Guidebook for Paros
Food Scene
A taverna where the waters glide right next to where you're sitting paired with a fortuitous view of the setting sun diving behind Antiparos in the summer and without any inflated prices to match. It's recommended you go before sunset for a memorably scenic and affordable meal.
34 recommandé par les habitants
ταβέρνα μπαλκόνι (Taverna Il Balcone)
A taverna where the waters glide right next to where you're sitting paired with a fortuitous view of the setting sun diving behind Antiparos in the summer and without any inflated prices to match. It's recommended you go before sunset for a memorably scenic and affordable meal.
It's famous for its loukoumades, a traditional doughnut-like dessert. Located in the hustle and bustle of the nighttime capital of the island, it's a take out place and a good stop during your midnight strolls in Naoussa. Loukoumades are great paired with vanilla ice-cream, molten chocolate or just the traditional topping of honey and cinnamon. You can always get half and half.
Paradosiako
It's famous for its loukoumades, a traditional doughnut-like dessert. Located in the hustle and bustle of the nighttime capital of the island, it's a take out place and a good stop during your midnight strolls in Naoussa. Loukoumades are great paired with vanilla ice-cream, molten chocolate or just the traditional topping of honey and cinnamon. You can always get half and half.
A quaint, decades-old little café in the middle of a traditional village perched on the mountains of the island. It's very scenic and relaxing, and the traditional "greek" coffee, its syrupy desserts and its strawberry ice-cream are famously good. The old lady that runs it seems to have been there forever, and somehow in this venue, you can truly feel the calmness of the old Paros still prevalent in the quiet, relaxed life of the locals.
Καφενείο Η Ωραία Πλατεία
A quaint, decades-old little café in the middle of a traditional village perched on the mountains of the island. It's very scenic and relaxing, and the traditional "greek" coffee, its syrupy desserts and its strawberry ice-cream are famously good. The old lady that runs it seems to have been there forever, and somehow in this venue, you can truly feel the calmness of the old Paros still prevalent in the quiet, relaxed life of the locals.
Good "home-cooked" ("mayirefta") meals with more of a homey twist for good prices. Albeit not a seaside venue, it has a terrace where you can enjoy your meal and usually plans some music nights during the summer.
18 recommandé par les habitants
Restaurant Anna
Good "home-cooked" ("mayirefta") meals with more of a homey twist for good prices. Albeit not a seaside venue, it has a terrace where you can enjoy your meal and usually plans some music nights during the summer.
Ψητοπωλείο Του Κωστάκη
The local souvlaki, open usually in the evenings.
A small coffee shop at the centre of Drios, that serves delicious coffee and a great lemon sorbet, perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast and trying the filo pastry delicacies before you start your day.
YIASOU Cafe • Bits & Bites
A small coffee shop at the centre of Drios, that serves delicious coffee and a great lemon sorbet, perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast and trying the filo pastry delicacies before you start your day.
Among the oldest cafés on the island facing a pearly white 19th century basilica that overlooks the white-washed cluster of Lefkes nestled between the mountains, it's unfailingly washed by a cool breeze and touched by the final rays of light before sundown, making for a particularly beautiful sight late in the afternoon. The variety of food it offers is small and made by the owners themselves with the uttermost care, the home-squeezed lemonade is refreshing and the syrup sweets still true to the traditional recipes and techniques. The coffee there is also lovely, as well as the local drinks, suma and ouzo and the occasional meze, make for a wonderful closing or beginning to the day.
Kafénion
Among the oldest cafés on the island facing a pearly white 19th century basilica that overlooks the white-washed cluster of Lefkes nestled between the mountains, it's unfailingly washed by a cool breeze and touched by the final rays of light before sundown, making for a particularly beautiful sight late in the afternoon. The variety of food it offers is small and made by the owners themselves with the uttermost care, the home-squeezed lemonade is refreshing and the syrup sweets still true to the traditional recipes and techniques. The coffee there is also lovely, as well as the local drinks, suma and ouzo and the occasional meze, make for a wonderful closing or beginning to the day.
Ridiculously delicious food with a mesmerising view of the port, it is unpretentious, straightforward and offers traditional flavours that steer away from the typical and the banal. All the seafood is fresh from the boats, and that does not reflect on its prices which are famously good. A must try!
42 recommandé par les habitants
Ouzeri Halaris
Eparchiaki Odos Parikias-Piso LivadiouRidiculously delicious food with a mesmerising view of the port, it is unpretentious, straightforward and offers traditional flavours that steer away from the typical and the banal. All the seafood is fresh from the boats, and that does not reflect on its prices which are famously good. A must try!
Fantastic location and catch-of-the-day fish, it's immensely enjoyable during the late evening as it faces the sunset. Perched on the old pier, you can enjoy your dinner practically on the water. Reservation is advised.
29 recommandé par les habitants
ΤΟ ΜΟΥΡΑΓΙΟ
Fantastic location and catch-of-the-day fish, it's immensely enjoyable during the late evening as it faces the sunset. Perched on the old pier, you can enjoy your dinner practically on the water. Reservation is advised.
Fun, traditional yet experimental, this is possibly one of the best restaurants in Naoussa. Its recipes are clean and unpretentious, yet the vibe is more than a simple dining experience. A must try!
Daverona
ΝαούσηςFun, traditional yet experimental, this is possibly one of the best restaurants in Naoussa. Its recipes are clean and unpretentious, yet the vibe is more than a simple dining experience. A must try!
Probably one of the most worth-it places to dine at, their cuisine is phenomenal and their vibe is genuinely greek. It's inside the little meandering streets of Naoussa, and it's definitely worth the hassle of a reservation the day before.
17 recommandé par les habitants
Yemeni Wine Restaurant
Probably one of the most worth-it places to dine at, their cuisine is phenomenal and their vibe is genuinely greek. It's inside the little meandering streets of Naoussa, and it's definitely worth the hassle of a reservation the day before.
Traditional, unpretentious and unchanged by the times, this Kafeneion boasts some of the best meze of the island. The atmosphere is absolutely fantastic.
13 recommandé par les habitants
Καφενείο Η παλιά Αγορά
Traditional, unpretentious and unchanged by the times, this Kafeneion boasts some of the best meze of the island. The atmosphere is absolutely fantastic.
Eating right by the water, their ingredients are beyond fresh and the experience is more than worth the reservation.
16 recommandé par les habitants
Taverna Glafkos
ΠάρουEating right by the water, their ingredients are beyond fresh and the experience is more than worth the reservation.
Exquisite ouzeri, don't be fooled by its traditional look. Its cuisine is updated and always loyal to the greek recipes, but it always has a fresh take on things. Right on the beach, excellent for the evening. Prebooking is advised.
6 recommandé par les habitants
Statheros Restaurant
Exquisite ouzeri, don't be fooled by its traditional look. Its cuisine is updated and always loyal to the greek recipes, but it always has a fresh take on things. Right on the beach, excellent for the evening. Prebooking is advised.
Delicious, sophisticated and atmospheric, its cuisine is not about quantity but quality. A must-try.
Safran Restaurant, Naousa
Delicious, sophisticated and atmospheric, its cuisine is not about quantity but quality. A must-try.
More on the high-end price-wise, but wholly worth the visit, Stilvi has a lovely yard decorated beautifully and serves amazing cocktails to compliment their fine dining experience.
6 recommandé par les habitants
Stilvi
More on the high-end price-wise, but wholly worth the visit, Stilvi has a lovely yard decorated beautifully and serves amazing cocktails to compliment their fine dining experience.
Possibly one of the best restaurants of Paros, its views are phenomenal, its cuisine truly has heart in it, and their service is fantastic. Also their selection of wines is to die for. Reservation is required.
6 recommandé par les habitants
Restaurant To Kyma Drios Beach
Possibly one of the best restaurants of Paros, its views are phenomenal, its cuisine truly has heart in it, and their service is fantastic. Also their selection of wines is to die for. Reservation is required.
Right on the old port, with a cuisine that is the posterchild for freshness and the mediterranean cuisine, the ambience passes the check, and the food is delicious. Reservation is advised.
12 recommandé par les habitants
Sigi Ikthios
Right on the old port, with a cuisine that is the posterchild for freshness and the mediterranean cuisine, the ambience passes the check, and the food is delicious. Reservation is advised.
A fresh take on traditional recipes with a fun and youthful attitude. Their location is calmer than most, and it's well worth a visit.
7 recommandé par les habitants
Kapari
A fresh take on traditional recipes with a fun and youthful attitude. Their location is calmer than most, and it's well worth a visit.
They make their ice cream using fresh fruits and milk for Paros and Naxos. You can taste the actual fruit. A fantastic stop on your promenade.
Solo Gelato
They make their ice cream using fresh fruits and milk for Paros and Naxos. You can taste the actual fruit. A fantastic stop on your promenade.
As traditional as it gets, this ouzeri, with a small selection of food options, all of them fresh and traditional, in the very picturesque village of Prodromos is truly a little gem of the inland.
Byzantino
As traditional as it gets, this ouzeri, with a small selection of food options, all of them fresh and traditional, in the very picturesque village of Prodromos is truly a little gem of the inland.
Another traditional mezedopoleio, a meze taverna, nestled inside the little alleys of Prodromos. Its charm is unbeatable, the warmth of the people truly nostalgic of the old Paros. Also the food is mouth-watering.
16 recommandé par les habitants
Kallitechniko kafenio
Another traditional mezedopoleio, a meze taverna, nestled inside the little alleys of Prodromos. Its charm is unbeatable, the warmth of the people truly nostalgic of the old Paros. Also the food is mouth-watering.
Probably the most stunning sunset spot to dine at, Siparos excels at fish and seafood, and does affordable fine dining like noone else.
61 recommandé par les habitants
Siparos
Probably the most stunning sunset spot to dine at, Siparos excels at fish and seafood, and does affordable fine dining like noone else.
Fantastic, uncomplicated, traditional and from the heart. This restaurant is right by the sea of Ampelas, and the passion of its owner shines through every single plate on the menu.
23 recommandé par les habitants
Christiana restaurant
Fantastic, uncomplicated, traditional and from the heart. This restaurant is right by the sea of Ampelas, and the passion of its owner shines through every single plate on the menu.
Traditional and unchanged, it's a sturdy staple of the island with its fresh fish and its no nonsense character. Truly enjoyable.
8 recommandé par les habitants
Ο ΚΑΤΣΟΥΝΑΣ
Traditional and unchanged, it's a sturdy staple of the island with its fresh fish and its no nonsense character. Truly enjoyable.
Beach bar where you can spend a whole day in nothing but your swimsuit. Their drinks and food selections are refreshing, and their sunbeds not overpriced.
6 recommandé par les habitants
The Cliff @ Lolantonis
Beach bar where you can spend a whole day in nothing but your swimsuit. Their drinks and food selections are refreshing, and their sunbeds not overpriced.
Run by two italians who fell in love with the island and set up shop here, the pasta is hand made, their food and wine is hand picked, and the views are to die for.
7 recommandé par les habitants
BuonVento
Run by two italians who fell in love with the island and set up shop here, the pasta is hand made, their food and wine is hand picked, and the views are to die for.
Incredible devotion to the clean flavours of the island, this restaurant offers more sophisticated flavours, but remains true to its origins.
Gialos Paros
Incredible devotion to the clean flavours of the island, this restaurant offers more sophisticated flavours, but remains true to its origins.
THE winery of the island, this family has a long history of producing fine wines and doing it effortlessly. You can go for a wine tasting and a tour of their winery.
34 recommandé par les habitants
Domaine viticole Moraitis
Eparchiaki Odos Naoussas-MarpissasTHE winery of the island, this family has a long history of producing fine wines and doing it effortlessly. You can go for a wine tasting and a tour of their winery.
Fresh, fun and tasty, their balcony overlooks the town of Lefkes and their food is well paired with the views.
16 recommandé par les habitants
ARANTO
Eparchiaki Odos Parikias-MarpissasFresh, fun and tasty, their balcony overlooks the town of Lefkes and their food is well paired with the views.
True, unadulterated, from the heart. The restaurant's balcony is like a fairy tale, their foods simple, delicious and wholesome.
Γεύσεις της Συντροφιάς/ Geuseis Tis Sintrofias
ΠάρουTrue, unadulterated, from the heart. The restaurant's balcony is like a fairy tale, their foods simple, delicious and wholesome.
Stunning view of the sunset, fresh ingredients, delightful owners and staff. It's probably the best restaurant in Parikia and it earned the title on merit alone.
11 recommandé par les habitants
Taverna Mira
BeachfrontStunning view of the sunset, fresh ingredients, delightful owners and staff. It's probably the best restaurant in Parikia and it earned the title on merit alone.
By the seaside, traditional yet very very far from boring, its foods are simple yet their ingredients well-chosen and their taste fantastic.
24 recommandé par les habitants
Markakis Restaurant Drios Paros
By the seaside, traditional yet very very far from boring, its foods are simple yet their ingredients well-chosen and their taste fantastic.
Probably the most stunning cafe in Lefkes, its balcony is dreamlike, their drinks and small brunch options divine, and the whole atmosphere is unbeatable.
11 recommandé par les habitants
Ramnos café
Probably the most stunning cafe in Lefkes, its balcony is dreamlike, their drinks and small brunch options divine, and the whole atmosphere is unbeatable.
Stunning, traditional and simple, it's in the little alleys of Parikia and it stands as testament to the charm of the village.
22 recommandé par les habitants
Cafe Symposium Paros
28 Mantws MayrogenoysStunning, traditional and simple, it's in the little alleys of Parikia and it stands as testament to the charm of the village.
Beloved by the locals for its no-nonsense style and its great prices, it's truly one of the most relaxed, down to earth restaurants in Lefkes. Their meats are local and absolutely delicious.
27 recommandé par les habitants
Klarinos Tavern
Beloved by the locals for its no-nonsense style and its great prices, it's truly one of the most relaxed, down to earth restaurants in Lefkes. Their meats are local and absolutely delicious.
Possibly one of the top fine dining restaurants of Paros, its location on the old port could fool you that it's a tourist trap. It most absolutely isn't. Fully packed all season (reservation a day before is necessary), its elegant, unpretentious, yet truly unique in its character. Truly stunning.
30 recommandé par les habitants
MARIO
Possibly one of the top fine dining restaurants of Paros, its location on the old port could fool you that it's a tourist trap. It most absolutely isn't. Fully packed all season (reservation a day before is necessary), its elegant, unpretentious, yet truly unique in its character. Truly stunning.
Drinks & Nightlife
Buzzing with a great selection of hand-picked old-school music ranging from smooth jazz to psychedelic rock, it's right on the beach of Drios and usually packed with everyone and anyone that passes through there. It's a calm place to grab a drink and enjoy the ambient setting and is known for being one of the best bars on the island.
20 recommandé par les habitants
Resalto
Buzzing with a great selection of hand-picked old-school music ranging from smooth jazz to psychedelic rock, it's right on the beach of Drios and usually packed with everyone and anyone that passes through there. It's a calm place to grab a drink and enjoy the ambient setting and is known for being one of the best bars on the island.
A pricy yet eclectic bar known for being the place to go for greek celebrities and other socialites. The water splashes literally a few meters away from where you're sitting, and it's usually very romantic a place to be at night.
21 recommandé par les habitants
Fotis Art Cafe
A pricy yet eclectic bar known for being the place to go for greek celebrities and other socialites. The water splashes literally a few meters away from where you're sitting, and it's usually very romantic a place to be at night.
Probably the most sought after location, and for good reason. On the second floor with a balcony overlooking the old Venetian port, their drinks are fantastic and the vibe is gorgeous.
55 recommandé par les habitants
Sommaripa Consolato
ΠάρουProbably the most sought after location, and for good reason. On the second floor with a balcony overlooking the old Venetian port, their drinks are fantastic and the vibe is gorgeous.
Inside the little alleys of Naoussa, it's fun, youthful and a perfect place for mingling. Truly refreshing drinks, truly summery atmosphere.
24 recommandé par les habitants
Sante Cocktail Bar
Inside the little alleys of Naoussa, it's fun, youthful and a perfect place for mingling. Truly refreshing drinks, truly summery atmosphere.
A stunning location on the old venetian castle, it overlooks the port and the setting sun and serves delicious drinks in an environment that's both stylish and unpretentious.
26 recommandé par les habitants
Evinos Bar
Lochagou KourtinouA stunning location on the old venetian castle, it overlooks the port and the setting sun and serves delicious drinks in an environment that's both stylish and unpretentious.
Essentials
The closest chain supermarket with approachable prices and a wide variety to Drios for making the great bulk of your everyday purchases.
17 recommandé par les habitants
Franchise ΣΚΛΑΒΕΝΙΤΗΣ
The closest chain supermarket with approachable prices and a wide variety to Drios for making the great bulk of your everyday purchases.
It's a supermarket verging on delicatessen, proud to offer a collection of selective and quality items for relatively moderate prices. It's great if you're looking for international products and exquisite trademark local products that you can't find anywhere else, or if you don't mind spending a bit more on things that are unequivocally high quality and recherché.
23 recommandé par les habitants
Anoussakis Market
It's a supermarket verging on delicatessen, proud to offer a collection of selective and quality items for relatively moderate prices. It's great if you're looking for international products and exquisite trademark local products that you can't find anywhere else, or if you don't mind spending a bit more on things that are unequivocally high quality and recherché.
Sightseeing
A domineering medieval venetian fortress paired with a tiny white washed church that sits on top of an ancient greek temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, it offers a jewel-like view of the Aegean sunset and is usually less frequented by tourists.
7 recommandé par les habitants
Agios Konstantinos
A domineering medieval venetian fortress paired with a tiny white washed church that sits on top of an ancient greek temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, it offers a jewel-like view of the Aegean sunset and is usually less frequented by tourists.
The only vertical cave in the continent and home to the oldest 45-million-year-old stalagmite in Europe was initially used as a refuge and then as a worship place.Macedonian generals also used the cave in the 4th century BC as a refuge after their conspiracy against Alexander the Great. It regained popularity after the visit of Marquis de Nouadel, ambassador of France to Constantinople in 1673 where he performed Mass. Early visitor's vandalisms and the Russian, Italian and German occupation have much altered its original condition, but it still retains the same charm commemorated by the parian poet Archilochus. Parts of it still decorate the Hermitage Museum. The standard ticket is 6 euros.
46 recommandé par les habitants
La grotte d'Antiparos
The only vertical cave in the continent and home to the oldest 45-million-year-old stalagmite in Europe was initially used as a refuge and then as a worship place.Macedonian generals also used the cave in the 4th century BC as a refuge after their conspiracy against Alexander the Great. It regained popularity after the visit of Marquis de Nouadel, ambassador of France to Constantinople in 1673 where he performed Mass. Early visitor's vandalisms and the Russian, Italian and German occupation have much altered its original condition, but it still retains the same charm commemorated by the parian poet Archilochus. Parts of it still decorate the Hermitage Museum. The standard ticket is 6 euros.
A 16th century monastery perched on the hill of Kefalos- a non-active volcano- sitting on the preserved ruins of a Venetian castle built in the 15th century and the remains of a number of predating christian worshipping sites. Its importance lies in the fact that it was the last castle kept by the Venetians before the Ottoman rule. When the admiral of the Turkish fleet pirate Barbarossa had taken over the island, the Venetian lord Sommaripa barricaded his army in the Castle of Kefalos and resisted, only to be defeated in 1537. It is now an idyllic spot to go and watch the sunset with a bottle of wine. It can be reached by foot from the village of Marpissa, but it's also accessible by car.
7 recommandé par les habitants
St Antonios Monastery (church)
Eparchiaki Odos Parikias-Piso LivadiouA 16th century monastery perched on the hill of Kefalos- a non-active volcano- sitting on the preserved ruins of a Venetian castle built in the 15th century and the remains of a number of predating christian worshipping sites. Its importance lies in the fact that it was the last castle kept by the Venetians before the Ottoman rule. When the admiral of the Turkish fleet pirate Barbarossa had taken over the island, the Venetian lord Sommaripa barricaded his army in the Castle of Kefalos and resisted, only to be defeated in 1537. It is now an idyllic spot to go and watch the sunset with a bottle of wine. It can be reached by foot from the village of Marpissa, but it's also accessible by car.
Purportedly founded by the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, Saint Helen, who stopped there during a storm on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, its name literally translates to "church of a hundred doors", and according to an ancient legend, it supposedly has 99 visible doors, and the 100th will be revealed once Greeks reclaim the city of Constantinople. The possible origins of its name could also be much more banal (a variant of "Katapoliani" which means "by the city") but it's one of the most important christian sites in Greece, with layers and layers of structures from ancient greek temples to byzantine architecture, and it's right by the port, so it's well worth a visit.
118 recommandé par les habitants
Église de la Panagia Ekatontapyliani (Notre-Dame des Cent Portes)
18 PromponaPurportedly founded by the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, Saint Helen, who stopped there during a storm on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, its name literally translates to "church of a hundred doors", and according to an ancient legend, it supposedly has 99 visible doors, and the 100th will be revealed once Greeks reclaim the city of Constantinople. The possible origins of its name could also be much more banal (a variant of "Katapoliani" which means "by the city") but it's one of the most important christian sites in Greece, with layers and layers of structures from ancient greek temples to byzantine architecture, and it's right by the port, so it's well worth a visit.
The staggeringly well-located site littered with the remains of an ancient greek temple dedicated to the gods Apollo and Artemis and an ancient cemetery dating back to 3000 BC. Not much remains of either due to looting and inevitable corrosion, but the view there is panoramically breathtaking. Its name derives from its position, facing the holy island of Delos. It's pretty much left to its own devices and has no entry fee. It's only accessible by a short car ride from Parikia.
Delian Apollo Sanctuary
LefkonThe staggeringly well-located site littered with the remains of an ancient greek temple dedicated to the gods Apollo and Artemis and an ancient cemetery dating back to 3000 BC. Not much remains of either due to looting and inevitable corrosion, but the view there is panoramically breathtaking. Its name derives from its position, facing the holy island of Delos. It's pretty much left to its own devices and has no entry fee. It's only accessible by a short car ride from Parikia.
Built in 1260 by the Venetians using bits and pieces of the ancient Acropolis of the island (upon which it sits) and various other ancient temples, the castle was edified by Angelo Sanudo, the second Duke of the Archipelago and in the hands of the Houses of Crispi and the french Sommerive, it held off the raids of the corsairs until it fell to the Ottomans. The greater portion of the castle's walls were integrated into the dwellings that sprouted around it, most of it swallowed up by the city itself, save this strange bulky wall of stacked pearly-white columns. It's lovely to pass by it while strolling through the alleys of Parikia.
16 recommandé par les habitants
Château franc
Built in 1260 by the Venetians using bits and pieces of the ancient Acropolis of the island (upon which it sits) and various other ancient temples, the castle was edified by Angelo Sanudo, the second Duke of the Archipelago and in the hands of the Houses of Crispi and the french Sommerive, it held off the raids of the corsairs until it fell to the Ottomans. The greater portion of the castle's walls were integrated into the dwellings that sprouted around it, most of it swallowed up by the city itself, save this strange bulky wall of stacked pearly-white columns. It's lovely to pass by it while strolling through the alleys of Parikia.
Packed with tourist attractions, neo-classical mansions and miniature churches belonging to the families of the noble, the merchants or heroes of the Greek Revolutionary War, Parikia is layered with colourful slivers of history that have been mashed into a white-washed maze adorned with at least decades-old bougainvilleas and cats snoozing idly under cool shades. It's wonderful to roam in the morning or early in the afternoon and perfect for shopping quirky items you'll likely not find anywhere else.
103 recommandé par les habitants
Paros
Packed with tourist attractions, neo-classical mansions and miniature churches belonging to the families of the noble, the merchants or heroes of the Greek Revolutionary War, Parikia is layered with colourful slivers of history that have been mashed into a white-washed maze adorned with at least decades-old bougainvilleas and cats snoozing idly under cool shades. It's wonderful to roam in the morning or early in the afternoon and perfect for shopping quirky items you'll likely not find anywhere else.
The remains of the 15th century Venetian watch tower built by the then lord of the island Somnaripa, an addition to the typical medieval walled city of Naoussa to shield its economic activities and its population from the raiding corsairs. Little of those walls remains since the city fell to the Ottomans, but this dilapidated monument paints a lovely picture of how historic circumstances have shaped the character of the island.
21 recommandé par les habitants
Ενετικό Κάστρο
The remains of the 15th century Venetian watch tower built by the then lord of the island Somnaripa, an addition to the typical medieval walled city of Naoussa to shield its economic activities and its population from the raiding corsairs. Little of those walls remains since the city fell to the Ottomans, but this dilapidated monument paints a lovely picture of how historic circumstances have shaped the character of the island.
The night-time capital of Paros, it's made a tradition of turning night into day and keeping all shops open until the early morning. It's packed with tourists, built in the Cycladic fashion of an endless cloister, lined with high-end shops and traditional houses that once housed the poor fishermen that inhabited the island before its economic bloom, it's an endless playground that will never tire you with its variety and quirky ardor. It is hectic, but oddly enough, it does not overwhelm. Rather it encourages a sense of excitement for exploration. One can only advise you to get lost in its winding alleyways to get a true idea of the history that's buried under the lustre of a rich tourist hub.
143 recommandé par les habitants
Naousa
The night-time capital of Paros, it's made a tradition of turning night into day and keeping all shops open until the early morning. It's packed with tourists, built in the Cycladic fashion of an endless cloister, lined with high-end shops and traditional houses that once housed the poor fishermen that inhabited the island before its economic bloom, it's an endless playground that will never tire you with its variety and quirky ardor. It is hectic, but oddly enough, it does not overwhelm. Rather it encourages a sense of excitement for exploration. One can only advise you to get lost in its winding alleyways to get a true idea of the history that's buried under the lustre of a rich tourist hub.
A traditional settlement that remains to a great extent intact, it's the home of the cultural festival "Routes in Marpissa" that features different free-entry events each year from 24-25 of August. If you're not visiting during that time, it's still a wonderfully tranquil place to explore, with meandering zigzagging houses squeezed tight between the rounded hilltops and the golden-streaked wheat fields.
59 recommandé par les habitants
Marpissa
A traditional settlement that remains to a great extent intact, it's the home of the cultural festival "Routes in Marpissa" that features different free-entry events each year from 24-25 of August. If you're not visiting during that time, it's still a wonderfully tranquil place to explore, with meandering zigzagging houses squeezed tight between the rounded hilltops and the golden-streaked wheat fields.
Antiparos, or Oliaros in ancient times, was depopulated after it passed from Byzantine to Venetian rule and was largely allowed to succumb to the corsairs and pirates that thrived in the beginning of the 15th century and turned it into a pirate haven, until Giacomo Lorentano took over the island and on his own expenses rejuvenated the population and constructed this typical Cycladic castle in 1440 with an outer ring of 24 two-story houses and an inner motte. The town was looted by the ottoman pirate Barbarossa, then turned over to the house of Crispi, before falling to the hands of the Ottomans. It is now a quaint highlight for the small island and well worth a visit.
10 recommandé par les habitants
Castle Of Antiparos
Antiparos, or Oliaros in ancient times, was depopulated after it passed from Byzantine to Venetian rule and was largely allowed to succumb to the corsairs and pirates that thrived in the beginning of the 15th century and turned it into a pirate haven, until Giacomo Lorentano took over the island and on his own expenses rejuvenated the population and constructed this typical Cycladic castle in 1440 with an outer ring of 24 two-story houses and an inner motte. The town was looted by the ottoman pirate Barbarossa, then turned over to the house of Crispi, before falling to the hands of the Ottomans. It is now a quaint highlight for the small island and well worth a visit.
The islet Despotiko, a stone's throw from Antiparos, opposite Agios Georgios, is uninhabited. During 1957, excavations brought to light a Doric Archaic temple of Apollo. For more than 20 years now, new excavations that are still been held, keep bringing to light very significant findings and artifacts. Archaeologists believe that the sanctuary of Apollo on Despotiko was been built by the Parians and that, possibly, was larger than the well known one on Delos! If visiting Antiparos, it is very easy to visit Despotiko as well, since small boats from Agios Georgios can help you reach the small harbour of Despotiko in just 5 minutes. Thus, you will have the opportunity to admire its open-air museum and enjoy some of its many wonderful sandy beaches. It is recommended to visit during the evening, since the sun sets right before your eyes giving it a magical atmosphere.
27 recommandé par les habitants
Despotiko
The islet Despotiko, a stone's throw from Antiparos, opposite Agios Georgios, is uninhabited. During 1957, excavations brought to light a Doric Archaic temple of Apollo. For more than 20 years now, new excavations that are still been held, keep bringing to light very significant findings and artifacts. Archaeologists believe that the sanctuary of Apollo on Despotiko was been built by the Parians and that, possibly, was larger than the well known one on Delos! If visiting Antiparos, it is very easy to visit Despotiko as well, since small boats from Agios Georgios can help you reach the small harbour of Despotiko in just 5 minutes. Thus, you will have the opportunity to admire its open-air museum and enjoy some of its many wonderful sandy beaches. It is recommended to visit during the evening, since the sun sets right before your eyes giving it a magical atmosphere.
If you ever find yourselves in Piso Livadi, a few metres from the main restaurants is Agios Nicolaos church, a tiny church with an uncanny number of snoozing and well fed cats and a stunning view of the sunrise. It's worth a visit.
Άγιος Νικόλαος - Ανάληψη
If you ever find yourselves in Piso Livadi, a few metres from the main restaurants is Agios Nicolaos church, a tiny church with an uncanny number of snoozing and well fed cats and a stunning view of the sunrise. It's worth a visit.
Arts & Culture
Home to a collection of beautiful statues and ancient works of art from the neolithic period to the early christian times which survived antiquity smuggling, pirates, occupations and the likes, it hosts a variety of important pieces and it's right at the heart of the capital.
58 recommandé par les habitants
Archaeological Museum of Paros
2 Christoi KonstavtopoiloiHome to a collection of beautiful statues and ancient works of art from the neolithic period to the early christian times which survived antiquity smuggling, pirates, occupations and the likes, it hosts a variety of important pieces and it's right at the heart of the capital.
A winery founded in 1910 that produces some of the most iconic wines of the island, Moraitis, opens its gate to anyone who wants to explore the traditional techniques it enlists in making its products or indulging in some wine tasting for prices that do not exceed 20 euros. It's a charming experience for wine enthusiasts and anyone who simply wants to get a taste of the local culture that prides itself for its products and its passion for keeping things traditional with a modern twist.
34 recommandé par les habitants
Domaine viticole Moraitis
Eparchiaki Odos Naoussas-MarpissasA winery founded in 1910 that produces some of the most iconic wines of the island, Moraitis, opens its gate to anyone who wants to explore the traditional techniques it enlists in making its products or indulging in some wine tasting for prices that do not exceed 20 euros. It's a charming experience for wine enthusiasts and anyone who simply wants to get a taste of the local culture that prides itself for its products and its passion for keeping things traditional with a modern twist.
Parks & Nature
A short boat ride from the port of Pounda or Parikia, Antiparos makes for a lovely excursion. It's lined with beautiful beaches and is unimaginably laidback even during the high season. Its "chora", while relatively small, features a wide collection of bars and tavernas from which you can choose. The ferry prices from Pounda are fixed (1.30 per person, 6.30 per car). The boat ride lasts 7 minutes and there are boats leaving roughly every 30 minutes, with the last one departing at around 1.30 from Pounda and 1.15 from Antiparos. The ones that leave from Parikia, on the other hand, are usually private boats so the ride lasts anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes and prices vary.
62 recommandé par les habitants
Antiparos
A short boat ride from the port of Pounda or Parikia, Antiparos makes for a lovely excursion. It's lined with beautiful beaches and is unimaginably laidback even during the high season. Its "chora", while relatively small, features a wide collection of bars and tavernas from which you can choose. The ferry prices from Pounda are fixed (1.30 per person, 6.30 per car). The boat ride lasts 7 minutes and there are boats leaving roughly every 30 minutes, with the last one departing at around 1.30 from Pounda and 1.15 from Antiparos. The ones that leave from Parikia, on the other hand, are usually private boats so the ride lasts anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes and prices vary.
A sandy beach right by the the small cafes and beach bars of Piso Livadi, is a child-friendly place to relax and go for a swim.
15 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Logaras
A sandy beach right by the the small cafes and beach bars of Piso Livadi, is a child-friendly place to relax and go for a swim.
The trendy place to be, paired with a vibrant beach bar and a pool, mostly swarmed by a younger crowd that parties on the sandy beach well into the night.
Παραλία Πούντα
The trendy place to be, paired with a vibrant beach bar and a pool, mostly swarmed by a younger crowd that parties on the sandy beach well into the night.
A short 20 minute walk from the apartment, this 1.5 km long "Golden Beach" lined with streaks of fine sand and shallow waters is covered with umbrellas, partly organised, and at its tip it has a water sport cafe-bar where you can go if you're looking for an adventure, or just to enjoy a coffee or a drink even at night. Along the seaside trail from Drios beach to Golden Coast beach, you'll find a bunch of small coves where you can dip your feet. It's perfect for any kind of traveler and a charming site late in the afternoon, when the sun glitters over the water, most of the families have gone off to lunch (every meal is scheduled a bit later than usual) and the beach has quieted down.
8 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Chrisi Akti
A short 20 minute walk from the apartment, this 1.5 km long "Golden Beach" lined with streaks of fine sand and shallow waters is covered with umbrellas, partly organised, and at its tip it has a water sport cafe-bar where you can go if you're looking for an adventure, or just to enjoy a coffee or a drink even at night. Along the seaside trail from Drios beach to Golden Coast beach, you'll find a bunch of small coves where you can dip your feet. It's perfect for any kind of traveler and a charming site late in the afternoon, when the sun glitters over the water, most of the families have gone off to lunch (every meal is scheduled a bit later than usual) and the beach has quieted down.
A bit further off from the Golden Coast is the New Golden Coast (Nea Hrisi Akti), a small lake-like beach with the same glistening fine sand that houses the international wind surfing competition that has put it on the map.
8 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Chrisi Akti
A bit further off from the Golden Coast is the New Golden Coast (Nea Hrisi Akti), a small lake-like beach with the same glistening fine sand that houses the international wind surfing competition that has put it on the map.
An endless sandy coast that's strikingly shallow and clean, it's perfect if you want your peace and quiet.
10 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Molos
An endless sandy coast that's strikingly shallow and clean, it's perfect if you want your peace and quiet.
On the other side of the tiny peninsula that divides it from Molos beach, Kaloyeros beach (the "monk's" beach) is paved with fine sand a pebbles and offers a more interesting sea bottom than its counterpart. The small hills that surround it are filled with argil that you can use as a body scrub and wash off in the sea.
25 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Kalogeros
On the other side of the tiny peninsula that divides it from Molos beach, Kaloyeros beach (the "monk's" beach) is paved with fine sand a pebbles and offers a more interesting sea bottom than its counterpart. The small hills that surround it are filled with argil that you can use as a body scrub and wash off in the sea.
An organised beach with fine sand and a dozen of beach bars and other activities to choose from, it's usually packed with young people and lined with a constellation of smaller beaches you can discover on foot or by car.
19 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Santa Maria
An organised beach with fine sand and a dozen of beach bars and other activities to choose from, it's usually packed with young people and lined with a constellation of smaller beaches you can discover on foot or by car.
A bit more secluded but equally eccentric, it's an unorganised beach that attracts nudists and much of the gay scene in Paros. It has a sandy coast and clear waters, is a bit harder to find and can be approached through two routes. The one that seems a bit further away requires a bit of walking, but the view is lovely and the small church perched just above the waves you will encounter is great for taking pictures.
39 recommandé par les habitants
Lageri beach
A bit more secluded but equally eccentric, it's an unorganised beach that attracts nudists and much of the gay scene in Paros. It has a sandy coast and clear waters, is a bit harder to find and can be approached through two routes. The one that seems a bit further away requires a bit of walking, but the view is lovely and the small church perched just above the waves you will encounter is great for taking pictures.
Drios beach is sprawled over an ancient port whose sculpted rocks still poke through the sand. Presumably, it was either the site of an ancient shipyard, or alternatively the rock indentations were used to lorry wagons onto ships filled with parian marble, adored in the ancient and modern times for its whiteness and its impeccable quality. The beach is sandy, with rock formations in deep water, perfect for snorkelling and exploring. It's also lined with tamarisks for shade, and if the winters are heavy, the town's local springs pour into the sea.
Paralia Drios
Drios beach is sprawled over an ancient port whose sculpted rocks still poke through the sand. Presumably, it was either the site of an ancient shipyard, or alternatively the rock indentations were used to lorry wagons onto ships filled with parian marble, adored in the ancient and modern times for its whiteness and its impeccable quality. The beach is sandy, with rock formations in deep water, perfect for snorkelling and exploring. It's also lined with tamarisks for shade, and if the winters are heavy, the town's local springs pour into the sea.
A shallow organised beach that's lined with many others before it, it sits under the old byzantine monastery of Saint John "Detis", favoured by the Russian fleet that had established its nautical base on the coves of Naoussa during the Russo-turkish war of 1768 -1774. The rocky peninsula that overlooks it is in fact a national park, and carved by many marked hiking routes you can follow, advisedly if you are already familiar with such terrain. It's a lovely trekking site for late in the evening, as the sun dives right in front of it, and the lighthouse that's hidden amid its steep slopes offers a wonderful view of the sunset.
23 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Monastiri
A shallow organised beach that's lined with many others before it, it sits under the old byzantine monastery of Saint John "Detis", favoured by the Russian fleet that had established its nautical base on the coves of Naoussa during the Russo-turkish war of 1768 -1774. The rocky peninsula that overlooks it is in fact a national park, and carved by many marked hiking routes you can follow, advisedly if you are already familiar with such terrain. It's a lovely trekking site for late in the evening, as the sun dives right in front of it, and the lighthouse that's hidden amid its steep slopes offers a wonderful view of the sunset.
A cluster of beaches laced with ancient rocks of granite smoothed out by the sea, it's a popular attraction due to its crystalline waters and its "lunar" scenery. Its name translates to "Baptistery" due to the small salt water "lakes" that form in the rock indentations. It's famous for its cafés and taverns and much favoured by families and tourists alike. It can be reached by car or via a small ferry from the port of Naoussa.
Paralia Kolimpithres
A cluster of beaches laced with ancient rocks of granite smoothed out by the sea, it's a popular attraction due to its crystalline waters and its "lunar" scenery. Its name translates to "Baptistery" due to the small salt water "lakes" that form in the rock indentations. It's famous for its cafés and taverns and much favoured by families and tourists alike. It can be reached by car or via a small ferry from the port of Naoussa.
A lovely and buzzing beach near Parikia that has pristine waters and velvety sand and high-end sailing boats anchored in the distance, it stretches towards popular beach bars and beach chairs you can rent for your comfort, or you can just spread a towel on the warm sand and enjoy yourself.
40 recommandé par les habitants
Marcello Beach
A lovely and buzzing beach near Parikia that has pristine waters and velvety sand and high-end sailing boats anchored in the distance, it stretches towards popular beach bars and beach chairs you can rent for your comfort, or you can just spread a towel on the warm sand and enjoy yourself.
Another sandy beach that's not far too organised for anyone to just lay down on the sand and have a good time.
Παραλία Παρασπόρος
Another sandy beach that's not far too organised for anyone to just lay down on the sand and have a good time.
Lodged between Paros and Antiparos and gifted with hellish winds, it's truly a water sport heaven and thousands of sport enthusiasts or humble people who have caught an interest in summer activities flock there to make the most of it.
Paralia Pounta
Lodged between Paros and Antiparos and gifted with hellish winds, it's truly a water sport heaven and thousands of sport enthusiasts or humble people who have caught an interest in summer activities flock there to make the most of it.
Off the well-trodden path and this works to its benefit, this beach is as undiscovered by the general public as a parian beach can be, with fine sand and wide flat stones poking through the sea bed that make for a great snorkeling opportunity, it's home to giant tamarisks that shield you from the sun and offer you an abode far from the more touristy side of the island.
11 recommandé par les habitants
Voutakos beach
Off the well-trodden path and this works to its benefit, this beach is as undiscovered by the general public as a parian beach can be, with fine sand and wide flat stones poking through the sea bed that make for a great snorkeling opportunity, it's home to giant tamarisks that shield you from the sun and offer you an abode far from the more touristy side of the island.
A lovely family setting, this sandy beach sits right next to tavernas and cafes so that going from sunbathing to enjoying your meal by the sea is not much of a hustle.
Paralia Aliki
A lovely family setting, this sandy beach sits right next to tavernas and cafes so that going from sunbathing to enjoying your meal by the sea is not much of a hustle.
A short ride from Aliki, these tiny, sandy beaches are so off the radar that they have become the almost private pools for the private luxury villas that tower above it. But of course, they are public, and a not-much-shared secret. This makes then oddly serene, interesting to explore and well worth the trouble.
Paralia Makra Miti
A short ride from Aliki, these tiny, sandy beaches are so off the radar that they have become the almost private pools for the private luxury villas that tower above it. But of course, they are public, and a not-much-shared secret. This makes then oddly serene, interesting to explore and well worth the trouble.
Another sandy beach that is packed with celebrities and anyone who enjoys the big crowd and excitement, its beach bar is famous for the incredibly versatile scene it attracts and is favoured by people who don't mind spending a bit for a dip. It's sandy and organised, but you can always just lay down with a towel and enjoy a drink from the bar. Friendly tip, either go very early or very late, anything closer to noon is possibly overcrowded.
38 recommandé par les habitants
Faragas Beach Bar
ΦάραγγαςAnother sandy beach that is packed with celebrities and anyone who enjoys the big crowd and excitement, its beach bar is famous for the incredibly versatile scene it attracts and is favoured by people who don't mind spending a bit for a dip. It's sandy and organised, but you can always just lay down with a towel and enjoy a drink from the bar. Friendly tip, either go very early or very late, anything closer to noon is possibly overcrowded.
A beach mostly favoured by locals for its relatively secluded nature, it has tamarisks for shade and its rock formations at the far end are lovely for sunbathing. The one single taverna that rests on top of it is also much lauded for its carefully crafted dishes, and its prices are nothing above ordinary.
Paralia Glifa
A beach mostly favoured by locals for its relatively secluded nature, it has tamarisks for shade and its rock formations at the far end are lovely for sunbathing. The one single taverna that rests on top of it is also much lauded for its carefully crafted dishes, and its prices are nothing above ordinary.
Partly organised with a restaurant-café-beach bar that dominates its right side, but more of a free-style sandy beach to a greater extent, Lolandonis is in fact reached on foot, and is a roughly 20 minute walk from the apartment. It's famously popular, usually filled with tourists and locals alike, but there's strangely always room for you to sit under the tamarisks, as long as that's not "too close" to the water, since it's hit by the occasional waves from a passing boat. Its waters are generally on the shallow end, but deepen when you swim further out. It's better you visit later in the afternoon, when most families have left, and the sun acquires a sweeter glow and washes over the waters.
10 recommandé par les habitants
Paralia Lolantonis
Partly organised with a restaurant-café-beach bar that dominates its right side, but more of a free-style sandy beach to a greater extent, Lolandonis is in fact reached on foot, and is a roughly 20 minute walk from the apartment. It's famously popular, usually filled with tourists and locals alike, but there's strangely always room for you to sit under the tamarisks, as long as that's not "too close" to the water, since it's hit by the occasional waves from a passing boat. Its waters are generally on the shallow end, but deepen when you swim further out. It's better you visit later in the afternoon, when most families have left, and the sun acquires a sweeter glow and washes over the waters.
A peculiar beach, a wide strip of sea sandwiched between two rocky cliffs, formerly used as a hiding place by pirate ships, is actually a very tricky spot to reach, but because of that it's more than often very sparcely frequented, which makes for a calm, secluded and very idyllic swim.
11 recommandé par les habitants
Tripiti beach
A peculiar beach, a wide strip of sea sandwiched between two rocky cliffs, formerly used as a hiding place by pirate ships, is actually a very tricky spot to reach, but because of that it's more than often very sparcely frequented, which makes for a calm, secluded and very idyllic swim.
Entertainment & Activities
With the ability to pick from a variety of routes, you can cross the thyme-perfumed island countryside on horseback, from the Byzantine trail to routes unreachable by car, it's an experience off the trodden path that's as charming as can be.
15 recommandé par les habitants
Paros Horse Riding Center - Thanasis Farm
With the ability to pick from a variety of routes, you can cross the thyme-perfumed island countryside on horseback, from the Byzantine trail to routes unreachable by car, it's an experience off the trodden path that's as charming as can be.
Organising daily trips around the islands that are not costly, and make for a lifetime experience. If you want to ask about their prices or their schedules, their site is in english and includes every detail you will need.
Captain Ben-Daily Cruises
Organising daily trips around the islands that are not costly, and make for a lifetime experience. If you want to ask about their prices or their schedules, their site is in english and includes every detail you will need.
From here, as well as Aliki, multiple boats sail for day cruises around the coves, inaccessible beaches and sea caves dotting the coasts of Paros and Antiparos. For fairly approachable prices, and usually with some form of lunch included, they are trully a must see for someone who isn't content with following the beaten track.
86 recommandé par les habitants
Piso Livadi
From here, as well as Aliki, multiple boats sail for day cruises around the coves, inaccessible beaches and sea caves dotting the coasts of Paros and Antiparos. For fairly approachable prices, and usually with some form of lunch included, they are trully a must see for someone who isn't content with following the beaten track.