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Ios is a small island in the southern Cyclades known for two very different sides: a legendary party scene and some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the Aegean. The main village, Chora, is a classic Cycladic hilltop settlement of white cube houses, blue-domed churches and a line of windmills, with the church of Panagia Gremiotissa looking down over the bay. In summer its narrow lanes fill with bars and clubs that stay open until dawn, which has made Ios a favourite with young travellers for decades. Yet the island is also peaceful outside the main square: Mylopotas, the long golden beach below Chora, offers water sports and beach bars, while Manganari in the south has several perfect coves of fine sand, and Agios Theodotis and Psathi on the east coast are quieter. According to tradition, Homer is buried on Ios, and a site in the north is known as his tomb. The prehistoric settlement of Skarkos and the archaeological museum show the island's ancient past, and the Odysseas Elytis open-air theatre hosts summer events with views over the sea. Ios is reached by ferry from Piraeus and nearby Santorini, Naxos and Paros, and suits groups of friends and couples.
Quick facts
LOCATION
Cyclades Islands
KNOWN FOR
Party nights & Manganari coves
BEST FOR
Nightlife, Groups of friends, Sandy beaches, Budget-friendly, Mainly summer
Beaches
Mylopotas Beach
Manganari Beach
Agios Theodotis Beach
Psathi Beach
Kalamos (Ios) Beach
Koumbara Beach
Religious Sites
Church of Panagia Gremiotissa
Entertainment
Ios Chora Nightlife
Odysseas Elytis Theatre
Museums & History
Windmills of Ios
Homer's Tomb
Archaeological Site of Skarkos
Archaeological Museum of Ios
Other
Chora (Ios) Village
Transportation
Port of Ios (Gialos)
By air
Ios has no airport. The nearest is Santorini International Airport, with many summer flights from Europe; from Santorini, ferries and fast boats reach Ios in about 35 to 60 minutes. You can also fly to Athens and take a ferry from Piraeus.
By ferry
Ormos (Gialos) is the port, on the main Cyclades line between Piraeus and Santorini, with summer connections to Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Folegandros and Sikinos. Island hopping in season is easy.
Getting around
Not needed for most stays. A frequent bus links the port, Chora and Mylopotas beach, and taxis are available. A scooter, ATV or car is useful for remote beaches such as Manganari and Agia Theodoti.
Cyclades Islands
