Are you looking for an island in Greece that is family-friendly, with paradise beaches and traditional villages? The answer is the island of Paros. Although quiet and calm during winter, this beautiful island becomes a vibrant and lively island in the spring and summer months. If you're planning a trip here and wondering Paros's top highlights that promise leisure, discovery, and wonder for the whole family, including children, look no further and discover the best things to do and see with Villanovo.
Parikia, the island's capital, is where your stay on Paros will begin as the ferries dock in the town's port. The central area of the island, this charming and typical Cycladic village concentrates a good part of the activities, shops, and restaurants. The best way to visit the town is to lose yourself in the whitewashed streets and stroll through the shops. As you stroll through the town, you are sure to come across the windmill in the square, which acts as a landmark in the town and is one of the most photographed features. Take advantage of the day to visit one of the many restaurants to try traditional dishes such as moussaka, gouna, karavelas, saganaki, or petimezi.
The old town of Naoussa is one of the most visited places on the island. Its white-walled streets dotted with pink bougainvillea and its eclectic shops make it a postcard landscape. The friendly locals will be happy to advise you on the best places to go in the town and the region. After strolling through the streets, head to the port of Naoussa. Unique and traditional architecture displays before your eyes. As such, the seaside restaurants are the perfect place for a meal of Greek gastronomy.
Panagia Ekatondapyliani church
Located near the old town of Paro, the Panagia Ekatontapiliani is one of the most spectacular churches in the Cyclades. It is possible to contemplate the three temples that compose it, as well as its impressive columns. Dating back to the Byzantine era in the 4th century, it is one of the most sacred places and oldest monuments of that period. According to legend, this church has 99 gates and, the 100th gate will appear when Constantinople is founded again as a Greek city.
Paros Park
There are many reasons why Paros Park is a must-visit during your family holiday. Its many cultural events, concerts, and open-air film theatre offer no shortage of fun and leisure, suited for all ages. Dotted with museums such as The Park Museum, you can attend their historical exhibitions and gain insights into the culture and past of Paros. The park is also home to the Monastery of Ai Yiannis Detis, which is also well worth visiting. Various walking paths lead through breathtaking nature and towards beautiful nearby beaches.
To appeal to children, Paros offers a wide range of outdoor sports activities. Go for a kayak ride along the coast of Paros, play tennis in the Paros tennis club or discover the underwater fauna by snorkeling. For the more adventurous, rent a bike to ride through the wilderness of Paros, go kitesurfing, windsurfing or go water skiing. There is something for everyone, young and old.
The paradisiacal beaches of Paros
You can't visit Paros without visiting its beaches. The island has sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. A real treat for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking for water sports, sunbathing, or a seaside restaurant, here is our selection of the best beaches:
Perched on a mountain, Lefkes is a typical Greek village. Perched on a mountain, Lefkes is a typical Greek village. This small, picturesque village is very traditional and orthodox and is home to some of the island's best-grilled meat restaurants, including the Klarinos tavern. A stroll through the village will reveal its detailed architecture, quirky shops, and small cafes. A stroll through the village will reveal its detailed architecture, quirky shops, and small cafes.
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