Packed with picturesque fishing harbors, cosmopolitan ports, marble-lined villages, eye- catching beaches, luxurious resorts, Venetian castles and pirate stories, Paros sets out on a mission to captivate the hearts of every single visitor.
Paros is the fourth largest island in the Cyclades and one of the most popular destinations of Greek and foreign visitors. It is located west of Naxos, from which it is separated by a narrow channel of about 3 miles while it’s 90 nautical miles away from Piraeus. The capital of Paros and its largest port is Parikia, which connect the island with Piraeus, Rafina, Lavrio, the Cyclades and Crete. The harbors of Naoussa and Piso Livadi connect Paros with other Cycladic islands while the port of Pounta connects the island with Antiparos throughout the year.
PARIKIA
Parikia is the capital of Paros and its largest port. It will set the mood for the beginning of an unforgettable holiday in a place that has it all; luxurious resorts, incredible restaurants, neoclassical buildings, old mansions, great ancient monuments (e.g. Dilion, the ancient cemetery, pottery workshops) and vibrant nightlife. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times but the contemporary city in its present form was developed around the Venetian castle of the 13th century, oriented towards the hinterland. In this part of the settlement, ancient architectural pieces from the temple of Dimitra, houses, bell towers, chapels and Castle co-exist harmoniously weaving a unique residential web. Aghios Konstantinos, just above Frangokastello, is a must destination for those yearning to enjoy the sunset from a unique point.
NAOUSSA
An enclosed bay with a great geographical position on the map of Cyclades, displays an essence of the Aegean. The great fishing village of Naoussa is the second largest fishing fleet of the Greek archipelago. Today it has the reputation as one of the most beautiful seaports of the country and a culinary destination for fresh fish and seafood directly from the fishermen’s nets. In the morning, the whole village is colored in Cycladic white; whitewashed alleys, churches, shops… The old fishing warehouses have been turned into bars and cafes with the Venetian Kasteli (castle), the chapel of Agios Nikolaos church and the docked fishing boats in the background… make a postcard perfect scenery.. By nightfall, numerous shades of purple bathe Naoussa and the Venetians welcome the new visitors, setting the tone for enchanted evenings.
KOLIMPITHRES
This is probably the most famous and distinctive beach in Paros! It’s consisted of many small sandy beaches with blue, shallow, crystal clear waters, enclosed by vertical smooth rocks. Water erosion has sculpted the granite rocky formations into various shapes, creating holes filled with salt water, forming smaller pools. The beach with unique geomorphology can be reached by boat from Naoussa or by car (5km).
PUNDA
A beach so lively and fun that it reminds its visitors of the ones in Mykonos. The youth of Paros flocks to the famous beach bars of the cosmopolitan and bustling Punta for long parties, dancing and cocktails on the golden sand, while sport enthusiasts arrive at the southeast of the island to indulge in water sports. It is 26km away from Parikia.
ALYKI
Sandy beach in the south of the island, 10km away from Parikia but just a shot away from Santa Maria. Families seem to prefer this beach for the crystal waters and tree shades as well as the famous fish taverns.
MONASTIRI
The popular beach was named by the monastery of Aghios Ioannis of Detis, in the northwest part of Naoussa bay (14km away from Parikia). The cosmopolitan leeward cove with the shallow sea forms the paradise for children and youngsters. The beach is easily accessible by boat from Naoussa.
CHRYSSI AKTI
No other name would provide a better definition for the enormous sandy beach which is spread all over the place like gold in the southeast of the island. The biggest and perhaps, the most beautiful coast in Paros has it all; flawless touristic facilities, amenities, lifeguard, water sports, a Blue Flag awarded sea and winds that are in favor of sailing.
ABELAS
A wonderful leeward beach with green blue sea bottom and great seaside taverns. It is near the same named fishing village, just a few kilometers away , in the east of Naoussa.
SANTA MARIA
Popular recommendation for the young people as it is very close to Naoussa (2km). The beach is popular among the water sports lovers. You will also find many fun beach bars. If you are not the party type, go for the Small Santa Maria, a beach with the same bright sands and peaceful sea.
LOGARAS
An awarded beach with Blue Flag, found next to Piso Livadi. It has plenty of accommodation, food and drinking options. The sea bottom in Logaras is great for spear gun lovers.
PARASPOROS
Young people and everyone who is in favor of the beach bars- cocktails- fun, just a few minutes away from their base (2.5km away from Parikia), do love this beach. It’s known for the upbeat mood while there’s a strong flirting with the etesian winds during August. Part of the beach is not organized, intended for the low- profilers. The nearby beach of Delfini is even more peaceful..
MARTSELO
Protected by the winds, this cove is found in the northern side of Parikia (2.5km from Chora). The “beach” concept here requires young people, restaurants and bars for summer cocktails, water shades of turquoise and sand as white as powder. What more could possibly one ask for? Entertainment.
