The Top Things to See and Do on Paros, Greece

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

While Athens is the epicentre of Greece’s storied history, there’s plenty to see on the Greek islands as well. Panagia Ekatontapiliani on Paros is a Byzantine church that dates back to the fourth century and is one of the best-preserved Paleo-Christian monuments in Greece. Its name Ekatontapiliani means the Church with the Hundred Doors. While it only has 99 doors, according to legend, the final door will open when the church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is Orthodox again.

Lefkes is not only the most mountainous village on Paros but also the prettiest. Spend a morning here wandering the narrow, cobblestone streets, and take a peek at the view of neighbouring Naxos past the brightly coloured houses. When you’re starting to feel a bit peckish, stop by Lefkiano Restaurant in the centre of the village for traditional Greek fare like moussaka, fried squid and octopus salad.

If scenic vistas and remote beaches are your thing, be sure to carve out time to spend walking the trails of Paros Park. Plonked at the very tip of the island, there are three clearly mapped-out footpaths here (take the third for the best beaches). You’ll pass through wildflower meadows as well as historic monuments like the Cape Corakas Lighthouse, one of 120 stone lighthouses in Greece (you’ll need to follow route one for that).

A short 15-minute trip from Naoussa harbour, across Paros’ crystalline waters, will take you to Kolymbithres Beach. This secluded beach isn’t long and sandy, rather a quiet cove dotted with sunbeds. Swim out from here into the calm turquoise water. If you are still lingering close to sunset, head up to the Monastery of St John’s of Deti – its cobalt-blue roof and whitewashed walls make for a prime photo opportunity.

While there’s plenty of calm, wind-protected beaches to laze on on Paros, those looking for a fun activity on the island should head to New Golden Beach in the southeast to try their hand at windsurfing. Paros Windsurf Centre is the oldest windsurfing club on the island, and it’s been home to the Professional Windsurfing Association’s (PWA) World Cup since 1993 – so, you’re in good hands if you want to learn here.

Split across two levels, with a small terrace overlooking the port of Naoussa, Agosta is the place to be when night falls on Paros. With a cocktail in hand, grab a seat at one of the outside tables to marvel at the sunset before rubbing shoulders with locals at the buzzing bar. It’s open until 4am most nights, so you may just get to glimpse the sunrise from here as well.

No trip to Greece is complete without visiting its local stores, and the boutiques in Parikia are some of our favourites on the island. Visit Atelier 1935 for handmade sandals, Yria Ceramics for stoneware and Mina’s Closet for handmade clothes and accessories – you’ll want to leave room in your suitcase for the latter, as you’ll likely be tempted to buy the whole collection of fun and vibrant designs.

A holiday should be a chance to rest and recuperate, but, if you want to take your relaxation a step further, book in for one of the Tao’s Center retreats. A meditation and yoga oasis, Tao’s Center runs five-day workshops focussing on everything from breathwork to Buddhist teaching; there’s even a dance retreat, too. Take a few classes here, and you’ll feel brand new.