Paros, Greece Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Paros is a charming island located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, known for its idyllic beaches, traditional villages, and rich history. With its picturesque landscapes and warm Mediterranean climate, Paros is a popular destination for tourists seeking a laid-back and authentic Greek experience. The island boasts a vibrant culture, delicious local cuisine, and a variety of outdoor activities, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on its sandy shores or explore its ancient ruins, Paros has something to offer for every type of traveler.
Why Paros, Greece?
- Paros is home to some of Greece's most beautiful beaches.
- The island is known for its traditional Cycladic architecture.
- Paros is a great destination for both adventure and relaxation.
- It is a popular destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water sports.
- Paros is home to some of the most impressive Byzantine churches in the Cyclades.
Paros, Greece Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
55° F
|
° F
|
| February |
57° F
|
° F
|
| March |
59° F
|
° F
|
| April |
64° F
|
° F
|
| May |
72° F
|
° F
|
| June |
79° F
|
° F
|
| July |
81° F
|
° F
|
| August |
81° F
|
° F
|
| September |
77° F
|
° F
|
| October |
70° F
|
° F
|
| November |
64° F
|
° F
|
| December |
59° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
3.7 inches
|
| February |
2.6 inches
|
| March |
2.3 inches
|
| April |
1.0 inches
|
| May |
0.6 inches
|
| June |
0.2 inches
|
| July |
0.1 inches
|
| August |
0.1 inches
|
| September |
0.4 inches
|
| October |
2.0 inches
|
| November |
2.5 inches
|
| December |
3.6 inches
|
History
Paros, one of the central islands in the Cyclades, is renowned for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. In ancient times, Paros was a key player in the Cycladic civilization, dating back to around 3000 BC. The island became famous for its high-quality marble, known as Parian marble, which was prized throughout the ancient world and used in iconic sculptures like the Venus de Milo. During the Archaic and Classical periods, Paros flourished as a naval and commercial power, often aligning itself with major Greek city-states, including Athens.
Under Roman and Byzantine rule, Paros continued to prosper, with the construction of significant landmarks such as the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the Church of 100 Doors), one of the oldest and most important Christian monuments in Greece. During the Venetian era in the 13th century, Paros became part of the Duchy of Naxos, and its strategic location made it a target for pirate raids. Later, the island fell under Ottoman control, but its Cycladic traditions and strong Greek identity remained intact.
Today, Paros is celebrated for its charming whitewashed villages, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Highlights include the picturesque harbor of Naoussa, the medieval streets of Parikia, and the ancient marble quarries. Paros blends its ancient history with modern tourism, offering visitors a unique mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and relaxation. Its balance of tradition and contemporary charm makes it one of the most beloved destinations in the Cyclades.
Transportation on Paros, Greece
Getting to Paros, Greece and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
- Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of €12 applies for flights leaving Greece. This is usually included in airfare but confirm with your carrier.
Driving
- Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Driving Side: Right-hand side.
- Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, particularly in rural areas.
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of scooters and ATVs, which are common on the island. Parking can be limited in busy towns like Naoussa, especially during peak tourist seasons. Renting a car or scooter is a convenient way to explore Paros.
Local Transportation
Paros provides plenty of ways to explore its stunning beaches, traditional villages, and scenic landscapes. The island’s public bus network is an efficient choice, connecting key locations like Parikia, Naoussa, and the famous Golden Beach. For those seeking more freedom, renting a car, scooter, or ATV is ideal for venturing into the island’s quieter spots and hidden gems. Taxis are available, though their numbers are limited, so booking ahead is wise during busy periods. Boats and small ferries also offer a charming way to visit nearby Antiparos or explore the coastline.
Know Before You Go...® - Paros, Greece Travel Tips
Before making their way to Paros, Greece , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Paros, Greece even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Parikia |
| Population: |
12,500 (estimated) |
| Size: |
75 square miles (estimated) |
| Electric Current: |
230 |
| Official Language: |
The official language spoken in Paros is Greek, specifically the modern Greek dialect. The secondary language spoken is English, as it is widely used in the tourism industry on the island. Other languages spoken include German, French, and Italian. |
| Currency: |
- The official currency of Greece is the Euro (€). Visitors can easily exchange their currency at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs, which are available in most towns and villages.
- Cash is still widely used in Paros, especially for small purchases, from local markets and street vendors. Most shops and restaurants accept cash, and it is always a good idea to carry some with you for convenience. ATMs are available in most towns, making it easy to withdraw cash if needed.
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Paros. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express and Diners Club may have limited acceptance.
- Mobile payments, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are becoming increasingly popular in Paros. They are accepted in most establishments especially in larger towns and tourist areas.
- Traveler's checks are not widely accepted in Paros, and it may be challenging to find a place to cash them.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- In Paros, tipping is not mandatory, the usual tipping percentage is 10% of the total bill, although some tourists may leave a higher amount if they are particularly satisfied with the service. Tipping in cash is the preferred method, although some restaurants and hotels may also allow tipping through credit or debit cards.
- In restaurants, a service charge of 15-20% is usually included in the bill, so it is not necessary to leave an additional tip. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is common to leave a small tip for the waiter or waitress directly.
- Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but most locals round up the fare to the nearest euro as a small tip. It is also common to tip for any additional services, such as carrying luggage or a longer journey.
- Value Added Tax (VAT) is included in the price of goods and services in Paros. The current VAT rate in Greece is 24%, this tax applies to almost all products and services.
|
| Dress Code: |
The dress code in Paros, Greece is likely casual and comfortable, with light and airy clothing suitable for the warm climate. |
| Topography: |
Paros is a mountainous island in Greece, with a rugged coastline, rolling hills, and several small valleys scattered throughout the landscape. |
| Telephone: |
* Telephone Country Code: +30
* Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, including beaches and rural areas.
* Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests. |
Paros, Greece Weddings and Honeymoons
In Paros, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Apply for a marriage license at the local Dimarchio (Town Hall) in Paros or a nearby municipality. Applications should be submitted at least 10 days in advance.
Documents Needed:
- Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
- Birth certificates (translated into Greek and certified with an Apostille).
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (translated into Greek).
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
- Application form provided by the Town Hall.
Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Greek by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Greek.
Costs: Marriage fees typically range from €100 to €300. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.
Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Paros offers stunning venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including picturesque beaches, charming whitewashed chapels, and luxury villas. Popular locations include Kolymbithres Beach, the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, and the quaint streets of Naoussa. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.
