Paros · Getting there
Paros lies in the middle of the Cyclades and is the great crossroads of the ferry routes, so it is one of the easiest islands to reach and the best base for hopping on. Most people arrive by sea at the harbour of Parikia, where the old windmill greets the boats. The small airport on the south-west coast has flights from Athens.
By plane
Near Alyki on the south-west coast, about 10 km from Parikia
Short flights from Athens, about 40 minutes, several times a day in summer and fewer in winter. There are no regular direct flights from abroad, so connect in Athens.
Into town: Parikia is about 15 minutes away by taxi and Naoussa about 30. Buses pass on the coast road, and many hotels will pick you up if you ask.
By ferry
Ferries from Piraeus, the port of Athens, about 40 minutes from the city centre by metro.
Piraeus (Athens) Parikia, Paros
High-speed boats take about 2 h 45 min to 3 h 45 min, conventional ferries about 4–5 hours with more room on deck.
Rafina (near Athens airport) Parikia, Paros
The handier port if you land at Athens airport, about 20 minutes away by taxi.
Island hopping
Pounta Antiparos
The little car ferry crosses from Pounta, south of Parikia. Small passenger boats also go from Parikia harbour, about 30 minutes.
Parikia Naxos
Parikia Mykonos
Parikia Santorini
Most boats stop at Naxos or Ios on the way.
Parikia The Small Cyclades
Boats call at Naxos, then Iraklia, Schinoussa and Koufonisia; more connections run from Naxos.
When you land
Everything starts at Parikia port
The ferries, the taxi rank, the bus station and the car rental offices are all on the waterfront, so you can pick up a car or a bus to Naoussa a few steps from the boat.
Book a car or scooter ahead
Buses link Parikia with Naoussa, Lefkes and the beaches, but a car lets you reach the villages and quiet coves at your own pace. In July and August book one before you arrive.
The meltemi blows in August
The north wind can be strong in July and August. It cools the evenings and brings the windsurfers to Golden Beach, but it can make the high-speed boats bumpy, so take a big ferry if you get seasick.
Times and frequencies are typical for the summer season and change every year. Check the current timetable before you book.
Rooms with a view, picked for how they feel, not for star ratings.
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