Highlights
- Hop between sandy beaches on the Cycladic island of Paros
- Hike to ancient ruins and venture inland to discover unspoiled villages
- Cruise over to neighboring Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades
- Tour sixth-century BCE archaeological sites and climb to a Venetian castle
- Watch the sunset over Naxos Town from the sixth-century BCE Temple of Apollo
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Paros | Paros |
| Day 2 | Morning at Molos Beach, Explore Naousa | Paros |
| Day 3 | Discover Kolymbithres Beach & the Mycenaean Acropolis | Paros |
| Day 4 | Visit the Inland Villages of Kostos & Lefkes | Paros |
| Day 5 | Ferry to Naxos | Naxos |
| Day 6 | Visit Apiranthos, the "Marble Village" | Naxos |
| Day 7 | Naxos Archaeological Tour | Naxos |
| Day 8 | Return to Athens, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Paros
Welcome to Greece! As you step off the plane on Paros, a private transfer will be waiting to take you to your seaside lodging. This small island is frequently overlooked in favor of its more famous Cycladic neighbors, but you'll quickly learn that Paros has a special charm of its own. Settle in and explore the sandy beach surrounding your accommodation on the island's northeastern side. After you've freshened up, have a relaxed dinner at a neighboring taverna overlooking the cobalt blue Aegean Sea.
Day 2: Morning at Molos Beach, Explore Naousa
Start today with some sun and sea at the sandy beach of Molos. Lounge on the shore or visit the neighboring St. Anthony's Monastery with a walk or drive. The hiking trail also takes you through the ruins of a former Venetian castle before you reach the top, where you'll find the double-domed monastery and scenic views of both Paros and neighboring Naxos.
In the afternoon, try some fresh local cuisine at a remote traditional village like Lefkes or head into the chic town of Naousa. Its whitewashed cobblestone streets are home to plenty of tiny shops, cafés, bars, and clubs that attract partiers all summer long.
Day 3: Discover Kolymbithres Beach & the Mycenaean Acropolis
Begin your day with a relaxing breakfast before you hit the sea air and golden sands of popular Kolymbithres beach. You'll find rows of colorful beach umbrellas accented by towering granite rocks, carved by the waves into natural sculptures. Go for a swim in the calm, shallow waters, or set off on a scenic coastal walk, spotting antique chapels, island vines, and rustic farmhouses on your way to the hillside ruins of the Mycenaean Acropolis, dating back to the 13th century BCE. If you're keen to get out on the water, you could also take a scenic day cruise that encircles the island.
Stick with the al fresco theme for dinner and eat on the beach, or take your pick of the traditional tavernas along the main strip of town. Listen for the ones that have live music if you're in the mood for both dinner and a bit of a show.
Day 4: Visit the Inland Villages of Kostos & Lefkes
Today is a good opportunity to take a break from the beach and delve into the island's interior instead. Some inland highlights include the village of Kostos, which has an authentic feel and a charming square ideal for coffee and some backgammon under the shade of its plane tree, and Lefkes, home to the Agia Triada church, located on one of the most beautiful squares in the Cyclades.
On your way back to the coast, you might want to swing by the island's capital and main port of Paroikia, where Yria Ceramics offers both traditional and contemporary ceramic designs. The Panagia Ekatontapiliani church, also known as the Church of 100 Doors, is also worth a stop to see one of the best-preserved Christian churches in Greece.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 5: Ferry to Naxos
Say goodbye to Paros! After breakfast, you'll head straight to the main port to catch a ferry and continue your adventure on the neighboring island of Naxos. With an active main town where you can shop and admire the Venetian architecture, a historic Kastro (castle) area, and expansive beaches, the island offers opportunities for both laid-back relaxation as well as water or land activities. The rest of the day is yours to unwind as you choose.
If you prefer something a bit more pastoral, Naxos is also known for its rich agricultural industry. Pay a visit to a cheese-producing facility or a local distillery to sample the famous local kitron liquor. For dinner, wander up the hill through the streets of the Kastro neighborhood to pick out your favorite of the area's tavernas, where you can sample the island's fresh produce in its best forms.
Day 6: Visit Apiranthos, the "Marble Village"
Today, you'll have an opportunity to travel to the village of Apiranthos. This fantastical spot is situated at the foot of Mount Fanari, the island's third-highest peak. Also known as the "Marble Village," its winding streets and traditional architecture have been nearly untouched since the days of the Venetians, as has its language. The local dialect is believed to contain both Ancient Greek and Byzantine elements.
Most of the village can only be accessed on foot. Have a coffee on the pedestrian-only main street and soak up the slower pace of life, then get lost in the village's winding pathways that crawl up and down the mountainside. Don't miss a visit to the nearby Agia Kyriaki, located within hiking distance beyond the village. This former Byzantine church is best known for the remnants of its historic murals.
If you're looking for a break from Greek food in the evening, the seasonal Picasso Mexican restaurant on Plaka beach has been drawing loyal visitors to its fresh fajitas and margaritas for more than 20 summers.
Day 7: Naxos Archaeological Tour
This morning, you'll journey into the past with an excursion to the Gyroula archaeological site, close to the village of Sangri and an important Naxos landmark. Visit a sanctuary where deities of fertility were worshipped, particularly the goddess Demeter, or a two-aisled Ionic temple. The temple was constructed in 530 BCE, during the tyranny of Lygdamis, and represents a precursor of classical Athenian architecture.
You'll also visit the Portara, the entrance to the Temple of Apollo. Construction on the temple began in the sixth century BCE but was never finished. The still-standing entranceway has become one of the hallmarks of the island. You can find it on the islet of Palatia, just over a causeway from the heart of Naxos Town (Chora). After some beach time in the afternoon, don't miss the chance to watch a sunset at the Portara. Stroll back into town for dinner and take it easy at To Souvlaki tou Maki, one of the favorite souvlaki spots on the island.
Day 8: Return to Athens, Depart
It's time to wave goodbye to Naxos! After breakfast, you'll be transferred to either Naxos Port or the island's small airport to return to Athens in time for your departure.
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