Parga is a small town packed with character and natural beauty, making it an ideal base for exploring some of Greece’s most memorable sights. Whether you’re into scenic boat rides, active adventures like kayaking, or cultural excursions to sites like Meteora, Parga offers a variety of tours that let you see and do more than just stroll the waterfront. Personally, I love boat trips that include stops at Blue Caves and quaint Gaios or a guided day trip to Meteora—these experiences offer a perfect mix of scenery, history, and a chance to relax. For example, the From Parga: Antipaxos, Paxos, Blue Caves & Gaios Cruise is a top-rated 8-hour adventure that combines stunning coastlines with a lively town visit, making it a fantastic way to see Greece’s jewel-like islands.
If you’re looking for something more active, Parga’s kayaking adventures or river trips add a hands-on element that suits those who prefer physical activity over sightseeing buses. Regardless of your style, there are tours here that will deepen your experience of this beautiful region. Let’s explore each of the top options on our list.
1. From Parga: Antipaxos, Paxos, Blue Caves & Gaios Cruise
At number 1, this cruise offers a full 8 hours exploring Greece’s Ionian Sea. Departing from Parga, you’ll visit the famous Voutoumi Beach on Antipaxos, which is known for its clear, turquoise waters—a perfect spot for swimming or just soaking up the sun. Next, you’ll head to Paxos, where the Blue Caves on Paxos’s west coast provide a surreal backdrop for photos and snorkeling. The boat cruise offers a chance to see the Ortholithos, a dramatic stone rock that makes a striking appearance on the way. The day finishes in Gaios, the charming capital of Paxos, where you can wander narrow streets lined with cafes and shops.
This tour is highly rated, with an average of 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 700 reviews, thanks to its balanced itinerary and friendly guides. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an all-in-one day with swimming, sightseeing, and cultural exploration. The price—just around $41 per person—makes it an excellent value for such a comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a scenic, relaxed day on the water with plenty of swimming and island exploring, this cruise is hard to beat.
2. Parga: Acheron River Kayaking Adventure 5.5 km
For those who prefer an active day out, the Acheron River Kayaking Adventure is a fantastic choice, especially if you’re interested in nature and mythology. This 3-hour tour starts with a 25-minute introductory session from a certified instructor, ensuring even beginners feel confident paddling. You’ll then paddle through the clear waters of the Acheron River, known for its connection to Greek mythology—think river Styx and the underworld. Along the way, you’ll learn about how this river played a role in ancient stories, making it both a scenic and educational experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on natural beauty and storytelling. Reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and the peaceful environment. “The guys working there were amazing. Would absolutely recommend. 10/10,” one review states. It’s suitable for families and solo travelers alike, with a small group size that keeps things intimate and manageable.
Bottom Line: This kayaking tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, mythology, and serenity—great for active travelers wanting a deeper connection with the landscape.
3. From Parga: Magical Meteora Tour
At number 3, the Meteora day trip from Parga is a chance to see one of Greece’s most astonishing sights—cliff-top monasteries perched above the landscape. Leaving early, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours on a comfortable coach heading to Thessaly. Once there, the stunning rock formations will dominate your view, with several photo stops scheduled along the way. You’ll visit two monasteries, including St. Stephan and Varlaam, each offering a glimpse into monastic life and incredible views.
This tour is especially appealing for its combination of natural wonder and cultural interest. The trip lasts about nine hours, making it a full-day commitment, but the scenery and architecture make it well worth the time. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide—Yvonne—and the impressive logistics of the trip, with travelers praising the organization and the “amazing views.” For around $100, the value is high considering the transportation, guided visits, and included stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re interested in nature, architecture, and photo opportunities, and want to experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site without traveling too far from Parga.
4. From Parga: Zagoria and Vikos Gorge Day Trip with Lunch
This full-day tour takes you through the dramatic landscapes of Zagoria and the Vikos Gorge, known as the world’s largest gorge. Leaving early, you’ll drive through scenic mountain scenery, stopping at the Stone Forest and Oxia Balcony for breathtaking views. The highlight is the Vikos Gorge itself, where you can marvel at the natural forces that shaped this impressive canyon.
The trip includes a traditional Greek lunch in a mountain village, adding a delicious local flavor to the day. Reviewers love the balance of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing, with many noting the exceptional scenery and the knowledgeable guide—Yvonne. The tour lasts about 8 hours, suitable for those who want an active day immersed in mountain scenery and local culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to combine nature, hiking, and cultural experiences in one memorable day.
5. Parga: Acheron River, Necromanteion & Souli tour
For a deeper dive into mythology and history, this Acheron River and Necromanteion tour offers a full 8-hour day exploring the mysterious underworld sites and ancient villages of Souli. You’ll visit the Necromanteion, an ancient Greek temple associated with necromancy, and hike around the Heroic Mountains. The adventure includes a stop in Souli, famous for its resistance against Ottoman rule, and a traditional meal at a local restaurant.
Rated at 4.9 out of 5, it’s perfect for history buffs and those interested in Greek mythology and geography. The tour’s highlights involve exploring the enigma of the door to Hades and soaking in the spectacular mountain scenery. It’s a more expensive option at $282, but the depth of experience and unique sites offer good value.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers interested in history, mythology, and outdoor exploration with a taste for the mysterious.
$282 per person
6. Sea Kayak Parga: A Coastal Adventure & Islet Exploration
Finally, for those wanting to combine water activity with sightseeing, the Sea Kayak Parga tour is a 5-hour journey along the coast. Paddling from Valtos to Lichnos Beach, you’ll discover hidden beaches, Aphrodite’s Sea Cave, and the charming islet of Panagia. The tour offers a relaxed pace suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers alike, with plenty of chances to swim and explore.
Reviewers enjoy the opportunity to see Parga’s coastline from the water, with many noting the professionalism of guides and the beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a hands-on experience and great photo opportunities. The tour’s approximate price isn’t specified, but it’s good value considering the length and scope.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for paddlers wanting a mix of adventure, nature, and coastal scenery.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Parga, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to dedicate. If you’re after a relaxing day with swimming and island views, the Antipaxos and Paxos cruise offers excellent value. For active types, the Acheron River kayaking or sea kayaking give you a hands-on experience of Greece’s natural beauty. History and architecture lovers should consider the Meteora tour or the Vikos Gorge trip, both showcasing Greece’s iconic landscapes.
Price and time are practical factors—some tours like Meteora and Zagoria involve longer days and higher costs but pay off with memorable sights. Book early during peak season to secure your spot, especially for popular tours like Meteora or the boat cruise.
Final Thoughts
Parga offers a broad range of tours that cater to different tastes—from relaxing boat trips to active kayaking and cultural excursions. Two standout choices are the Antipaxos cruise for an easy, scenic day on the water, and the Vikos Gorge trip for hikers and nature lovers. For history enthusiasts, the Meteora tour is simply spectacular.
No matter which you pick, these experiences will deepen your understanding of Greece’s stunning landscapes and cultural riches. To ensure a smooth trip, consider booking well in advance—these tours fill quickly, especially in high season. Enjoy your time exploring Parga’s remarkable surroundings!