Paros and its treasures : What to see and do

Paros is an island in the heart of the Cyclades with many attractions. We particularly like its diversity. This island offers a harmonious combination of quiet spots, sporting activities, nature and a lively lifestyle. There’s something for everyone! Sun, sea, relaxation, water sports, shopping, but also history, culture, museums, churches, beautiful landscapes, quiet little villages… there’s never a dull moment on Paros. So, here, Paros in the Cyclades: What to do? What to see?

See also our Top 12 ways to visit Paros in 3 days.

1 – The beaches of Paros

Paros is renowned for its many beautiful sandy beaches. It’s possible to spend a week’s vacation here and change beaches every day! Wild or organized beaches, long sandy beaches, rocky outcrops or small wild coves: there’s something for everyone. And whatever the wind direction, you can always find a protected, peaceful beach.

Paros is also known as a paradise for water sports enthusiasts: windsurfing, kite-surfing… the wind(meltem) blows strongly on certain days, making it a real pleasure to be on the water. There are also several diving spots for beginners and advanced divers.

It’s also the ideal place to set sail on a yacht or boat and discover the island’s hidden coasts and beaches. Set sail from Paros to discover the Cyclades and Small Cyclades for a week on a sailboat, with or without a skipper.

For water sports enthusiasts, you’ll find some great outings here diving, sailing, kayaking, kitesurfing, sea outings…

We present our favorite beaches in Paros in the article Which beach to choose in Paros?

2 – Its gastronomy

Paros is an island to savour! Our cuisine is based on fresh, local produce Fish and seafood, sun-drenched vegetables, legumes (meat is traditionally less present, but you’ll find it nonetheless). These products are cooked with olive oil, of course, and often accompanied by local wines or“souma” (local tsipouro).

On the culinary front, Paros offers a wide variety of establishments. Here, traditional taverns rub shoulders with trendy restaurants. Some chefs have reinterpreted the island’s classics, offering inventive cuisine.

3 – Paros at any age

Paros is very pleasant for a family holiday. This island offers young travelers a dream vacation. Children love to play on the sandy beaches and swim in the clear sea (plus, as there are lots of French people around, it’s easy for them to make friends).

And teenagers enjoy the water sports and lively nightlife.

There’s also plenty to do with the whole family: horseback riding, cycling, nature walks…

4 – Its villages

You can’t go to Paros without visiting Parikia and Naoussa.

Parikia is the island’s capital. We love the old town, with its beautiful houses, many narrow streets, fascinating atmosphere, lively market, stores and, of course, its unique Byzantine church, the Panagia Ekatontapiliani (“Church of the 100 Gates”).

Naoussa is the second largest village on Paros. It’s built like an amphitheatre, with a church at the top of the hill, overlooking the bay. Naoussa is renowned as one of the most beautiful fishing villages in Greece.

Also worth a visit are the villages of Marpissa and Lefkes. The latter is a fabulous mountain village with a magnificent church (Agia Triada) topped by marble bell towers.

5 – The fauna of Paros

We don’t often talk about it, but Paros’ fauna, especially its birdlife, is particularly rich. The island is home to over 200 species of birds. As for fish, over 5,000 species are listed.

And let’s not forget the butterflies: 7 km southwest of Parikia is the Butterfly Valley, where thousands of butterflies come to breed every summer.

6 – The museums of Paros

The island is home to several museums that are well worth a visit.

In Parikia

– The archaeological museum contains several treasures, including the “Grosse Dame de Saliagos” (5000 BC), thought to be one of the earliest sculpted human figures, and a winged Victory. Also on display are Cycladic idols, remains of Mycenaean palaces and statues.
– The ecclesiastical museum within the Ekatontapiliani church presents a collection of icons and ecclesiastical objects.

In Naoussa

– The archaeological museum houses discoveries made in the region, as well as a wide range of ancient objects that provide an insight into daily life in days gone by.
– The Agios Nikolaos Mostratos monastery‘s collection of Byzantine icons

In Marpissa

– The new sculpture museum “. Perandinos”, named after Paros-born sculptor N. Perantinos, with 192 of his works on display.

In Lefkes

– Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions

To Aliki

– Skorpios Museum : an amazing museum where the owner has created scale models of Cycladic heritage.

7 – Churches, chapels and monasteries on Paros

You can’t go to Paros without visiting the superb Panagia Ekatontapiliani church in Parikia. It’s a marvel, one of the most beautiful churches in the Cyclades. Legend has it that the church has ninety-nine visible doors. And that the hundredth will only become visible the day the Greeks conquer the city of Constantinople (Istanbul).

There are also numerous monasteries, churches and chapels all over the island.

8 – Paros hiking trails

There is an extensive network of hiking trails. We invite you to discover them in this Pdf brochure published by the Municipality of Paros.

For example, you can cover the 10km route (3 hours) Lefkes – Lagkada – Aspro Horio -Drios. Or the 19 km (6-hour) route: Parikia – Marathi – Lefkes – Prodromos – Marpissa – Agios Antonios – Piso Livadi. This road is the island’s “Byzantine and post-Byzantine route”, linking the capital with mountain villages and towns.

Hiking in Paros is a great way to discover the island in a different way. Along the trails you’ll come across wells and springs, centuries-old olive groves, traditional houses, windmills… in a natural environment rich in scents and colors.

9 – A lively nightlife

Beyond its natural and cultural beauty, it’s a favorite destination for nightlife and entertainment lovers. Because there are plenty of bars, clubs, cafés and little tavernas on the island with Greek music.

In addition, in summer, various festivals, outdoor performances and artistic events are organized. You can find all the events events taking place on Paros, on the island’s website .

And let’s not forget the summer cinemas, which offer unique evenings under the starry sky.

10 – Religious holidays

Paros celebrates a number of religious festivals throughout the year. In addition to the major feasts of August 15 and Easter, each small church celebrates its patron saint once a year.

If you’re present at the time of a religious festival, enjoy the festivities, whether you’re a believer or not. Religious festivals have a popular dimension. The religious element coexists with a joie de vivre that spreads through the streets. Processions, folk dances, tastings of local specialities…

Practical information: accommodation, restaurants, transport…

If you’re looking for accommodation, you’ll find a huge choice on Booking including hotels, apartments, villas… As well as on PARIS LONDON website.

To find out more about Paros, see also our articles :

• Paros in 3 days: our top 12
• Which beach to choose in Paros?
• Paros: where to stay?

Laure M.