Visit Ios: what are the best things to do and see on this iconic Greek island, famous for its nightlife?
South of Naxos and north of Santorini, the island of Ios is one of the most beautiful of the Cyclades. You’re sure to fall under the spell of this unique and enchanting place, dotted with beautiful coves, secret bays and paths that rise up to Mount Pyrgos, the island’s legendary highest point.
Also renowned for its intense nightlife, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as everything you need to party! Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of local life, enjoy a romantic sunset, and have fun until the end of the night!
Wondering what to do in Ios? We’ve got you covered!
1. Explore Chora, the capital
Photo credit: Flickr – maryaben
And if possible… at 2 different times: explore it during the day, then at night… You’re really going to discover 2 faces!
During the day, climb up to the chapel that crowns it to watch the sun set over the neighboringisland of Sikinos. Chora, a true jewel that glistens in the sunlight, is built amphitheatrically. Its small, flat-roofed, whitewashed houses, winding alleys that wind between buildings and arcades that rise up between two houses or above an alleyway create a magical atmosphere that charms the visitor.
The quiet, charming little streets you’ll discover during the day are transformed into a lively atmosphere at nightfall!
The lower part of the village, with its winding streets, is packed with bars and nightclubs! To eat, you’ll also find a few restaurants and giros (kebabs) vendors near the main square. The atmosphere is decidedly youthful, with squares surrounded by bars playing loud music!
2. Explore the north of the island and visit Homer’s tomb
Photo credit: Flickr – Live Zakynthos
Legend has it that the famous Greek poet Homer is buried on Ios, making it a real pride of the island. You’ll need to take the only road from Chora to the heights of Ios, and climb up to the very north of the island. Once there, you’ll discover… a pile of stones! You’ll need a good imagination to picture it. According to local legend, he wanted to be buried on Ios because his mother came from there. While the tomb itself is of little interest, the road leading to it and its splendid panoramas are well worth a visit!
In the region, the beaches of Psathi and Agia Theodoti are extremely protected breeding grounds for the Caretta Caretta sea turtles of the Mediterranean Sea. If you take a stroll along the beach, or decide to take a dip or a nap, be careful to preserve the nesting areas.
3. Relax on the port of Gialos
Photo credit: Flickr – geoff dude
If you’re visiting Ios, you won’t want to miss this charming port, where a small white church decorates the natural, sheltered bay.
The port is bordered by a very pleasant beach with a promenade lined with hotels and restaurants. For the perfect romantic moment, enjoy a magnificent sunset over the harbor…
4. A boat trip
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Georgios Tsichlis
After a stroll along the quayside, why not take a boat trip?
In fact, renting a boat allows you to sail the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island while enjoying the dream beaches nestled in a heavenly setting.
And having your own small boat gives you the choice of stopping wherever you like to explore the island’s rich seabed. An unforgettable experience for all the family and friends!
5. Lazing on the beach
Photo credit: Flickr – Kostas Limitsios
Wondering what to do in Ios? Relax, of course! There are many beautiful beaches on Ios. The crescent of sand at Gialos lies to the west of the docks at Hora. Koumbara attracts naturists. Milopotas is the kingdom of all water sports… To the east of Pano Kampos, Agia Theodoti is relatively uncrowded. But the real enchantment lies in the south of the island, where the beaches stretch out in Manganari Bay, with its deep, clear waters.
Just think, the island is full of clubbers. So you can enjoy the big, empty beaches before noon, when they’re all still in bed.
6. Enjoy the nightlife
Photo credit: Youtube screenshot
What to do in Ios? Party, of course! Nicknamed » Party Island » by the locals, Ios is overrun with bars and clubs. Most are in Chora, but there are also numerous beach parties and pool parties. For a party trip, July and August are the best months. It gets quieter in September, but you’ll still find plenty to keep you entertained.
7. Visit the village of Ormos
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons – Zde
A visit to Ios also means discovering the island’s natural harbor, Ormos, located in the bay of the same name. It’s the island’s second most populous village, after Hora. Built on the slope of a mountain, overlooking the sea, you’ll be charmed by its typical Cycladic architectural style, preserving the island’s traditional character.
The area known as Yialos, near the port, is full of restaurants and bars stretching from the marina to Yialos beach. Boats depart regularly from Ormos for daily excursions to the island’s beaches and neighboring islands.
8. Treat your taste buds to Greek cuisine
Photo credit: Facebook – Grandma’s Restaurant
Recognized the world over, Greek cuisine is based on sharing, conviviality and hospitality, values typical of the peoples of the Mediterranean basin. On Ios, you’ll discover a generous, colorful cuisine, brimming with vegetables. Vines are also grown on Ios, so you can sample some delicious local wines. You can’t visit Ios without enjoying a tzatziki, moussaka or baklava!
How do I get to Ios?
If you’re going to visit Ios, you should know that the island has no airport. You can choose to fly to Santorini, Naxos, Paros or Mykonos, then take a ferry from there. The island is also linked to Athens. You can find a cheap flight on the website of our partner Ulysses. Once you’re here, you can easily get around by bus, or rent a car or boat to access the various beaches.
Where to stay in Ios?
The best places to stay on Ios are either in Chora, the island’s main town, if you want a central location for partying (be careful, it’s very noisy), or by the beach, for a more romantic setting. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay, Gialos and its port is a good choice. You can find a cheap hotel in Ios by searching on this hotel comparator.
Come and discover the wonders of the island of Ios: idyllic beaches, hidden bays, hiking trails, exceptional panoramas, horse riding, water sports and nightlife… You won’t be disappointed! Still wondering what to do on Ios?
Map of hotels and accommodations – Ios,