Explora Journeys in Paros

Paros sits in the heart of the Cyclades, and ships call at Parikia, its main town. Tenders land you directly at the old town waterfront, where whitewashed lanes, bougainvillea archways, and one of Greece's most important Byzantine churches are all on foot. It is a quieter, less trafficked alternative to Santorini and Mykonos, and the whole port day can be done without leaving Parikia.

What to do on a day in Paros

• Panagia Ekatontapyliani, the Church of 100 Doors, a 4th-century Byzantine complex a short walk from the tender pier, allow about 30 minutes inside
• The Kastro, the Frankish and Venetian castle built in 1260 on the ancient acropolis, its walls visibly studded with marble columns and blocks pulled from classical temples of Athena
• The old town of Parikia itself, a maze of cobbled lanes and Cycladic houses entirely walkable from the harbor
• The Cycladic windmill that sits right at the ferry terminal, the town's landmark meeting point
• The Archaeological Museum of Paros, holding locally excavated antiquities including a fragment of the Parian Chronicle

Getting ashore

Ships anchor in Parikia Bay and tender passengers to the town pier, putting you at the old town waterfront within a few steps; budget 30 to 45 minutes for the tender process at each end. One day is comfortably enough for the old town, the church, the Kastro, and a long lunch, with five to six hours covering it without rushing.

When to book the ship's excursion vs your own →

Weather and when to visit

• May to October (cruise season). Warm and dry, typically 70 to 85F. Low humidity and reliable sunshine, with sea breezes most afternoons.
• July to August. Hottest and also the height of the meltemi, the strong north wind that runs around 20 knots and can gust higher. It brings cooler air, low humidity, and clear visibility, but it can occasionally affect tender operations.