Cyclades2–3 nights

Paros

The authentic heart of the Cyclades

About Paros

Paros strikes the perfect balance between Cycladic beauty and authentic Greek island life. Less flashy than Mykonos and more accessible than Santorini, Paros has quietly become the favourite island of seasoned charterers who value genuine character over hype. The charming port town of Naoussa — with its Venetian harbour, excellent restaurants, and relaxed nightlife — is one of the most appealing towns in the Greek islands. Parikia, the capital, offers a magnificent 4th-century Byzantine church and a lively waterfront. The island's coastline is a succession of golden sand beaches, hidden coves, and reliable sailing winds that make it a hub for the Cyclades charter circuit.

Naoussa Harbour

Venetian-era fishing harbour turned chic dining destination. Waterfront tables, colourful boats, and a vibrant but unpretentious atmosphere.

Golden Beaches

Kolymbithres' sculpted granite boulders, Santa Maria's turquoise lagoon, and Marchello's long golden sand.

Panagia Ekatontapiliani

One of the most important Byzantine churches in Greece, dating to the 4th century, located in Parikia.

Antiparos Day Trip

A quick sail to the laid-back sister island with its famous cave, Tom Hanks sightings, and unspoiled beaches.

Best Time to Visit

June to September. Paros is a year-round island with good infrastructure, but summer offers the best beach and sailing conditions.

Recommended Yachts

Catamarans and sailing yachts are ideal for Paros — the island's reliable winds and protected bays make for excellent sailing. Motor yachts work well for those combining Paros with Mykonos.

Anchorages & Marinas

Where to moor your yacht at Paros

Naoussa Bay

port

Charming harbour with good holding in sand. Stern-to berths available in the inner harbour for smaller yachts.

Parikia Port

port

Main port with ferry traffic. Yacht berths on the north quay. Good provisioning and services.

Kolymbithres Bay

bay

Stunning anchorage among sculpted granite rock formations. Good holding, sheltered from the Meltemi.

Santa Maria Bay

bay

Beautiful turquoise bay on the northeast coast. Popular kitesurf spot with excellent beach tavernas.

Beaches

The best swimming spots at Paros

Kolymbithres

Yacht access

Unique beach with smooth granite boulders creating natural pools. Feels like a sculpture garden.

Santa Maria

Yacht access

Crystal-clear turquoise water in a protected bay. Excellent for swimming and water sports.

Marchello

Yacht access

Long stretch of golden sand near Parikia with shallow, warm water — ideal for families.

Monastiri

Yacht access

Secluded bay surrounded by cliffs, accessible by yacht. A peaceful swim stop.

Restaurants

Where to eat at Paros

Mario

Italian-Greek$$$

Naoussa institution serving handmade pasta and fresh seafood in a romantic harbour setting.

Siparos

Modern Greek$$$

Farm-to-table dining in Naoussa with creative dishes showcasing Parian produce.

Taverna Glafkos

Seafood$$

Authentic fisherman's taverna on the Naoussa waterfront. The catch of the day is always superb.

Levantis

Mediterranean$$$

Elegant courtyard restaurant in Parikia's old town. Asian-Mediterranean fusion with local ingredients.

Things to Do

The best experiences at Paros

Dinner in Naoussa harbour

gastronomy

Reserve a waterfront table at Mario or Moshonis and watch the fishing boats return as the sun sets over the Venetian fortress.

Sail to Antiparos

adventure

A 30-minute cruise to Paros's quieter sister island. Visit the impressive stalactite cave and swim at Soros beach.

Windsurf at Golden Beach

adventure

Paros hosts World Cup windsurfing events. Golden Beach and New Golden Beach offer reliable Meltemi-powered conditions.

Explore Lefkes village

culture

Drive or hike to this hilltop village in the island's interior — marble-paved streets, panoramic views, and zero tourists.

Visit the Butterfly Valley

adventure

In summer, thousands of Jersey Tiger moths gather in this lush valley — a unique natural phenomenon.

Insider Tip from Our Captains

Anchor at Kolymbithres for a morning swim among the granite sculptures, then motor around to Naoussa for lunch. This is the quintessential Paros day on a yacht.