8 Best Things to Do on Paros, Greece

Heading to Paros this summer? Great choice! 

Paros might not have the same reputation as Santorini or Mykonos, but believe me when I say that there’s plenty to keep you busy here. This Cycladic island has the whitewashed villages and bright blue water you’re no doubt dreaming of, as well as fun activities like cooking classes and boat trips to some of the tiny neighboring islands. 

So whether you’re heading straight to Paros or are stopping here as part of a larger island-hopping trip, I’ve rounded up the eight experiences you won’t want to miss. Let’s get into it!

Paros at a Glance

Paros is a beautiful Greek island in the Cyclades, and I think it makes a great alternative to Santorini or Mykonos if you don’t want to contend with the summer crowds. I recommend spending at least three days here, preferably in June or September when the weather is warm but the island isn’t quite so busy. 

As for where to base yourself, Naoussa is my top choice because it’s got a pretty harbor and tons of great restaurants. This is where I stayed, and I loved it! 

You can get to Paros by ferry from Athens or other Greek islands, or take a short flight from Athens. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore, but there are also local buses and plenty of guided tours if you don’t fancy driving. 

How I Would Spend 3 Days on Paros

🏛️ Day 1: Private Island Tour, Parikia Old Town & Waterfront Dinner
Kick off your trip with a private island tour, then explore Parikia’s historic Old Town before enjoying a delicious dinner by the waterfront.

⛵ Day 2: Island-Hopping Cruise, Alyki & Cocktails in Parikia
Go island-hopping on my FAVORITE half-day boat cruise, spend some time exploring Alyki, and finish the day with burgers and cocktails in Parikia.

👩‍🍳 Day 3: Greek Cooking Class, Livadia Beach & Sunset Dinner
Learn to prepare a Greek feast at this fantastic cooking class, relax on Livadia Beach, and wrap up your trip with a sunset dinner overlooking the Aegean.

Things to Do on Paros

1. Prepare a Greek feast with a local host

One of my favorite things about Greece is the food. In fact, I would have happily spent my entire trip just eating my way through the local tavernas, but I figured that at some point it was time to roll up my sleeves and learn to cook some of these delicious dishes myself! 

This Greek cooking class takes place at a cooking school near Drios, where local cooks taught me how to prepare a traditional Greek meal from scratch. And this wasn’t just one of those demonstrations where you sit and watch someone else do most of the work – I was able to get stuck in and help prepare the food. 

I ended up making spanakopita (spinach pie), dolmas, and fresh fish, then we finished up with baklava. The menu varies, so you might not end up making the exact same dishes that I did, but I think you’re in very good hands here because the chefs are so friendly and such great teachers! 

Once everything was ready, we all sat down as a group to enjoy our feast and wash it down with some local wine. Best of all, we got to do some traditional Greek dancing afterward, which was SO much fun and the perfect way to finish the experience. 

I also got a booklet of recipes to take home with me, and you’d better believe that I’ve been recreating my favorites in my kitchen back home! Truly, this class is the gift that keeps on giving.

2. Spend half a day cruising around three incredible islands

Of all the things to do on Paros, getting out on the water is a real must! This half-day cruise is my top pick because you get to explore three different islands, with plenty of time for swimming along the way. I had the absolute BEST time – in fact, this was my favorite thing I did here!  

The boat leaves from Alyki, a small fishing village on the south coast of Paros, and heads towards Antiparos and Despotiko. You’ll need to get yourself there with either a rental car or a taxi, but trust me, it’s so worth it. 

One of the highlights is Panteronisi, which is nicknamed the Blue Lagoon because the water is such an incredible shade of turquoise. It looks like somewhere you’d expect to find in the Caribbean!

We also got to see the sea caves around Antiparos and visit Despotiko, a largely uninhabited island with some fascinating ancient history. But my favorite part was definitely that there were multiple swimming stops along the way. I loved jumping in and cooling off in that gorgeous, clear water. The crew even provided us with snorkeling gear so that we could explore underwater.

We got to enjoy a light lunch on board, and the local wine and beer flowed! It was an absolutely perfect way to spend a morning in Greece, and I really felt like I got a lot for the price, too. And I’m not the only one who loved it, because you can read hundreds of 5-star reviews here! 

3. See Paros at your own pace on a private island drive

There’s more to Paros than beaches, and I actually think that it’s well worth getting away from the coast for a few hours! The island has some gorgeous little villages, but reaching them isn’t always easy if you haven’t rented a car.

That’s where this private island tour comes in! You’ll have a local driver and an air-conditioned vehicle for around four hours, so you can see more of Paros without having to navigate the roads yourself. Sounds pretty good to me!

Because it’s a private tour, you’re not stuck following a big group around. You can tailor the route to what you’d actually like to see, whether that’s exploring Lefkes or spending some time around the harbor in Naoussa. I WAY prefer intimate experiences like that to being herded around on a big bus tour. 

One of the nicest things about having a local driver is being able to ask for recommendations, including viewpoints or quieter corners of the island you might otherwise miss. They can also point you to the very best local restaurants, which is a huge win.

I think this is a particularly good option if you’re only on Paros for a few days and want to explore beyond the main towns without hiring a car. You’ll still get the freedom of a road trip, just without being the one behind the wheel!

4. Walk the ancient Byzantine Road from Lefkes

Fancy stretching your legs between all those beach days and Greek feasts? The Byzantine Road is one of the most interesting walks on Paros, and it won’t cost you a cent!

This ancient pathway connects the hillside villages of Lefkes and Prodromos, winding through approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) of beautiful countryside. And what makes the route special is actually the path itself! Parts of the route are still paved with original Parian marble, which dates back roughly a thousand years. 

I loved this walk so much! Along the way, I went past olive groves and plenty of traditional farmland, and I really liked the views of the surrounding hills. And I was lucky enough to get a clear day, so I could see across the sea towards Naxos, another of my favorite Greek islands! 

I recommend starting in Lefkes because most of the walk is downhill toward Prodromos. It takes around 45 minutes, perhaps a little longer if you want to stop for photos. And once I got to Prodromos, you’d better believe that I rewarded myself with a coffee in one of the village’s traditional cafes. 

The main thing to remember is that sections of the path have very little shade, so it’s a good idea to start out early and apply plenty of sunscreen. The marble can be slippery, too, so wear shoes with good grip. I took a taxi back to my hotel after I finished the walk, but you could always walk back if you don’t mind the uphill! 

5. Spend the day exploring aboard a luxury catamaran

I loved the half-day cruise that I did, but if you want to spend a full day at sea, then book this luxury catamaran experience instead! It’s definitely more of a splurge, but sometimes that’s exactly what a Greek island vacation calls for!

You’ll spend around nine hours cruising around Paros and neighboring Antiparos. Along the way, you’ll stop at beautiful bays and sea caves, and visit some prime swimming spots that you can only get to by boat. 

And because the catamaran accommodates a maximum of 12 guests, it’s a much more intimate experience than many larger sightseeing cruises. This way, you can really get to know your fellow passengers, and the beer and wine flow, which definitely helps with bonding! 

I also really love the fact that beach towels are included because I always seem to forget my beach towel (or leave it on the boat at the end of the day). It’s just one less thing to think about, and you get snorkeling equipment, too. 

For me, the biggest appeal of a full-day cruise is that you have so much more time to relax and enjoy being out on the water. You can spend hours swimming in the gorgeous turquoise sea, and you’ll get to enjoy a freshly prepared Greek lunch on board, which is always a highlight of these trips! There’s something so special about seeing the Greek islands from the water, and spending a whole day sailing around them sounds pretty close to paradise. 

6. Cool off at one of Paros’ most unusual beaches

Paros has no shortage of beautiful beaches, but Kolymbithres is unlike anywhere else on the island! Located in Naoussa Bay, this beach is famous for its enormous granite boulders. They’re very smooth, as they’ve been shaped by wind and water over thousands of years.

Instead of one continuous stretch of sand, the rocks divide the coastline into a series of little coves. Some of them almost look like natural swimming pools, and the clear, shallow water is ideal for cooling off on a hot day! 

And even if you don’t want to swim, this is also an incredibly photogenic spot. The rock formations make for amazing pictures! Just remember to bring water shoes if you plan to scramble around, as the granite is slippery and uneven. 

There’s no entrance fee for this beach, but you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas if you like. Kolymbithres is only about a 10- to 15-minute drive from Naoussa, and during summer, you can often catch a small passenger boat across the bay instead. This would actually be my preferred way to visit – why not roll up in style?

7. Paint your own Paros-inspired masterpiece

Not every day on Paros has to revolve around the beach (although I certainly wouldn’t complain if it did!). If you fancy doing something a bit different, this watercolor painting workshop is such a fun idea.

The workshop takes place in a garden in Parikia, where local artist Cecelia will teach you how to create your own Greek-inspired painting. And don’t worry if you’re not especially artistic. It’s designed for beginners, so you don’t need any experience whatsoever!

You’ll start by learning some basic watercolor techniques before having a go at painting your own masterpiece. Paros is full of beautiful scenery to inspire you, from its whitewashed buildings to those gorgeous blue doors that you see all over the Cyclades.

Another thing I like about this workshop is that it’s limited to just six people. This means you’ll get plenty of attention from Cecelia, and you can chat with the other participants as you paint. It sounds like a really relaxing way to spend an afternoon!

All of the materials are provided, and you’ll get to take your finished painting home with you. Personally, I think that’s a much better souvenir than another fridge magnet! The workshop only lasts around 75 minutes, so you’ll still have plenty of time to explore Parikia afterward. In fact, I’d probably head straight for a waterfront taverna to celebrate my artistic achievements with a glass of Greek wine!

Related Read: Why stop at Paros? My ultimate 2-week Greece itinerary takes you through even more amazing destinations, with plenty of unforgettable experiences along the way!

8. Visit the traditional villages of inland Paros

It’s easy to get distracted by the coastline on Paros, but don’t forget to take some time to explore the traditional villages inland. I would recommend making Lefkes a priority, as this beautiful hillside settlement was once the island’s capital. It’s full of history, and I loved seeing all its whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea. 

One landmark worth seeking out is the Church of Agia Triada, which was built using local Parian marble. And because Lefkes sits high in the hills, you’ll also get amazing views over the surrounding countryside from here! 

But don’t stop at Lefkes! If you’re renting a car, it’s easy to combine your visit with one of the smaller villages nearby. I loved Prodromos, which you can also combine with a walk along the Byzantine Road. As I explored, I felt like I had stepped right into a Greek postcard. 

It’s also worth heading to Marpissa, where you’ll find lots of traditional windmills and classic domed churches. It feels quintessentially Cycladic, and I highly recommend stopping at Vera Loukoumas for coffee and a sweet treat. Their Dubai chocolate loukoumades are absolutely unreal! 

Exploring all three villages is completely free, and it takes around half a day to tick them all off. It’s the perfect chance to experience a quieter and more traditional side of Paros, and explore at your own pace.

Related Read: Planning to explore more of Greece? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Greece for even more incredible experiences, must-visit destinations, and travel inspiration!

Where to Stay on Paros

Naoussa is my favorite area to stay on Paros! This charming fishing village is packed with gorgeous waterfront restaurants, lively bars, and boutique shops, plus you’ll have beautiful beaches nearby. Staying here means you can easily explore on foot and enjoy the atmosphere without needing to drive everywhere!

To help you find the perfect spot, I’ve rounded up my top three hotel picks in Naoussa for different budgets.

Katerina Mare – $$$

If you’re looking for somewhere special to stay in Naoussa, Katerina Mare would be my top pick! This beautiful boutique property has everything I love about the Greek islands, with whitewashed buildings and traditional Cycladic architecture—oh, and gorgeous views over the Aegean Sea! It’s also just 100 meters (328 feet) from Piperi Beach and 200 meters (656 feet) from Naoussa’s central square, so the location is unbeatable. 

The accommodation ranges from cozy studios to spacious apartments with kitchenettes, and the private sea-view balconies are a big selling point. I can think of few better ways to end the day than watching the sunset over the water with a glass of wine! If you’re after a more intimate stay with plenty of character, I think Katerina Mare is a fantastic choice. Rooms can start from around €200 per night during peak season. Read the rave reviews and book Katerina Mare here!

Paliomylos Spa Hotel – $$

Paliomylos Spa Hotel is my favorite stay in Naoussa, especially if you want somewhere with a pool and a little extra luxury! This beautiful hotel overlooks Naoussa Bay and has a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool with sea views. It’s also just a minute’s walk from Piperi Beach, so you can easily switch between relaxing by the pool and swimming in the Aegean.

The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly decorated, with private balconies and kitchen facilities. Some of the more luxurious suites even have their own outdoor hot tubs, which would be amazing for a romantic getaway!

And although the hotel feels peaceful, Naoussa’s restaurants and bars are only around a 10-minute walk away. For me, that’s a pretty great combination! Rooms can start from around €180 per night during the busy summer season. Read the fantastic reviews and book Paliomylos Spa Hotel here!

Zoumis Residence – $

I love Zoumis Residence because it’s affordable AND it offers plenty of modern comforts, including a pool, jacuzzi, and a complimentary hot breakfast. What a find! This charming property is just a short walk from Agioi Anargyroi Beach and has a lovely outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers, plus a poolside bar.

I think it’s a great choice for couples and families who want somewhere comfortable without paying Naoussa’s higher hotel prices. Best of all, Naoussa’s center is only around a 10-minute walk away, so you can still enjoy all those gorgeous waterfront restaurants and cocktail bars without needing to drive. But if you do decide to rent a car, there’s free parking – win! 

Rooms start from around €150 per night, but prices can rise as summer approaches, so lock in your stay quickly. Check availability and book Zoumis Residence here!

Want more options? Check out more top-rated Paros hotels here!

Related Read: Still deciding where to base yourself? Check out my complete guide to the best areas and places to stay on Paros for tips on finding your perfect spot!

Thanks for reading!

Paros really knows how to make you fall in love with Greek island life! Between swimming in ridiculously blue water, wandering through postcard-perfect villages, and eating more Greek food than I care to admit, I loved every minute of my time here. I hope this guide has inspired you to discover just how special Paros is for yourself.

And if you’re planning to explore more of Greece, be sure to check out my other Greece travel blogs! I’ve got plenty of tips, incredible destinations, and unforgettable experiences to help you plan your next adventure. I’ve also included a few of my favorite guides below to keep those travel dreams going!

5 Best Acropolis Tours in Athens, Greece

14 BEST Things to do in Naxos, Greece

15 BEST Things to Do in Santorini, Greece