Paros (Πάρος) is a major island of the Cyclades group. It is one of the most popular holiday destinations for visitors to the Greek islands. Paros is considered as one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades. It is characterized by the many beaches and also the charming villages: Parikia (the main town), Naoussa, Lefkes, Marpissa and other.
Paros is the second largest island of the Cyclades. It has an area of 196 km² and a coastline 120 km long. It is in the middle of the Cyclades near Naxos, Ios, Sifnos and Syros. Most of the ferries to Naxos and Santorini make a stop first at Paros. The island is the third in popularity of the group. First are Santorini and Mykonos. Naoussa is an old fishing village turned into a cosmopolitan top holiday destination. The village is characterized by its Venetian port and its many fish restaurants. The architecture of the area is also incredible.
Within the resorts walking is the best method of transport. Bus services operate between the towns. Car hire is readily available in all towns and is relatively cheap, but you will want to reserve automatic vehicles in advance. Like the rest of Greece, driving is manageable but best suited for those who are experienced drivers. There are also small scooters, bikes, and ATVs (quads) that can be rented and are easily maneuverable if you need to get through some of the small streets. See the “Stay Safe” section below for scams related to rental agencies.
Don't miss the church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, which means The Church of 100 Doors, in Parikia. Naousa (Greek: Νάουσα) is a village in the north eastern corner of the island. There are beautiful beaches and in front of the port unique Venetian castle of the 15th century is situated, built during the dynasty of Sommaripa. As it is half-sunken beneath the surface of the sea remains a remarkable sight. Lefkes village is in the middle of the island with many nice tavernas, and beautiful alleys. From Lefkes you can take a very nice walk at the old stones of the Byzantine Route down to Prodromos.
Paros is also famous for its watersports, specifically wind and kitesurfing. The eastern coastal town of Dryos with neighboring beaches of "chryssi akti" translated golden beach and "tserdakia" known as new golden beach are the most popular surfing destinations. The latter was the site of the 2000, 2003 and 2010 PWA IFCA international windsurfing championships as well as other international events. A fantastic place to take the kids is Aqua Park. Boats leave hourly from Naoussa and takes approximately 15 minutes. Tao's is a retreat and meditation centre on top of a hill, overlooking the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands.
In Parikia's seafront you will find many nice tavernas with excellent food, exactly behind in the old town wander along the narrow streets with the many kinds of shops, and the unique Cycladic atmosphere. Don't forget to sit in one of the many Ouzeri in Naoussa and taste Gouna fish and octopus in vinegar.
Resalto bar A very nice bar in the port of Drios, plays the best rock music in Paros.
Paros is generally a safe island. Be aware of rental scams, especially with agencies working only with motorbikes and ATVs. Using these types of vehicles is very common on Paros and there are a lot of rental agencies. Some of them are ready to cheat. They will offer faulty motorbikes or ATVs for a lower price, but in case of accident they will demand that the customer pay for the whole cost of damage. They are offering only basic insurance but will present it like full insurance. Also, there is a big possibility of serious injuries. It is possible to recognize these rental agencies by observing them aggressively attracting tourists and offering lower prices than others.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Aug, Paros typically sees ~30°C daytime highs and 1 rainy days.
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