Explore Paros

Welcome to Paros!

We hope that your accommodation in Memoir di Paros will meet your expectations and that you will have a great holiday experience!

High on the list of top Greek holiday destinations, Paros Ιsland welcomes its visitors at the centre of the Cyclades group and invites them to explore its great beauty, the long beaches with crystal-clear waters and its impressive landscapes. There is a well-developed tourist infrastructure too, to make your holidays truly memorable.

In antiquity, Paros was famous for its white marble quarries; the so-called ‘Parian marble’ was highly sought-after for its top quality, for use in architecture and sculpture (particularly during the Classical Greek Period). Some of the masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture were made with this pure white, translucent material. The statues of Hermes by Praxiteles, Venus de Milo (i.e. Aphrodite of Milos), Nike [Winged Victory] of Samothrace, Nike of Paionios, and the Caryatids, i.e. the famous daughters [korai] of the Erechtheion, Acropolis, Athens are some of the most popular specimens of such art.  
Some of the best known sculptors, painters and poets of ancient Greece come from Paros. The island has been an administrative and commercial hub in the Aegean Sea, and it has also been the apple of discord for many conquerors (Romans, Byzantines, Franks, Venetians and Ottomans), who left their imprint on this place. It has known periods of great prosperity, as shown by the ruins in its archaeological sites and its considerable historical monuments, which you can visit across the island.

Here are some popular sights and attractions in Paros:

  • Panagia Ekatontapiliani church: The church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani is located a few meters from the port of Parikia, the island’s capital. It is one of the best-preserved Paleo-Christian monuments in Greece. According to the legend, the original church was either constructed by Saint Helene herself or Saint Constantine, the first Emperor of Constantinople, after the oblation of his mother.
  • Paros Environmental and Cultural Park: The Paros Environmental and Cultural Park is situated on the Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula, an area of approximately 80 hectares of remarkable rock formations, caves, hidden coves and seashores with crystalline waters in an authentic Cycladic scenery. Paros Park was founded in 2009 with the mission of preserving and optimizing the region. The Park’s primary goal and aim is to serve as a showcase for social service, providing a unique viewpoint on cultural and sustainable tourism in the Aegean Islands and Greece. The peninsula of Agios Ioannis Detis, which hosts it, provided inspiration with its distinctive natural scenery and character.
  • The Venetian Fortress of Naoussa: The Venetian Fortress of Naoussa in Paros: The Venetian Fort of Naoussa is located in the old port and it is the most characteristic spot of the lovely settlement. Initially constructed in the 15th century by the Venetians, the fortress was used as a watchtower for pirate and enemy attacks and as a front line in times of war. Its location was very convenient for surveilling the Aegean Sea and, due to its architecture, it was very difficult for enemy ships to approach the port where commercial ships used to moor.
  • Agios Ioannis Detis church: Agios Ioannis Detis in Monastiri Paros: Located on the rocky coast of Monastiri, the renowned church of Agios Ioannis Detis overlooks the beautiful bay of Naoussa and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. The sobriquet Detis derives from the Greek verb “deno” (which translates into “tie”) as Saint John was considered to “tie” the illnesses with his grace and cure the believers. In addition, the small bay was ideal for the mooring of ships which would “tie” their cordages and anchor there.
  • Byzantine Museum: The Ekatontapiliani Byzantine Museum is located in Parikia, the island’s capital. The Museum is housed in the Ekatontapiliani Church, which was initially built as a small hrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary in th 4th century AD by Saint Helen. It was later rebuilt after the damaging earthquake in 1773. The Byzantine Museum in Parikia displays rare church artwork, wood carvings, silver and metal objects, religious amphorae and heirlooms from the Byzantine Era.
  • The valley of butterflies: The beautiful valley is located 5 km south of Parikia, near the Monastery of Jesus of Woods.
    This valley is popularly referred to as Petaloudes, which is the Greek word for “butterflies”. Every year, during the summer months, the valley becomes verdant and the Jersey Tiger Moths wrap the entire valley, creating a truly breathtaking natural phenomenon.
    The beautiful trees of the valley give out a sweet fragrance that in turn draws the butterflies like magnet. This valley is, in fact, a very important biotope for these moths, which can only be found on Paros and Rhodes in Greece, while in the rest of the world, you can admire them in a couple of places in Turkey and Britain.
  • Wine Museum: The beautiful town of Naoussa is home to Moraitis Vinothéque, one of the most interesting places one should visit when in Paros.
    The museum is strategically located at the hub of the fishing village, displaying a vast collection of wines made by local producers.
    The museum was founded in 1910 and has since passed from generation to generation. The premises that house the winery since 2001 include the winemaking center, production and storage areas, while at the old winery building, visitors can admire the underground aging cellars, the wine museum, and the wine-tasting hall.
  • Folklore Art Museum: Upon visiting the Folklore Art Museum, guests have the opportunity to experience a true “slice of life” of the Parian past. Located in the first capital of the island, the historic village of Lefkes, the Folklore Art Museum was the first of its kind to be established in Paros. The exhibition includes a collection of numerous everyday objects, utensils, embroideries, textiles, tools, etc. that were used in the past, while all the exhibits were generously donated by locals who want the cultural character and history of Lefkes to stay alive.
  • Skorpios Folklore Museum: The Skorpios Folklore Museum in Aliki houses a collection of miniature models crafted by the artist Benetos Skiadas. Exhibits include a miniature collection of sailing boats, fishing boats and ships.
    The museum also has models of other constructions on display, including the Medieval castle of Parikia, a dovecot, the Hozoviotissa Monastery of Amorgos, the Evangelistria church of Tinos and the stone lighthouse of Andros. 

Naoussa, the second-largest town on Paros and a charming fishing village. Wander through its beautiful cobblestone streets, filled with lovely shops, bars, and restaurants. Walk past the harbor and check out the colorful boats, as well as the fresh octopus drying in the sun. Take a look a look inside the many churches to discover some wonderful Orthodox artworks. The old town center is rather small, so you can easily explore it in a couple of hours. Since most people spend their days at the beach, you will find the town to be relatively quiet until the end of the afternoon when the crowd comes to town for its amazing sunset and dining scene.

Venture north to discover some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Begin at Monastiri Beach, once renowned as one of Paros island’s finest beaches. While a beach club now occupies most of the area, a short walk past it leads you to Perikopetra Beach. This hidden gem boasts stunning white stone boulders and crystal-clear waters, providing an idyllic setting for a peaceful swim. This is definitely one of the favorite “beaches” in Paros!

Another nearby option is Kolymbithres Beach, often recommended in Paros’ travel guides as one of the island’s best beaches. Though it may be very crowded and commercialized, its crystal-clear waters make it worth a visit, particularly if you can go in the early morning before the crowds arrive.

If you feel like having an active day rather than lounging at the beach, you could also consider hiking in Paros Park. There are 3 hiking routes of moderate difficulty, providing stunning views all around! Route 3 also passes by Perikopetra Beach, so you can take a refreshing dip in the middle of your hike!

Parikia, the main town and arrival point for ferries from Athens and nearby Cycladic islands. Stroll through the narrow pedestrian streets adorned with charming whitewashed houses and vibrant pink bougainvillea. Don’t hesitate to wander away from the main streets, and you will find some stunning and quiet corners. Delve into the local culture by visiting the beautiful Orthodox churches, including the stunning Ekatontapiliani Church.

Don’t miss the opportunity to dip into the clear waters of Aliki Beach or drive 5 min south to see Faragas Beach. Today most of the beach is taken by a beach club, but there is still space to lay down your towel on the sand if that is more your vibe.

Experience the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Paros with a boat excursion. Whether you opt for a group tour, a private charter, or rent your own license-free boat, a full day at sea is an absolute must. If you rent your own boat, enjoy the sense of freedom as you navigate the sparkling waters! Explore the rocky coastlines of Paros and its neighboring island, Antiparos, and discover secluded coves and pristine beaches. We decided to go towards Antiparos and stopped by the Blue Lagoon next to Tigani Island for a swim in the incredible turquoise water. Navigating slowly, stopping to swim or read, we eventually made our way to the southwestern coast of Antiparos.

Embark on a road trip through the heart of Paros to uncover its charming villages and stunning landscapes. Begin your journey in Lefkes, a picturesque village with winding alleys adorned with vibrant pink bougainvillea. Lose yourself in its enchanting streets, soaking up the beauty of the village. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Holy Trinity Church that overlooks the village and the surrounding valley. The interior decoration is truly beautiful and also offers a refreshing rest from the summer heat in Paros!

Don’t forget to visit the charming villages of Prodromos and Marpissa. Although these sleepy towns offer fewer shops and cafes, their beauty is unmistakable. Take some time to explore their narrow streets embracing the charm and tranquility.

To the east coast of Paros Island, stop in the little town of Piso Livadi for a well-deserved lunch. This vibrant port town offers a range of excellent waterfront restaurants where you can indulge in delicious seafood specialties. 

Explore the beautiful beaches of the East Coast, starting with Kalogeros Beach. This long and narrow beach doesn’t have lots of sandy shores but does offer crystal-clear waters. Kalogeros Beach is also popular for its unique clay rocks found at one end of the beach. You can cover your face and body with the clay, and your skin will turn baby-soft! Definitely one of the coolest things to do in Paros.

For a wider and more secluded beach experience, head to Tsoukalaia Beach, where you’ll find a pristine stretch of sand waiting to be explored.

This Paros travel guide wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t include a visit to Antiparos, a hidden gem located just a short ferry ride away. Embark on a journey to this charming island, renowned for its tranquility and natural beauty (and apparently also its growing nightlife!!

Explore the narrow streets of Chora, Antiparos’ main town, with its white-washed buildings and beautiful shops. The town is quite tiny, so 1 hour is enough to see it all.

The next stop on your journey could be Antiparos Cave, an 85m deep vertical cave with million-year-old stalactites and stalagmites! There is a steep staircase to go down and several chambers to admire. It takes around 30 minutes to go all the way down and then back up.

There are so many cute little coves lining up the shores of Antiparos that if you have time I would recommend just driving around and trying to find some of these small unnamed beaches to enjoy the stunning sea all by yourself. If you want to be more efficient, here are a few beaches along the east coast to visit:

  • Sostis Beach is a very small cove with a sandy/rocky beach. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, and the beach is not too crowded. You must drive through 2km of dirt roads to get there. The beach is not organized so bring your own everything!
  • Soros Beach Club is a fancy beach club on a beautiful beach. The ambiance, menu, and decor say luxury, but the service reviews are average. Definitely book ahead for a sun lounger.
  • Glypha and Panagia beaches are both sandy with beautiful clear water, but straight by the road and quite uneventful. 
  • Fanari Beach has a pleasant restaurant/beach club, with many sun loungers right by the water.
  • If you don’t have a car, you can visit Sifneiko Beach, only 15 min walk from the harbor, across Chora.

Ferry connections from Paros:

 

From Paros you can do island hopping not only in Antiparos, but also in the neighboring islands of Naxos and the Small Cyclades, such as Donoussa and Koufonisia. From Paros you can also go to some islands of the Dodecanese and Crete.

More specifically, from Paros you can go directly by boat to the islands:

Mykonos, Naxos, Syros, Andros, Tinos, Santorini, Milos, Ios, Folegandros, Kea, Kimolos, Kythnos, Serifos, Sikinos, Sifnos, Amorgos, Anafi, Donoussa, Heraklion, Schinoussa, Koufonisia, Astypalea, Crete Heraklion

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We hope you’ll find our suggestions helpful!

Best Regards

Contact us:

+30 6955217108 – Kiriakos

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