Welcome to the enchanting island of Chios, a hidden gem in the Aegean Sea that is sure to captivate your senses and leave you wanting more. This island boasts a rich history, unique culture, delicious gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes that are waiting to be explored.

Apart from its several medieval villages, a landmark of the island that leaves both Greeks and foreigners astonished, with their narrow streets, arches, traditional architecture adorned with intricate geometric patterns and designs, and the signature mastic tradition that offers countless activities to visitors, you will definitely notice the sweet scent of citrus in the air, especially in specific parts of the island. Chios is known for its citrus production, particularly in the Kambos region, where you can taste freshly squeezed orange juice and indulge in traditional dishes made with locally grown produce.

But when the matter comes to holidaying, beaches are a top priority as well and, yes, Chios is a paradise for beach lovers. The island is home to countless beaches with unique morphology, each offering something different. Visit the black pebbles of Mavra Volia, the crystal-clear waters of Elinda beach, or the family-friendly atmosphere of Karfas beach, and soak up the sun and sea.

And since the best way to get around the island is by renting a car or scooter, you will have the chance to create several routes an explore a multitude of traditional villages, coastal settlements, sunkissed shores at your own pace and time. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems that are waiting to be uncovered.

Last but not least, Chios is also a foodie’s heaven, offering a rich culinary experience that is deeply rooted in tradition. The island is renowned for its citrus fruits, mastic gum, and locally grown produce, which are incorporated into many dishes. Locals love to combine the citrus and mastic produce into scrumptious, fully nutritional delicacies, such as marmalades, sweets, liquers, and juices to name a few. Try the famous “Chios Mastelo,” a succulent dish made with lamb that is slowly cooked in a clay pot, or indulge in fresh fish and seafood, such as octopus and squid, which are caught daily in the Aegean Sea. Don’t forget to taste the island’s famous desserts, such as “diples” and “mandolato,” which are made with honey, almonds, and mastic, and will leave you wanting more.

BEST BEACHES ON CHIOS

Ahatta

A stunning cove nestled within dramatic verdant slopes with white pebbles and azure waters that is partially organized.

Mavra Volia

By far the most famous and exquisite coast with unique black pebbles and dramatic rock formations, unorganized but great for snorkelling.

Elinda

Gorgeous turquoise waters and picturesque scenery, unorganized and perfect for a peaceful day surrounded by pristine nature.

Karfas

Family-friendly sandy beach with shallow waters, well-organized with plenty of amenities and water sports very close to Chios town.

Agia Dynami

A narrow coast surrounded by cliffs and pristine nature, this is a non-organized beach with turquoise waters, sand and a few pebbles.

Lithi

Tranquil sandy beach with traditional tavernas and calm waters, organized with facilities, great for families and easily accessible by car.

Daskalopetra

Pebble beach with crystal clear waters and fascinating gorge in the backdrop, unorganized and believed to be the place where Homer used to teach.

Agia Fotia

Also known as Agia Fotini, it is a pebbled coast in the homonymous settlement with beach facilities, cafes and taverns, perfect for families.

Megas Limnionas

Coarse sand and pebbles in a popular resort with clean waters and many facilities that has recently been developed attracting dozens of visitors.

Apothika

One of the most untouched beaches with a secluded sand and pebble coast, unorganized and perfect for nature lovers and sea sports fans.

Komi

Long sandy beach with crystal clear waters and plenty of facilities, well-organized and perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts.

Giosonas

Ideal for relaxation and reconnecting with nature, this is the largest eastern coast of Chios, with pebbles and a serene ambience.

Vroulidia

Located at the southernmost part, this is small, serene cove with blue-green waters, completely unorganized with a pebbled coast.

Trachili

A graphic, secluded coast reachable by car – better an off-road one – with blue waters, serene ambience and non-organized for utter relaxation.

Agia Markella

Pebbled and sandy beach with clear, quite deep and cold waters, a long and wide stretch of coast and a serene ambience.

Limnos

One of the most charming sandy coasts of Chios, with, deep waters and partially organized, and nearby fish taverns for a full day at the beach.

Lefkathia

Another favourite long and wide sandy coast with shallow waters and untouched nature around that is also preferred by watersports lovers.

Managros

The longest beach on the island with a stunning 2.5km stretch of coarse sand and pebbles, unorganized and a stunning setting.