To ensure your journey through the National Airport Paros goes smoothly, use these practical tips. The airport is small and mainly serves domestic flights, but it can be quite lively during the height of the season.
Arrival Time and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure, especially during the summer months (from June to August). Although the airport itself is compact, queues can form at check-in counters and security control during peak hours. To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to security.
Passing Control and Seat Selection: Security procedures are standard. To speed up the process, prepare your boarding pass and documents in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, if possible, book a window seat. The views of the Aegean Sea and neighbouring Cycladic islands during takeoff and landing are simply mesmerizing!
Hand Luggage: Remember the standard restrictions on carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent bag. Always keep valuables, documents, medicines, and electronics in your hand luggage. Be sure to check the weight and dimension limits for hand luggage set by your airline, as some carriers can be quite strict.
Connecting Passengers and Customs: Paros Airport is mainly a final destination. If you have a connection planned (most often in Athens), ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines and need to re-register luggage. Since most flights arrive from the Schengen area (mainly from other cities in Greece), there is no formal customs and passport control for such passengers.
Saving Time and Money: The most budget-friendly way to get to or from the airport is the local KTEL bus, which runs between the airport and key points on the island such as Parikia and Naoussa. A taxi will cost significantly more. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher, so you can bring a light snack with you. Don't forget an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control.
Flight Delays: In the summer months, a strong northern wind known as "Meltemi" blows in the Cyclades. Sometimes it can cause delays or even cancellations of flights. Always check the status of your flight on the airline's website before leaving for the airport. In case of a long wait, have a book, headphones, and a charged power bank with you, as entertainment options in the small terminal are limited.