LOCAL CONDITIONS:11/07/2025
16:47

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Visit now Ios with Fast Ferries:
Piraeus- Ios, Mykonos- Ios, Paros- Ios, Heraklion(Crete)- Ios, Santorini- Ios, Syros- Ios
To book your tickets from or to Ios please press here

THE BEST OF IOS
  • LANDMARKS
  • BEACHES
  • ACTIVITIES
  • LOCAL CUISINE
  • USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
LANDMARKS
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IOS AND ITS LANDMARKS

Ios, a destination that will enchant you with its landscapes and the variety of experiences it offers! Every corner of the island blends natural beauty with history and local traditions. One more element that makes it stand out is that it boasts 365 churches—one for each day of the year. But which landmarks should you definitely not miss?

1. Archaeological Museum of Ios

One of the most important museums on the island, as it houses the island’s entire history and past.

2. Agia Theodoti Church

Located in the northeastern part of Ios, it is the oldest church on the island. Built in the 16th century atop the ruins of a temple dedicated to Apollo, it is one of the most impressive landmarks of Ios.

3. Odysseas Elytis Theater

A theater inspired by ancient Greek architecture, located in the main town (Chora). It seats 1,100 spectators and hosts summer performances under the open sky.

4. Tomb of Homer

At the highest point of Chora lie the ruins of the medieval castle. From here, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the town.

6. Skarkos Settlement

One of the most important early Cycladic settlements awaits your exploration. This archaeological site has been awarded for its exemplary restoration and presentation.

7. Paleokastro

A Byzantine-era fortress used to monitor maritime routes from Constantinople to Crete. From Paleokastro, signal fires and visual messages were used to communicate with Naxos, Amorgos, and Santorini.

8. Panagia Gremniotissa Church

Perched at the highest point of Chora, Panagia Gremniotissa is the most important of the island’s 365 churches. It’s worth climbing up to enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.

9. The Windmills

If you want to experience the ultimate sunset, you must visit the island’s traditional windmills located at Mylos Square.

10. The Catholic Church (Frangoklissia)

This is the island’s only Catholic church. It is located near the primary school of Ios and was built in the 14th century.

BEACHES
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IOS AND ITS BEACHES

Ios is considered one of the islands with the best beaches in the entire Mediterranean. Here, you’ll discover stunning sandy shores with crystal-clear turquoise waters that will captivate you and make you never want to leave. Some of the beaches worth visiting include:

1. The Famous Mylopotas

Awarded with a Blue Flag for its crystal waters and golden sand, Mylopotas is the most famous beach on the island. It is fully organized and offers a wide variety of water sports.

2. The Beautiful Manganari

Also a Blue Flag beach, Manganari is not just one but a series of four consecutive beaches that form a magical lagoon—perfect for endless, relaxing swims.

3. The Peaceful Agia Theodoti

A long, sandy beach offering breathtaking views of the nearby island of Iraklia. Thanks to its size, it never feels crowded.

4. The Family-Friendly Gialos

A lovely beach located very close to the port of Ios. Welcoming, organized, and shallow, it is the perfect choice for families with young children who need extra comfort.

5. The Secluded Psathi

A large but remote beach on the eastern coast of Ios, overlooking Iraklia. It features a mix of sand and pebbles and remains unorganized—ideal for those seeking tranquility.

6. The Lively Koumbara

Another beloved beach of Ios, located very close to the port. It is organized and suitable for all kinds of seaside activities.

7. The Idyllic Kolitsani

Small and narrow, yet strikingly beautiful. Known for its emerald, crystal-clear waters and golden sand, Kolitsani is a favorite spot among nudists.

8. Valmas, with its Wild Beauty

A picturesque cove near Chora, Valmas is a hidden gem for the adventurous. Due to the challenging access and rugged rocky landscape, it’s less visited. You can reach it via a trail starting from the church of Agia Irini.

9. The Iconic Papa’s Beach (Tou Papa to Avlaki)

A secluded cove nestled in lush greenery, this beach offers a truly relaxing experience with its pristine waters and soft white sand.

10. Kalamos and Its Stunning Seabed

A large, peaceful beach surrounded by rocky cliffs, with golden sand and crystal-clear blue-green waters. What truly makes it stand out is its extraordinary underwater scenery—ideal for exploration.

ACTIVITIES
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ACTIVITIES IN IOS

Ios is the perfect island for nightlife and music lovers. As the number one destination for young travelers, it never fails to impress when it comes to entertainment. Here are some of the top activities that will make your holiday unforgettable:

1. Day Cruises

At the port of Ios, you’ll find several boats offering island tours and day trips to nearby islands. It’s a unique opportunity to visit remote and hidden beaches, marvel at the crystal-clear waters, and even explore a neighboring island.

2. Water Sports

If you love the sea and enjoy spending all day on the beach, Ios is the place to be. Many of its beaches offer windsurfing, kitesurfing, waterskiing, and diving. You’ll also find fun options like jet skiing, tuba sofa rides, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

3. Hiking

Ios features a well-maintained hiking network that stretches across 13.5 kilometers of nature and secluded beaches, offering breathtaking views and lasting memories. We recommend trail number 5: start from Mylopotas and hike to Klima Beach. The 3.7-kilometer route takes you through a stunning landscape of wind- and sea-carved rock formations.

4. Nightlife

Ios is the beating heart of entertainment in the Cyclades. Parties kick off early at the beach bars and continue until dawn in the clubs of Chora. Young people from all over Greece and the world flock to the island for its vibrant beach bars, high-energy music, and carefree, lively atmosphere that breaks away from the routine of daily life.

LOCAL CUISINE
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IOS & ITS FLAVORS

Despite its small size, Ios boasts a rich culinary heritage, rooted in the authenticity of its ingredients and the simplicity of its flavors.

At local taverns and restaurants, you’ll taste unique dishes that will surprise you, while the island’s pastry shops and bakeries offer a wide variety of traditional sweets.

So if you find yourself on the island this summer, don’t miss the chance to try these signature Ios flavors:

1. Ios Cheeses

Graviera, skotyri, mizithra, and kefalotyri are just a few of the local cheeses produced by Ios dairies. Their rich, authentic flavor is sure to impress.

2. Kaltsounia

These traditional pastries, filled with fresh local mizithra cheese, are a signature recipe of the island.

3. Tsimetia

Another delightful dish from Ios—zucchini flowers stuffed with rice, local kefalotyri cheese, and aromatic herbs.

4. Revithada & Chickpea Fritters

Ios is known for its authentic Cycladic revithada—a slow-cooked chickpea stew and a beloved local dish. Don’t miss the chance to also try chickpea fritters (revithokeftedes).

5. Matsi

These are handmade tagliatelle-style noodles prepared with flour, semolina, goat’s milk, and eggs.

6. Mermitzeli

A handmade kritharaki (orzo) made from semolina, traditionally served with oven-baked beef.

7. Mosenta (Watermelon Pie)

A refreshing summer dessert that combines Cycladic tradition with modern gourmet flair. Light and full of flavor, it’s the perfect way to end any meal.

8. Amygdalota (Almond Sweets)

Made with ground almonds, eggs, and sugar, these sweets are beautifully scented with rose water, giving them their distinctive taste.

9. Pasteli (Sesame-Honey Bar)

Ios is famous for its traditional pasteli, made from local thyme honey and sesame seeds. Historically, it was the sweet served at traditional weddings.

10. Dried Figs of Ios

Naturally sun-dried figs wrapped in sesame—combining high nutritional value with delightful flavor.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS IN IOS

  • Municipality of Ios: +30 22863 60400

  • Citizens’ Service Center (KEP): +30 22863 60419

  • Police Station: +30 22860 91222

  • Port Authority: +30 22860 91264

  • First Aid / Health Center: +30 22863 60000

  • Local Bus Service (KTEL): +30 22860 92015

  • Acteon Travel – Ios Port: +30 22860 91002