Paros, a gem in the Cyclades islands of Greece, is a destination renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic villages, and serene atmosphere. If you’re planning a three-day getaway here, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most of your trip and fully experience the charm of Paros.
How to Get to Paros?
To reach Paros, you’ll need to take a ferry either from mainland Greece or from another island. I recommend using the FerriesinGreece website to book your ferry tickets. This platform offers detailed ferry schedules and a convenient online booking service. For a smooth and punctual journey, consider traveling with Seajets, a ferry company known for its efficiency. The ferry ride usually takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on your point of departure and the specific ferry you choose.
Upon arrival, you’ll dock at Parikia, the main port of Paros and your starting point for exploring the island. To maximize your time and independence while on the island, renting a vehicle is essential. We opted for a quad bike, which proved invaluable for navigating the various beaches and hidden coves of Paros and its neighboring island, Antiparos. We used the Ulysse website to compare rental prices and found the best deal that suited our needs. Renting a quad bike not only gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace but also allowed us to visit places that are difficult to reach by public transport.
Where to Stay on Paros?
Paros offers a wide range of accommodations, with Naoussa being the liveliest town on the island. This picturesque town is the perfect base, offering the most accommodation options, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, making it an ideal place to experience the local culture.
Santa Maria Village: A Serene Oasis in Naoussa, Paros
During our stay in Paros, we chose Santa Maria Village, a delightful hotel located in the picturesque town of Naoussa, as our home base. This decision turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip, as the hotel offered a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and local charm.
Location and Accessibility
Santa Maria Village is ideally situated just a short walk from the heart of Naoussa, one of the most vibrant towns on the island. The hotel’s location made it easy for us to explore the town’s lively streets filled with boutique shops, traditional tavernas, and charming cafes. Despite being close to the town center, the hotel is nestled in a peaceful area, providing a quiet retreat after a day of exploration.
Getting to the hotel from the main port of Parikia was straightforward. We arrived by ferry from Athens and took a short taxi ride from the port, which took around 20 minutes. The hotel also offers a convenient transfer service from the airport, which is especially helpful if you’re arriving directly by air. For those renting a vehicle, the hotel provides ample parking space, making it easy to explore the island by car or quad bike.
The Accommodation Experience
Santa Maria Village boasts a serene and well-maintained environment, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a pool area that instantly invites relaxation. Each morning, we started our day with a generous buffet breakfast served in the hotel’s bright and airy dining area. The breakfast spread included a variety of fresh local products, from homemade pastries and bread to fresh fruits, yogurt, and honey. The coffee was excellent, providing the perfect kick-start to our day.
After breakfast, we often spent time lounging by the pool, which is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. The pool area was one of our favorite spots to unwind, with comfortable sun loungers and umbrellas available for guests. The pool bar also served refreshing drinks and light snacks, which we enjoyed throughout the day.
Room Comfort and Amenities
Our room at Santa Maria Village was a perfect blend of traditional Cycladic design and modern comfort. The room was spacious and bright, with whitewashed walls and simple, elegant furnishings that created a calming atmosphere. The bed was particularly comfortable, with crisp linens and soft pillows that ensured a good night’s sleep after our daily adventures.
The room also featured a private balcony with a small table and chairs, where we could sit and enjoy the views of the garden and the sea in the distance. This private outdoor space quickly became our go-to spot for morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening.
In terms of amenities, the hotel provided everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The room was equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a safe. The bathroom was modern and clean, with complimentary toiletries and fresh towels provided daily. One of the most convenient features was the free Wi-Fi, which was strong and reliable throughout our stay, allowing us to stay connected and share our experiences with friends and family.
Value for Money
Santa Maria Village offers excellent value for money, especially considering the quality of service and amenities provided. We booked our stay through Booking.com and were fortunate to find a special deal that included three nights for €150, with breakfast included. This rate was very reasonable, especially for a hotel of this caliber in such a prime location. We found the booking process on Booking.com to be straightforward, with clear information on room availability, prices, and special offers.
Service and Hospitality
The staff at Santa Maria Village played a significant role in making our stay memorable. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and a genuine willingness to help. The reception team was always available to provide recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and excursions around the island. They even helped us arrange a rental quad bike, which made exploring Paros and Antiparos incredibly convenient.
One of the most impressive aspects of the service was the attention to detail. For example, when we mentioned we were celebrating a special occasion, the hotel staff surprised us with a complimentary bottle of local wine in our room. These personal touches truly enhanced our experience and made us feel valued as guests.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation
Our stay at Santa Maria Village was nothing short of delightful. The hotel’s combination of excellent location, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding service made it the perfect base for our three-day adventure in Paros. We would highly recommend this hotel to anyone planning a trip to the island, whether you’re a couple, a family, or a solo traveler looking for a peaceful yet convenient place to stay.
With its beautiful surroundings, affordable rates, and friendly staff, Santa Maria Village earns a 5/5 recommendation from us. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, exploring the nearby town of Naoussa, or venturing out to discover the island’s hidden gems, this hotel offers a perfect sanctuary where you can unwind and enjoy all that Paros has to offer.
If you’re arriving from the airport or the port, I suggest using a local taxi service to reach the hotel. Although the hotel is not far from the port, walking with luggage can be cumbersome. Santa Maria Village offers an excellent transfer service from the airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival. Overall, our stay at this hotel was delightful and undoubtedly one of the highlights of our trip.
Must-Visit Attractions in Paros
During our three days on Paros, we made the most of each day by exploring the island’s many attractions.
1. Exploring Naoussa
Located at the northern tip of the island, Naoussa is a charming town just 10 km from the main port. It’s one of the most picturesque towns on Paros, featuring the quintessential Cycladic architecture: narrow, cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and brightly colored shutters adorned with vibrant flowers. The town’s fishing port is particularly enchanting, with small fishing boats gently bobbing in the water and traditional restaurants lining the harbor, complete with colorful wooden chairs. Dining in these quaint establishments, with dried octopus hanging in the sun and the scent of the sea in the air, is a quintessentially Greek experience.
2. Visiting Lefkes and Prodromos
Lefkes and Prodromos are two of the most beautiful villages on Paros, each offering a unique experience. Lefkes, situated in the mountains at the heart of the island, is known for its breathtaking views and steep, narrow streets. The entire village is pedestrian-only, which allows for leisurely strolls through its picturesque alleys. We spent several hours here, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Prodromos, on the other hand, is a much smaller and less touristy village. It offers a more authentic local experience, with few shops and restaurants, making it perfect for a quiet, immersive visit. We spent about an hour wandering through its peaceful streets, enjoying the simplicity and charm of village life.
3. A Day Trip to Antiparos
While a visit to Antiparos requires almost a full day, it’s well worth the effort if you havethe time. Starting from Naoussa, it takes about 30 minutes to drive to the Pounta port, where you can catch a ferry to Antiparos. The round trip takes about an hour, and the ferry ticket costs €1.20 per person, or €6.30 if you’re bringing a small vehicle. The ferry ride itself is quick, taking only about 7 minutes, with departures every 30 minutes.
Once you arrive on Antiparos, you’ll find the main village right across from the port. Although small, it exudes the quintessential charm of Greek island life, with narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant bougainvillea. We highly recommend stopping for a coffee at Bougainvilles Café, where you can relax on the beautiful terrace and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
4. Exploring the Beaches of Antiparos
Antiparos is renowned for its pristine beaches and secluded coves. We ventured to the southern tip of the island, a journey that took about 30 minutes by car. The first cove we visited, which can only be reached by quad bike, was particularly stunning. However, it’s important to check sea conditions before heading out, as high waves can make swimming dangerous and diminish the appeal of the spot. The Wisuki app is a great tool for checking wind and sea conditions in advance.
The eastern coast of Antiparos is home to several large, sandy beaches, including Paralia Sostis. Despite the dirt and sand road, the beach is accessible by car, and its natural setting and crystal-clear water make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea.
If you prefer a beach day without the hassle of extensive travel, there are also options close to the port. First and Second Psaralyki Beaches are just 8 and 15 minutes’ walk from the port, respectively, making them convenient choices for a quick dip or a lazy afternoon on the sand. Sifneiko Beach is another nearby option, particularly popular for watching the sunset, and is a great choice if you plan to stay on the island into the evening.
Our three-day adventure on Paros was filled with unforgettable experiences, from the vibrant charm of Naoussa to the serene beauty of Lefkes, and the hidden coves of Antiparos. Whether you’re a fan of cultural exploration or natural beauty, Paros has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time on this enchanting island. May your journey to Paros be as memorable and delightful as ours!
