I took the early Monday morning ferry to travel to Paros. Many Greek families and couples spend their holidays in Paros, and I was about to join them. The ferry would be stopping at several Greek islands in the Cyclades region: Naxos, Mykonos, Santorini and my stop, Paros.
The decision to travel to Paros was not a straightforward one. I was inundated with ideas after speaking with several Greek locals at a Couchsurfing event. By the end, I’d decided on visiting Paros, and neighboring island, Antiparos.
Holidays to Paros on a budget
Paradise in Paros
Most travelers would define an island escapade as paradise, and Paros is no exception. It was a welcome sight to see the shore’s edge after a 4.5 hour ferry ride from Athens.
I visited at a good time of the year. The end of August into early September is the start of the low season, meaning it’s also far quieter. Still, you’ll find many people around the port in the island’s capital, Parikia.
Boutique hotels in Paros
Traveling at the end of the summer peak season provides many options for accommodation, especially boutique hotels. Staying at a 4-star hotel for holidays in Paros is possible, even on a budget.
Calme Boutique Hotel, Paros
I stayed at the beautiful Calme Boutique Hotel and enjoyed my time here. It’s in a quiet part of the island, with generous sized rooms and an outdoor swimming pool. You may prefer to book an Airbnb instead, but if you do, book in advance as the options can be limited.
Stelia Mare Boutique Hotel
Another equally budget friendly boutique hotel is the 4-star Stelia Mare Boutique Hotel. There are 14 rooms available, each with free Wi-Fi, plus an outdoor pool and gym. It’s also close to Parikia Town and local beaches.
credit – Calme Boutique Hotel Paros
Holidays in Paros – getting around the island
Paros is an island that caters to every traveler’s need. Sun worshippers are spoiled for choice with the many beaches and remote areas for bathing. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing and also snorkeling. Getting to and from these areas is relatively easy with the transportation options available.
Walking in Paros
If you have a base in Parikia, it’s easy to walk to most places. Like most capitals, Parikia is a hub of convenience, with many restaurants, bars, cafes and also a supermarket.
Walking during the cooler parts of the day, ie early morning or late afternoon is advised. If this isn’t possible, always carry a bottle of water, stay in the shade and walk fast! As mentioned before, Parikia is also home to the port and the bus station.
Taking the bus around Paros
Traveling by bus may be the cheapest way to explore (€1.80 (£1.30/$2) one way*) the island, but it isn’t the quickest. I advise checking the bus schedule beforehand, rather than turning up at the bus station and hoping for the best.
Buses have around a 2-hour wait between services, so expect a little hanging around. It goes without saying you should be at the bus stop at least 15 minutes before the expected time. Greek time is usually a little behind schedule and it’s better to be early than wait for another 2 hours.
Boat rides in Paros
The port of Paros is great for connecting to neighbouring islands such as Naxos, Ios and Santorini. It’s also very easy to get to Paros from Mykonos. Ferries depart daily, but check the schedule or ask a tour operator about times and prices. Staying within Paros, I took boat trips to Antiparos, as well as to the secluded beaches of Krios and Martselo.
Visit Antiparos from Paros
Boat trips to Antiparos depart every hour from Parikia and cost €10 (£7.40/$11*) for a return ticket. The last boat from Antiparos to Parikia leaves at 6pm. If you want to stay longer, either take a later boat back to Pounda beach on Paros or spend the night on Antiparos.
Return tickets to Krios and Martselo costs €5 (£3.70/$5.60*). The boat for the latter advertises departures every 30 minutes. However, in reality I spent nearly 2 hours at Martselo! You have to love Greek timing.
Paros bike hire
Whether it was the time of year I traveled, the price to rent a bike/scooter was seriously cheap. My friend managed to hire a scooter for the budget friendly price of €15 (£11/$17) for the day. This also included a full tank of petrol. Other bikes including the motor and quad varieties are also available, but prices do vary.
Renting a car in Paros
Car rental places were the first establishments I saw when I arrived on Paros. A delay in the pickup from my Airbnb brought me to the helpdesk of In Paros. With my level of Greek non-existent, I’d asked the owner for help in contacting my host. Though I never actually hired a car, I did end up becoming friends with its owner George.
Super helpful and incredibly friendly, he is a long-time resident on Paros, with ancestral roots there too. When it comes to the level of service offered, the other well-known car rental places have nothing on In Paros.
George’s love and passion for his home is reflected in the level of in-depth, yet personal service. The service is bespoke – and from the telephone conversations I overheard, very reasonable in price too. It came as no surprise when I heard that they’re as popular with Greeks as well as with foreigners.
Taxis in Paros
Taxis are another way of getting around Paros, but can be quite expensive. The taxis don’t have meters, meaning you have to negotiate the price with the driver beforehand. And unless, your level of Greek is near proficient, the other transport options are more appealing — and cheaper too.
If money isn’t an issue, go ahead and book a taxi. If it is, I’d say to avoid them, unless you’re splitting the fare with someone else.
Holidays in Paros – food and drink
Greek food is delicious. Simple dishes and fresh ingredients packed with flavour, and pretty healthy too. Did I also mention it’s delicious? Though Greek food is incredibly tasty, the hot weather can lower an appetite. Some days, I was eating one big meal a day. Though probably not ideal for my metabolism, a smaller appetite did wonders for my budget.
The Mediterranean climate, however, did make me want to drink more – and not just alcohol. I was constantly dehydrated, and always wanted more water, coffee, frappes, soft drinks, and beer! While I’m not the biggest consumer of soft drinks or beer, in Paros, I couldn’t get enough.
Drinking on a budget in Paros
Supermarkets and local shops are the cheapest way to keep hydrated, and get a little merry if you wish. Cocktails and wine are the most expensive drink choices in Paros, so be mindful of this. In fact, I was also surprised to find some prices similar to those you find in London bars.
Eating on a budget
When my appetite did emerge, I would eat light throughout the day, and saved the pricier meals for the evening. Local bakeries (if there is one nearby) are an excellent budget option, with sandwiches/pastries great for day trips around the island.
Try the horta
One delicacy you have to try is Horta. It’s a Greek vegetable with a spinach-like taste and texture. It’s served with fresh beetroot, and sprinkled with rock salt, and extra virgin olive oil. A squeeze of lemon adds the finishing touch to this cheap yet satisfying side dish.
Eating fresh fish and seafood is a must in Paros, but it can be expensive. The good fish restaurants charge by the weight and the price can rise in a second. A tasty and cheaper alternative for me was choosing grilled octopus. Always fresh, it was tender and also affordable.
Holidays in Paros – speak to the locals
One big advantage of staying at a hotel is the connections they have with other local businesses. When asking about tours in Paros, the receptionist gave me discounts to several local places. This included having coffee at the Nautical Club, as well as a generous discount at a nearby souvlaki place. On top of that, making friends with the reception staff gives you insider information to the best local spots.
I highly encourage you to speak to the locals in Paros. For me, it was these experiences that made my time there really memorable. There’s no price tag when it comes to the possibility of building new friendships; something so possible in Paros. It’s the fortunate few that will get to see the real, un-touristy side of Paros. And if you’re lucky, it’ll be with someone you end up calling a friend.
Is Paros expensive?
The 6 days I stayed in Paros were some of the happiest I’ve ever spent abroad. Paros isn’t as expensive when you compare it to other Greek islands like Mykonos or Santorini.
The most expensive item was my hotel, but food, drink and day trips are reasonable. As long as you stick to a budget, you’ll have a great time and probably plan more holidays in Paros!
Above all, I guarantee, you’ll fall in love with Paros the second you disembark from the ferry.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
*prices correct at the time of publishing
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Wow your photos are beautiful. This is going on my travel bucket list for sure. Thanks for sharing!
You’re welcome, glad you liked it!
What an amazing place to spend a holiday! I need to decide where we’ll go next October and Mykonos seemed too expensive, and Santorini, too many steps! with a 4 and 6 year old who get tired easily, but Paros sounds perfect!!!
Aw that’s great! Paros is so lovely and you’ll enjoy it with kids too 🙂
That looks like an amazing place to visit! I would love to go someday!
You must, it’s so dreamy
That’s a handy and exhaustive guide and will surely be useful for every traveler looking to travel to Paros.
Thank you!
I haven’t heard about Paros yet but it looks like a magnificent and fun place to visit. Thank you so much for this informative things about it.
You’re welcome, I hope you get to visit one day!
Paros seems definitely up my alley, not just for the beauty and architecture, but for me, I’d go just for the Greek food alone. Nothing like experiencing the food you love right there where the culture produced it!
I adore Greek food, and that’s coming from someone who spends a lot of time in Italy!
This looks like it would be such an amazing trip. I have never heard of it before!
You need to hear of Greece, it’s beautiful there!
Great read. I am actually hearing paros island for the first time. Beautiful environment and clean beaches.
Thank you, it’s a wonderful island
Paros island does look like it’s for everyone. I love the sun and water sports, so I’ll definitely love doing jet skiing and snorkeling. It’s good to know that getting to and from these areas is easy. Being a solo traveler that’s a big bonus for me.
It really is; you have plenty of freedom to roam around Paros 🙂
great tips for those visiting paros. makes me wanna find some yt vids on it
Thank you!
Such a great deatailed post. This can be very helpful in planning a trip to Paros! Loving those photos so much.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.
Paros is still in my bucket list. I have been to Turkey and at that time I nearby going to the Greek. Glad to come across this post for my future use.
Perfect! I really hope you go one day, it’s amazing there
omg you’ve given me some serious wanderlust with this post. how stunning does greece look? i’m going to have to make it my priority to visit this year after seeing this!
That’s great Rachael, I hope you visit soon!
I always love visiting your blog and reading about your adventures! These pictures are gorgeous; my friend is traveling to Santorini next month and I’m so jealous!
Thank you! You should have joined her lol!
I passed through Paros while hopping islands from Mykonos but could not stop there. From passing nearby it, I could have imagined how beautiful a place this is. Now from your post, it is confirmed that this is really worth going island in Greece. It is good that Paros is not that expensive as compared to Mykonos or Santorini. Speaking to locals is also a good tip.
Ah that’s a shame! Definitely consider it next time
Blogs like this help me learn more new places like Paros, I will be glad to add this to my travel list.
Good to know John. Hope you get to visit soon.
Gosh. That looks expensive but really worth visiting! I should include this to my bucketlist, we are planning to travel this year.
Actually Paros is affordable compared to other Greek islands!
You had me at budget. Paros looks stunning, love all the budget-friendly options you’ve listed.
Thanks Debra, glad you enjoyed it
I am considering visiting Paros after meeting with their representatives at WTM, last year. The island sounded so idyllic and less touristy, which is just what I am looking for when I go on holiday. Hiring a scooter for 15 euros is definitely a bargain. I love riding one so I’ll keep in mind to rent one if I go there.
I’d definitely visit if you’re going to Greece, Paros is so pretty
This looks like a wonderful place to visit, between the beautiful water, scenery, and the food. It’s nice to have a lot of different spots to explore. Sounds like you had such a wonderful time!
I had an amazing time there; Paros has a special place in my heart!
Another gorgeous island to visit and add to my lisit.
Good to know! You’ll love it there
Paros is such a lovely place! I’ve never heard of it before, but it’s now at the top of my bucket list.
Amazing to read! Paros is gorgeous and my favourite Greek island
I haven’t been in Greece yet. Paros looks like a good place to visit. Look at that clear water! It’s enticing me to book some plane tickets.
Definitely book a trip, Greece is beautiful
Coming from a neighboring country, I visited Paros multiple times. In fact, it’s one of my favorite destinations in Greece. You sure added a lot of useful information in this post as always. With information like that, visiting Paros on a budget isn’t hard at all 🙂
Thank you! I really loved my time in Paros and prefer it much more to the touristy islands
I love your photos of Paros. We visited a few years ago and this brings back great memories. It is a relaxing island. The restaurants along the waterfront are very good. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you! I’m glad you’ve been too, it’s so pretty and calming there
This was such a breath of fresh air! I always figured I would have to save up a TON of money to visit Greece. Glad that’s not entirely true! Also, I can’t believe there are just so many options on how to get everywhere be it Paros itself or to other islands as well. Thanks for such great tips!
Aw thank you so much Amanda! You don’t need a barrel load of cash to visit Greece, and as long as you visit the lesser flashy islands, you can have a great time!
I have some genuinely fond memories of my time in Greece. Although I did not visit Paros, I did go to Naxos and Amorgos in addition to Athens. I can see the same serene beauty I witness on Paros as well and hope I can visit it someday. Would you believe it, grilled octopus was my favourite dish too. Greece was the first time I ever had octopus and absolutely loved it. I took a couple of octopus tin cans home for later.
It’s really delicious and a cheaper alternative too!
I am dreaming of going there and seeing the blue and white towns and the sunsets there. Greek Ilsnads are still on my long list of places to visit. Stelia Mer Butique Hotel looks absolutely amazing and I would definately choose it as my prefered hotel.
That’s great to read Anita; Stella Mare is beautiful
Paros sounds like a lovely island to visit! Although I do love Santorini, some of the less-touristy islands are a refreshing change from the crowded locations where everyone seems to go. Next time I’m in Greece, I’m putting Paros on my list of places to go. I love that it’s more affordable as well – the four-star hotels you listed cost less than I would have thought!
It’s really more affordable than the more touristy islands. Happy you’re inspired to visit!
I got to visit Paros on my trip to Greece, as well, as part of a one-day cruise through the islands from Athens. Because the cruise stopped at multiple islands throughout the day, I didn’t get more than a few hours on Paros, but it was enough to get a glimpse of its beauty. I really enjoyed my time there. I visited in mid- to late-September, so the crowds were not bad and the weather was nice.
That’s amazing! I’m so glad to read someone else has visited too, most people just head straight to Santorini or Mykonos.
I haven’t been to Paros or many places at all in Greece. I love how random meetings at Couchsurfing events can lead you to go to places you might not otherwise have gone. I am massive fan of Couchsurfing. It sounds like somewhere I would really enjoy wandering around so I too would rack up the steps (a great way to work off all the Greek food). That really is a great deal on the scooter too especially with the fuel included
That’s so encouraging to read Kathy, thank you! CS worked so well for me in Greece that I would recommend it to others. Greek food is so good it’s dangerous!
What a great deal on the hotel, I can’t believe it was cheaper than Airbnb, that’s almost unheard of! I usually don’t stay at hotels but I agree there are a lot of advantages to staying at a hotels. The connections and amenities are definitely a plus!
I totally agree, and in this case, hotels were far better than Airbnb in Paros. It’s really one place to bookmark for the future.
I haven’t heard about Paros earlier. But it seems like a great find for me. I love wandering around Greek islands and this one is definitely one to look for. I loved your experience there. Already putting it on my list.
I’m so happy to read this! Paros deserves a place on everyone’s list, and is one Greek island that has just as much, if not more charm than the more popular places
You seem to have come up with everything that we need for a trip to Paros – from stays to getting around the place. What is more is that you have come up with options that make it affordable for a lot of us. Well done with those. I have Greece marked out for a special trip and maybe Paros is doable in that 🙂
You’re so welcome. I think many people think Greece is expensive, but you can actually visit there on a budget. Hopefully you can get to visit one day!
Thanks for coming up with a budget guide. I have never been to Greece and from a distance, it always seems like too expensive for me. Hope you do more such guides for many other places.
Thank you!I think most people assume Europe must be expensive, but some places are very accessible on a budget! Keep tuned for more!
Honestly, I’ve never heard about Paros, all we hear with reference to Greece is Santorini & Athens. Considering Europe, Paros seems fairly budget, I can’t even imagine a bus ride at 1.80Euro anywhere else. Although I’m not really a beach person and only wanted to visit Greece because of Santorini, but you have given me a new reason to visit the country. Love you first image, it gives a hint of Mumbai Marine Drive to me and seems like a great place to enjoy sunrise/sunset for people like who don’t like to go on beach in particular 🙂 Thanks for sharing such a great piece of information.
You’re so welcome, and I appreciate your feedback! I’m glad I’ve inspired you to visit Paros, it really is a great place!
€15 a day scooter rental is a crazy good deal :O
I haven’t visited Greece before but really would love to one day, although Paros has never really hit my radar before now. I guess it’d be perfect in that there wouldn’t be too many tourists milling about.
It’s stunning and I’d recommend it for anyone who prefers their Greek island a little less cliched.
This is the first time I have read about Paros and it sounds simple enough to get around the Island. The bus sounds good but the scooter option tempts me too. I am visiting Athens this winter and would like to visit a Greek Island, do you know if the ferry runs through winter?
Hi James, I assume the ferry still runs in winter, but I don’t know the timetable. It’s going to be really quiet if you visit then! Nice!
Ahh, I love Greece, its people, history, and not forgetting the food haha. It’s a shame that your Air B&B was not what you hoped (Air B&B should inspect these properties first I think), but at least you got a hotel for a cheaper price and your right hotels to have some of the best connections. Great post and great pictures, I will be looking through the rest of your blog you have gained a new reader.
Thank you! That’s so great to hear 🙂 I agree about Airbnb checking, but I’m sure the task is bigger than the company! The hotel was far better, and I didn’t have a garden hose for a showerhead 😀
Paros is not somewhere I’ve ever considered before (mainly because I’ve never heard of it, but then I guess that’s part of the appeal) – but what a place it looks!! x
That’s the reason I chose it! I’m not a fan of the over exposed, expensive islands, and prefer the lesser known islands. Visit for yourself and find out!
I love everything about Greece, the food, the people and the beaches. You had me sold on your first picture with a glass of wine 🙂 I have only been to Mykonos but Paros looks so nice. Martselo beach looks like a little paradise with its clear blue water. Can’t believe your accommodation was 20 Euro’s a night either that is definitely a bargain. Btw I haven’t had a souvlaki in years and you have just made me hungry.
Souvlaki is amazing, and now I feel so short changed (in every possible way) if I eat a souvlaki anywhere but Athens! Martselo Beach is so pretty, and relaxing too 🙂
I’m so eager to travel the Greek Islands, so thanks for sharing! I’m slowly making a list of places to visit, so ill save this for future reference.
That’s great to hear! Paros is a beautiful island and one of the quieter ones to visit 🙂
I did Greece for 12 days but missed Paros. Lots to see around there.I agree it would be wise to know bit of Greek to negotiate with drivers. Food is heavenly with rich delightful flavors. I definitely want to go back for food.
Such a shame you missed Paros, you must make time to visit should you ever get back to Greece!
Paros really looks like perfect Mediterranean island with beautiful beaches. You are true that in summers hotels are very expensive and AirBnB really give money saving deals. I really missed Paros island during my visit to Greece though our cruise crossed it. You have given nice tips on budget friendly options.
Thank you! I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Hopefully you can visit for yourself one day.
I have heard of Paros but never been before. It’s always a struggle to choose between all the gorgeous islands in Greece. May I ask, what made you decide to visit Paros rather than other islands such as Naxos, Rhodes, Corfu, Crete or Milos (the lesser common ones as compared to Mykonos or Santorini)? When I was planning my trip, I was thoroughly confused as to how to pick the islands to visit!
Honestly, I chose to go to Paros and Antiparos after attending a couchsurfing event in Athens. The locals were advising that it was much better than the more commercial, plus cheaper too. I was sold! Plus I always prefer the quieter lesser known islands than Santorini, Mykonos etc!
I’ve never heard of Paros but would love to visit. The food looks so good, a huge reason why I travel! And the beach looks amazing. What a great find!
It’s amazing, and everyone there is so friendly! The food is to die for, I can still taste it when I close my eyes!
This is one of the islands I missed but a reason why I would love to return to Greece! I chose between this and Naxos but it’s just a reason to go back :D. That sunset shot is amazing. Good to know it can be done on a budget too!
Oh yes, it’s a beauty there, and I also heard good things about Naxos too. Hope you get to experience it for yourself one day!
This island looks lovely! I feel like so many Greek islands like Santorini have become so over-saturated with tourism that it must be a relief to visit one that is more peaceful and local. I’m glad that there are cheaper ways to explore this island paradise, and I would definitely be using the saved money towards more delicious Greek food!
I completely agree! I much prefer the quieter, and lesser known Greek islands. The food is unreal! Prepare to add on a few pounds!
Oh! First I thought you were talking about Paris, then saw again to understand that its Paros!
Everytime I see a blogpost on Greece, I get depressed, coz last time I missed it as the airfares were sky rocketing!
Hopefully I’ll get a chance to explore Greece next year. Let’s see what destiny has in hold for me.
Room with a pool for 20 euros???? Whoa!
Ah shame! I adore Greece, and Paros and Antiparos are one of my favourite islands! I hope you get around to visiting on your next trip 🙂
Oh yes, I am sold! I’ve always been curious about Mykonos and Santorini. But Paros does sound like a paradise indeed! The food looks amazing and Martselo Beach is just perfect!
It’s so great, and for me, far better than the populated islands of Mykonos and Santorini. It’s also way cheaper and more authentic – always a plus in my book!
Greece is one of those places I always assumed wasn’t going to be done on a budget. It’s nice to see that not only is it possible, but it won’t be a headache to figure out. Of course, I’d probably blow my budget on trying ALL the food in Paros! It all looks so good! And I agree with you on the hotel – you’re able to find out a little more and ask for recommendations than if you’re renting an AirBnB!
Absolutely! I was always more keen on sticking with Airbnbs, but sometimes hotels remind you why they’re so useful!
I’ve been to Greece but had never heard of Paros before! The place really looks like a paradise. I hadn’t realized it’s so easy to do island hopping in Greece – sounds like a dream trip for me! And I totally agree with you about meeting the locals and getting to know the place through them. It makes such a difference!
It’s so wonderful Jasmin, you have no idea! I would go back in a heartbeat, but I want to see the other Greek islands too 😀