Heading to Greece? We share how to plan a trip to Paros and Antiparos, one of our favorite destinations in Greece.
Why Paros and Antiparos?
Paros and Antiparos are two iconic Greek islands in the Cyclades complex, alluring visitors with a profound sense of serenity, authenticity, and intimacy. Providing a magnetic mix of subtle luxury, idyllic natural landscapes, and sweeping views of the glistering Aegean Sea, you won’t be disappointed here. You can expect exquisite accommodation, dining, and entertainment scenes; they are both hidden gems and among the crown jewels in Greece’s tiara, especially for travelers in search of a destination that offers an all-around Greek island experience.
Below is a guide to help you navigate yourself around these fantastic dots on the map, which lie right next to their most famous siblings, Mykonos and Santorini!
Best places to visit in Paros
Parikia
Paros features breathtaking seaside towns, including Parikia, the largest town on the island, enchanting visitors with its Cycladic charm. Expect whitewashed architecture, narrow cobbled streets, charming cafes, and pink bougainvillea-lined alleys and balconies.
You may take your time and wander through the maze-like pedestrian-only roads, visit the Venetian-style castle of Kastro and its monumental walls, the archaeological museum, Panagia Ekatontapiliani church (aka the church with the hundred doors), and the beautiful harbor with the ravishing seascapes and cozy cafes.
Naoussa
Naoussa, on the other hand, is an exceptional alternative to bustling Parikia, with plenty of things to do, see, and experience. The adorable fishing village will allow you to dive into the local way of living, have fun with the locals and buy fish straight from the boats so you or your private chef can prepare a delicious meal back at the comfort of your luxury Paros villa.
In a nutshell, this is where you need to be to enjoy atmospheric bars, great gastronomy, and lively cafes sitting on a background full of picture-perfect whitewashed houses, a heart-stopping port, lots of Greek food tavernas, and Moraitis Winery, the only winery on the island with countless interesting stories to share with wine lovers per tasting!
Inland
Last but not least, inland Paros is a sight for sore eyes as well, especially Lefkes, its first capital. The tiny town will make you feel confused if you have visited the marble village in Naxos Island in the past. Both towns seem so identical!
Anyway, if you look at the slope of the mountains, expect an inviting change of scenery and, at the same time, a harmonious continuation of the Cyclades appeal that distinguishes the island’s beachfront areas. Chalky houses scattered on the hillsides, a literature house, and a folklore museum all play their part, contributing to unforgettable experiences.
Other things to do in Paros:
- Visit the Butterfly Valley.
- Pump up your adrenaline with water sports at Golden Beach, with relatively inexpensive rental prices. Also great for windsurfing, scuba diving, and water skiing facilities in Santa Maria Beach, which is also home to restaurants and beach bars with a cosmopolitan feel.
- Watch the sunset from Drios fishing village and soak in its unbeatable, tranquil surroundings while staying in a little room right on the beach for a few euros.
- Laze on Kolymbithres Beach and its massive centuries-old granite boulders are located into the sea. There is also a nice taverna serving home-cooked dishes.
- Have a day trip to Mykonos or Santorini and experience their incredible party vibes and romantic ambiance from up close. You may also sail the Small Cyclades islands, including Danousa and Koufonisia.
- Go shopping at boutiques, designer stores, and affordable Greek designer shops in Naoussa and Parikia.
- Attend a festival loaded with firework displays, feasts, dancing, and traditional music.
- Explore the island on a speedboat and reach secluded coves and remote shores that very few visitors get to see.
Where to eat in Paros
Some of the most popular places to dine and taste the local cuisine in Paros are Soso, Sigi Ihthios, Taverna Yiannoulis, and Siparos, all serving delicious seafood and Mediterranean dishes. Nevertheless, do feel free to explore the cobbled streets of Paros to discover hidden gastronomy treasures, street food canteens, and ouzeri places like Chalaris at Piso Livadi, says greeka.com.
Where to stay in Paros
Paros is characterized by an abundance of sleeping options, including high-end resorts, budget hotels, and comfortable apartments. There are some great luxury options like Saint Andrea Seaside Resort and Selina Paros, as well as 5-star Paros Agnanti Hotel and Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa, Fivos Apartments, and 3-star options like Iris Hotel.
A guide to Antiparos
Of course, one of the best things to do in Paros is to visit its smaller sister, Antiparos, an island so tiny that can be explored in full within a single day with no rush.
The regular ferry will take you there within around 10 minutes (there are ferries running every half an hour) and you will also have the opportunity to see Tom Hanks’ house as you admire the stunning scenery or blend with the friendly and welcoming locals.
While discovering the charms of Antiparos, you can certainly head to its shoreline and immerse in the crystalline waters of Glyfa, Agios Georgios, and Soros, two of the most popular beaches on the island with the jaw-dropping Antiparos Cave lying on the heart of the island (speleology lovers will probably fall head over heels for this one, as long as they are prepared to go up and down against 411 steps).
If you visit the southern coast, you will also be able to see all the way to uninhabited Despotiko island and its wonderful archaeological sites.
Lastly, the Greek tavernas at the waterfront of both islands offer delicious Greek cuisine, starring fresh seafood dishes and salads from local produce and herbs that grow in their sun-kissed lands.
Best things to do in Antiparos:
- Explore the beaches, including Saint George Beach and its shallow waters (great for kids), Faneromeni Beach (idyllic views, remote, with the unpaved road taking you there), Psaraki Beach (perfect for swimming, with tamarisk trees and crystal-clear waters), and Panagia Beach (natural shade from the trees and azure waters).
- Pamper yourself with a delicious and unique cocktail at Boogaloo Cocktail Bar, whose aesthetics compete with its utterly satisfying drinks.
- Gather around Sifneikos Gialos in the Antiparos settlement, near the castle and the square to watch the most romantic sunset views.
- Walk through the 15th-century Venetian Castle and enjoy an exciting time travel.
Where to stay in Antiparos?
If you wish to stay at Antiparos, the island offers several budget-friendly hotel options with air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, a garden view, fridge, and other tourist amenities. Kouros Village is a great mid-range option whilst Limani is great for those on a budget.
However, for those accustomed to more VIP and exclusive holidays, you can find several elegant mansions at Kinglikeconcierge.com with supreme amenities like private pool, garden, spa, and jacuzzi at, definitely worth checking out.
Best places to visit in Greece
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