Top Things to Do in Paros – Beaches, Boat Trips & Hidden Gems

From golden beaches and boat tours to traditional villages, wineries, and sunset spots—this updated guide covers the very best of Paros.

1) Beach Hopping: From Famous Bays to Quiet Coves

Paros is a beach lover’s island. Start with the headliners, then mix in a few wild coves.

Kolymbithres: Sculpted granite rocks and natural pools—great for photos and snorkeling.
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti): Long sandy stretch, windsurfing hotspot.
Santa Maria: Organized beach clubs, watersports, social vibe.
Faragas: Turquoise water with a quiet-lux feel.
Marcello & Krios: Convenient to Parikia with calm water.
Lageri: Naturist-friendly, wild dunes; no facilities.

Tip: In July–August, the Meltemi winds can be strong—choose sheltered coves like Monastiri or Marcello on windy days.

2) Take a Boat Tour: Blue Lagoon & Antiparos

Classic Paros experience: a half-day or full-day cruise to swim in neon-blue water, snorkel sea caves, and relax on deck with lunch.

Departures from Naoussa and Piso Livadi.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hat, and a light layer for the breeze.

3) Explore Naoussa’s Venetian Harbor

Whitewashed lanes, fishing boats, chic bars, and seafood tavernas—Naoussa is Paros at its most romantic.

Golden hour photos by the small Venetian fortress.
Cocktails on the marina, dinner in a back-alley courtyard.

4) Walk the Old Town of Parikia

Beyond the ferry port lies a maze of lanes, bougainvillea, and artisan shops. Don’t miss the landmark church:

Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Church of 100 Doors) – one of the oldest and most important churches in the Cyclades.

5) Hike the Byzantine Trail to Lefkes

A cobbled path through olive groves and gentle hills connects traditional villages and viewpoints.

Lefkes: Stone houses, quiet squares, and mountain air.
Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; start early in summer.

6) Wine Tasting at a Local Winery

Paros PDO wines (Assyrtiko, Monemvasia) pair perfectly with seafood and sunsets. Book a tasting and learn about Cycladic viticulture.

7) Learn to Windsurf on Golden Beach

Consistent summer winds make Paros one of the top windsurfing spots in Greece. Lessons and rentals are available for all levels.

8) Sunset Spots: Where the Light is Best

Naoussa marina: Fishing boats and pastel skies.
Monastiri peninsula: Hike a little for wide-open views.
Parikia promenade: Easy, photogenic, family-friendly.

9) Eat Your Way Around the Island

From fresh-caught fish to local cheeses, Paros is a food island.

Must-try: Xinomyzithra cheese, grilled octopus, sundried mackerel, loukoumades, Paros wines.
Book popular spots in Naoussa in July–August.

10) Day on the Water: SUP, Kayak & Snorkeling

Paddle along rocky coves, spot fish in clear water, and find tiny beaches you can only reach from the sea.

11) Nightlife: From Beach Bars to Late-Night Clubs

For a lively night out, head to Naoussa (cocktail bars, DJs) or Punda (party beach). Parikia has relaxed budget bars.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Paros

Getting around: Rent a car or ATV for beach-hopping. Buses are good but not to every cove.
Sunbeds: Expect €15–€60 depending on the beach club.
Winds: Meltemi peaks in July–August—choose sheltered bays.
Boat taxis: Handy between Naoussa and Kolymbithres/Monastiri.
Safety: Beaches are generally calm; still mind currents and kids.

Suggested 2–3 Day Things-To-Do Plan

1: Parikia old town ➜ Kolymbithres swim ➜ Naoussa sunset & dinner.

2: Boat tour (Blue Lagoon + Antiparos) ➜ Evening in Piso Livadi.

3: Lefkes hike ➜ Golden Beach windsurf lesson ➜ Drinks at Santa Maria.

FAQ

What are the absolute must-do activities?

Kolymbithres + Naoussa harbor, a boat tour, and at least one sunset from Parikia or Monastiri.

Do I need to rent a car?

Not strictly, but it makes beach-hopping far easier. Buses reach major spots; taxis are limited.

Where can I find quieter beaches?

Try Lageri (wild), Tripiti (undeveloped), or go early to Faragas on calm days.

Is Paros good for families?

Yes—Monastiri, Marcello, and Aliki are calm and shallow.

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