Meltemi: Coffee, Parikia

Nonna Crema: Ice Cream, Naoussa

Paradosiako: Pastries, Naoussa

Pezoula: Pastries, Lefkes

Sousouro: Breakfast and Coffee, Naoussa

Symposium: Coffee, Parikia

Gastronomic Delights

Agnadio: Greek Cuisine, Lefkes

Anna kai Giorgos: Greek Cuisine, Marpissa

Anna: Greek Cuisine, Drios

Barbarossa: Greek Cuisine, Naoussa

Cuore Rosso: Italian Cuisine, Parikia

Damianos: Seafood, Ambelas

Halaris: Seafood, Piso Livadi

Loladonis: Greek Cuisine, Loladonis

Mario: Seafood, Naoussa

Markakis: Greek Cuisine, Piso Livadi

Sigi Ixthios: Greek Cuisine, Naoussa

Siparos: Greek Cuisine, Naoussa

Thalassamou: Greek Cuisine, Aliki

Tsachpinis: Seafood , Naoussa

To Bountaraki: Mediterranean Cuisine, Parikia

Cocktails Inspirations

Agosta: Cocktails and Drinks, Naoussa

Comeback: Cocktails and Drinks, Naoussa

Evinos: Cocktails and Drinks, Parikia

Fotis Art Cafe: Cocktails and Drinks, Naoussa

Green Project: Cocktails and Drinks, Drios

Pirate Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Parikia

Sosouro: Cocktails and Drinks, Naoussa

The local products of the island include the soft goat cheese called mizithra along with the renowned Parian wine.

The local specialties of the island include gouna, a dish made of sun dried mackerel fish served with lemon, karavalous, a dish made oboiled snails served with garlic sauce, petimezinia, the traditional sweet, the local pumpkin pie along with numerous seafood specialties of octopus, squid and lobster.

Every summer, the Festival of the Park of Ai Giannis Detis takes place on the island. The festival hosts numerous cultural events from June until September. The theatre of the park is one of the major venues of the events.

Every July, the Fish and Wine Festival takes place in the village of Naoussa. The festival takes place on the first Sunday of July.

Every August, the Worldwide Windsurfing Championship takes place on the beach of Hrisi Akti/Golden Beach.

Every August, the Kitesurfing Championship takes place on the beach of Pounda.

Every August, the Feast of Karavolas takes place in the village of Lefkes. Karavolas means snail in the local dialect. Thus, the feast is dedicated to the local cuisine of the island accompanied from numerous local specialties and products with traditional music. The feast takes place on the first Saturday after 15^th of August.

Every 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place in the church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani. The festivities start with a litany of the holy icon followed from local dances, traditional music, food and wine.

Mythology

According to mythology, the first king of the island was Cretan Alkaios who built the ancient city of the present capital of Parikia.

History

Archaeological excavations show that Paros has been inhabited since 3.200 BC. According to mythology, the first king of the island was Cretan Alkaios who built the ancient city of the present capital of Parikia. During these times, Crete used to be trading with the Balkans and Egypt. Due to the strategically geographical position of the island in the center of the Cyclades, the Cretans transformed it into a major naval base naming it Minoa. However, the island was then ruled from the Ionians followed from the Arcadians. Paros became a major maritime power in the 8^th century BC creating a colony on the island of Thassos. One of the most important facts of the history of Paros was the creation of numerous masterpieces of Ancient Greek Art with the eminent Parian marble including the Aphrodite of Milos, the Hermes of Praxiteles in Olympia, the Temple of Apollo in Delos and the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio. Owing to the renowned marble, Paros experienced a major development in the classical times. During the Persian Wars, Paros fought with the Persians defeating the Athenian army. In 338 BC, the island was dominated from the Macedonian Empire while it became under the control of the successors of Alexander the Great following his death. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Paros became a part of the Byzantine Empire followed from the Duchy of the Aegean in 1207.  The Ottoman Empire succeeded the Venetians until the Greek Revolution of 1821. Paros became a part of the State of Greece in 1831.

By Air: Paros has a national airport operating flights on a daily basis from the International Airport of Athens. The journey usually lasts forty five minutes. Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat (100 and 79 Nautical Miles): Paros is accessible by boat from the harbors of Piraeus and Rafina. The journey lasts from three to five hours. Paros is also connected with the islands of Antiparos, Naxos, Paros and Mykonos amongst others. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !