Parian marble is the fine-grained, semi-translucent white stone of Paros, prized above all others in antiquity for sculpture. Quarried at Marathi from the seventh century BC, it shaped masterpieces such as the Venus de Milo and made the island a great artistic centre. This guide covers what the marble is, its ancient quarries, the works … Read more
Panagia Ekatontapyliani in Parikia is one of the oldest and best-preserved Byzantine churches in Greece, known as the Church of 100 Doors. Founded in the fourth century and rebuilt under Justinian, it is the protector church of Paros and the heart of the island’s faith. This guide covers its history, the legend of the hundredth … Read more
The Paros villages range from the cosmopolitan harbour town of Naoussa and the bustling port capital of Parikia to the green mountain village of Lefkes and the quiet, car-free hamlet of Prodromos. Each offers a different side of the island, from nightlife to slow traditional life. This guide covers the best villages and towns and … Read more
A good Paros itinerary needs three full days to cover the towns, the best beaches and a wine or boat tour, with a fourth day for the island of Antiparos. Two days suit a quick taste, while four or more allow a slower pace and more island-hopping. This guide lays out day-by-day plans for 2, … Read more
Where to stay in Paros comes down to Parikia for value and transport links, Naoussa for style, dining and beaches, or quieter bases like Lefkes and Golden Beach for a slower or more active stay. The right area depends on your budget, your plans and whether you rent a car. This guide matches the island’s … Read more
Paros boat tours sail to Antiparos, the islet of Despotiko and the turquoise Blue Lagoon for swimming, snorkelling and a barbecue lunch, with full-day cruises, sunset sails and private charters to choose from. They reach coves and islets that no road serves. This guide covers the boat-trip options, what they include and how to book … Read more
Knowing how to get to Paros means choosing between the ferry from the Athens port of Piraeus in 2 to 5 hours, a fast boat from Mykonos, Santorini and the other Cyclades, or a 45-minute flight into Paros airport from Athens. The well-connected island has both a busy port and a small airport. This guide … Read more
Paros beaches span the sculpted rock pools of Kolymbithres, the windsurfing sands of Golden Beach, family-friendly Santa Maria and dozens of quiet coves around the island. The Cycladic island holds some of the finest sands in Greece, for swimmers, watersports and beach-bar days alike. This guide covers the best beaches and which to pick for … Read more