Ferry from Athens (Piraeus) to Paros (Parikia).

Piraeus to Paros is one of the backbone routes of the Cyclades. Paros sits right in the middle of the group, and ferries from Athens call there all year, which makes it one of the easiest islands to reach and one of the best bases for island hopping. Many first-time visitors start here and branch out to Naxos, Antiparos, Mykonos or Santorini.

The island itself has broad appeal. Parikia, where the ferries dock, is the capital and a busy harbour town with a whitewashed old quarter and the Byzantine church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. Naoussa, on the north coast, is the fishing harbour turned stylish evening spot. Inland, marble villages like Lefkes are linked by old stone paths, and the coast has long sandy beaches for every wind direction.

Getting there is straightforward. Piraeus, Athens' main port, is the end of metro Line 1, and Paros boats leave from a handful of numbered gates along the harbour. You then choose between the conventional Blue Star ships, which are cheaper, roomier and carry cars, and the Seajets high-speed boats, which save an hour or more but cost more.

In July and August book several days ahead, particularly for cars, cabins and the popular morning high-speed departures. If you arrive in Athens by air the same day, leave generous time to cross from the airport to Piraeus, or consider an afternoon sailing.

The route crosses the open Aegean, where the meltemi, a strong, dry north wind, blows mainly in July and August. The large Blue Star ships handle it well and rarely stop, but the high-speed boats can be slowed, delayed or kept in port on the windiest days. The port authority can hold departures when conditions are unsafe. When a sailing is cancelled, the operator rebooks or refunds you through your booking, and because Blue Star sails two or three times a day, the next conventional ship is usually the quickest way to still reach Paros, but on a day with a flight home, build in extra time.