Paros is a beautiful island getaway found in the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea. It is only a short distance away from Athens and easily accessible from the mainland of Greece. The island of Paros is known for its beaches, crystal-clear waters and whitewashed villages. From walking the streets of bustling Naoussa to the quiet village of Posa Livadi, you will find the ideal holiday spot for you.
Join us as we guide you to Paros and share the easiest ways of arriving on the island. We will highlight the different transport options and common tips for travellers. So pack your bags and get ready to visit Paros!
The best ways to travel to Paros from the UK
Getting to Paros from the UK will typically involve a combination of a flight to Athens and a ferry ride or another connecting flight to the island.
You can take direct flights from most major UK airports such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester to Athens. Upon your arrival, you can either take another 40-minute domestic flight to Paros or hop onto a ferry from the port of Piraeus or Rafina.
When deciding on a flight or ferry ride to the island from Athens, take into consideration your time constraints. Flights from Athens to Paros are typically under 1 hour, while the ferry can take between 3-5 hours.
Depending on the season you visit, pricing can range from €60 to €300 or more to arrive at Paros, so booking in advance is suggested. This usually offers lower rates and more availability.
Flight options to Paros
Luckily, getting to Paros from the UK or other major European cities is easy and convenient. Here are a few ways of flying to Paros from the United Kingdom.
Direct flights to Athens
Airlines like British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offer frequent direct flights from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton), Manchester, and Edinburgh. Flight duration from the UK to Athens is between 3.5 to 4 hours and flights are available throughout the year. Of course, in the high season of the summer months, the frequency of flights is heightened. Ticket prices can vary significantly, depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.
Connecting flights to Paros
Once you arrive in Athens, you can either spend the night in Greece’s capital or hop onto another flight to get to Paros immediately. Local airlines, such as Olympic Air and Sky Express operate regular flights between Athens and Paros, with a flight time of just 40 minutes. During the summer, there are multiple flights daily, but be aware! These will book up quickly, so the sooner you reserve your seat the better. The cost of a one-way ticket is between €50 to €120, depending on availability and how early you book.
Alternative flight options
If you rather “island hop”, you can fly to nearby islands like Santorini or Mykonos. After spending a few days there, you can take the ferry to Paros. Both Santorini and Mykonos have international airports, so you can alternatively fly directly from the UK to one of these islands instead. This is a great option to explore more islands within the Cyclades.
Ferry options to Paros
Ferry from Athens: Taking the ferry is the more scenic and popular option for getting to Paros. You can depart from two different ports in Athens, Piraeus, the larger and busier port, or Rafina, which is slightly closer to the airport. There are many different ferry providers, but some of the most popular operators are Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways. The trip takes between 3 to 5 hours, depending on whether you choose the high-speed ferry or the regular one. Ticket prices range from €30 to €60 per person, but with higher rates for the high-speed boats or premium seats.
Ferry from other islands: Paros is very well connected to other islands. Mykonos, Naxos or Santorini are nearby and are also great islands to see. The trip from Mykonos to Paros is between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours. Santorini to Paros is about 2 to 3 hours and lastly, Naxos to Paros only takes between 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips for a smooth journey to Paros
Pack for the weather.
Summer: Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, bathing suit and a hat.
Spring/Autumn: Layers for cooler evenings and occasional rain.
Winter: Warmer clothes and coats for the cooler, windier weather.
Timing your travel
The best time to visit: May to September for sunny weather and frequent ferry/flight schedules. Try to avoid peak times (July and August) if you prefer fewer crowds.
Booking in Advance
Secure flights and ferries early, especially during high season, for better prices and availability.
What to expect upon arrival in Paros
When you arrive in Paros, whether by ferry or plane, you’ll immediately feel the island’s laid-back charm. If you arrive by ferry, you’ll dock at Parikia Port. This is the island’s capital and is filled with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront. If you are flying, the Paros National Airport is small yet efficient, located about 10 kilometres from Parikia.
From either the port or airport you can easily take a taxi, public transport or car rental service.
Exploring Paros is easy, thanks to the island’s well-maintained roads and various transportation options. You will see that many locals and visitors choose to get around on a scooter as it is the most convenient way to visit the island’s must-see spots like Kolymbithres Beach, Lefkes Village, and the town of Naoussa.
Come and visit Paros
When you are planning on how to get to Paros, make sure to consider the timing of your trip. Planning ahead and booking your flights, or ferry to Paros in advance is highly recommended to guarantee availability and better prices. But, don’t forget to also book your accommodation with Villa Rentals. Offering some of the most spectacular rental properties on the island, you will find the perfect home for your holiday in Paros.
