Set off on this 5-day luxury sailing trip from Athens to Paros
Lose yourself in the heart of the Cyclades at Paros and Antiparos. They’re some of the most loved, and most partied, holiday destinations in Greece.
Trip check-ins are on Saturdays, at 5:00p.m. and you’ll be checking out from your yacht in Paros on Thursday, at 5:00p.m.
- One way trip
- Ideal trip to combine with another holiday stay
- Visit some of the best known islands
- Flexibility to customise your itinerary to your own preferences
What you need to know
Capacity: Up to 6 people
Yacht type: Sailing yacht
Departs from: Athens
Duration: 6 days, accommodation for 5 nights
Nearest airport: ATH – Athens, El Venizelos – Greece
Route details:
ON THE WAY TO PAROS
Casting off from Athens, you’ll sail to the port of Sounio for the first leg of your trip. You can admire the Temple of Poseidon from your yacht but, if you have time, we recommend you visit the Temple at sunset or sunrise – it’s an amazing experience.
KEA ISLAND
The city of Loutra is small, but it attracts lots of visitors, while its variety of restaurants and bars have a laid-back vibe. If you sailed directly from Athens, go for a late dinner or drinks. Come morning, and before you head off to Paros, you might want to visit the thermal springs that the town has been famous for since antiquity. Nothing compares to the majestic sight of the Poseidon temple at Sounion, from the comfort of your yacht’s deck! The next day, a magnificent sunrise awaits you and your family further east, at Kea, the peacefully seductive Cyclades island that’s closest to Athens.
PAROS ISLAND
Your first stop on Paros is Naoussa, at the island’s northwest. The characteristic white and blue colours of the Old Port of Naoussa attract travellers the world over. One look at the traditional fishing boats, and you’ll see that Naoussa remains a fisherman’s town. Yet, Naoussa is also a party hub and its nightlife has been compared to what you usually find in Mykonos. From low-key bars to dance clubs, there’s something in Naoussa for everybody! Τhe island’s Environmental and Cultural Park is situated just northeast of the bay of Monastiri and features easy trails and great views! You can also spend the day in whitewashed Naousa or east at Parikia, the island’s fashionable capital that’s busy well into September.
THINGS TO DO IN PAROS AND ANTIPAROS
Go to Naoussa’s Limanaki area for the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. When the sun takes its daily dip into the sea, head over to Agosta bar for great drinks and an even better view of the Aegean. Salty bar is the place to dance, right next to the sea! For your dose of history and culture, visit Parikia. Here, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum and the winged statue of Nike, carved by the fine marble that the island is famous for. Also visit the church of Panagia Ekatodapyliani which dates from 326 AD. The highlight of your evening at Antiparos has to be La Luna – this rustic dance oasis has been the best summer memory for generations of dancers, drinkers and lovers.
PAROS BEACHES
Fishing boats and yachts moor at the organised beach of Monastiri during the summer. The bay is also the Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros – a natural Aegean gem.
Santa Maria is an organized beach offering lots of watersports, like windsurfing, scuba diving and paddle boats. Right nearby is Kolympithres – it’s not your typical sandy beach, as large rocks split the beach in a series of small coves. It’s also a recommended family-friendly beach with great views towards Naoussa. Cold sea currents visit Martselo so, even during August, you’re in for an unseasonably cool swim. Logaras beach is near the tiny settlement of Piso Livadi – it’s a long and beautiful stretch of beach you won’t want to miss. Golden beach, at the southeast of the island, is one of Paros’ most famous beaches – you’ll find lots of space but remember to bring your own umbrella!
At Antiparos, visit the beach of St. George for a swim that’s free of loud music and too many beach goers.
If you enjoyed this sailing trip from Athens to Paris, have a look at the Nautal blog for more itineraries in the Greek islands.