Is Paros a family destination?

Paros is a highly sought-after island in the Cyclades and ranks as the fourth largest among the most popular islands of this complex. It offers a variety of activities for families with kids, making it a great destination for family holidays. With its clear blue skies, fresh air, stunning coastlines, and safe beaches, Paros provides a peaceful retreat for families with young children. At the same time, the island is also known for its vibrant nightlife, making it a suitable location for families with older teenagers. No wonder last summer it ranked 3^rd in the list of 20 best islands in Europe.

Paros is located in the center of the Aegean Sea and is the fourth largest island in the Cyclades complex. It is considered to be a budget-friendly alternative to other popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini while still maintaining the iconic Cycladic charm that you often see in pictures. The island boasts beautiful beaches, intriguing museums and archaeological sites, a variety of outdoor activities, and some of the tastiest dishes in Greek cuisine.

The main town of Parikia and smaller villages like Naoussa (near the sea) and Lefkes (in the mountains) feature charming narrow alleyways with white stone walls and bright blue doors and windows in the traditional Cycladic style. Family-friendly tavernas all over the island serve up simple yet delicious Mediterranean dishes that will leave a lasting impression.

Paros is the perfect destination for a family vacation, as it offers kid-friendly activities for children of all ages, such as horseback riding, farm visits and water sport lessons. Getting around the island is easy and enjoyable whether it is in a privately rented car or with the local bus service.

As Paros is one of the most well-known islands in the Cyclades, it is easy accessible from Athens. You can reach Paros by either taking a ferry or flying. The island also offers amazing connections to other islands due to its central location within the Aegean Sea.

Arriving by Ferry:

The majority of ferries depart from the Port of Piraeus, but there is also an option to depart from the Rafina port, located near Athens International Airport. The ferry from Athens to Paros takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the type of ferry chosen.

Connections to and from other islands also exist, such as: Syros, Mykonos, Tinos, Andros, Sifnos, Serifos, Milos, Kimolos, Folegandros, Sikinos, Naxos, Ios, Santorini and the Small Cyclades, as well as Amorgos, Anafi, Astypalaia, Heraklion Crete and, of course Antiparos.

Arriving by Plane.

The Paros airport is located near the capital and it only takes about 40 minutes to fly from Athens. The airlines companies that operate flights to Paros are Olympic, Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, Astra Airlines and various charter flights from abroad.

In Parikia, the main town and port of the island, there are plenty of tavernas along the waterfront and charming narrow pebbled pathways to wander through, lined with white-washed houses. Another charming village, the cosmopolitan Naoussa, is located about a 15-minute drive from the capital. Naoussa up to today is still a working fishing harbor. If you enjoy seafood, then Piso Livadi, another picturesque fishing village, is the perfect place to visit.

There are also several museums on the island, such as the:

• Sculpture Museum
• Archaeological Museum
• Byzantine Museum, and
• Folklore Museum.

Visitors can also explore historic churches, such as the Ekantotapiliani Church (the church with the 100 doors) and the ruins of the Venetian Castle and harbour. On the northern part of the island, there is the Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros, featuring a network of walking routes, some dated back to ancient times.

Additionally, there are several caves to visit in Paros and in nearby islands. The most famous Paros cave would be Archilochos. Lastly, both Paros and Antiparos offer numerous hiking routes, including the valley and village of Lefkes, the Ancient Marble Quarries, and the Valley of the Butterflies.

Paros beaches offer crystal-clear waters and gorgeous sandy shores that are perfect for families with kids. Some of the most child-friendly beaches are located on the south side of the island and include:

• Kolymbithres Beach,
• Faragas Beach, and
• Marcello Beach.

Kolymbithres is famous for its sand-smoothed boulders, shallow and clear waters, while Marcello is known for its smooth golden sand and calm waters. Lolantonis Beach, just south of the village of Drios, is a great choice for families with young children due to its clear turquoise waters and plenty of shade, and Ampelas has a sea wall that ensures calm waters and beach tavernas to choose from.

If you are looking for family activities I have you covered! Here is a smaller taster of what is available on the island:

• Sunrise horseback riding plus swimming with horses
• Stargazing experience
• Tennis classes
• Boat trip to nearby islands
• Day cruises
• Snorkeling / diving lessons
• Farm tours & experiences
• Pottery classes
• Cooking classes
• Sailing classes
• Watersport lessons (kite surf, wind surf)
• Learn about wild birds

I am always available to provide you with tips, to offer guidance, or to assist you in perfecting the ideal family holiday in Paros fully tailored to your own tastes and likes, prior to, or during your trip. For a peak of what is on offer, check out the Path Travel Designs website, or simply tell me what you are after by contacting me here.

So, to answer the question: Yes, Paros is a family destination!

Paros offers a great balance between variety of activities and a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for families. With its beautiful beaches, interesting museums and archaeological sites, outdoor activities, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, families are sure to have an enjoyable and memorable vacation on the island.

… Now all you have to do is find your ideal holiday home in Paros!

And in case you want your accommodation to be a little bit more special have a look at these private villas available for rent in Paros.