Car & Van Hire - Paros

If you’re wondering what to do in Paros, read on, as we’ll uncover the best places to visit on the island. From quaint towns to stunning beaches – there’s plenty to see in this idyllic paradise. Here’s our top suggestions:

Top Places to Visit in Paros

If you’re travelling to Paros, you’re most probably keen to dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Some of the best beaches in Paros include the Monastiri Beach, a lively beach popular with families for its shallow waters and soft sandy shores. Another great beach in Paros is Kolymbithres Beach, a beloved beach by locals and tourists alike with turquoise waters and stunning granite rock formations along the bay. If you’re more of an urban explorer, head to the island’s second-largest town Naoussa, famous for its buzzing nightlife, fine restaurants, and traditional Aegean architecture. With its characteristic, white-washed houses, it makes for a picture-perfect location, and an ideal place for alfresco dining. When in town, visit the Monastery of St. Johns of Deti or take an 8-minute drive to the Mycenaean Acropolis, an archaeological site dating to 1,200 BC. Other places to visit in Paros include the island’s main city, Parikia, with its distinctive narrow alleyways and bustling city centre. Visit the Frankish castle and the Archaeological and Byzantine Museum to learn more about the island’s rich history.

Paros Food and Drinks

In Paros, you can try many popular Greek dishes such as popoutsakia, made with stuffed aubergines or soutzoukakia, delicious Greek meatballs. But if you’re looking for local dishes, opt for gouna fish, sun-dried mackerel dressed in lemon and herbs; or revithada, a dish of chickpeas, onions and garlic cooked in clay pots overnight. As for drinks, learn how Greece’s national drink ouzo is made. Or keep it alcohol-free by sipping on delicious homemade lemonade or trying soumada, a syrupy almond-based drink.

Events & Festivals in Paros

There are plenty of things to do in Paros, including attending the island’s many religious and cultural festivals. For a taste of local gastronomy, make sure you’re in town for the annual Karavolas Festival on the 15th of August, a gourmet event that celebrates karavoles, large snails that are considered a local delicacy. Alternatively, take part in the Paros Pirate Festival on the 23rd of August. This festival takes place in Naoussa and celebrates the local victory over the Turkish pirate Barbarossa. For the occasion, the whole town dresses up in pirate costumes and celebrates with fireworks, street food, and dances until the early morning!"

Before embarking on your road trip to Paros, it’s helpful to know some of the main road rules and regulations. As with mainland Greece and many neighbouring countries, you drive on the right side of the road in Paros. All car passengers are required to wear a seatbelt and driving whilst using a mobile phone is prohibited.

When renting a car in Paros, you’ll need the following documents:

• A full, valid driving licence
• An international driver’s permit (non-EEA or EU countries)
• Vehicle insurance certificate
• Registration documents
• Your passport

Driving in Paros is an ideal way to explore the island at your own pace. All roads are clearly signposted, and the road conditions are generally good, with low traffic. The city centres of Parikia and Naoussa can get busy, especially on market days or during religious or cultural festivities. We recommend you park your car in the outskirts and walk into town.

When in Greece, keep a note of the following speed limits:

• 50km/hr in built-up areas
• 80-90 km/hr outside built-up areas
• 100-120 km/hr on motorways

Are you ready to explore Paros? Check out our car rental options and prepare for a smooth drive in this spectacular island.