Paros is a standout in the Cyclades for those seeking full-day tours that combine scenic sailing, unique island exploration, and authentic local experiences. Its varied landscape and accessible coastlines make it ideal for a range of activities—whether you’re looking to relax on a boat, explore by self-driving boat, or enjoy guided cultural trips. We love the From Paros: Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise for its combination of relaxing swimming stops, caves, and a Greek lunch that feels authentically local. The trip’s reviews emphasize the friendliness of the crew and the quality of swim spots, making it a top choice for a laid-back, scenic day at sea.
For those wanting more control over their day, the Paros: Full-Day Small Boat Rental with Self-Driving offers independence and flexibility. Meanwhile, travelers looking for a luxury experience might prefer the Full Day Catamaran Cruise in Paros, which combines comfort, snorkeling, and gourmet food. Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best full-day tours in Paros, with options suited for different interests, budgets, and levels of adventure.
1. From Paros: Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise
This cruise is a favorite for its leisurely pace and stunning scenery. Over roughly 7 hours, you’ll sail from Paros to the islands of Antiparos and Despotiko, with stops that highlight caves, turquoise waters, and secluded beaches. The trip features four swim stops, including in the Blue Lagoon, plus snorkeling opportunities to catch glimpses of underwater life. The crew serves an authentic Greek lunch with drinks included, though some reviews mention wishing for a broader music playlist.
Unique features: Cave exploration, snorkeling, Greek cuisine, wine in secluded spots.
Who it’s for: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed day with plenty of swimming and scenic views. Not suited for those seeking wildlife or cultural tours.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, friendly cruise that offers great value for around $103 per person, praised by nearly 230 reviewers for its friendly crew and memorable stops.
2. Paros: Full-Day Small Boat Rental with Self-Driving
This tour lets you take the wheel of a motorboat and explore Paros at your own pace. Starting at The Sailor’s Ride, you’ll visit the Blue Lagoon, Faneromeni beach, sea caves, and smaller secluded spots like Livadi and Tripiti Beach, with each stop lasting about an hour. With a capacity for five people, it’s perfect for families or small groups craving independence. Reviewers highlight how easy it is to drive with instructions provided and how the boat allows access to places only reachable by water.
Unique features: Self-driving boat, flexible schedule, personalized exploration.
Who it’s for: Suitable for confident boaters or adventurous families who want to create their own route. Less ideal if you prefer guided tours or are not comfortable driving a boat.
Bottom line: Excellent value at $158 per group, with glowing reviews praising the flexibility and the clarity of instructions.
3. Full Day Catamaran Cruise in Paros
This 8-hour trip aboard the Lagoon 46 catamaran, the luxury vessel FILIPPOS, is a step above typical boat tours. It includes visits to the Blue Lagoon, Faneromeni bay, Tripiti sea cave, and Farangas beach, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and using the SUP. The boat boasts modern amenities, and the crew provides a BBQ lunch onboard. Guests rave about the vessel’s comfort and the variety of spots visited. The tour offers a luxurious alternative for those who prefer a more upscale experience.
Unique features: Luxury catamaran, kayak and SUP included, gourmet BBQ lunch.
Who it’s for: Perfect for travelers seeking comfort and style, or celebrating special occasions. Not suited for budget travelers.
Bottom line: For $190.10, this tour delivers a full day of scenic cruising with top-notch facilities and highly positive reviews.
4. From Paros: Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Boat Trip
This tour combines archaeology and cosmopolitan charm on a 9.5-hour cruise. It visits Delos, a UNESCO site, where you can explore ancient ruins, and Mykonos, famous for its windmills and lively streets. The trip includes ferry rides, with free time at each stop for sightseeing and photos. Reviewers appreciate the well-organized schedule, though some mention it’s a long day—perfect for those eager to pack in history and scenery in one outing.
Unique features: UNESCO archaeological site, Mykonos town, comprehensive itinerary.
Who it’s for: Ideal for history buffs and travelers who want a taste of two iconic islands. Not suited for those wanting a relaxed day or who dislike long travel days.
Bottom line: At $79, it’s a good value considering the sights and the reviews that praise the ease of transportation and variety.
5. Full-Day Cruise in Antiparos and Despotiko with Barbecue
This 6.5-hour tour on a traditional Greek “kaiki” offers a laid-back way to discover unspoiled waters. The crew guides you to Panteronisi with its natural swimming pools and to secluded spots around Antiparos and Despotiko, often chosen depending on weather conditions. Lunch is a hearty barbecue with Greek dips, fruits, and drinks. Reviews highlight the friendly crew and the memorable swimming stops, making it a top pick for relaxed travelers.
Unique features: Authentic Greek boat, flexible route, barbecue lunch.
Who it’s for: Perfect if you want a mellow day with excellent swimming and good food. Less ideal if you want a structured or guided tour.
Bottom line: At $104.66, it’s a good value for a peaceful day at sea, especially loved for the friendly atmosphere.
6. Private Full Day Tour in South Paros Caves Despotiko
This exclusive 8-hour sailing experience offers a private tour for up to four people. It starts from Pisso Livadi, with the captain adjusting the route based on weather and wind. You’ll sail to the Blue Lagoon, explore caves, and anchor at Despotiko beaches for swimming. The customized itinerary includes a full lunch on deck, making this ideal for those seeking privacy and tailored experiences. Reviewers praise the professional crew, the tranquility of the trip, and the stunning scenery.
Unique features: Private, customizable, luxury experience, includes a full onboard lunch.
Who it’s for: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a private, peaceful day. Not a good fit for larger groups or budget travelers.
Bottom line: Costing around $1,600, it’s a premium experience, but highly rated for exclusivity and tailored service.
7. Private Full Day Catamaran Cruise from Paros with Lunch
This 9-hour private cruise offers a personalized day with a professional crew. Departing from Antiparos, it visits Panteronisi and Tigani islands, with stops for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck. The boat is equipped with modern comforts, and the itinerary includes exploring caves and bays. Guests rave about the hospitality and the flexibility of the schedule, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.
Unique features: Fully private, customizable, luxury amenities.
Who it’s for: Perfect for couples celebrating a special event or groups wanting a tailored experience.
Bottom line: At over $1,300 per person, it’s a splurge, but reviews confirm it’s worth the exclusivity.
8. Private full day cruise to Antiparos with Paros Sail
This 7-hour private yacht experience features a luxurious Bavaria 40 Cruiser. Sail from Paros to Antiparos, with stops at Faneromeni, Despotiko, and the Blue Lagoon. The captain shares insights on sailing and local sites, and you can snorkel, swim, or relax. The onboard comfort and the chance to sail with a skilled captain make it a top pick for a personalized, high-end day.
Unique features: Private sailing, full onboard amenities, sailing with an expert captain.
Who it’s for: Ideal for sailing enthusiasts and those who value privacy and luxury.
Bottom line: At $2,373, it’s a premium experience, but reviews note the quality of the sailing adventure.
9. From Paros: Delos & Mykonos Full-Day Trip
This 9-hour tour offers a quick but full immersion into Delos’ archaeological sites and the lively atmosphere of Mykonos. Ferry rides connect the islands, with free time allocated for exploring both. While some find the schedule a bit rushed, the reviews appreciate the well-organized transport and the chance to see two iconic islands in one day.
Unique features: UNESCO site visit, Mykonos town sightseeing, comprehensive itinerary.
Who it’s for: Suited for travelers with limited time wanting a broad experience of Cycladic highlights. Less ideal if you prefer a leisurely pace.
Bottom line: Priced at $70, it is a practical way to see Delos and Mykonos in a single day with positive feedback on logistics.
10. From Paros: Santorini Full-Day Boat Trip
This 11-hour journey takes you to Santorini, famous for its volcanic caldera and sunset views. You’ll explore Fira, with enough free time to enjoy a drink or shop, before returning in the evening. Reviewers mention the long day but praise the guide and the stunning scenery. The trip is a good pick for those eager to see Santorini without an overnight stay.
Unique features: Full-day boat excursion, caldera views, photo opportunities.
Who it’s for: Best for travelers comfortable with long days and looking for efficient Santorini sightseeing. Not ideal for those wanting a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: For $90, it’s a practical way to tick off Santorini, with many praising the organization and scenic highlights.
11. Private Full Day Tour in Koufonisi and Naxos
This 10-hour private sailing trip is perfect for small groups wanting a tailored day. The itinerary includes sailing through the Naxos-Koufonisi strait, swimming in Rina Cave, and visiting remote beaches. The tour emphasizes personalized service and access to secluded spots, with reviews praising the professionalism and the quality of the lunch served on deck.
Unique features: Private, customizable, scenic sailing with exclusive swimming spots.
Who it’s for: Best suited for small groups or couples seeking privacy and a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: At about $1,500 for up to four people, it offers a high-end, intimate experience for discerning travelers.
12. Full Day Bus Tour in Paros and Antiparos Islands from Paros
For those who prefer staying on land, this group tour offers a rundown of Paros and Antiparos. Starting from Parikia, you’ll visit Paros’ main town, explore the Venetian fortress in Antiparos, and learn about local architecture and history. The tour includes ferry rides and guided visits, with reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guide and good value for money.
Unique features: Guided land tour, ferry included, visits to key sites.
Who it’s for: Perfect for travelers on a budget or those who want an overview without much physical activity. Less ideal if you prefer independent exploration.
Bottom line: At $72.22 per person, it’s a practical, educational way to see the main highlights.
13. From Paros: Mykonos Full-Day Trip
This 9-hour day trip by catamaran takes you from Paros to Mykonos, where you can wander the famous Chora, admire the windmills, and shop in local boutiques. The ferry ride offers scenic views, and the free time in Mykonos gives a taste of its lively atmosphere. Reviews reflect satisfaction with the logistics and the experience, making it a solid choice for a quick island escape.
Unique features: Scenic ferry ride, free time in Mykonos, easy logistics.
Who it’s for: Suitable for travelers who want a day on the iconic island without overnight stay. Not recommended if you dislike long boat rides.
Bottom line: For $70, it delivers a straightforward, well-reviewed experience.
14. Sea Tour Blue Lagoon, Southern Paros Full Day
Led by Captain Morgan, this tour features three swim stops at Blue Lagoon, Despotiko, and Agios Sostis. The 6.5-hour trip offers enough time for sunbathing, snorkeling, and enjoying traditional Parian cuisine, including meat barbecue. The small number of reviews praise the friendly staff and beautiful scenery, making it a cozy, intimate experience.
Unique features: Multiple swim stops, local cuisine, small group size.
Who it’s for: Ideal for travelers wanting a short, relaxed day with quality swimming and food. Not suited for those seeking extensive sightseeing.
Bottom line: At $97.74, it’s a short but memorable way to explore southern Paros waters.
15. From Paros: Antiparos and Despotiko Full Day Cruise
This 8.5-hour private tour offers a personalized adventure around Antiparos and Despotiko. You’ll swim in pristine waters, explore caves, and enjoy a traditional Parian lunch onboard. The route is flexible, often including cliff diving and secluded coves. Reviewers appreciate the exclusivity, with one mentioning how the personalized itinerary made the experience exceptional.
Unique features: Private, customizable, includes snorkeling gear, cliff diving options.
Who it’s for: Best suited for small groups or couples looking for a bespoke, high-end day trip.
Bottom line: At around $1,600, it’s a costly but highly praised private experience for those wanting maximum exclusivity.
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Paros
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and how you want to experience Paros. For relaxation and swimming, the From Paros: Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise offers scenic views and caves with great reviews. If independence appeals, the Self-Driving Boat provides flexibility and fun. Travelers craving luxury should consider the Luxury Catamaran, which includes a gourmet BBQ onboard.
Budget-conscious visitors might prefer the Full-Day Trip to Delos and Mykonos, while history lovers will appreciate the archaeological sites on the Delos & Mykonos tour. For a private, exclusive experience, the Private South Paros Caves or the Luxury Private Catamaran are excellent options, though at a higher cost.
When planning, consider factors like budget, desired level of activity, interest in archaeology or luxury, and how much independence you want. Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
From relaxed boat cruises to private sailing adventures, Paros offers a wide range of full-day tours to suit every style. If you want a laid-back day with ample swimming, the Blue Lagoon cruise remains a top pick. For a more personalized or luxurious experience, the private charters deliver on exclusivity and comfort, perfect for celebrating special moments.
Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you most want from your time in Paros—whether that’s discovering archaeological sites, sailing in style, or exploring the coast at your own pace. Whichever you pick, booking early and confirming availability will ensure your ideal day on these beautiful Greek waters.
