Situated in the central Aegan Sea, Paros is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. Boasting stunning white marble architecture, soft sandy beaches, and plenty of historical spots to explore, it’s an excellent choice for those who like their relaxing breaks with a side of adventure.
With our stunning selection of villas in Paros, you'll be able to explore everything this charming island has to offer, with options that are close to the beach but also within walking distance to local restaurants.
Why visit?
Style and character are everything at Oliver’s Travels, and our collection of handpicked villas in Paros have this in spades.
We have destination experts who know the ins and outs of all our regions, picking luxury homes and holiday villas in Paros that aren’t only unique, but also in the best locations. What's more, our villas are 100% family-friendly, and have the ‘wow’ factor.
Our helpful concierge team are on-hand to make your stay extra special. Whether you want a fully-stocked fridge, a local in-house chef to cook your meals, housekeeping, or anything in between, they can organise it for you.
The concierge team can even take care of restaurant bookings and VIP services such as airport transfer, in-home massage or any other extra service – consider them your holiday genie, who will happily grant your wishes.
Contrary to its bustling neighbours that host daily cruise ship arrivals, the quiet island of Paros is perfect for a soothing summery break in Greece. However, it’s also large enough that you won’t ever get bored, boasting enough restaurants, beaches and beauty spots to keep tourists of all ages occupied. So, whether you’re craving afternoons taken up by hiking the trails, or long evenings spent sipping on a glass of local wine, Paros is the all-round holiday destination you’ve been searching for.
Want to spend all your time outside in Paros? From snorkelling and scuba diving to sailing and kitesurfing, every water baby will feel at home here. Of course, there’s plenty of fun to have on land too, with options including horse-riding, cycling, and hiking in the more remote areas.
If you’re a history buff who’d rather exercise your mind than your body, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained too. The Panagia Ekatontapiliani, located in Parikia, is one of the top sights to add to your agenda, predating Christianity itself. It literally means “church with 100 doors”, though in reality, it has nowhere near that many! How many can you find?
Nearby, you’ll also find the Agios Konstantinos Church – a stunning structure decorated with wood, marble, and murals. Once you’ve spent time taking it all in, head out to enjoy the most spectacular views across the bay.
Looking to soak in even more of the Earth’s wonders? The free-to-enter Park of Paros, which encompasses 800 hectares of natural beauty, is dedicated to preserving the Agios Ioannis Detis monastery and peninsula. Whether you choose to hike one of the park’s walking paths, take in a movie at the open-air cinema, or simply enjoy a picnic you’ve brought along with you, it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Paros.
For something truly special that’s something of a secret to many tourists, head to the Valley of Butterflies in Sotires village. Just 5km from Parikia, it comes
Kolymbithres Beach
Tavernas are popular across Greece, and that’s certainly true of Paros too, with small family-owned restaurants making up most of the culinary trade. Unsurprisingly, seafood dominates most menus, with grilled octopus being a must-try for adventurous diners. After something a little safer? Opt for gouna – sun-dried, seasoned mackerel – and if you want to feel warmed from the inside out, order a bowl of kakavia – a vegetable fish soup.
Vegetarians will also have plenty to choose from when enjoying their luxury villa holiday in Paros. A popular spread, revithia sto fourno sees chickpeas baked in clay pots and then generously seasoned with onions and rosemary. We’d also recommend ordering saganaki as one of your meze plates. It’s essentially fried cheese that’s encased in filo pastry before being drizzled with honey…what’s not to love?
Of course, you’ll find all the staples of Greek cuisine here too. That includes gyros, which sees pita bread filled with grilled meat, tomato, onions, tzatziki sauce, and sometimes even chips! It’s a great on-the-go lunch option that’s sure to fuel you up for an afternoon of exploring.
After a sweet ending to your day? Loukoumades are Greece’s take on doughnut holes, smothered in honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds. You only need a couple to get that sugar hit, but one really does lead to another…
Shrimp Saganaki
Whether you’re after a sandy spot to top up your tan, or fancy a splash about in beautiful blue waves, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches in Paros. In fact, from the port of Antiparos, you’ll be within walking distance of seven beaches!
Those looking to indulge their adventurous side should head to Golden Beach to try their hand at various watersports – particularly windsurfing, with an international competition held there every year. Kolymbithres Beach is the island’s most famous owing to its staggering rock formations. However, Santa Maria is our top all-rounder pick, boasting quieter spots as well as those that are livelier and more suited to families.
A welcome breeze keeps summer highs from feeling unbearable, but you’ll enjoy a cooler break in the shoulder seasons of May and October.
Paros is a popular tourist destination in Greece known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, charming villages, historic sites, delicious local cuisine, vibrant nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and many outdoor activities including windsurfing, kite-surfing, hiking, and art. The island also offers a great natural environment, with a lot of hidden beaches and small coves to discover.
While you could easily while away your luxury villa holiday in Paros either lounging by the pool or spreading out on one of its many beaches, we’d suggest factoring in a day or two to explore the island’s delightful towns and villages. Not only will this allow you to get a taste for local life, but all that wandering allows you to work up an appetite for sampling plenty of food along the way!
The quiet port of Piso Livadi is found on the east coast and offers an excellent respite from the crowds– as well as the chance to try some of the island’s freshest grilled fish.
As the capital of the island, it’s very likely you’ve already got your sights set on a trip to Parikia – this is also where all ferries to Paros arrive. You’ll find the old town’s charming streets filled with little local businesses, with main attractions including the Archaeological Museum of Paros and the Ancient Cemetery – its tombs date back to 8BC!
Found on the northern side of the island, Naoussa is only 20 minutes from the capital, and you can even catch a bus between them. The former fishing village has turned into one of Paros’ chicest spots, boasting luxury boutiques and restaurants along the waterfront. Aside from shopping and dining, factor in time to walk up to the Kimisi Theotokou (Church of Naoussa).
Found on the slopes of Mount Agios Pantes and housed within a natural amphitheatre, the village of Lefkes may be just 10km from Parikia, but it feels like another world. Main points of interest include the Church of Agia Triada and its two impressive bell towers, but this is also a great starting point for your Byzantine Trail hike. It takes you all the way to Prodromos in one hour, with incredible views along the way.
Paros, Greece offers various options for transportation. Renting a car or scooter allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Public buses run regularly between main towns and villages on the island. Taxis are available throughout the island, especially useful for groups. Walking and cycling are great ways to experience the local culture and scenery. There are daily boat trips that can take you to the most remote beaches or nearby islands.!
While a local airport recently opened in Paros, it isn’t very well connected yet. You’re better off flying to Athens, with an average flight time from London of under 4 hours. The onward flight to Paros then takes around 45 minutes.
You can also arrive in Paros by ferry from the Piraeus port in Athens. The fastest option takes under 3 hours.
A more expensive way to travel, private taxis are available at the airport and port. You can hail one on the spot or book services online to pick you up from your villa. It’s worth noting that taxis aren’t metered here, so be sure to negotiate your price before getting in one.
If you plan on exploring the island and its various beaches, we’d suggest hiring a car. Rental agencies are available along the Parikia waterfront and at the airport, but note that prices are hiked up in the summer months.
The island is safe and easy to get around, so most drivers should feel confident getting behind the wheel.
The cheapest way to get around the island is by bus, with fares ranging from €1.80 to €3. The main bus stops are located in Parikia and Naoussa, and from there, you can connect to some of the smaller villages like Pounta and Alyki. Services are fairly regular during the summer, but if visiting in the off-season, be sure to consult a timetable ahead of time – you don’t want to be stuck waiting for hours!
Many of the cobblestone streets are designed to be explored by foot, but make sure you wear supportive and breathable footwear. Temperatures typically drop after dark too, so if you’re wandering after sunset, pack a light layer to put on when needed.
The bus schedule is updated every couple weeks, so be sure to obtain a printed version at the Parikia or Naoussa terminals.
