Paros is known for its fertile valleys, magnificent beaches with crystal clear water and culinary traditions, it is a truly enchanting place. The capital Parikia and the village of Naoussa are the most visited places. Not far away is the little Antiparos, once united to the island. Here is a short itinerary to discover the island.


Parikia


It is the capital of the island. Its historic center is closed to traffic. Pedestrians walk along the small stalls, typical of the Cyclades. Market Street is the main street. Between Market Street and the seafront, the medieval Kastro district extends over a small block of granite rock where in ancient times there was a temple, while in the 12th century the Venetians built a fortress. At the highest point of the cliff is the chapel of Agios Kostantinos, unfortunately very neglected. The most interesting building in this area is a Venetian fortified tower in excellent condition. The walk to the Delion, known as the sanctuary of Apollo is fascinating. From here the view, on the islands of Delos, Mykonos and Naxos, is something special especially at sunset. This place was inspired by the island's poet, Archilochus, famous because he was the first European poet to write about love, wine , battle, and never about the gods. The Church of Ekatontachoni, known as the Church of the Hundred Gates is among the most beautiful in all of Greece. To the right of the main entrance we find the Yinaikonitis Gallery, which takes its name from the custom that women had to stay on the sidelines. Beautiful central motif in inlaid wood and marble, with holy images and icons. And the Archaeological Museum, of which, the most precious finds, are three sarcophagi in the shape of human beings and an amphora representing the judgment of Paris.


Beaches of Parikia


Livadia is 700 meters from the port, often very crowded. Marchello is calm and peaceful. Agios Fokas is a small sandy beach. Monastirisi located in a small rocky bay and is washed by crystal clear waters. It is also known for the mooring of yachts and its beach parties.


Naoussa


It is the most beautiful city on the island. In the past it was a small fishing town with a Venetian port, full of outdoor tables and restaurants. The maze of narrow streets surrounding the town full of shops and taverns is surprising. Not far from Noussa is the Longovardas Monastery. Nine monks live here and only men can enter. Not far away you can explore the ancient marble quarries used to build the tomb of Napoleon. The Agios Minas Monastery stands alone on a small plateau. Minas Damianos, a farmer, lives in the monastery. Idyllic is the small internal courtyard surrounded by cypress trees and embellished by a small fountain.


Beaches of Naoussa


Kolimbrithes is a beach of huge rocky boulders. Piperi is sand white and well-equipped. Santa Maria is a long coastal strip divided into many small sandy beaches overlooking the island of Naxos. Finally Ambelas, protected from the wind and uncrowded.


lnland


Continuing from the Agios Minas Monastery to the east, we arrive at the small village of Kostos. It is not very popular but has a very nice square and an excellent tavern, frequented almost exclusively by the locals. Continuing on, we arrive at Lefkes, the largest inland village. It is located on a slope and is surrounded by fields and a pine grove. The narrow streets do not allow cars to enter but only pedestrians and donkeys! Those who have time can take an excursion to Mount Profitis Ilias where the stunning panorama is guaranteed. Following the road you get to Prodromos, a small quiet village where the only shop is a small grocery store. A dirt road leads to the village of Marpissa, very quiet characterized by beautiful lanes and small houses.


The South East Coast


Pisso Livadi is one of the most important towns on the east coast. a small fishing village that lives only on tourism and therefore only in summer. Beautiful is The long pier is beautiful, with the taverns from where the beach of Logaras begins, with over 400 meters of sand and gravel in the shade of centuries-old tamarisks. South of the east coast you arrive at the seaside village of Drios. A village near the sea with running waters, ponds and a beautiful clean beach. On the port you can admire the ancient 'neosiki' (sculpted rocks where the ancient sailors placed their boats to protect them in case of rough seas). As well as a small port full of fishing boats, taverns and bars among the most original of the island. Do not miss the Molo beach, located near the village of Marmara. Nea Cryssi Akti is a long beach loved by surfers where, in the first days of August, the Professional Windsurf World Cup occurs. Chrissi Akti is called the Golden Coast for its long golden sand. While Glyfa Beach, not far from the village of Dryos, the ideal place to relax in almost complete solitude.


The South West Coast


In the southern part of the island, there is the village of Aliki where the typical Cycladic atmosphere is not lacking with its landscape charm with its golden beaches. Not far from here is the open-air Museum Benin Skiadas which exhibits, in the garden, miniature models of the major buildings of the archipelago and you can learn about the historical, material and spiritual elements common to all the Cyclades.


The West Coast


On the west coast of the island is the beach of Pounda, one of the most famous on the island and always very crowded, thanks to its endless parties and numerous restaurants and cafes. From here there are also ferries to the magnificent island of Antiparos. Not far from Pounda we arrive at the Valley of the Butterflies, a green oasis on the slope of the mountain, where vegetation is the master. Water flowing from a local spring all year round ensuring the pleasant humidity that characterizes the area. Thanks to its growing ivy, so appreciated during the period of butterfly mating. Continuing towards Parikia, we arrive at the Monastery of Christou Dassous, a place of pilgrimage. Here are the relics of Arsenios, the patron saint of the island, to whom miracles have been attributed. The nuns who reside there admit only visitors of the Orthodox religion. The most beautiful beaches are Faragas, not far from Aliki. Agia Irini, very small and close to Parikia. Parasporos, always quite crowded with beach bars that organize parties throughout the summer.

If you plan to spend your summer holidays in Paros, check out our luxury villas and exclusive services dedicated to our guests.


Share this on: