Getting from Athens to Paros

If you are heading to Paros from Athens you are going to the hub of the Cyclades and one of the most consistently enjoyable islands in Greece. Paros sits at the centre of the group geographically and in every other sense, a hub through which dozens of ferry routes pass every day in summer. The old town of Naoussa in the north is one of the most beautiful small harbour villages in Greece. The village of Lefkes in the interior is quiet and traditional. The beaches on the west coast are long and sandy. The kitesurfing at Golden Beach is some of the best in the Mediterranean. Paros is bigger and more varied than most first-time visitors expect and rewards a longer stay than most people give it.

Take the ferry

The Piraeus to Paros ferry is one of the most heavily served routes in the Aegean, with up to 7 daily crossings in summer and several per week year-round. Fast catamarans cover the distance in around 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours. Conventional ferries take around 4 to 5 hours. Rafina also has connections to Paros in summer, useful if you are coming directly from Athens Airport. Book ahead in July and August as this is one of the most popular routes in the Cyclades.

Getting there by air

Both Athens and Paros have airports. Daily connections from Athens to Paros take around 45 minutes. Flying is the fastest option but the ferry is often more practical given its frequency and the fact that it delivers you directly to the port in the centre of Parikia.

Your best option

Take the ferry from Piraeus. The fast catamaran at around 3 hours is a manageable and enjoyable crossing and arriving into Parikia by sea with the Frankish castle above the town is a better introduction to the island than landing at the airport. If you are arriving at Athens Airport and want to head straight to Paros, the Rafina connection in summer avoids crossing the city entirely.