Paros to Santorini
Paros and Santorini are two of the most popular islands in Greece, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Paros is a small island located in the heart of the Cyclades, known for its beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and vibrant nightlife. Santorini, on the other hand, is a volcanic island famous for its stunning sunsets, picturesque villages perched on cliffs, and romantic atmosphere. The journey from Paros to Santorini is a popular route many Greek Island hoppers take.
One of the best ways to experience both islands is to take a ferry from Paros to Santorini, a journey that will take you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Aegean Sea. This article will provide you with all the information you need to plan your journey, including ferry schedules, ticket prices, and tips for making the most of your time on both islands.
How to get from Paros to Santorini
Getting from Paros to Santorini is a popular route among travelers exploring the Greek islands. With stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no surprise that these two islands are top destinations in Greece. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get from Paros to Santorini.
How far is Paros from Santorini?
Paros is located approximately 74 nautical miles (136 kilometers or 84 miles) southeast of Santorini in the Aegean Sea. The distance can be covered by ferry or catamaran, which takes around 2-3 hours depending on the route and the weather conditions. However, keep in mind that travel time may vary depending on the type of vessel, the schedule, and the season. It’s important to check the ferry schedules and availability in advance and book your tickets accordingly.
Paros to Santorini by Ferry
The most popular and convenient way to travel from Paros to Santorini is by ferry. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on the ferry company and the route. During the peak summer season, several ferry companies operate on this route, including Blue Star Ferries, Sea Jets, and Hellenic Seaways. You can check ferry schedules and book tickets online in advance on websites such as Ferryhopper or Openseas.
How much does a ferry from Paros to Santorini cost? Generally, prices for a one-way ticket start at around €30. If you’re traveling during the peak season, it’s recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and get the best fares.
The ferry ride from Paros to Santorini is a great opportunity to take in the breathtaking scenery of the Aegean Sea. Depending on the route, you’ll get to see other islands such as Naxos or Ios along the way. Most ferries have comfortable seating, air conditioning, and a snack bar on board.
During my ferry ride to Santorini, the boat made me a little sea sick. I perfer hollistic methods and All Natural Vertigo Relief really helps me. If you want traditional medicine, than stock up on some Dramamine or Lil’ Giggles for kids.
Upon your arrival to the beautiful Santorini, the ferry will dock at the Athinios port on Santorini. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to your accommodation.
Paros to Santorini by Plane
While there is no direct flight from Paros to Santorini, you can take a connecting flight via Athens. Olympic Air and Aegean Airlines operate daily flights from Paros to Athens, which take approximately 45 minutes. Once in Athens, you can take a connecting flight to Santorini, which takes around 45-50 minutes. However, this option can be more expensive than taking a ferry.
Paros to Santorini by Private Transfer
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and convenient option, you can arrange a private transfer from Paros to Santorini. This option can be more expensive than taking a ferry, but it allows you to travel at your own pace and enjoy the scenic route without worrying about schedules or crowds.
You can book a private transfer online in advance with companies such as Welcome Pickups or Santorini Private Tours.
Paros to Santorini Day Trip
While it is possible to take a day trip from Paros to Santorini, it’s not recommended due to the limited time available and the distance between the two islands. The ferry journey from Paros to Santorini takes around 2-3 hours, which means that you’ll spend at least 4-6 hours on travel time alone.
Moreover, Santorini has a lot to offer, and it would be difficult to see and experience everything in just one day. Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and rich history. It’s also home to some of the best wineries and restaurants in Greece, which require more than a few hours to fully appreciate. Here are some of the best things to do in Santorini when you’re here for just a day.
If you’re short on time and still want to experience Santorini, it’s best to stay overnight and make the most of your time there. You can take a ferry from Paros to Santorini early in the morning and spend the day exploring the island, then stay overnight and take a ferry back to Paros the next day.
If you are interested in a Paros to Santorini Day trip only, you can take a Paros to Santorini Helicopter Tour. This option allows you to see the highlights of Santorini in a day via helicopter.
In any case, if you’re considering a day trip from Paros to Santorini, it’s important to plan in advance, check ferry schedules and availability, and book any tours or accommodations ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Planning your trip to Paros and Santorini
When planning your trip from Paros to Santorini, you should plan out your journey. These two islands offer a unique and unforgettable experience with their stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear waters. While both islands have their own character and charm, they share a rich history, culture, and cuisine that are sure to enchant visitors.
Santorini Greece
Santorini, is the quintessential Greek island, famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and dramatic caldera views. The island is a popular honeymoon destination and is known for its luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wineries.
Oia, a beautiful village perched on the edge of the caldera, is a must-visit destination with its winding streets, traditional architecture, and breathtaking views.
How many days do you need in Santorini?
Ideally, when traveling from Paros to Santorini, you should spend at least 2-3 days in Santorini to fully appreciate the island’s beauty and attractions. This will give you enough time to visit the famous caldera, explore the charming villages, and relax on the beaches.
If you’re interested in the island’s history and culture, you may want to spend more time in Santorini to visit the ancient sites, such as Akrotiri and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. If you’re a foodie, you’ll want to spend some time exploring the island’s gourmet cuisine, visiting the wineries, and sampling the local specialties.
Moreover, Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, and you’ll want to experience at least one during your stay. You may want to plan your itinerary around the sunset and spend time in Oia or Fira, where you can watch the sun dip into the sea while enjoying a glass of wine or a delicious meal.
Where to stay in Santorini
Santorini has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels and villas to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. The island is divided into several regions, each with its own charm and appeal, so choosing where to stay in Santorini depends on your preferences and budget.
Here are some of the most popular areas to stay in Santorini:
Oia – This picturesque village on the northern tip of the island is famous for its blue-domed churches and stunning sunset views. It’s a popular destination for honeymooners and luxury travelers, with many high-end hotels and villas.
Fira – The island’s capital and largest town, Fira is located on the caldera cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the volcano. It has a lively atmosphere, with many restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets.
Imerovigli – Located between Fira and Oia, Imerovigli is a quieter alternative to the two villages, with fewer crowds and more upscale accommodations. It’s known for its stunning caldera views and beautiful sunsets.
Perissa and Perivolos – These two villages on the southeastern coast of the island offer some of the best beaches in Santorini. They’re popular with budget travelers and backpackers, with many affordable guesthouses and hostels.
Kamari – Another popular beach destination, Kamari is located on the eastern coast of the island and has a long strip of black sand beach, as well as many restaurants and bars.
What to do in Santorini
Santorini is a magical island that offers visitors a range of experiences, from relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring ancient ruins, hiking along scenic trails, and indulging in gourmet cuisine. Here are some of the top things to do in Santorini:
- Visit the caldera – The island’s most iconic attraction, the caldera is a massive volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding islands. You can admire the caldera from many points on the island, but some of the best spots are Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli.
- Explore the ancient ruins – Santorini has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and there are many archaeological sites on the island to explore. The most famous of these is Akrotiri, a Minoan settlement that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC.
- Watch the sunset – Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, and there are many places on the island to watch the sun dip into the sea. Some of the best spots are Oia, Fira, and Santo Winery.
- Relax on the beaches – Santorini has some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, with crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. Some of the best beaches are Perissa, Kamari, Red Beach, and Vlychada.
- Indulge in gourmet cuisine – Santorini is known for its delicious cuisine, with many restaurants and tavernas serving fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local specialties like fava beans and cherry tomatoes. Some of the best places to eat are in Oia, Fira, and Pyrgos.
- Go hiking – Santorini has many scenic hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s landscapes and sea. The most popular trails are the Fira to Oia trail and the hike to Skaros Rock.
- Visit wineries – Santorini has a long tradition of winemaking, and there are many wineries on the island to visit and sample the local wines. Some of the most popular wineries are Santo Wines, Venetsanos Winery, and Domaine Sigalas.
Paros Greece
Paros is located in the heart of the Cyclades and is known for its traditional villages, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. The island is perfect for those who want to experience the Greek island life without the crowds and touristy feel of some of the more popular destinations.
Parikia, the island’s capital, is a charming town with a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful churches. The town also boasts a medieval castle, ancient ruins, and a lively waterfront promenade.
How many days do you need in Paros?
If you are interested in exploring the island’s beaches, villages, and historical sites, you may want to spend at least 3 to 5 days in Paros when traveling from Paros to Santorini. This will allow you to visit popular destinations like Parikia, Naoussa, Lefkes, and Piso Livadi, as well as spend time on some of the island’s stunning beaches such as Golden Beach, Kolymbithres Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.
If you also want to take part in outdoor activities such as hiking, water sports, and sailing, you may want to spend a week or more in Paros to fully experience all the island has to offer.
Ultimately, the number of days you need in Paros depends on your personal interests and priorities, as well as your travel schedule and budget.
Where to stay in Paros
Paros has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. The best place to stay in Paros depends on your travel preferences and interests. Here are some popular areas to stay in Paros:
Parikia: This is the main port of Paros and the capital of the island. It has a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s also a great base for exploring the island.
Naoussa: This picturesque fishing village is located on the north side of the island and is known for its charming narrow streets, white-washed houses, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also home to some of the island’s best beaches.
- Piso Livadi: This seaside village is located on the east side of Paros and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a peaceful and quiet vacation.
Golden Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in Paros and is a great place to stay if you’re interested in water sports, as it’s known for its windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Lefkes: This is a traditional mountain village located in the center of Paros. It’s a great place to stay if you’re interested in hiking and exploring the island’s countryside.
What to do in Paros
Paros is a beautiful Greek island in the Cyclades, offering visitors a combination of natural beauty, traditional villages, and historical landmarks. Here are some of the top things to do in Paros:
- Visit Parikia: Parikia is the capital and main port of Paros. It’s a charming town with a beautiful waterfront promenade, narrow alleys, and whitewashed houses. Visit the famous Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a Byzantine church complex dating back to the 4th century.
- Explore Naoussa: Naoussa is a picturesque fishing village on the northern side of the island. It’s famous for its colorful fishing boats, narrow streets, and lively nightlife. Stroll around the Venetian castle, visit the Folklore Museum, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.
- Relax on the beaches: Paros has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea, such as Golden Beach, Kolymbithres, and Santa Maria. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Discover the traditional villages: Paros is home to several charming traditional villages, such as Lefkes, Marpissa, and Piso Livadi. Explore the narrow alleys, traditional architecture, and picturesque churches.
- Visit the ancient sites: Paros has several ancient sites worth visiting, such as the ruins of the ancient capital, Panagia Myrtidiotissa Monastery, and the Venetian castle of Naoussa.
- Taste the local cuisine: Paros is famous for its delicious cuisine, such as fresh seafood, local cheeses, and wines. Don’t miss the traditional dishes such as marathokeftedes, a type of fritters made with fennel, and revithada, a chickpea stew.
What Greek Islands should I visit?
Greece has over 200 inhabited islands, each with its unique character and attractions. Here are some other Greek Islands besides Paros and Santorini:
Mykonos: Known for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan vibe, Mykonos is a favorite destination for party-goers and celebrities.
Crete: The largest island in Greece, Crete offers a mix of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages.
Rhodes: Home to one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, Rhodes is steeped in history and culture.
Corfu: The greenest of the Greek Islands, Corfu has a rich history, stunning beaches, and charming old town.
Naxos: With long sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and scenic mountain villages, Naxos is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Zakynthos: Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches, Zakynthos is a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers.
These are just a few of the many amazing Greek Islands. Don’t forget to visit and big city of Athens as well and check out this 24 hours in Athens itinerary.
No matter which Greek Island you choose, you are sure to have a memorable experience.
What should I pack for The Greek Islands
- Euros/Credit Card
- Passport/Travel Documents
- Sunhat & Sunglasses
- Bathing suit & coverup
- Travel beach towel & beach bag
- European travel adapter
- Portable charger
- Travel water bottle
- Workout outfits or hiking dresses
- walking sneakers & sandals
- Lightweight clothing
- Swimwear
- Basic travel first aid kit
Click on a picture for must-haves when visiting Greece
Paros and Santorini are two of the most beautiful islands in Greece and offer unique experiences to visitors.
Paros, a lesser-known gem, is a picturesque island with beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and a laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent destination for those looking for a more peaceful and authentic Greek island experience. Paros is also known for its delicious cuisine, especially fresh seafood and local wines.
On the other hand, Santorini is famous for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and dramatic cliffside views. It’s a popular destination for honeymooners, couples, and anyone seeking a luxurious and romantic getaway. Santorini is also known for its delicious local cuisine, especially the famous Santorinian wine and fresh seafood.
When traveling from Paros to Santorini, be sure to pack comfortable clothes, beachwear, and sun protection. I ended up getting sick and losing my voice when I was in Santorini so I recommend getting some Liquid-IV immune and hydration support to keep you healthy during your travels.
Don’t forget to try the local cuisine and explore the unique attractions of each island, such as the traditional villages and ancient ruins in Paros, and the volcanic beaches and stunning sunsets in Santorini.
Overall, both Paros and Santorini offer an unforgettable Greek island experience, whether you’re looking for a peaceful and authentic getaway or a luxurious and romantic vacation.
Hi I’m Becca
It is my passion to see as much of the world as I can. I created this blog to give my tips and tricks to traveling that I learn along my journey in hopes that it helps and inspires you to go out and see the world. Life is like a scrapbook that you fill with memories and life experiences, so what’s next in your travel scrapbook?
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