Paros is more than an island — it’s the perfect base for exploring the heart of the Cyclades. Its central location means you can reach neighboring islands, secluded coves, and charming villages in under an hour. Whether you want beaches, history, food, or adventure, these are the best day trips from Paros — handpicked for all traveler types.
Why Paros Is Perfect for Day Trips
Paros sits at the center of the Cycladic island group, surrounded by small islands like Antiparos and Despotiko, and within easy reach of Naxos, Mykonos, and Delos. From Parikia or Naoussa, you can catch daily ferries, private tours, and water taxis to explore nearby gems — returning the same evening.
You can even stay car-free: most trips include boat transfers or guided transport, making it simple to see more of the Aegean without packing up your bags.
1. Antiparos – The Classic Short Escape
Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Paros, Antiparos is the island’s favorite mini-escape. It’s peaceful, authentic, and small enough to explore in a single day.
What to do:
- Wander the charming Antiparos Town, full of whitewashed alleys, boutiques, and cafés.
- Visit the Antiparos Cave, with ancient stalactites and inscriptions dating back thousands of years.
- Swim at Psaraliki Beach or Sifneiko Beach for soft sand and turquoise water.
- Enjoy lunch at Captain Pipinos Taverna by the sea.
How to get there:
Take the local ferry from Pounda Port (Paros) — departures every 30 minutes, €2–€3 per passenger, €7 with a car.
Tip: Bring flip-flops and swimwear; the best beaches are within walking distance from town.
2. Despotiko Island – Hidden Paradise by Boat
Just south of Antiparos, Despotiko is a small uninhabited island known for its crystal-clear waters and archaeological ruins. It’s one of the best boat day trips from Paros if you love remote beauty and history combined.
What to do:
- Explore the ancient sanctuary of Apollo, currently being excavated.
- Swim in the turquoise bay of Livadi Beach — often compared to the Caribbean.
- Snorkel over rocky reefs and enjoy a picnic on deck.
How to get there:
Join a boat tour from Antiparos or Paros (from Parikia or Naoussa). Most full-day trips include Despotiko, lunch, and several swim stops. Prices start around €60–€80 per person.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, water, and your camera — there are no shops or facilities on the island.
3. Naxos – Culture, Castles, and Wide Beaches
Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, is only 30–45 minutes away by ferry and makes a wonderful day trip for food, history, and sightseeing.
What to do:
- Walk through the Old Town (Chora) and climb to the Venetian Castle (Kastro).
- Visit the famous Portara, the marble gateway of an unfinished temple.
- Enjoy local specialties like Naxian cheese, potatoes, and citron liqueur.
- Relax on Agios Georgios Beach, right beside the port.
How to get there:
Daily ferries from Parikia or Naoussa to Naxos Town. Tickets cost around €20 each way. The trip takes 30–45 minutes depending on the operator (Blue Star Ferries or Seajets).
Tip: Catch an early ferry (around 8:00 a.m.) and return in the evening (around 18:00–19:00) to make the most of your day.
4. Delos & Mykonos – Ancient Ruins and Glamour Combined
For a mix of history and sparkle, take a Delos–Mykonos combo tour. You’ll visit the sacred archaeological site of Delos — a UNESCO World Heritage island — and then enjoy a few hours on Mykonos.
Delos:
Once the spiritual center of the ancient Aegean, Delos is now an open-air museum. You’ll walk among temples, mosaics, and marble statues, learning about Greek mythology.
Mykonos:
Afterward, the same boat usually stops at Mykonos Town for a few hours of free time. Enjoy lunch by Little Venice, wander its boutique alleys, or simply people-watch with a cocktail.
How to get there:
Book an organized cruise from Parikia or Naoussa — around €80–€100 per person (8-hour trip).
Tip: Wear good shoes for Delos — the terrain is rocky, and there’s little shade.
5. Paros Park – Nature, Trails, and Open-Air Cinema
You don’t even need to leave Paros for one of the island’s best day trips. Paros Park, on the northwest coast near Naoussa, is a protected nature reserve with walking trails, beaches, caves, and a lighthouse.
What to do:
- Hike the coastal trail to the Lighthouse of Ai Yiannis Detis.
- Swim at Monastiri Beach — calm, organized, and great for families.
- Visit the open-air cinema or catch a live concert at the amphitheater in summer.
- Explore the small museum and chapel near the entrance.
How to get there:
10 minutes by car or water taxi from Naoussa. Entry is free, parking available.
Tip: Bring sneakers for the trails and stay for the sunset — it’s spectacular from the cliffs.
6. Lefkes Village – A Glimpse of Traditional Paros
For an inland day trip, drive or take a local bus to Lefkes, the island’s most beautiful mountain village. Whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and traditional cafés make it perfect for a slow day of exploration.
What to do:
- Visit the Church of Agia Triada and admire its marble architecture.
- Walk part of the ancient Byzantine Trail through olive groves.
- Have lunch at Ramnos Café or Stratos Taverna with a panoramic view.
- Shop for handmade ceramics and local herbs.
How to get there:
25 minutes by car or bus from Parikia or Naoussa.
Tip: Combine Lefkes with a stop at Prodromos village for a beautiful half-day route.
7. Boat Tour Around Paros
If you’d rather let the wind guide you, take a full-day sailing tour around Paros. It’s one of the most popular ways to explore hidden beaches, sea caves, and small islets — many accessible only by boat.
Typical route: Parikia → Antiparos → Despotiko → Blue Lagoon → Faragas → return at sunset.
What’s included: Lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, and music on board.
Average cost: €90–€120 per person (depending on boat type).
Why it’s worth it: You’ll swim in places unreachable by car, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, and see the island from a new perspective.
Tip: Book in advance — small group tours fill up fast in July and August.
8. Golden Beach & Dryos – East Coast Adventure
For a more active day close to home, visit Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti) and the nearby village of Dryos on Paros’s east coast.
What to do:
- Try windsurfing or paddleboarding at Golden Beach — a world-class spot for beginners and pros.
- Have lunch by the sea at Blue Restaurant or The Beach Project.
- Walk along the coast to smaller coves for swimming and snorkeling.
How to get there:
30 minutes by car or scooter from Parikia, or bus from the main station.
Tip: Bring sandals — the sand gets hot in the afternoon!
Suggested Day Trip Itinerary (No Car Needed)
| Time | Activity | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 08:30 | Ferry to Antiparos | From Pounda Port |
| 10:00 | Explore town & beaches | Antiparos |
| 13:00 | Lunch by the sea | Captain Pipinos |
| 15:00 | Boat to Despotiko | Half-day swim & ruins |
| 18:30 | Return to Paros | Ferry or tour boat |
| 20:00 | Dinner & sunset drinks | Naoussa or Parikia |
A perfect day — island hopping, swimming, and great food — all within reach of Paros.
Best Day Trips by Traveler Type
| Traveler Type | Best Day Trip | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Couples | Antiparos or Paros Park | Romantic, scenic, easy to reach |
| Families | Lefkes or Golden Beach | Safe, relaxed, kid-friendly |
| Solo travelers | Naxos | Culture, walkable, ferry access |
| Adventure seekers | Despotiko Boat Tour | Remote beaches, snorkeling |
| History lovers | Delos & Mykonos | Archaeology and culture combined |
| Luxury seekers | Private sailing cruise | Comfort, food, and sunset views |
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Paros
✅ Book ahead during July–August for all ferries and tours.
✅ Bring cash — some smaller islands and boats don’t take cards.
✅ Pack lightly: Sunscreen, hat, towel, and water are essentials.
✅ Start early: Most tours begin between 8:00–9:00 a.m.
✅ Stay flexible: Winds (Meltemi) can affect sailing routes — operators usually offer alternatives.
✅ Combine short trips: Antiparos + Despotiko or Lefkes + Paros Park are easy same-day pairs.
FAQ – Best Day Trips from Paros
What islands can you visit from Paros?
Antiparos, Naxos, Mykonos, Delos, and Despotiko are the most common day trips.
Do I need to book ferries in advance?
For Antiparos, no — tickets are sold at the dock. For longer routes (Naxos, Mykonos), yes — book online or at the port.
Can I take my car to another island?
Yes, especially on the Paros–Antiparos ferry. For Naxos or Mykonos, it’s better to travel as a foot passenger.
Are there guided tours?
Yes — multiple operators in Parikia and Naoussa offer organized day tours, often including food and transport.
What’s the best budget day trip?
Antiparos — only €4 round trip and full of things to see.
Which day trip has the best swimming?
Despotiko or Paros Park for crystal-clear, calm water.
Which is best for families?
Golden Beach or Lefkes village — safe, easy, and relaxing.
Final Verdict
Thanks to its central position, Paros offers more day-trip options than almost any other Greek island. You can hop across the Aegean to ancient ruins, swim off uninhabited islets, or discover mountain villages — all within a few hours.
For quick escapes, Antiparos is unbeatable. For history, Delos and Naxos shine. For scenery, Despotiko and Paros Park deliver the island magic you came for.
Whichever direction you go, every route begins and ends with the calm, golden light that makes Paros unforgettable.
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