Tips for Paros

It used to be Mykonos and Santorini. Now Paros, is most touristic and cosmopolitan island of Greece. If it’s sea, sun and sand that are missing from your life, then this is the place to go on holidays. This island has it all.

Paros, the third biggest island in the Cyclades, is a real paradise for sea lovers. Blue crystal-clear water and sandy golden-like beaches make sure you leave this island with a heavy heart. For those coming by plane (30mins from Athens airport) or boat (5 hours from Piraeus harbor) the first village you see when you set foot on the island is Paroikia or Paros, the island’s capital.

Paroikia, the most developed and touristic resort offers all kinds of entertainment. The bars and clubs are particularly famous. The Paros Rock or Hard Rock, the Dubliners and Comma Clubs are three clubs merged into one where for 1000 Drs ($3) only, you can have the time of your life till the very early morning. And when it comes to partying hard nobody does it better than the Greeks!

Paros has long established its reputation as an island for young people full of energy and pizzazz. Clubs aside, Paroikia is full of picturesque tavernas and chic cafes. For the romantic type, there’s a cute little mill which has been decorated and turned into a café, from where you can enjoy one of the finest views of the Aegean Sea.

The ancient town is extremely scenic and this is the place to take your shopping to the next level. There’s something distinguishly elegant about the Cyclades and Paros could not be missing from all that. Shops of hand made articles, jewelry, touristic items, perfumes, decorating articles for the house, clothes, even comestibles can be found everywhere at a price which will sometimes surprise you.

There are not many archaeological sites in Paroikia and those you will see are half ruined.

When it comes to lodging, Paros caters for all pockets: luxurious hotels, rooms to let or even camping sites. Camping Koula comes first on the list of young people’s preferences. It’s not very large (500 places) but it’s rather cozy and owns a restaurant. But when all is said and done, the last thing you think of when you visit Paros is where to sleep, hence the many sleeping-bags you’ll see on the beach! The island is full of foreigners who come from all sorts of social backgrounds. Italians and Frenchmen seem to come on top of the list.

The second most touristic place in Paros is Naoussa, which gained most of its reputation thanks to the Amstel beer commercial. From there you can take the boat and visit Kolibithres, the most spectacular beach of the island with its famous giant rocks. It is smaller and more picturesque but adds its own touch to the whole touristic picture. While you are there, make sure you taste the great souvlakis and pita gyros.

Paros is really great when it comes to holidays. Be it the clear sea, the warm sun, the sandy beaches or the fresh Greek cuisine, this island sure knows how to make your holidays unforgettable.