Paros

Paros (Πάρος) lies in the heart of the Cyclades, west of Naxos. In antiquity its fine white marble was prized by sculptors, and the ancient quarries of Marathi can still be visited. The main town and port, Parikia, has whitewashed lanes, a medieval Kastro built with ancient marble blocks and an Archaeological Museum. Its great church, Panagia Ekatontapiliani, goes back to early Christian times and was rebuilt under Justinian in the 6th century.

On the north coast, Naoussa is a fishing village with a small Venetian castle at its harbour. Nearby lie the smooth granite rocks of Kolymbithres and the beaches of Santa Maria and Monastiri. Inland, the mountain village of Lefkes keeps its traditional character, and a stone-paved Byzantine Road leads down to Prodromos. On the east coast, Piso Livadi is a fishing harbour, and Golden Beach attracts windsurfers and kitesurfers. Show more

Paros combines lively coastal towns with relaxed island life. Tavernas serve fresh fish, and local wineries make wine from island grape varieties. A short ferry crosses to Antiparos. Paros has a small airport, and Parikia is a major ferry hub with links to Piraeus, Rafina and many Cyclades.