Paros

Paros is a Greek island in the central Aegean Sea. One of the Cyclades island group, it lies to the west of Naxos, from which it is separated by a channel about 8km wide.

Parikía is the capital and port area of Paros, with whitewashed houses and neoclassical mansions. A well preserved 13th century Venetian castle stands on a hill at the centre of the village offering great views over Parikia.

Attractions here include the 6th century church of Panayia Ekatontapyliani, the baptistery which dates back to the 4th century AD) and the Byzantine Museum, housed on the ground floor of the church. Exhibits include icons, wood-carvings and other items from various monasteries and churches on the island.

The Archaeological Museum displays exhibits from the island’s monuments (such as the Sanctuary of Asklipios, Pythios Apollonas and Delion).

The marble quarries at Maráthi, where the famous Parian marble used to be extracted, were in operation from the 3rd millennium BC up to the 19th century. The mining galleries along with remains of 19th century industrial buildings are still preserved and can be visited.

Popular beaches include Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria and Poúnda, on the sea bed at Alykí beach, to the southwest, you can explore the ruins of an ancient town.

Take a canoe or kayak tour of the island and see the unusual natural landscape with impressive white rock formations on Kolymbíthres beach.

For walkers, there are various trails to follow, including the Byzantine Léfkes-Pródromos trail (1 hour, starting from Lefkes village) or the trail staring in Márpissa, with its Byzantine churches, 17th century houses and quaint windmills.

Discover the island on horseback, centre can be found at Ambelás and Ystérni.

Paros offers a good variety of shops, the majority located in Parikia and Naoussa. Popular buys include unique hand-made jewellery and craft items, designer clothing, ceramics and homemade marmalade.

There is a good range of cuisine on offer from traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, Greek salad and souvlaki and fresh fish and seafood, to international favourites including Italian, fast food and Asian.

Parikia is the capital and the main port of Paros island.

The centre of town and most of it's attractions are located within walking distance of the port.

Car and motorbike hire is available, along with taxis and local buses to get you round the island. Small boats can transfer you to the most remote beaches.