January 23, 2025, 9:57 am | Read time: 11 minutes
Santorini has been attracting people from all over the world for years and is becoming increasingly popular. As a result, it is not just booking requests for package tours that are constantly on the rise; cruise ships also frequently stop at the popular port. However, if you want to experience the magic of the Aegean away from the hustle and bustle, you should take a look at the Greek island of Paros. The island, which is also part of the Cyclades, has many similarities, and not just at first glance. TRAVELBOOK presents the cheaper alternative to the famous island in Greece and shows that it is at least as beautiful here.
Santorini stands for the Greek Cyclades like no other island. Gleaming white houses, blue-domed roofs, and the breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea make it a place of longing for millions of travelers. However, the seemingly idyllic impressions shown on social media and in travel guides unfortunately often do not correspond to reality. Ironically, it is precisely these romanticized impressions that arouse people’s curiosity. Once you arrive on the island, you become part of the crowds. The disappointment can be great, as the large crowds mean that there is little sign of the tranquil idyll on site. How good that there is a real alternative: Paros. TRAVELBOOK presents the Greek island and offers tips.
Overview
Paros: A Real Alternative to Santorini
Located just 80 kilometers from Santorini, Paros is an island that rivals its beauty. At around 20 kilometers in length, the two are roughly the same size. Although the former hidden gem has developed into one of the most popular Cyclades islands in recent years, the number of travelers is still ridiculously low compared to Santorini. This means that the architecture so typical of the Cyclades can still be really enjoyed here. In addition to the blue and whitewashed villages, the island of Paros also impresses with its Greek charm and breathtaking beaches. The island appeals to both young and old, offering not only stunning landscapes but also a vibrant nightlife.
Our tip: The capital of the island is Parikia, and it is the ideal starting point for the trip.
Getting to Paros
Paros is small enough to be circumnavigated by car in about an hour. As road trips are particularly fun here, it’s a good thing that the island is best reached by ferry. Paros is well-connected to the ports of Athens, numerous Cyclades islands and Crete. There are also ferry connections to Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Crete, Andros, Amorgos, Milos, and Ios. Although the diversity of the landscape on Paros is best explored by car, this is by no means a must.
For those who prefer not to rent a car, public buses offer a convenient and cost-effective means of transportation. Another major advantage of Paros is that it has its own airport, which can be reached in less than six hours from Germany via the hubs of Athens and Thessaloniki. However, there are no direct flights from abroad, as the airport is only used for domestic flights. This is one of the reasons why the ferry is the preferred way to get to the island.
Our tip: We particularly recommend the connections from Athens, Mykonos, or Santorini.
The Most Beautiful Places on Paros
The Capital Parikia
Parikia is the charming capital of the island and stretches along a picturesque bay in the northwest of the island. Despite its central role on the island, the town has a manageable and therefore cozy character. The heart of Parikia is the enchanting old town, whose whitewashed alleyways are reminiscent of those on the island of Santorini.
The small streets wind through the center like a labyrinth, and there are many small boutiques, cafés, and taverns on every corner. Parikia is one of those charming towns where you can let yourself drift and get lost in order to discover new places. In addition to the lovingly decorated courtyards, there are also lots of arts and crafts to see and, in between, views of the sea.
Our tip: In addition to the Church of 100 Doors, Panagia Ekatontapiliani, and the Archaeological Museum, there is another place that should not be missed in Parikia. At the top of the town hill is the Castro. The best way to explore Parikia’s oldest quarter is from the waterfront alley, because from here, you can just let yourself drift along. Incidentally, the church of Agios Konstantinos, which is located at the highest point of the old town, offers the most beautiful view of the sea.
The Harbor Town of Naoussa
Naoussa is an enchanting harbor town in the north of Paros and exudes the charm of a typical Greek fishing village. As Naoussa is around 20 kilometers away from Parikia, both towns can be reached by car in just 20 minutes. Once you arrive in Naoussa, you will find picturesque alleyways with white and blue painted house facades. Naoussa can certainly keep up with Santorini!
The people in the village still live mainly from fishing. Perhaps this is one of the reasons why the atmosphere here seems particularly relaxed and is really something very special. The overcrowded Santorini can only dream of this. In addition to cafés and boutiques, the harbor town of Paros also has several art galleries. Naoussa is also particularly popular with young people, because, despite its tranquility, the former fishing village boasts a lively nightlife.
Our tip: Spend the day at Naoussa Beach. Afterward, a visit to the Historical Folklore Museum Othon Kaparis Collection and a detour to Faneromeni Church are well worthwhile. In the evening, you should definitely try the freshly caught fish in one of the taverns before heading out into the nightlife of Naoussa.
The Mountain Village of Lefkes
Lefkes is one of the largest and most charming villages in the interior of Paros. It sits majestically on a pine-covered hill on the slopes of Mount Agios Pantes. Given its location, it goes without saying that the view from up here is magnificent. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails around the village that lead through the beautiful landscape of Paros. But the village itself also has a lot to offer. In addition to family-run cafés and small stores, the church of Agia Triada is particularly worth a visit. A car is rather a hindrance in the small alleyways and is not necessary anyway. The village is best explored on foot, so you can safely park your car above the village.
Our tip: Take a walk or a short hike through the area around the village in the morning. In the afternoon, you can explore the alleyways and stores, before ending the day in one of Lefkes’ taverns in the evening, just in time for sunset.
The Village of Marpissa
The village of Marpissa is located on a low hill in the east of the Cycladic island. It is only 16 kilometers from Parikia and about 12 kilometers from Naoussa. Characteristics of Marpissa are the lovingly designed houses, which are strongly reminiscent of Santorini, not only because of their colors, but also because of the many flower pots full of blossoms. Marpissa is also one of the oldest villages on Paros. Many of the houses date back to the 10th century, and the village church was built in the 6th century. In addition to the typical cafés and taverns, the village has something very special to offer. Marpissa has the sculpture museum of Perantinos and an anthropological museum, which is located in the middle of the village square. This village is also surrounded by a beautiful landscape, which is crisscrossed by hiking trails. One of them leads high up to the summit of Monte Kefala. The monastery of Agios Antonios is also located here.
Our tip: Three cultural days take place in Marpissa in August. The entire village celebrates with folklore and music, and many events take place. If you’re on vacation in August, it’s worth finding out the exact dates in advance.
The Beaches of Paros
Golden Beach
Paros offers beautiful beaches and can easily keep up with Santorini in this respect. Whether wide and sandy, pebbly and narrow, lively or secluded—there is sure to be the right beach for everyone. Many of the beaches are surrounded by hotels, taverns, and cafés and are easily accessible by public transport from Parikia and Naoussa. The beaches on the East Coast are particularly well-known, including Golden Beach. It is located near the village of Marpissa and boasts soft, golden sand. The beach lives up to its name. Beach loungers and parasols can be hired on site for little money and there are also sanitary facilities, restaurants, and even a surf school.
Our tip: The beaches of New Golden Beach, Piso Livadi, and Logaras are just as popular and highly recommended. On the West Coast, Punta Beach also offers ideal surfing conditions.
Kolybithres Beach
Paros has truly developed into a paradise for water sports, and there are surfing, diving, and sailing schools on many of the beaches. Kolybithres Beach is a completely different story. Located in the north of Paros, relaxation and lazing around are the top priorities here. This beach can be reached from Naoussa in just a few minutes for around 10 euros. The water is crystal clear and laps against the rough rocks of the coast in gentle waves. It’s a great place to stay! Sun loungers and parasols can also be hired on this beach. However, if you can, you should consider bringing your own instead, as the prices here are relatively high. On the other hand, the beach has a nearby tavern from which you can enjoy a great view of the sea.
Our tip: If you’ve had enough of the rocks of Kolybithres Beach, there’s the soft sandy Molos Beach next door.
The Sights of Paros
Panagia Ekatondapiliani Monastery
Also known as the Church of a Hundred Doors, the Panagia Ekatondapiliani Monastery stands as one of Paros’ most significant landmarks. It is located very close to the island’s capital Parikia and is rich in history. The origins of the monastery date back to the 4th century. According to legend, it was founded by St. Helena. It is said that she made a stopover on Paros on her way to the Holy Land and promised the Virgin Mary that she would build a church here. In addition to the historical architecture, you can also see valuable icons and religious artifacts. The monastery is therefore not only a place of prayer, but also a place of art and history and is always worth a visit.
Our tip: The adjoining monastery courtyard with fragrant flowers and shady trees forms the heart of the monastery and invites you to pause for a moment and really enjoy the peace and quiet.
The Cuisine on Paros
One of the most important tips for Paros is, of course, the cuisine. The local delicacies are usually served in charming, family-run taverns. There is a high probability that you will also enjoy a sea view. Incidentally, some of the taverns at the harbor are actually old boathouses. Paros is particularly famous for its freshly caught fish. People here particularly like to eat grilled octopus or gouna, a sun-dried mackerel. You should definitely not miss out on either. Another island specialty is revithada. The stew consists mainly of chickpeas, and is prepared in a clay pot in the oven. The dishes are particularly delightful when paired with a glass of wine, a testament to Paros’ long-standing winemaking tradition. The island is renowned for its Monemvasia white wine. The island also produces spirits such as ouzo and tsipouro, which go perfectly with the hearty dishes. Loukoumades are the perfect dessert. These are small deep-fried balls of dough that are doused with honey and cinnamon.
Our tip: Thyme honey from the island of Paros is the perfect souvenir. It is particularly aromatic and is often used as a natural sweetener for food.
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The Best Time to Visit Paros
While Paros enjoys a tranquil atmosphere in the low season, the months from June to September are deemed the ideal time for a visit. This is because the summer months offer the best opportunities. The weather is reliably good, so in addition to long days on the beach, there is also the option of water sports or extensive hikes. In addition, many cultural events take place on Paros, especially in August, giving your vacation a very special touch.