Are you planning a trip solely for yourself, with Paros as your destination, and looking for things to do on your vacation?
The holidays on this beautiful island of the Cyclades promise many carefree moments, relaxation, and endless fun. The picturesque villages of Paros, such as Naoussa and Parikia, the cobblestone streets, the marble quarries, the Panagia Ekatontapyliani, the Valley of the
Butterflies, the stunning beaches with their azure waters, and the picturesque Antiparos await you to discover them.
Paros is a beautiful island suitable for all tastes, worth exploring from end to end. The guide below presents everything you can do in Paros and experience the ultimate dream.
Explore Parikia
Parikia, the capital of Paros, is the most commercial part of the island but is also a must-visit destination for entertainment and shopping.
The coastal part of Parikia is full of cafes and bars as well as restaurants where you can enjoy a unique sunset, with the sky displaying beautiful colors. The enchanting landscape is completed by the sight of ships coming and going in the harbor.
Indeed, Parikia is one of the oldest settlements, inhabited for thousands of years. The creation of the present settlement began in the 13th century, inside and around the castle built by the Venetian Duke of Naxos, Sanoudos.
The castle's purpose was to protect the harbor from pirates. If you walk behind the white houses of the castle, you will see the tower with architectural members from the 4th century BC embedded in it, while at the top, there is a section of the circular vault, dedicated to Hestia.
Explore Naoussa
Yet, one can stroll through the narrow streets of Naoussa for hours. This particular part of the island manages to combine everything.
Despite being a small picturesque village with traditional taverns serving local delicacies, you will also notice modern galleries and boutiques with elegant and sophisticated products.
Don't miss visiting the ruins of the Venetian castle located in the harbor, as well as the Folklore Museum. You will feel like you are in another era.
Enjoy clear and crystal waters at Kolymbithres
Kolymbithres is one of the most famous beaches in Paros. It is a series of sandy coves with granite rocks, which have taken peculiar and unique formations.
The clear and crystal waters not only invite you to spend your day there but at the same time compose a landscape similar to a Renaissance painting.
At this spot, you will also find a large number of taverns and beach bars, overlooking the islet of Agia Kali.
Visit the valley of the butterflies
In the southwestern part of Parikia, about 7 kilometers away, there is a private valley filled with trees and shrubs. During the summer months, it is filled with a huge number of butterflies, which seek refuge there.
The females leave in September to lay their eggs and then die. These butterflies belong to the species Panaxia quadripunctaria, the same species found in the Valley of the Butterflies in Rhodes. To enter, there is a ticket at the entrance, and there is also a small cafe for you to enjoy cold beverages.
Ascend to Lefkes
Lefkes is a small and picturesque village, situated at an altitude of 250 meters, built in the 16th century by Cretans and Peloponnesian refugees. Its streets are perfect for romantic and carefree strolls.
If you visit, you must enjoy traditional sweets and coffee at the traditional café in the square. You will feel the essence of a Greek summer.
Explore your talent in watersports
For several years now, Paros has been synonymous with watersports, with enthusiasts of surfing, kitesurfing, kiteboarding, jet skiing, and scuba diving visiting every year. If you want to try your hand at these sports, then you must visit the beaches of Chrissi Akti, Pounda, and Santa Maria.
If you are a beginner, there is no need to worry. On these beaches, you will find equipment and certified instructors who can give you the appropriate directions for each sport.
Pray at Panagia Ekatontapiliani
The temple of Panagia Ekatontapiliani in Parikia is one of the largest early Christian monuments in Greece. It was built in the 4th century BC, and during the Byzantine period, many changes and additions were made.
During your visit to the temple, you will notice various early Christian, Byzantine, and post-Byzantine elements.
Strip off at Lageri
Summer vacations on a Greek island mean relaxation and carefreeness. A lesser-known beach, Lageri, with its turquoise waters and golden sand, invites you to spend one of your vacation days there.
As it is unorganized, you will surely be able to enjoy moments of absolute tranquility. The best part? It's a beach loved by nudists. So why not take off your swimsuit and dive into the crystal-clear and refreshing waters of the Aegean?
Live like a star in Antiparos
Antiparos is a small island, just a 10-minute boat ride from the small port of Pounda. It is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious restaurants, and picturesque and cosmopolitan Chora. On this little island, you can enjoy what Paros offers but on a smaller scale.
It's no coincidence that it has become a favorite destination for celebrities like Tom Hanks.
There are many things you can do and see in Paros and endless experiences you can gain.
We recommend renting a car in Paros to have the opportunity to explore Naoussa, Parikia, visit the Valley of the Butterflies, enjoy your swim at beaches like Kolymbithres and Lageri, and of course, create beautiful memories with those you will spend your holidays with.