Parikia is the capital of Paros, one of the most beautiful Greek islands in the Cyclades. Parikia is the capital of Paros and the island’s major port, yet it’s also one of the loveliest villages on the island.

In this guide to Parikia, I’ve included tips on where to stay, the best things to do in Parikia & a few of my favourite places to eat and drink. The best things to do in Parikia include exploring Parikia’s gorgeous Old Town, spending a day at Livadia Beach, visiting the Frankish Castle and admiring the view from the Church of St Constantine.

Usually, I find that the port towns are busy and charmless, but this is not the case in Parikia. Here, you get the best of both worlds – all of the convenience and all of the charm.

Paros is a perfect alternative for avoiding the crowds of Santorini and Mykonos without skimping on idyllic Aegean beaches and charming Cycladic villages.

Planning a trip to Paros? Check out my Paros Travel Guide

When David & I went to Greece for two weeks, we stayed in Parikia. While we loved the other major villages in Paros, Naousa and Lefkes, I’m glad I stayed in Parikia and would definitely stay here again in the future!

Planning a trip to Greece? Get a free copy of my Itinerary for 2 Weeks in Greece for First Time Visitors as a downloadable PDF – each day’s itinerary is on a single page, making it printer-friendly and easy to reference on mobile, on-the-go! 

Where to stay in Parikia

• Pavlis Studios $ – This is where I stayed during our trip to Paros, and it is such a steal! The host, Nikki, is so warm & welcoming. It’s located a 10-minute walk from the centre of Parikia, which was no bother for us. It was very quiet.
• Azula Luxury Apartments – $$$ – Looking for accommodation for a group in Paros? Azula Luxury Apartments offers luxury two and three-bedroom apartments, perfect for family or group travel!
• Noble 7 Suites – Adults Only – $$$$ – For a splurge, stay at the luxurious Noble 7 Suites, an adults-only B&B with ocean views and an onsite pool

Best Things to See & Do in Parikia

Parikia’s Old Town

The labyrinthine alleyways, whitewashed stone buildings and lashings of bougainvillea that tumble over garden walls make Parikia’s Old Town one of the most charming villages in the Cyclades. You could easily spend a few days exploring Parikia’s Old Town at a leisurely pace.

The best things to do in the Old Town are to visit the stunning Byzantine church complex, the Frankish Castle, hang out on Livadia Beach and enjoy Parikia’s lively yet relaxed nightlife.

Livadia Beach

Parikia has its own beach, which is an advantage it has over Naoussa. Livadia Beach has calm, clear water and one of the cheapest beach clubs on the island.

A set of chairs for the day was 10 euros when I visited, which is pretty reasonable in the Cyclades. There’s also a short drinks & snacks menu, serviced by the bar across the street. 

I visited Livadia at least once a day when we were in Paros, because it was so convenient and it was always easy to get a chair!

The Frankish Castle

The Frankish Castle was built by the Venetians, who ruled many of the islands in the Cyclades during the 13th century. It’s one of the oldest historic sites in Paros and is quite unusual, with bold geometric patterns made from the odd-shaped bricks.

It’s not behind any fences or glass – it’s just tucked away in the backstreets!

Our Lady of A Hundred Doors

The dazzling Panagia Ekatontapyliani (Our Lady of A Hundred Doors) is a 4th century Byzantine church complex. It is so peaceful and beautiful, and I loved visiting one quiet morning.

Views from the Church of St Constantine

The Church of Saint Constantine is at the highest point in Parikia. It’s well worth the short but steep and slippery stone backstreets to the church, for the views out over the ocean. There’s also a restaurant up here, which makes it a stunning spot for a lunch break.

Best Restaurants & Bars in Parikia

Parea Cafe

Parea Cafe, on the edge of town, is perfect for breakfast or a lively atmosphere in their courtyard in the evenings, and Pirate Bar in the middle of Parikia’s old town is perfect for cocktails after dinner. When we were there for dinner, they had live traditional music and it was such a vibe!

Ephesus Restaurant

Parikia’s waterfront is lined with lively tavernas and bars, but of course, it’s always wise to ask for some local advice to help separate the tourist traps from the real deal. On recommendation of our host, we had dinner right at the water’s edge, at the end of town at Ephesus on our first night, and it was perfect.

Pirate Bar

Pirate Bar is my favourite bar in Parikia, with an excellent cocktail menu and a cosy vibe. It’s a great spot for a late night cocktail after dinner.

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