Villages of Paros

Parikia

The most authentic place in Paros

When you arrive in Paros by ferry, as soon as the ship passes the Agios Fokàs promontory, you find yourself in front of Parikia without any advice. It appears large, white and bright. A village lying on the sea.
In front of you appears the small mill (now a tourist office) and Mavrogenous square, with an anxious crowd and traffic, waiting for the landing.
On the left the district of Livadia, with its numerous hotels and studios and various services (supermarket, local market, the beautiful Artemis shop, the fish shop...). Here is the Livadia beach too. A long stretch of soft sand, equipped and also free, with crystal clear water.
On the right the promenade of Parikia, closed to traffic during the evening (in summer time). This part of Parikia is located exactly in front of the sunset and is the ideal place to sipping a good ouzo at the end of the day or dininig in one of the typical seafront tavernas. Here the sacred rite of the struscio is consumed, which ends with a tour of the small boutiques in the historic center.
The historic center of Parikia (the so-called kastro) is right behind it, behind the struscio promenade. All around the beautiful church of Agios Kostantinos which stands out in an elevated position. The historic center is wonderful, authentic and genuine. Still inhabited by many people originally from the island, who inherited the natural Cycladic charm from grandparents and great-grandparents.
Stroll randomly through the cobbled alleys and stone houses covered in whitewash. Characteristic squares, enchanting corners. Marble and white blend elegantly with the lace of the curtains on colored wooden windows. Beautiful Orthodox churches. The best bakeries in Parikia, the best cafes to sit and have breakfast or simply sip a frappé, Listening good local music, while eating local meze, traditional restaurants and taverns. Beautiful buildings and simple houses.
Exactly here, in the historic center of Parikia, in the kastro, is located my house maisonnette de charme.

When the Meltemi blows strongly, peace and silence are in its alleys. Getting closer to the port, you will hear the sea roaring.
On the left, just outside the ancient city, a bit beyond the port, is the Ekatontapyliani Basilica, one of the most significant monuments of Greece.
The walk around Ekatontapyliani reserves many surprises such as the Archaeological Museum, with Byzantine icons and marble statues, 'The woman of Saliago', The Byzantine Museum in the courtyard of the Church, with its rare icons and precious objects, the Manto Mavrogenous house and the imposing neoclassical residences.
Not far away the pine grove, bent by the wind.
Behind the village, reachable with a 10-minute walk from the center, ideally parallel to the seafront, is the periferiaki road. Here you will find all the shops and services dedicated to the inhabitants: the butcher, the the pastry shop, two supermarkets, various kinds of shops, from sportswear to furnishings, to household appliances, the glassmaker, the doctors' offices, the pediatrician, the veterinarian, the high school, parking.
In the evening, Parikia has a moderate nightlife, where local people and tourists mix together.
In Parikia do not forget to visit the Monastery of Aghi Anargiroi which is located almost at the top of the hill. From here the view over Parikia is truly magnificent.
Besides having a nice old town and definitely worth a visit, Parikia is also a great base for your holidays in Paros.
Its geographical position, central to the island, guarantees an ease access to the various beaches and various villages located in the north and south of the island. Ideal location also to reach Antiparos little island.
Convenient for the port, (connection with the other Cycladic islands, including Antiparos and the mainland) and for the bus connection service. The main stop is located close to the port and from here start daily connections to all major sites in Parikia. Paros has in fact one of the best public transport networks in the Cyclades. Finally in Parikia you can find everything you need: shops, bakeries, first aid, car rental, scooter, supermarkets and even the fruit and vegetable market.

Finally, it is the only place in Paros where I recommend living even in winter. Here most of the shops and taverns are run by people from Paros, people living in Paros all year around. Therefore their business remains open even in winter, unlike what happens elsewhere.

Paros Island Villages 1

Market, supermarkets, greengrocer, fish shop in Parikia

The market
The local fruit and vegetable market takes place every morning around the harbor church.
The farmers of the island sell the products of their land in large wicker baskets. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, lemons, potatoes, red turnips, horta (a kind of local chicory), capers, grapes, yellow and copper melons, everything is very tasteful.

Supermarkets
Parikia has different supermarkets.
On the seafront of Parikia, towards Livadia, there is Vidalis Supermarket. A good variety of products, low to medium prices.
On Periferiaki street, halfway, Market In Supermarket. Medium cheap prices.
On the way to Naoussa, Supermarket (ex Carrefour). Average prices.

Arsenis Delicatessen
Fresh fruit and vegetables, directly from Arsenis farm or from small local farmers. Genuine and very tasty products.
The shop offers also a wide selection of other local products: oil, jam, cheeses and cold cuts. Also quality foreign products, including Italian ones.
Don't miss it. Very good product at very fair prices.
Super nice staff.

Greengrocer
On the Livadia seafront, after Vidalis supermarket (and before To Souvlaki Tou Pepe restaurant) turn right. After 100 meters you will find a large fruit and vegetable shop. Lots of choice, fruit and vegetables of all kinds. Many products also from Crete (cheeses, olives, eggs) The lady is very kind and helpful.

Fisher shop
100 meters from the greengrocer, on the same side of the road, higher up, you will find the fishshop. After 12, the fish of the day is available. It closes around 2 pm. Some fish comes from his boat. Very nice and kind owner.

Hairdresser
Hair Salon "Art Hair". Located behind the Livadia seafront. Women, men and children. Husband and wife run this place: the husband serves the men, the wife the women. Both the children. Also the staff is very kind and professional. Works by appointment.

Paros Island Villages 11

Cafes, Patisseries, Bakeries in Parikia

Tserki
Small but nice patissery located at the crossroad of periferiaki road and the street going to Naoussa.
Few stools inside, and a few tables outside.
Own production. Baked goods, small pastries, biscuits, cakes, ice cream. It also offers ready-made sandwiches and salads, quality ingredients and at reasonable prices.
The coffee and the cappuccino are very good.
Well known and appreciated all over Paros!
Very kind and smiling staff.

Café Stelios
This cafe is located in front of the sea, on the promenade of Parikia. Under the kastro. It is the oldest and most historic café in Parikia, well known to the locals. They serve excellent their own Greek desserts made every day: baklava (my favorite), galaktoboureko (the most popular dessert among Greeks) and kataifi.
From its tables, in the evening, you can enjoy the sunset while drinking ouzo, served with a small aperitif.
Excellent sweet and savory crepes, omelet and club sandwich.
Also good for a simple meal. Cheap.

To Souvlaki Tou Pepe
On the seafront to Livadia. The best gyros in Parikia.

Symposium
Ideal place for having breakfast and relax. Enviable, bucolic location (green trees and pink bougainvillea) right in the center of Parikia.
Sheltered by large umbrellas.
Almost an oasis in the constant turnaround of tourists.
Sit outside, at the tiny tables, looking and be watched. Friendly service.
You have for sure to make at least one stop in this enchanting place.
Tasty and huge omelets as well as amazing waffles. Mediterranean toast with a glass of wine or sangria. Homemade apple pie and savory crepes. Cappuccino quite perfect.
Large portions and reasonable prices.

Distrato café
A breakfast in the pedestrian streets of Parikia. A quick snack or a place to relax on windy days in the shade of a wonderful olive tree. A frugal meal or a glass of wine. A desire for something small to eat. Simple and international dishes, served with smoothies and centrifuges.
Distrato café is a bit of all of this.
Take a seat in the square, in one of the traditional sofas and just relax.
You will feel like being on a movie set (some scenes of 'Immaturi il viaggio' film have been shot in this place).
Nice atmosphere. Friendly staff.

Aspronissi
It is mainly a bakery. It is located right in front of the harbor. In my opinion the best place to buy bread in Parikia.

Ragoussis
Bakery in the historic center, opposite Argonauta hotel. Offers bread and baked goods, traditional dry rolls and pastries. It has a corner for centrifuged juices. Good products.

Paros Island Villages 12

Naoussa

The most beautiful little port in the Aegean

Naoussa, on the north coast of Paros, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and picturesque marinas in the Aegean Sea.
It hosts the largest fishing fleet in the Cyclades. In summer, the small port is full of fishing boats and overwhelmed by tourists.
Naoussa is also the heart of Paros nightlife. Many visitors in the summer come here looking for fun.
The old fishermen's warehouses have been turned into ouzo bars, cafes and taverns. Just outside the historic center, many clubs and discos.
However, some peace and quiet can still be found in Naoussa. Take a nice walk in its inner part, perhaps at quieter times, and you will find its authentic character. Go around the whitewashed and cobbled streets, beneath the small houses, blue windows, and you will find the real Cycladic atmosphere. Just relax and go shopping: its little boutiques are a mix of good taste, craftsmanship and modernity.
Prices in Naoussa are generally medium to high. From accommodation, to bars, restaurants, taverns, clothing, to the parking lot. The beauty of the marina, the refinement of the bar furnishings, the trendy boutiques, the presence of a lot of tourism compared to the size of the place, are all elements that inevitably push prices up.
Naoussa is a place with an exclusive flavor. Therefore, it is an absolutely obligatory stage.
In Naoussa You can find many services: banks, pharmacies, travel agencies, car rentals and many hotels.
Naoussa played an important role in the history of the island.
Its past lives on in the ancient settlements (Koukounaries hill), in the protocycladic cemetery (Plastira) and in the remains of the Venetian castle, visible in the northern part of the port.
Finally, we remember six monasteries of great architectural interest: the Longovarda Monastery, Ai-Yannis Detis (San Giovanni Legato), the Koimisis tis Theotokou Cathedral, the Monastery of Agios Athanassios, and the medieval Church of Agios Georgios.
Every summer, on the first Sunday of July, they organize traditional festivals dedicated to wine and fish.
On the evening of 23 August, during the great Night of the Pirates, the locals recall the invasion of the port made by the pirates.
Naoussa is also home to famous Greek traditional dance groups.

Paros Island Villages 2

Kostos

The smallest village in Paros

Kostos is the smallest village of Paros and is located about 8 km away from Parikia, on the road to Lefkes.
The settlement is located 180 meters above sea level and is almost unknown to tourism.
I recommend walking throughout the picturesque white streets, where you can breathe an air of peace and tranquility. Stop at the bar tables in the main square for a coffee and a bit of relax.
I also recommend to visit the church of Aghios Panteleimonas, with its magnificent wooden temple. You can also go to the native house of Athanasios Parios, the great Greek theologian, philosopher, educator of the Greek Enlightenment period.

Paros Island Villages 3

Lefkes

The picturesque village on the mountain

Lefkes is a traditional Greek village located on the side of Agii Pantes Mount (Mount of All Saints) 250 meters above sea level.
(Mount Agii Pantes reaches 750 meters and is located exactly in the center of the island)
From kostos, drive south and after 4 km You will find Lefkes.
(Lefkes can also be easily reached by public bus from Parikia).
Leave your car/scooter in one of the two car parks at the entrance and continue on foot. (a tip: avoid shoes with heels or flip-flops: the stone-paved streets are sloping and often have smooth and slippery surfaces).
Founded in the XVI century. A.D. from Cretan immigrants and locals seeking protection from pirate raids, this wonderful little village for sure will steal your heart.
As soon as you arrive, here is the Town Hall with its gardens, the War Memorial and a beautiful terrace overlooking the rest of the town, the sea and the island of Naxos.
Here you can breathe air and light. Silence broken only from the sound of cicadas.
Here you go down on paved alleys and up on neat stairways. Among tiny white houses, blue doors, windows overflowing with colorful flowers. Limestone benches, picturesque arches and bougainvillea in almost every corner. Along the narrow alleys, you can admire the traditional pedestals (pezoules) from which the news were once read (the modern newspapers and social media).
The main street in the village is called Ramnos. Here you will find small shops selling clothes, local crafts and local products. Oil, wine, honey and cheeses, ouzo, "souma". Figs are renowned for their delicious flavor and are used to make samata (fig pie). Delicious jams and traditional cakes: myzithropitakia (pies made with local cheeses) and lamprokouloura (sweet bread). Tourist attractions, such as the splendid neoclassical buildings, the House of Literature and the traditional wash-sink, still in use by the locals.
Its majestic Agia Triada cathedral, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, built in gleaming Paros marble, on a hill at the edge of the village, is marvelous. It dates back to the 19th century, has three naves and is covered with a completely frescoed barrel vault. The two marble bell towers on either side of the fa�ade are reminiscent of Arab architecture.
The church of Agia Triada is often closed, but the caretaker is also the owner of the bar in the front square. Take a seat, maybe a coffee and take advantage of the shade of the pergola and bougainvillea. Then ask if they can kindly open the church ... for sure they will satisfy you!
The inhabitants of Lefkes are very kind, simple and hospitable.

In Lefkes you will find numerous churches from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. A.D. and other religious buildings. The church of Agia Aikaterini, the church of Panagias Ypapantis, the monastery of Agios Ioannis Prodromos and the country church of Agias Kyriakis in Pano Lefkes.
In Lefkes it is also worth visiting the Folklore Museum of Cycladic Civilization.
Do not miss the ancient Byzantine road that connects Lefkes to Prodromos. A unique path, 4 km long, panoramic, in paved marble, dating back to over 1,000 years ago.
Lefkes is surrounded by dense vegetation: pine forest, olive groves and vineyards.
On the surrounding hills a dozen windmills (some of which have been transformed into original houses) frame it.
Cultural activities and popular festivals are numerous in the country thanks also to the commitment of the Cultural Association of Lefkes Meas Yria, which every year organizes music festivals and theatrical performances.
On November 25 the Feast of Agia Aikaterini is celebrated, in memory of the Greek Resistance. After the Liturgy, the procession of the icon goes throughout the streets of the town, and ends with the evening celebrations.
However, the most important event in Lefkes remains the Karavoles festival, which takes place at the end of August. Plenty of food, karavoles (large snails), skordalia (a sauce of garlic and mashed potatoes), green beans, traditional cheeses, chickpea soup and of course lots of wine. Popular music and dance until late night. A moment of joy and aggregation between locals and visitors. The village in fact attracts many tourists during the summer months.
Also remember to stop in one of the traditional local taverns.

Paros Island Villages 4

Prodromos

A charming hilltop village

Prodromos is a picturesque and beautiful settlement, located on a hill, 5 minutes drive from Lefkes and 20 from Parikia.
Prodromos is perhaps the most Cycladic and characteristic village of Paros. It maintains an authentic architecture with small cubic houses, traditional taverns and cafes. Tiny white chapels and beautiful churches.
To access it, you pass under an arched roof that connects the two churches of Agios Spyridon (San Spiridione) and Agios Nikolaos (San Nicola) At the same time it prevents entry to vehicles.
You can park your car /scooter in the small square just before the entrance.
The name Prodromos derives from the parish church of Aghios Ioannis Prodromos of the 17th century. dedicated to John the Baptist. Its interior is entirely decorated with beautiful icons.
On 23 June, one of the most important festivals of Paros is held at the church of San Giovanni il Prodrome.
During the Middle Ages, this charming village was known with the name of Dragoulas.
Here the ancient Byzantine road connecting Lefkes to Prodromos arrives or starts (depending on how you want to see it). A unique path, 4 km long, panoramic, in paved marble, dating back to over 1,000 years ago. The famous Byzantine path passes through the Kapsalos mountain and the beautiful countryside, among olive groves and vineyards and in an hour or more walking distance you can arrive to Lefkes.
Prodromos village and Marmara village form the Archilohos community. This name comes from an ancient island poet.

Paros Island Villages 5

Marmara

The marble village

At a short distance from Prodromos is Marmara. Its name comes from marble (marmara) as here this material has been used in huge quantities. For the construction and the decoration of the houses and churches of the town.
Upon arrival in this village, you will be greeted by a picturesque white windmill, narrow streets and a café in the village square.
Founded in the 15th century by refugees from Crete, Marmara has many strikingly beautiful churches with steeples. It is worth making a stop in the most important ones (The church of Taxiarchis Koimisi, the church of Theotokos with the wooden temple and the tomb of the 17th century AD, Aghios Savvas with its surprising bell tower of 1606 etc. Pera Panagia and the church of 'Assumption of the Blessed Mother).
The inhabitants are mainly farmers because the land here is very fertile. Animals also plays an important role in the local economy.
The Marmara rural region is full of gardens bordered by reeds. The area goes towards the sea to the beach of Molos.

Paros Island Villages 6

Marpissa

A lively hilltop village

Built as an amphitheater (like most of the Cycladic villages) around the hill of Kefalos, Marpissa is one of the most beautiful villages in Paros. Whitewashed cubic houses (dating from the 16th and 17th centuries), courtyards with flowers, narrow, cobbled streets. Taverns, cafes, churches and windmills.
In the center dominates the church of the Metamorphosis (the Transfiguration of Jesus), in Byzantine style. Nearby is the Perantinos Sculpture Museum and a little further down the Stellas monument.
The churches of the 16th century are worth a visit. A.D. (Aghios Dimitrios, Mesosporitissa, Evangelistria) and the Folklore Museum.
The Marpissa Folklore Museum was founded by the Marpissa Women's Association. It is located in a restored stone building of the center, in Agios Nikolaos square, and takes visitors on a journey throughout the time. It is a representation of the typical Paros house. Kitchen, closet, bathroom, furniture, frame, utensils. All the exhibits were donated by the citizens of Marpissa and are antique, traditional and authentic objects of daily use. A heritage for future generations.
In the small village square, a path leads to the ruins of an ancient castle and to the monastery of Agios Antonios (Saint Anthony). From the top of Kefalos, where the monastery is located, the view is wonderful. The Aegean Sea is at your feet and Naxos is not far away.
If you come here on Easter Friday, you will surely be impressed by the representation of the Passion of Christ, while on Easter Sunday there is a traditional Greek festival.
If you plan a vacation in August, consider the three-day Marpissa Routes festival. A cultural festival that takes place in the last days of August, and it creates routes and points of interest throughout the settlement, around themes of architecture, folklore, music, visual arts and environment. Unmissable!
Its coastal area is Piso Livadi, a few km away, with excellent fish taverns.
Marpissa can be reached by car, scooter or public transport from Parikia.

Paros Island Villages 7

Drios

A small village on the coast

Drios is a small fishing village located on the east coast of Paros. A small row of restaurants, the marina and a small pebble beach underneath. Typical of the place are the carved rocks at the end of the beach, where in ancient times people used to store their boats to defend them from the wild nature of the sea.
Despite the tourist infrastructure, the place remains little frequented and has retained its traditional appearance. Quiet place.

Paros Island Villages 8

Piso Livadi

A pretty little port with the best tavern in Paros

Piso Livadi is a pretty little port.
It develops all around a bay, with an almost round shape. A small strip of soft sand. Clear and always calm water. A few fishing boats and tourist boats not far away.
Immediately behind, as if arranged in an amphitheater, the whitewashed houses, taverns with tables outside, the bar, some hotels. A small church, with its classic blue dome and a small space with games for children.
All very pleasant, relaxing and familiar.
Its strong point, in my opinion, is the Taverna Halaris, the best tavern on the island. It worths a visit to the village.

Paros Island Villages 9

Aliki

A cheerful village on the sea

Aliki is a village on the sea in the south of Paros.
In recent years, it has grown a lot. Its marina has grown and also the number of h?t?l and rooms for rent has increased.
The village has expanded so much that it almost merged with the neighboring settlement of Ang?ria.
From Parikia you can arrive quickly, taking the main road to the airport. Or even with a public service bus.
Alyki is a very simple town, all surrounded by sand and sea, with no characteristic or particularly attractive corners. The houses overlook the sea, all white and square. Yet when I think about it it reminds me so much of summer. It is the classic holiday resort.
It begins to come alive around Easter and returns to oblivion in mid-October. (This actually happens to all the towns of Paros, with the exception of Parikia. Also Parikia decreases the number of people, but it maintains its vitality throughout all the months of the year).
The center of the village extends onto the beach, children playing and chattering in the water, while mothers sit and chat.
Aliki is a place well organized for holidays. It has football, basketball and volleyball fields, a supermarket, pharmacy and offices and essential services for a peaceful vacation.
On 23 June the ancient Feast of Agios Ioannis tou Kalidonas takes place in Aliki, which coincides with the summer solstice. Bonfires are lit on the beach.
On August 6, however, the great Fishermen's Festival is held, an event expected throughout the island. Inhabitants and tourists gather around large tables arranged on the main beach. Grilled fish, pancakes, local wine and souma (a traditional Paros brandy). Music and dance competitions in traditional costumes between local dance schools.
Don't miss a visit to the Skorpios Museum of Cycladic folklore, where the creations of the self-taught artist Benetos Skiadas are shown. Miniatures of ships and buildings, characteristic of the Cyclades islands.
Or the Anemomilos Gallery with the old restored windmill which also serves as a hall for events and exhibitions of paintings and handicrafts.
On Sundays, all the people of the town and surroundings sit in the taverns of the marina. From 2 in the afternoon, until the evening, the tables are perpetually occupied. Families follow one another almost continuously, in a harmonious and never ending story.
The taverns are mainly located near the dock, where lazy fishing boats swing. The tables are flush with the sea and in the shade of verandas and umbrellas. Octopus and mackerel hanging, hung out to dry in the sun.

Paros Island Villages 10