Parikia is the capital of Paros, one of the most beautiful Greek islands in the Cyclades. Paros is a perfect alternative for avoiding the crowds of Santorini and Mykonos without skimping on idyllic Aegean beaches and charming Cycladic villages. Parikia is the capital of Paros and the island’s major port, yet it’s also one of the loveliest villages on the island. 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. The best restaurants, bars and tavernas in Parikia are Parea Cafe, Ephesus Restaurant and Pirate Bar.

Usually, I find that the port towns are busy and charmless, but in Parikia you’ll get the best of both worlds – all of the convenience and all of the charm. 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!

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.

Our Lady of A Hundred Doors

In the heart of Parikia, visit the dazzling 4th century Byzantine church complex at Panagia Ekatontapyliani (Our Lady of A Hundred Doors) and shop at the dozens of boutiques offering hand-crafted accessories, shoes and jewellery and local designs.

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.

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 costs 10 euros, 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!

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

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!

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.