Athens (Piraeus) Guide
The port city of Piraeus in Greece lies on the Saronic Gulf in the Attica region of the country and forms part of the Athens urban area, with the centre of Athens located some 12 km from the port. The centre of Piraeus is generally congested with traffic and tends not to be place where tourists would go. The area has many of the facilities you would expect of a non-tourist town: banks, public buildings, pedestrian areas, shopping streets and the like. The area around Zea Marina and Mikrolimano Harbour are perhaps the most attractive part of Piraeus and have a good selection of restaurants, cafes and bars.
Piraeus is Greece's main port and the largest in Europe and the third largest in the world. Unsurprisingly, it is the hub of Greece's maritime industries and the base for its merchant navy. Having recently undergone a refurbishment, facilities at the port have improved and include ATM's, bureau de change, restaurants, cafes, bars and a number of travel agencies selling ferry tickets. destinations served by the port include the island of Crete, the Cyclades Islands, the Dodecanese Islands, the eastern parts of Greece and parts of the northern and eastern Aegean Sea.
Paros Guide
The Greek island of Paros is one of the Cyclades group of islands and lies in the Aegean Sea close to the island of Naxos which is about one hour away by ferry. It is a popular holiday destination and has a reputation for being a friendly island and very welcoming to its visitors. It is the second largest of the Cyclades and has many things to see and do including taking part in the many different water sports that are on offer. There is also the Church of Panagia Ekatantapiliani which dates back to 326 AD and is also popular with tourists. For a relaxing way to spend your time on the island there are some lovely tavernas that line the Parikia seafront and also some lovely beaches that include Agia Irini, Farangas, Kato and Logaras.
The island's port is in Parikia and hosts both conventional ferries and high speed ferries. Ferries generally depart to Piraeus and to the other islands of the Cyclades.
Which is better Piraeus or Paros?
Piraeus and Paros are both popular destinations in Greece, each with its own unique charm.
Piraeus is a bustling port city near Athens, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance. It offers easy access to the Greek islands and is a major transportation hub. Piraeus is home to the impressive Port of Piraeus, one of the largest ports in Europe, where you can catch ferries to various islands. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with attractions like the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus and the Municipal Theater of Piraeus.
On the other hand, Paros is a picturesque island in the Cyclades group, known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and traditional Greek architecture. Parikia, the capital of Paros, offers a delightful blend of white-washed houses, narrow streets, and blue-domed churches. The island is also famous for its stunning beaches, such as Golden Beach and Kolymbithres Beach, which are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Paros also has a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs.
Ultimately, whether Piraeus or Paros is better depends on your preferences. If you are looking for a vibrant city with excellent transportation links and historical sites, Piraeus is a great choice. However, if you prefer a relaxed island atmosphere with beautiful beaches and traditional Greek charm, Paros is the ideal destination.
How many days in Paros is enough?
The number of days needed in Paros depends on personal preferences and interests. However, a 3 to 5-day stay is usually sufficient to explore the island's main attractions and experience its beauty. Paros offers picturesque beaches, charming villages like Naoussa and Parikia, and historical sites like the Panagia Ekatontapiliani church. Additionally, you can enjoy water sports, hiking, and local cuisine. If you have more time, you can also visit nearby islands like Antiparos or take day trips to nearby attractions such as the island of Delos. Ultimately, the ideal duration for your stay in Paros will depend on your travel goals and schedule.