Top Things to Do in Parikia, the Capital of Paros
If you dreamed about the perfect little town, in the perfect Greek island, then Parikia is for you. The settlement has all that makes Greece famous: archaeology, beaches, blue domes, cute plazas, whitewashed houses, delicious food and warm hosts.
Parikia is one of our favorite spots in the Cycladas. Though not fully under the radar, it’s far less visited than its popular sister Mykonos. The following are our favorite things to do in the city. We are sure you will fall in love with Parikia and Paros, just as we did long time ago.
Get Lost on the Streets of the Old Town
There’s a reason why Cyclades architecture has conquered the world: it’s absolutely beautiful. The streets, aisles and squares of Parikia’s Old Town are picture perfect. All you have to do to enjoy them is to walk without a plan, at your own pace.
The town goes from the port up the hill. The first thing you’ll see when disembarking is a giant old windmill. You’ll see white houses with colorful doors, taverns, lots of plants, and superb churches. One of our favorite is the Church of Agios Nikolaos Thalassitis.
Visit the Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church
No matter how many churches you’ve seen in your life, the Holy Shrine of the Virgin Mary Ekatontapyliani is in a league of its own. The oldest elements in the church are from 326 DC! However, most of what we can see today is from the 18th Century.
The temple is very important for Greek Orthodox Christians. People from all over the country visit to pray, so be respectful. Go inside and prepare to be dazzled: stunning frescoes cover the walls. Once done with the church, visit the Byzantine Museum next door.
Learn History in the Archeological Museum
If you read us you already know that we are archaeology queens. It’s one of the reasons why we are in love with Greece. The Archaeological Museum of Paros is in the center, pretty close to the port. It’s a small museum with 3 rooms and courtyard.
The entrance is only 3 euros. There are sculptures, vases, door frames, and lots of ancient artifacts. What impressed us the most is the mosaic in the courtyard. The information is in English and it takes half an hour to visit.
Visit the Frankish Castle
Parikia wouldn’t be Greek without a castle! It’s a short walk from the port. A Venetian family built the Frankish Castle in the 12th Century. They used the remains of ancient temples. Thus the round marble bricks.
Granted, only one tower and a bit of a wall remain, but it still worth your time. The castle faces the sea. Therefore, it’s the best place to watch a killer sunset. The area is lovely, with lots of plants, a tiny church, and white washed houses.
Visit the Archaic Temple Of Athena
Athena was the protector of Paros. That’s why the island’s inhabitants built this temple in the 6th Century BC. Not much of it remains, but foundations. As mentioned, the temple was used to build the Castle.
The remains of the temple are in front of Saint Constantine Church, a 10 minute walk from the port. Both the remains and the church are a bit up hill and face the sea. Go in the afternoon for an epic sunset.
Spend Some Time on the Beach
One of the reasons why we like Parikia so much is for its stunning beaches. The city spreads along a deep bay. Thus the clam blue waters. The closest beach to the port is Livadia. It’s a sandy beach with shallow water. Since it’s next to the port, it’s a bit convoluted.
Our favorite beach is next, just 15 minutes by foot from the port. Krios Beach is splendid! The water is calm and shallow, perfect for kids and to swim. The beach is long and sandy. You can rent a lounge or chill under a tree.
Where to Stay in Parikia
Our favorite hotel in Parikia is the incredible Parian Village Beach Hotel. It’s a fantastic beachfront property with everything you ever dreamed off, and adults only. It’s got a pool, elegant rooms, lounges, and breathtaking views. You can walk to the center in no time.
Now, if traveling with family, book a room at Irene Studios. The beachfront property has an unbeatable location: where Parikia beach begins. It has fully equipped studios with stoves, balconies, and sea views.
If you don’t want to stay on the beach, but in the cutest little street with awesome views, book a room at Hotel Dina. It’s like staying in your own Cycladic house! The rooms are extra comfy and the service impeccable. Great value for money.
Where to Eat and Drink
As everywhere in Greece, we always eat like kings in Parikia. We always have coffee and sweets in Secret Cafe Bar. It’s after the castle and offers homemade food and spectacular views. Another great place to catch the sunset.
For lunch on the beach without crowds, head to Omilos, in the middle of Livadia Beach. Your host Nefeli will treat you like a king. They serve delicious food and cocktails directly on the beach. There’s no music, but the sound of the waves. What else could you ask for?
We always have cocktails at Pirate Bar, in the middle of the town. You can sit outdoors on the plaza and intake the atmosphere. You can also sit inside. Romanos and Andres make the most amazing cocktails and are a pleasure to talk to.
