Paros trips and vacations

Legend has it Saint Helene was brought to Paros by storm on her journey toward the Holy Land. She eventually returned to give thanks by building the Church of One Hundred Doors in Parikia. Add a tour of the 4th-century church to your Paros holiday itinerary to see if there really are 100 doors at this intriguing landmark.

Greeks have been taking the marble-paved Byzantine Road since AD 1000. Make your way from the village of Lefkes downhill to coastal Prodromos, enjoying elevated views over Naxos while passing olive groves, vineyards and fragrant oregano. The route isn't considered difficult but come prepared as you’ll find little shade from the baking sun.

An island-hopping adventure is still possible during your Paros vacation if you’re tight on time. Antiparos is just minutes away by ferry, and its main draw is the Cave of Antiparos. The only vertical cave in Europe, it’s home to the continent’s oldest stalactite, estimated to be 45 million years old. The mouth of the cave offers idyllic views of the Aegean.

As the island’s capital and primary port, Parikia makes a convenient stop if you’re exploring the wider Cyclades. Visit the Venetian castle before exploring the lanes of the old town, finishing your day with a cocktail overlooking the sea. If you're looking to save money on your trip to Paros, Parikia is where you'll find a variety of budget-friendly hotels.

Good for: Economy hotels, bars, castle

Picture-perfect Naoussa is the village Grecian dreams are made of. There are no better sounds and sights come sunset than the clinking of cutlery and fishing boats bobbing harborside. Don’t miss nearby Monastiri Beach, which is overlooked by the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Detis and offers some of the best views on the island.

Good for: Tavernas, beach, views

If you’re here for sun, sea and sand, consider basing your holiday to Paros in Golden Beach. Paros is a windswept island made for watersports and Golden Beach is a prime spot to hit the waves. The Blue Flag beach is the biggest on Paros, with plenty of kitesurf and windsurf schools ready to show you the ropes.

Good for: Spacious beach, water sports

Look for seafood prepared using the ‘gouna’ technique in Naoussa. This sun-drying method is used by fishermen to preserve the catch through hot days. Once a fatty fish like skipjack or mackerel is caught, it’s dried in the heat of the sun and remains juicy come nightfall. Wash it down with Greek favorite ‘souma,’ a post-dinner drink made of figs.

The granite rock at Kolymbithres Beach forms a natural sculpture garden and the most unique backdrop on Paros. Punda Beach is the place to see and be seen, while a mixture of sand and clay makes Kalogeros Beach a free alternative to a day at the spa. Be aware that across the island sunbeds are expensive to rent.

Naoussa’s seaside hums with activity come nightfall, allowing you to move seamlessly from taverna to bar once you’ve eaten as much ‘meze’ (small savory dishes) as you can manage. Another option is taking a boat to nearby Antiparos. Be sure not to miss the last boat home, though it may just be worth it for that Greek sunrise.

Head to Market Street in Parikia for souvenirs such as Paros honey to drizzle over your Greek-style yogurt and fresh fruit back home. Pick up a bottle of ‘souma,’ the Greek post-dinner drink of choice. And sample the ‘haloumi’ — the salty-tasting cheese is better here than anywhere outside of Greece.

The Museum of Cycladic Folklore is a labor of love of fisherman Benetos Skiadas. His miniature ships and buildings provide a snapshot of Cycladic life throughout the ages. The museum aims to highlight the local trades at risk of being lost (including fishing) in hopes that younger generations will continue these Cycladic traditions.

Kids will love exploring the trails of Paros Park in search of hidden caves and coves, along with the historic monastery, gun battery and lighthouse that dot the landscape. The Greek heat can be fierce, so stick to mornings and late afternoons during summer, and be sure to bring plenty of water.