Ios - Discovering Greece

Travelling to Ios

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ios, a pretty good destination in Greece (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ios and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ios, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Greece, here's everything to know about Ios for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ios

Ios is a stunning Greek island located in the southern Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades island group. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and vibrant nightlife scene. The main village of Chora is home to picturesque white houses, narrow streets, and plenty of bars and restaurants. Ios is relatively small, making it easy to explore by foot, and there are many hiking trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The island is also famous for its crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for water sports such as snorkelling and scuba diving. Overall, Ios is a vibrant and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone.

What to visit in Ios

Here are some top attractions to see in Ios, Greece: 1. Chora - This is the main town of Ios and one of the most beautiful towns in the Cyclades. It is famous for its narrow streets, white-washed houses, and charming windmills. Visitors can wander past shops, cafes, and taverns and see the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
2. Mylopotas Beach - This is the most popular beach of Ios with fine golden sand and crystal clear waters. There are many water sports activities available here such as jet-skiing and water-skiing. There is a beach bar and several restaurants here.
3. Panagia Gremiotissa - This is the most famous church in Ios which is positioned high above the Chora and offers spectacular views of the island. This church is white-washed and in Greek Orthodox style.
4. Homer's Tomb - This is the legendary tomb of the ancient Greek poet Homer, located near the town of Plakotos. While there is no concrete evidence, it is believed that Homer is buried here due to the fact that some in ancient times did believe that.
5. Skarkos - This is an important archaeological site and museum that demonstrates the ancient civilization that once existed on the island of Ios. Here visitors can discover the exceptional architecture and learn about the history of the island through the findings and artifacts.
6. Paleokastro - This is the island's acropolis, built by the Mycenaeans. The archaeological site is located atop a hill and offers great views of the island. It is best to visit the site during the Early Bronze Age to Late Classical Period (3000 BC - AD 323).
7. Agia Theodoti Beach - This is a beautiful, pebbly beach with crystal clear waters. It is more secluded than Mylopotas beach and is perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet.
There are many more attractions to see in Ios, but these are the most popular ones. Enjoy your trip!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Greece, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ios.

When to go on holiday to Ios

The best time to visit Ios is during the months of May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the island's beautiful beaches. The busiest time to visit Ios is usually in July and August, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds, then you may want to consider going in the shoulder season, such as May, June or September. Keep in mind that some businesses may be closed outside of the peak tourist season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ios

Ios can be reached by either a ferry or a flight.
By Ferry: The nearest ferry ports to Ios are Santorini (Thira) and Paros. From Santorini, there are regular ferry services to Ios, with a journey time of around 30 to 45 minutes. From Paros, the journey time can be up to 2 hours. There are also ferry services from other nearby islands such as Naxos and Mykonos.
By Flight: The nearest airport to Ios is Santorini (Thira) Airport. From there, you can take a ferry or a high-speed catamaran to Ios. There are also flights to Athens and other major Greek cities, from where you can take a ferry to Ios. I hope this information helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ios, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ios

Here are some typical foods of Ios in Greece: 1. Souvlaki: Souvlaki is a Greek fast food that consists of grilled meat (usually pork, chicken or lamb) served on a skewer or wrapped in a pita bread with vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
2. Moussaka: Moussaka is a classic Greek dish that consists of layers of eggplant, minced meat (usually beef or lamb), and a creamy béchamel sauce. It is then baked to perfection and served hot.
3. Spanakopita: Spanakopita is a Greek appetizer made with spinach, feta cheese, garlic, and phyllo pastry. It is often served as a finger food or a side dish.
4. Tzatziki: Tzatziki is a popular Greek dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil. It is a refreshing and healthy dip that can be served with pita bread or as a sauce for meat dishes.
5. Greek Salad: Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean dish made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, green peppers, olives, and feta cheese. It is topped with olive oil and oregano and is a perfect light meal for a hot summer day.
6. Fava: Fava is a traditional Greek dish made from yellow split peas. It is served as a dip or a side dish and is typically topped with olive oil, lemon juice, and onions.
7. Octopus: Octopus is a popular seafood dish in Greece. It is often grilled or marinated and served with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.
8. Kleftiko: Kleftiko is a traditional Greek dish made with slow-cooked lamb, potatoes, and vegetables. It is often served with a Greek salad and tzatziki sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Greece here.

Is Ios an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of traveling to Ios, Greece varies depending on your travel preferences and budget. In general, Ios is considered to be a mid-range to slightly expensive destination. The prices for accommodation, food, and activities are higher during peak season (June to August) compared to the shoulder season (April to May and September to October).
Accommodation in Ios can range from budget hostels to high-end villas, with prices starting from around €20 per night for a dorm bed and €60 per night for a double room in a budget hotel. Food can also vary in price, with inexpensive street food and tavernas ranging from €5 to €15 per person, while mid-range and upscale restaurants can cost up to €50 per person, excluding drinks.
Activities such as water sports, boat tours, and nightlife can also add up to your expenses, so it's advisable to plan your budget accordingly. However, there are plenty of affordable options available if you do your research and plan ahead.

Where to find accomodation in Ios

In Ios, it's best to find accommodation in the Chora or Mylopotas areas. The Chora is the main town on the island, and it offers a wide variety of hotels, apartments, and rooms for rent. Mylopotas is located on the southern coast of the island and it's the most popular beach area of Ios, with a long sandy beach and a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Both areas are well-connected with the rest of the island, so they make a great base for exploring all that Ios has to offer.
You can check hotel prices at Ios here:
Booking.com

Is Ios a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ios in Greece is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take normal precautions to ensure personal safety, such as avoiding leaving valuables unattended, staying away from secluded areas at night, and being mindful of your surroundings while out and about. It's also recommended to familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs, and to follow them accordingly. Overall, visitors to Ios can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip with proper planning and practical safety measures.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Greece here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ios.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ios the most?

Ios, Greece is a destination that is mainly popular among young people who are looking for fun. The island has a lively nightlife scene with many clubs, bars, and restaurants. Thus, couples and young people who want to party and have a good time will enjoy the island. However, it is also possible for families to enjoy Ios, as there are many child-friendly beaches. The island has many outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and water sports, which families can enjoy together.
In summary, Ios, Greece is an ideal destination for young people and couples who want to party and have fun. However, families can also enjoy the island and its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and child-friendly beaches.

How to get around Ios

To move around Ios, Greece you can use different modes of transportation depending on your preference and destination. The most common ones are: 1. Bus: There are regular bus services that run between the main towns, beaches, and villages of Ios. It's an affordable and reliable option for traveling around the island.
2. Taxi: Taxis are available in Ios, and they are an excellent option if you want to travel comfortably, quickly, and directly to your destination. However, they can be costly.
3. Scooter/ATV/Quad bike: Renting a scooter, ATV or quad bike is quite popular among tourists, as it offers more freedom and flexibility for exploring Ios's landscapes. 4. Walking: Ios is a small island, and some of the most beautiful places can only be reached by foot. Walking is a good option if you're staying in the town and want to explore the local markets, restaurants, or shops.

What to see around Ios

Sure, here are some good options for a day trip from Ios in Greece: 1. Santorini - Known for its stunning sunsets and beautiful villages perched on cliffs, Santorini is just a short ferry ride away and a great place to explore for the day.
2. Naxos - Another nearby island, Naxos has some of the best beaches in the Cyclades, as well as charming villages and ancient ruins to explore.
3. Sikinos - This small island is less visited than some of the others in the region, which means it's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter, more authentic Greek experience.
4. Paros - One of the most popular islands in the region, Paros is known for its beautiful beaches and charming white-washed villages. It's a great spot for a day trip from Ios.
5. Folegandros - This tiny island has a laid-back, bohemian vibe that makes it a great place to unwind for the day. Check out its unspoiled villages and stunning beaches.
6. Koufonisia - These two small islands are just a short ferry ride from Ios, and they boast some of the clearest waters and most beautiful beaches in the region.
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