Today it is typical of many Aegean villages with narrow cobbled streets and traditional whitewashed buildings as well as excellent examples of Venetian architecture. The best time to visit Paros is from May to October with busy months being July and August. Villa ByzantinoThis boutique hotel combines traditional whitewashed decor with modern features. Guests can enjoy comfortable beds and modern bathrooms. Around the bay are several beautiful sandy beaches that can be reached on foot, by cycle, by car or by boat. As tourist numbers have increased, so have hotels and apartment blocks. Chrissi Akti is a quiet, secluded area away from the crowds and nightlife in Parikia and Naoussa. Aliki is also home to 3 of the best beaches on the island: its namesake Aliki Beach, closest to the village; Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas) Beach, a pebbled beach to the north; and Piso Aliki, a small beach with some trees that provide natural shade. In the evenings the harbours bars and restaurants come alive offering local and international cuisine, and entertainment to suite all tastes. 15 Unique Things To Do in Paros, Greece - Paulina on the road Just after that there is a lane off to the left Agioy Arsenioy. Nonetheless, with its quaint harbour, traditional buildings, and narrow streets and alleys, Aliki retains much of its original character. The old town area remains largely traditional, with Market Street, (Lohagou Fokianou Street) being the principal shopping area. After Mykonos and Ios, Paros takes third place as a party island in the Cyclades. You will find it by heading south from Naoussa about 20 minutes into the center of the island. Sorry for a follow up questions but has anyone managed to hire a motorboat for the day without a skipper from eParikia? 700 m of golden sand stretch out, fringed by beautiful blue waters. As the capital and main port of Paros, Parikia offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions. There are a few beach bars on the front and around the harbour that supply drinks, snacks, sunbeds and parasols. Bright, colourful Cycladic villages criss-cross the island. To get an overall idea of Paros, check out this short video: Naoussa along with Parikia is the best overall area to stay in Paros for first-timers. Holy Trinitys white marble shimmers in the sun while the interior is equally spectacular. There is outdoor pool tennis court, and free car parking. Where to Stay in Paros: 9 Best Areas + 27 HOTELS (2023) For a change of scenery, the larger Logaras beach is a five-minute walk away, but amenities are fewer, and shade is via the tall salt-cedars that grow to the edge of the beach. I. t is certainly picturesque with the narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses with bougainvillea, and fishing boats contrasting with the lovely blue sea. Thanks so much for that explanation. Book ferries to Paros with Ferries in Greece Best hotel deals with Trivago $ Get the best tours and activities in Paros, Greece with GetYourGuide Rent a car at the best rates with DiscoverCars Never leave without travel insurance. All rooms are air-conditioned with flat-screen TVs and an ensuite bathroom. The 13th-century Frankish Castle was once the residence of the Venetian Governor. Accommodations are limited with a few guesthouses and small hotels. Nearby Drios provides the most choice of accommodation. Although not technically on Paros, Antiparos is a nearby island that is easily accessible by a short ferry ride. The same car costs from as little as 90 / $111 for one week in the low season month of November. The buses from Naoussa are mostly at the bottom of the table: https://polostoursparos.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/bus-timetable-13-9.pdf. I didn't think about the fact Paros would be possibly too windy though we will have to wing it then and just see how the weather is. Naoussa has a better beach close to town, and and there are baots which go to at least 3 beaches. Naoussa is only 20 minutes away, and Naoussa has its own bus routes in July, August and September. Naoussa is a better choice if you want more of a picturesque, upmarket, more lively in summer months July and August. Parikia, best area to stay in Paros without a car, 3. Galatis Beach Hotel facilities include a swimming pool, bar, family restaurant, and beach access. With the popular Chrisi Akti beach 4km south. It offers a tranquil and authentic Greek island experience. Most cruises include lunch and beverages in the ticket price. Its a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Guests can enjoy the lagoon-style swimming pool and pool bar, as well as a buffet breakfast every morning. If you are a family with small children, Aliki on the southwest coast of Paros is a place to look at closely. Venture out to a Venetian fortress Located opposite the harbor, the Venetian Castle of Naoussa (or Kastelli) was built in the 15th-century Somaripa dynasty of Venice to protect the town from pirate attacks. TheChurch of Saint Constantineis set at the highest point of the Kastro. Please see my responses to another post on staying in Naoussa or Parikia. Shops, bars and restaurants were built. They are the two largest towns on the island, where most of the action happens. Initially from researching I thought Parikia would be the best place to stay without a car, but now I am wondering if Naousa is, because of the locations of Monastiri beach, Paros Park and. Nearby Logaras Beach is also delightful with golden and sea pines. One of the most famous landmarks in Parikia is Panagia Ekatontapiliani (Our Lady of a Hundred Doors), which is the 4th-century Byzantine church, supposedly built by Constantine the Greats mother, Saint Helen, who was on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It has an organized beach with water sports schools, beach clubs, hotels, rooms to let, and restaurants. Also known as Paros Town or Hora, and built on the site of the original ancient city, Pairikia is still the capital of Paros Island today. After sunset, it livens up even more with some places staying open until dawn although the back streets are quieter. A stroll to the edge of town will present you a stunning view that reaches as far as Naxos Island. It takes about an hour each way. Today, the ruined fortress is half submerged and only accessible by a narrow stone walkway that gets splashed by waves, so be prepared to get wet! The modern rooms are decorated according to the Cycladic blue and white theme. And you cant miss the large iconic windmill at the entrance to the port. The frescoes, icons, and ceramics are part of the reason the Greek Ministry of Culture places such importance on it. Built in a semi-circle around its tiny fishing port, the village is one of picturesque whitewashed cottages, ablaze with bright blue window frames and doors; and colourful hanging baskets, window boxes, and potted plants. We are planning on booking a trip to Paros in early-mid September for one week, without hiring a (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you are looking for a quiet place where you can relax, Piso Livadi may be for you. There are 1,000 locals living permanently on Antiparos and nearby Saiagos. And has anyone managed to catch the bus from Parikia (or Naoussa) to Butterflies Valley? Planning Paros Without A Car 1 year ago Save Hi there We are planning on booking a trip to Paros in early-mid September for one week, without hiring a car. This 5-star accommodation offers high-end rooms with top-notch furnishings and amenities. I doubt you will get a reply if you try to contact them now. See how you could spend 7 days on the stunning island of Paros, Greece! As you would expect from a capital town, Parikia is the commercial and cultural hub of the island, and offers all the facilities and amenities you may need during your stay. The beach is not particularly large, 200 yards long, yet there are 2 beach clubs with music playing all day. If you are interested in Cyclades folklore, there is a Museum of Cycladic Folklore in the suburbs of Aliki. One route is the old Byzantine Road through the Prodromos Village down to the sea. Its best to stay in Parikia if you want good range of budget friendly accommodations, shops, and restaurants or you travel without a car and rely on public transport. This sandy beach is also a popular place for windsurfers but on windy days, not so ideal for lying on the beach. Kolombithres? Guests have access to a mini market, restaurant, and bakery within the property. But it's also a great place to stay. You will have many restaurants and shops around, great for a nice night out. Where to Stay in Paros. You could start your evening at a cocktail bar at Parikias waterfront, then make your way up to the top of the village, hopping from bar to bar or stepping into one of the many clubs. Santa Maria is a great choice for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation with easy access to water sports activities. Rent a Car in Paros & Car Rental Paros Port | Imperial budget ($): Matsas Windmill Located in the seaside resort of Naoussa, only a 2-minute walk from its bustling center and the Medieval Venetian harbor. It is so accessible and is located south of the capital, Parikia, on Paros west coast. Things to do in Paros Island - Greece Travel Ideas Naoussa - Where To Stay In Paros For First-Time Visitors Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the island, Naoussa is a charming harbor village with traditional Cycladic whitewashed houses. The shallow waters also make it a great spot for families with young children. Chrissy Akti is also a very clean beach, having been awarded the Blue Flag status by the European Union. Some days we went over to Antiparos and others by caique to Krios beach which was far nicer than the town beach in Parikia. The Old Port is the heart of the nightlife with many seafood restaurants, cocktail bars, and shops. Thank you both for your replies :) I had no idea Butterflies Valley could actually be walkable. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool and charming rooftop terrace with a bar, overlooking the Aegean. This luxury villa is equipped with everything you would ever need, including a full kitchen and dining room. From the village you can see the ruins of a once proud Venetian castle, offering an insight into how things used to be. You wont find any fancy resorts here or crowds of tourists. etc. Things to know before you get to Paros Now that weve given you an overview of the best areas around Paros island and fun things to do, you should have a pretty good starting point for planning your trip. MUST READ: Where to Stay in Yogyakarta (2023 Guide) - The Broke Backpacker This is the list of places we would like to go / things to do (maybe a fairly busy itinerary but we like it that way! The Helliniko Hotel in Paros is in a great location: a short walk from the port and city center of Paroikia, but in a more quiet spot close to the beach. Stay in Parikia or Naoussa for a great mix of walkability, dining, nightlife, shopping, and good beach access. It has become increasingly popular in recent years as tourists have spread throughout the island. Its perfect for families or groups of friends. This bar and club is located just down the hill from Marpissa village near Piso Livadi and has its own golden sand beach. Watch them land the fish before heading to Kastelli, the 15th-century Venetian castle ruins on the Old Port where you must have your camera. Antiparos is only 8 minutes by car ferry from Pounta and 30 minutes by ferry from Parikia. Best Hotels in Paros: Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa (Golden beach) | Saint Andrea Seaside Resort (Naoussa) Where to stay in Paros might depend on what type of holiday you are looking for Paros has many faces. Butterflies Nature Reserve is less than 1 km down from that. There is also a large campsite nearby popular with young backpackers, which can make the beach very busy during high season. Instead, letting its larger sisters bathe in the spotlight of popular package holidays. Have a look for the path and tracks on Google Maps. It offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to some of the busier areas on the island. Planning Paros Without A Car - Paros Forum - Tripadvisor Although the harbour can be busy with island ferries coming and going, the small sandy beach is shallow, safe for the youngsters, and equipped with the usual sunbeds and parasols. Here youll be able to take in the local charm, admire the painted buildings, and browse the boutique shops. Highlight attractions are the Antiparos cave, Despotiko island, and Antiparos town. Naoussa is more expensive than Parikia. Wherever you choose to stay in Paros, the chances are you will arrive either from the mainland, and land at Paross national airport, or by ferry from one of the other islands, and disembark at the Port of Parikia. Saint Andrea Seaside Resort is wonderfully positioned overlooking Naoussa Bay and Kolympithres Beach. Parikia, where to stay in Paros for sightseeing, 3. Stay in Aliki if This is a family holiday; You do not want to stay in a busy place; You want to get close to typical Greek village life. It is a unique 3.5 km marble-paved path over 1,000 years old. There are also many bars in the port area that stay open until the sun comes up. Stay in Piso Livadi if you want to experience the daily local life; You want a choice of beaches; Local Greek cuisine is important to you; You prefer a small resort. Piso Livadi is famous for its Greek cuisine, and you will eat well if you make it your base. Some 10km east of Parikia, the islands capital, lies the beautiful coastal village of Naoussa. Guests can enjoy a traditional Greek breakfast every morning, and beach chairs and umbrellas are provided. If youre looking for somewhere to let the world pass you by for a week, or that romantic break for two, limited hotel accommodation on the island is available. Buses and taxis drop off and pick up their fares, and the cafes and bars are kept busy with a steady stream of visitors looking for breakfast, lunch, or brunch. Towards the end of the beach, the tiny harbour of Drios protects the small fleet of fishing boats and private sail boats, with more local tavernas, seafood restaurants, mini-marts and eateries, to ensure you never go hungry or thirsty. There is also a regular bus service from the capital and other areas, including the airport. Aliki is known for its traditional architecture, picturesque windmill, and peaceful surroundings. Enjoy them today for the same cannot be guaranteed tomorrow. The rooms are fresh and modern, and the hosts, Flora and Angelo, are extremely welcoming, they will go above and beyond to make your stay unforgettable. Arguably, Santa Maria has the best beach on the whole of Paros. The best cheap car rental Paros has to offer will be in low season. 7 Days In PAROS, GREECE | A Travel Itinerary (without a car!) The best areas to stay in Paros for first-timers are Parikia, Naoussa, Lefkas, Piso Livadi, Parasporos Beach, Aliki, Antiparos, Golden Beach, and Santa Maria. This property is comprised of 126 rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and modern amenities. And has anyone managed to catch the bus from Parikia (or Naoussa) to Butterflies Valley? Located on the west coast, and three kilometres from Parikia, Parasporos is a long stretch of mainly sandy beach, with a backdrop of rugged hillsides and pine forests. But this also means that its the main thoroughfare for large crowds of tourists. To help you make your choice of where to stay in Paros, weve put together this list of 8 fabulous places to stay on the island. Close to Saint Andrea which has many dining and shopping options for guests to enjoy. Best Hotel in The East: POP Hotel Timoho. Take in the sunset on horsebackYou can go on an evening horse-riding trek through the hills surrounding Piso Livadi. On windy days they shut up shop and leave the boats anchored in the harbour, but otherwise there is usually someone sitting on the sandy corner of the harbour or at the small pier in front of the above hotels. There is also plenty to see and do around Piso Livadi, for instance, the church of Agios Georgios Thalassitis, built in the 14th century and home to the oldest frescoes on the island. If you enjoy a little exercise in the sunshine, the traditional villages of Marpissa, Marmara, and Prodromas are just a pleasant stroll away. Flora & Angelos StudiosThese stylish, self-catering apartments are conveniently located just 150 feet from the beach and 1,650 feet Chrissi Atki village center. The Windmill is one of the first things youll see on your arrival from the port and a great spot for viewing the sunset. Drios - The Best Beaches & Fish Tavernas on Paros. On the beach front, there are a couple of large tavernas to supply your drinks, snacks, sunbeds, and parasols, but you wont find any water-sport activities here. Best Places to Stay in Paros - Tips & Advice Which towns and beaches in Paros are best? In the evening, as you enjoy your meal under the stars on the terrace of a local restaurant, you will hear grasshoppers clicking, and the occasional shriek of a screech owl, as it hunts for food. And the lovely host, Katerina, will be able to tell you all the best local spots to explore. In Ambelas you will find rooms to let. Most taxi drivers are happy to agree on set fares for your ongoing business during your stay. You will amazing tavernas like Mario, Sigi Ikthios and Tsachpines. You will also find cocktail bars to satisfy tourist demand. With a bustling capital, rolling rural villages, white-washed charm Naoussa, and lack of crowds make this one that deserves to be on your Greek island hopping jaunt. The hotel also offers professional massage treatments. Situated on the northeastern coast of Paros, Santa Maria is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and natural beauty. 1 helpful vote Where to stay Apr 6, 2023, 7:42 AM Save Hi my husband and I (late 50s) will be travelling to Paros mid September for 3 full days and just wanting some help with where to stay , things to consider We wont have a car, can you get to most places on a bus Would like to be near a beach and restaurants, So, its the perfect spot for a leisurely getaway or a family-friendly vacation. Nestling in the centre of the archipelago, in the sparkling Aegean Sea, Paros is a hilly, volcanic island of scrub, cypress, and pine covered countryside. The village square near the port is its heart and you will find designer boutiques, other good shops, and a winery. Naoussa town center offers plenty of choices when it comes to accommodation, both in terms of price and style. mid-range ($$): Paros Palace Located close to shopping area and nightlife, this 4-star romantic hotel has a traditional style with white-washed walls, and cozy atmostphere. If you stay here, you will be located within walking distance to attractions, bars, restaurants, and shops. You can choose from a campsite on the north of the island, family run hotels, rooms and suites in shared villas, or luxurious beach front villas for the whole family. You can enjoy the colours, flowers like bougainvillea adding to the whitewashed houses and blue sea. Around the sand dunes there are cedars and other herbaceous plants. Guests can enjoy the patio, garden, and outdoor pool, there is also a restaurant nearby. If youre looking for somewhere to stay in Paros away from the beaches, as a base to explore the island, Lefkes village could be it. You can camp but there are other accommodation choices, beach huts, apartments, and villas. The campsite close to Parasporos Beach is just one of the reasons for its popularity. Colourful plants are everywhere, hanging from balconies, and outside doorways in all kinds of pots and tubs. Located just 350 feet from Piso Livadi Beach, Hotel Aloni has furnished patios and balconies overlooking the town and the Aegean sea. What is really interesting here, are the granite rocks, which have various abstract forms, sculptured by the sun, the air and the sea. Parikia is the first city you will visit in Paros, as it's the island's main port. The hotel will also arrange water sports on request. Piso Livadi, where to stay in Paros for families, 4. Its style is Byzantine, but the Byzantines did not build it. This will indicate it goes via Voutakos and it will not be on the main road by Butterflies Valley. 1. If you walk around 3 km toward inland, you will find a semi-mountainous picturesque settlement, called Agairia. However, if you want to explore the island and check out beaches along the coastline, here are the top 3 beaches around Paros: Note: If youre planning on visiting beaches on the north coast of the island, be aware that these are the windiest beaches. Updated: November 3, 2022 By Jerry R Where To Stay In Paros Quick Guide Where to Stay in Paros, Greece - Best Beaches, Towns, & Places to Stay If youre flighting out soon and still looking for the best hotel in Paros, below are the three best places to stay in Paros + best mid-range hotels: Parikia stay in port town for convenience Parikia has a good selection of accommodation for all budgets, from private apartments to hotels and sumptuous villas. Villa Blue SensesThis gorgeous villa is nestled in the hills above Aliki with amazing views of the sea and coastline. Which location do you think would be best? In all my 35 years staying in Paros, I have never felt it necessary to stay in Parikia unless we are taking an early morning boat to the likes of Sifnos. So much so, that Aliki has expanded to the borders of the next door village of Angeria. Aliki is another little Paros fishing village that is becoming increasingly popular with those wondering where to stay in Paros for their next holiday. It wasnt so many years ago, that the pretty little fishing village of Piso Livadi was just that. budget ($): Argonauta Hotel Located only 5 minutes walk from the port of Paros, this hotel has on-site restaurant that serve Greek cuisine. With 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, Villa Blue Senses can accommodate up to 10 people. In this blog, I will help you to find the best areas to stay in Paros for first-time visitors, without a car, for nightlife, families, the best beaches, and couples. Piso Livadi, where to stay in Paros for local vibe, 5. To the north of Parasporos, stands the a small sandy cove, called Delfini Bay. These, being very small boats, are suitable only for cruising near the shore, and in relatively calm winds. Do a Google search and you will find a couple on Paros, and also Antiparos Rent a Boat, which is located in the corner of the harbour near Artemis Hotel and Kouros Village apartments. Note it has to be a bus no 3 which does not have an asterisk after the time. Check out my virtual tour about the best places to stay in Paros in this video: Where is the best area to stay in Paros, Greece? Aliki is well-connected to the other towns on the island, so its the perfect place to base yourself, then explore all the sights. Other interesting places nearby are the Butterflies Natural Reserve which is seven kilometers to the southwest of Parikia and the Benetos Museum of Cycladic Folklore. If youre still looking for that illusive Greek island that continues to remain faithful to its cultural heritage in the 21st century, a stay in Paros, or its little sister Antiparos, is about as close as its going to get. When you get your first glimpse of Chrissi Akti, youll realise why its known locally as Golden Beach. You could also go on a coastal cruise around Paros island. Beaches are not that great when based in Parikia. In the village, you will find the main street of Ramnos, tourist shops, neoclassic buildings, the House of Literature, the Museum of Cycladic Folklore, and the square where locals meet and enjoy coffee. The most popular beach, in front of the village, is a narrow strip of soft sand. Where to Stay in Paros Greece: Area Guide - Haley Blackall Lefkes has a permanent population of around 500 residents. This church sits on a small hill and can be easily accessed from a staircase leading up from the harbor. In September this drops to 6 buses a day to and from Santa Maria and 4 to Kolimbithres. But in short, we are Mike & Laura. Parikia and Naoussa are only 20 minutes apart by bus, so its easy to stay in one and visit the other. Aloni HotelThis stunning hotel is a favorite amongst couples due to its romantic setting and stylish decor. Where To Stay on Paros, Greece in 2023 - The Ultimate Guide There are international flights direct to Santorini or Mykonos during several months of the year. The Professional Windsurfing World Cup has been held in New Golden Beach several times. 6 Unmissable Areas To Stay in Paros in 2023 - Travels With Missy During this time you could explore the main towns of Parikia and Naoussa, and allow yourself some beach time. luxury ($$$): Parilio, a Member of Design Hotels This 5-star hotel provides a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, airport transfers, a bar, a garden, and free wifi. All rooms are traditionally furnished with marble floors and include a fridge, TV, Wi-Fi, and ensuite bathroom. With the warm breeze that almost continuously blows down the coast, it is the most popular beach on the island with the wind-surfing community. So, if youre looking for a more authentic, laid-back Greek feel, read a little further down this post to find your perfect spot on Paros. Discover our collection of monthly rentals near Parikia. Santa Maria, where to stay in Paros off-the-beaten-path. In Paros, it is possible to rent boats to cruise the island's coasts. So, if youre traveling on a tighter budget, youll find better deals in Parikia, then you can always visit Naoussa on a day trip. Galatis Beach HotelSitting right on Aliki Beach, this seafront hotel is in an exceptional location. Tourism is important to their economies with fishing and farming local activities. Booking.com have the best selection of hotels in Paros. There are few better settings in the whole of the Aegean. There are also three beaches nearby such as Piperaki, Piperi, and Agii Anargyrii, good for swimming! Paros boasts numerous beaches, each with its unique charm. At the rear of the beach are hotels, apartments, and villas. Stay in Parasporos Beach if you want to party with others of your age, your budget means you need a choice of cheap accommodation, even a tent, you do not want to be in one of the larger resorts. Stay in Antiparos if you want somewhere quiet with pristine beaches; you have a passion for archaeology and Aegean history, your top priority is you do not mind traveling to get to your base.