With a port that has flourished since antiquity, Paros has many surprises in store for walkers. Find out how to get there by ferry from Athens.
For centuries, Paros has been the main maritime crossroads of the Cyclades, of which it is the third largest island. Unlike its neighbor Naxos, Paros has a gentle, rather flat topography. There are 14 villages, including Parikia and Naoussa. Visitors will be charmed by the atmosphere of the typical houses and winding lanes.
Are you fascinated by ancient architecture? Let yourself be conquered by the island’s many treasures. Greek remains stand side by side with numerous monasteries and Byzantine churches. The most important of these is the Church of the Holy Virgin of the Hundred Gates, Panagia Ekatontapilliani. Founded in the 4th century AD, it is thought to have been the work of the emperor Justinian, or of Saint Helena, the mother of the emperor Constantine. Over the years, it has become one of Greece’s most important pilgrimage sites, and is a must-see monument on Paros.
The island is also renowned for its magnificent beaches all along its coastline. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you’ll find scuba diving and kitesurfing on offer. Inland, there’s plenty of hiking to be enjoyed. The Byzantine Trail, for example, takes you from Lefkès to Prodromos.
Looking for an authentic, relaxing holiday? Find out how to get to Paros from Athens by ferry.
Ferry companies linking Paros to Athens
Photo Credit: From Aerial-motion / Shutterstock.com
Numerous shipping companies serve Paros. Three of them connect with the port of Piraeus, near Athens.
The first, Blue Star Ferries, offers four crossings a day. Each takes around four hours. The second company, Golden Star Ferries, makes seven crossings a day, each lasting the same amount of time. Sea Jets also offers seven crossings. These, however, are much faster, taking just two hours and forty-five minutes at sea.
Surprised by the time difference? It’s explained by the use of different types of ferries: hydrofoil ferries, flying dolphins, etc. Not all sail at the same speed. They don’t all sail at the same speed, which means that the journey takes longer or shorter depending on the route.
Arriving at the port of Paros, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the town of Parikia. It’s a particularly lively place, with every bus on the island passing through. If you don’t have a car, you’ll easily find another means of transport.
⛴️ See the ferries between Athens and Paros
Plan a ferry trip to Paros with Direct Ferries
The Direct Ferries website is a comparator of sea crossings. This comprehensive site is updated daily to guarantee reliable information. Its data covers transport in one hundred and ninety-five countries, including Greece. For this reason, it’s a great tool for planning your trip to the Cyclades.
On the site’s home page, you are invited to provide various information to help you plan your trip. Firstly, the date and time you wish to travel to Paros. The same goes for the return journey. Underneath, you’ll need to indicate the number of travelers you’re planning, and their ages. Finally, all you need to do is provide information about your vehicle, if you intend to take it.
Don’t hesitate to plan several days in advance. Crossing prices change, and good deals are regularly available. However, as soon as you’ve spotted the route that’s right for you, book without delay! From Naxos to Santorini, via Mykonos, Ios or Delos… Places on ferries to the Cyclades go fast indeed!
How do I book a ferry to Paros from Athens?
Would you like to book your Piraeus – Paros crossing? After using the Direct Ferries planning tool, choose the route that suits you best, and click on it to go to the next page.
Here, you’ll have to choose your preferences from a range of travel options. These include, for example, the type of seat you wish to occupy. Ferries offer a variety of options. Very economical, but not very comfortable, on-deck seating means you’ll have to stand for the whole crossing. The average crossing time between Paros and Piraeus is three hours, so you’re likely to arrive on the island tired! Then there are the reserved seats. These are located in lounges reserved exclusively for travelers.
If your crossing will take place at night, or if you’re looking for maximum comfort, you can book a cabin. With two or four berths, these will accommodate you for the duration of your journey. Some are also equipped with a private bathroom.
Before confirming your booking, Direct Ferries suggests two additional options. These are free cancellation insurance, and the sending of an SMS reminding you of your booking details. It’s up to you to decide!
⛴️ See the ferries between Athens and Paros
Your trip to Paros from Athens is now booked! You’ll soon receive a summary e-mail at the address you provided. Fine sandy beaches and heritage: the island of Paros is just waiting for you!