Welcome to Paros Island

Welcome to Paros, one of the most loved islands in the Cyclades. The third-largest in the archipelago, Paros blends sandy beaches, beautiful architecture, and a lively local culture, with easy ferry and flight connections from Athens and the neighbouring islands. It's an ideal holiday spot for families and young travellers alike.

The beating heart of Paros is its capital, Parikia, on the western coast. Home to around 4,500 residents and to our main office, Parikia is a busy little hub. Wander through its narrow streets and you'll find ancient churches, small boutiques, and traditional Cycladic houses in white and blue.

Parikia draws visitors with its waterfront tavernas and cafes, where you can settle in for a taste of local cuisine and island life. The town's jewel is Panagia Ekatontapiliani, the Church of 100 Doors. Just outside Parikia you'll find other quiet retreats, including the Monastery of Logovarda, the Monastery of Agioi Anargyroi, and the Monastery of Jesus of the Forest.

In Parikia you'll also see grand neoclassical mansions that today house public offices. The town's landmarks include a well-preserved windmill by the port and a Venetian castle perched above the old quarter, built from the stones of even older temples.

Head to the north of the island and you reach Naousa, a charming harbour town full of Venetian architecture and a romantic atmosphere. By day a quiet fishing port, by night it turns into a lively hub of lounge bars, cafes, and seafood tavernas. While you're in the area, be sure to visit Lefkes, the former capital, set in the heart of Paros.

The south-eastern side of the island is home to the most popular beaches. Pounta Beach, with its all-day beach bars, is a favourite with the younger crowd. Families enjoy the calmer sandy stretches, while windsurfers head straight for Golden Beach and New Golden Beach, both world-famous for wind sports. The bay hosts both the annual Windsurfing World Cup and the Kiteboarding World Cup.

Paros is more than a summer getaway. It offers hiking, cycling, horse riding, water sports, tennis, and yoga, and its central position in the Cyclades makes it a great base for exploring other Greek islands, including the celebrity-loved Antiparos.

A complete Paros visit might include strolling through Parikia, stepping inside Panagia Ekatontapiliani, and soaking up the charm of Naousa. Discover the village of Lefkes, the small port of Piso Livadi, and Kolymbithres Beach. Visit the Butterfly Valley, unwind on Santa Maria Beach, and stop by the quiet villages of Aliki and Ambelas. Take the short ferry to Antiparos, plan a day trip to Naxos, try the watersports at Pounta or Golden Beach, and finish your day watching one of the island's unforgettable sunsets. Paros is a summer haven that promises a holiday you'll remember for years.