Ayeri Hotel
Parikia - Parikia
Ayeri Hotel offers Cycladic-style rooms with free Wi-Fi access located 50 metres away from the sandy beach of Livadia.
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Parikia, the bustling capital of Paros, represents the perfect balance of Cycladic tradition and cosmopolitan modernity. Located on the south-western coast of the island, this charming port town welcomes visitors with its characteristic windmill at the harbour entrance, an iconic symbol heralding the beauty of one of the most authentic centres of the Cyclades.
The historic centre of Parikia unfolds as a labyrinth of cobbled streets that climb from the harbour area towards the hills, where whitewashed houses alternate with blue-domed churches and deep pink bougainvilleas. The town retains its traditional Greek charm despite having become a major tourist hub serving as a gateway to the entire island.
Parikia’s strategic position on the western side offers spectacular sunsets over the Aegean Sea, while its naturally protected harbour makes it the main arrival point for ferries from Athens and the other Cycladic islands. From here, regular connections make it easy to reach neighbouring Antiparos and the magnificent beaches of Paros.
Livadia is the ‘town’ beach of Parikia, so close to the centre that there is no need to take a car or bus. Separated from the road by a small stone wall, Livadia alternates between areas of beach facilities and others of free beach and in some sections some pine trees offer shelter from the sun. This urban beach stretches for over a kilometre along the bay, offering fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters despite its proximity to the harbour.
A few kilometres from Parikia, Krios Beach is one of the most spectacular beaches on the island. Krios Beach agrees on one thing: it is one of the most spectacular beaches on Paros. Narrow and very long, it is a sandy beach framed by a row of pine trees and washed by a clear blue sea. The natural pine forest that surrounds it offers shady areas ideal for those seeking refreshment from the summer sun.
One of the hidden gems around Parikia is Agia Irini, a small cove that evokes Caribbean atmospheres. Framed by a row of palm trees, the beach of Agia Irini will make you dream of being in the Caribbean. It is reached by a short path: if you like walking, you can continue along the coast of the bay until you reach a quaint little church.
To the north, about a 20-minute drive from Parikia, is the incredible beach of Kolimbithres, famous for its granite rock formations sculpted by the wind and sea waves. These natural sculptures create small natural pools with turquoise waters, making this place one of the most photographed on the island.
The historical and artistic heritage of Parikia represents a priceless treasure of the Cyclades. The old town tells millennia of history, from the ancient Cycladic civilisations to Venetian rule and the modern era.
The Panagia Ekatontapiliani, known as the Church of the Hundred Gates, is the architectural jewel of the town. The church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani is located a few metres from the port of Parikia, the island’s capital. It is one of the best-preserved Palaeo-Christian monuments in Greece. This early Christian complex from the 4th century AD houses priceless Byzantine icons and houses the island’s Byzantine Museum.
The Kastro Franco, built in 1260 by the Venetian duke Marco Sanudo, offers an extraordinary view of the town and harbour. It was built on the site of an ancient acropolis and the foundations of ancient temples can still be seen, as well as part of the tower of the Venetian castle. The castle walls incorporate marble from the 6th century BC Temple of Athena, creating a fascinating historical palimpsest.
The Market Street, the ancient agora, still retains its commercial function with craft shops, traditional cafés and restaurants serving local specialities. More than forty small churches and chapels are hidden along the narrow streets of the old town, each with its own history and unique architectural features.
The Archaeological Museum houses exceptionally important exhibits, including a fragment of the Marmor Parium, an inscription from 264 B.C. that represents one of the most complete chronicles of ancient Greece. A few kilometres from the town, the ancient marble quarries of Marathi testify to the economic importance of the island in antiquity: from these quarries came the prized Parian marble used for the Venus de Milo and other masterpieces of classical art.
The old town is an ideal choice for those who wish to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Parikia. Here you will find traditional guesthouses converted from old Cycladic houses, charming boutique hotels and flats with panoramic terraces. The proximity to the harbour ensures convenient connections, while the pedestrian streets offer evening tranquillity.
The harbour area concentrates modern hotels and business facilities, perfect for those arriving by ferry and wanting the convenience of travel. Many facilities offer sea views and are within walking distance of the waterfront restaurants and cafes. The area is particularly lively during the evening hours, when the harbour comes alive with restaurants and nightclubs.
The hill of Livadia, behind the beach of the same name, is home to villas and hotel resorts with panoramic pools and spas. This area provides tranquillity and privacy while remaining a short distance from the centre. Many facilities feature Mediterranean gardens and terraces with sunset views.
The hinterland of Parikia offers farmhouses and holiday homes surrounded by nature, ideal for those seeking an authentic experience away from the crowds. These accommodations often include local products in their breakfast and organise activities such as wine tastings and traditional cooking classes.
We offer a selection of hotels at Parikia to suit all categories of travellers. The most booked by tourists are the sea-facing hotels, often right on the beach. If you want to play it safe, choose one of the following: they are among the most booked hotels in Parikia, sorted by number of reviews.
If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Parikia. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Parikia are in high demand.
Parikia is located on the west coast of Paros, strategically positioned in a naturally protected bay that serves as the island's main port. The town is about 3 kilometres from Paros International Airport and is 8 kilometres from Naoussa, the island's second tourist centre. Antiparos is visible from the coast and can be reached in only 10 minutes by ferry, while Naxos is about 1 hour by boat.
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