Do you need a rental car in Paros? Well, that completely depends on the trip you want to have! We’ve now been several times both with a Paros car rental, and without one. While we loved each visit, they were extremely different experiences. Here’s what to know about renting a car in Paros, and all our best tips to help make your decision.
Our Visit Without a Paros Car Rental
The summer of 2019 was the very first time we set foot on the island. We took the ferry (tips for ferries in Greece), arrived in the main town of Parikia, and immediately jumped on the bus to Naousa village!
The bus on Paros is easy to use, but it actually doesn’t have routes to everywhere on Paros island. It’s easy to get from the ferry port to Naousa like we did.
However, if you truly want to explore the lesser-known beaches and coastal towns, you’ll need some type of vehicle. Typically, the popular routes are based around the ferry arrivals and departures in the shoulder season. While in the summer months, you’ll find many more with many more bus options available.
We decided to stay in the stunning town of Naousa for three full days. We absolutely loved it, and it’s no surprise that it’s known as one of the most beautiful villages in the Greek islands.
Our days were filled with delicious seafood, Aegean Sea dips, and taking in our views from the hotel. Don’t get us wrong… This was a super relaxing trip that we enjoyed. Yet, without renting a car in Paros we were confined to the small village area. After leaving Naousa, we know we had to come back to see more of the island!
Return Trip With a Rental Car in Paros
Two years later we were back in Paros Greece, and this time would be much different. This one week journey started by picking up our Paros rental car in Parikia Port (check current prices here) after arriving.
Our road trip included the mountain village of Lefkes, Kalogeros Beach for a natural clay treatment, and swimming at all the unique beaches. We even took a quick ferry over to Antiparos, which is Paros’s cute neighboring island.
Until you have a Paros car rental, you won’t really realized just how massive this island is! You can easily spend a week and won’t run out of exciting things to do and see. There are so many amazing small towns and villages that are worth visit (these are 8 of our favorites)!
As you can see, there is a huge difference between renting a car in Paros and using the local bus to get around. Below we share some quick tips for planning your visit to Paros, plus some pros and cons of having a vehicle on the island!
Where to Stay in Paros Greece
There are so many charming villages and beach towns to stay in all over Paros. Here’s a few of the most highly rated boutique-style accommodations in different parts of the island.
- Parikia: Hotel Dina – Pelican Paros
- Aliki: Aphrodite Boutique Hotel – Dahlia Apartments & Studios – George’s Beach Studios Aliki Paros
- Naousa: Saint Andrea Resort Hotel– Parian Lithos Residence – Bungalows Marina
- Drios: Golden Beach Hotel – Golden Sand Paros – Poseidon of Paros Hotel & Spa
- Piso Livadi: Elena Studios & Apartments – Anna’s Studio – Nomads House
- Marpissa: Ventu Paros Villa – Tsigonias Traditional Villa
- Lefkes: Villa Byzantino – Sweet Path Villa
Greek Island Travel Tips
- ⛴ Use FerriesinGreece to compare different routes, prices, and companies.
- ✈️ Check out Skyscanner for cheap flights.
- ☎️ Get a Greece E-Sim before you arrive to stay connected!
- 🛌 We search both Booking.com and Agoda to find places to stay. Also, visit Hostelworld if you’re on a budget.
- 🚗 Use Discover Cars to explore the islands with a car (as low as $15 a day!)
- ⛵️ Find hundreds of activities using Get Your Guide in Greece.
- ☀️ Never travel abroad without insurance like SafetyWing.
- 🎒 Scan through our Amazon packing lists, electronics and camera gear & long flight essentials.
Pros of Renting a Car in Paros
For us, the biggest advantage of having a rental car in Paros is the freedom it gives you. Some of our favorite memories have been visiting new towns and remote beaches around the island.
Having a car allowed to stay outside the main areas which offer better deals on hotels and Airbnb’s. We even spent two nights at a small vineyard hotel where they make their own wine!
Renting a car in Paros was such an adventure compared to our first trip. One day we even circled the entire island!
If you have the budget and you’re comfortable driving on the islands then yes! We highly recommend it. However, there are some cons that we just want you to be aware of.
Paros Rental Car Cons
Really, there are just a couple of things to be aware of before picking up your Paros car rental. The main thing that would make us reconsider is the price. If you are traveling here outside of the peak summer season you should have no problem finding a good deal.
This is especially true if you book ahead (this is the company we use) as soon as you know your dates. However, if you wait to book your Paros rental car visit or visit in July and August, the price can often double or triple!
As you can imagine, this extra cost can make your trip to Paros quite expensive. You should also consider the price of gas before committing to a vehicle in the Greek islands.
Another con about having a rental car in Paros is that the roads are very narrow. The driving can become very tight once you get off the main roads and start heading down to the beaches.
We’ve passed plenty of cars with only an inch or two to spare, and have even had to reverse back up the road we came! To put it simply, be confident in your driving skills if you’re renting a car in Paros Greece.
One more thing to mentioned is about visiting in the summer. We’ve actually been here in late June and found that every single car, ATV, and scooter rental was sold out. Keep an eye out for traffic and delays around Parikia, and other popular towns during this time.
Paros Car Rental Q&A
Do You Need a Car on Paros?
Now you know that there are pros and cons to both options! It’s time to ask yourself what type of trip you want to have.
If you’re happy to stay at a nice resort hotel, walk to the restaurants for dinner, and swim at the beaches close by, then you probably don’t need one.
However, if you’re ready to explore and hit the ground running, then book away! One of the reasons we use Discover Cars is for the free cancellations. That way if your plans change it’s no big deal to get a refund.
How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Car in Paros?
What About an ATV Rental?
ATV’s are very popular on all the Greek islands! They go for around €50 a day, and are quick to sell out in advance. If you want to pre-book an ATV we recommend contacting your hotel to help find a local office.
We often rent motorbikes on the islands as well. Yet, the disadvantage of these, is you can’t take them down the dirt roads where many of the best beaches are located.
Can You Really Drive Around Paros in One Day?
Yes! While it is a huge island, you can easily circle Paros Greece in a day if you have time. There is basically one large route that goes around the island.
From this main road, you can cut down into the small towns and lesser-known beaches. Be sure to read our article about circling the island in one day here.
How Many Days in Paros is Enough?
Once again, this is completely depends on your own itinerary. We strongly recommend at least three days to see and enjoy the island.
Still, the more time you have the better! We could spend weeks exploring this incredible destination with a Paros car rental.
Paros is also growing more popular with remote workers who visit during swing season. Be sure to check for monthly rates for long-term accommodations if this interests you.
Have any questions about this article or want to share your own tips for renting a car in Paros Greece? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
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