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The Ultimate Ios Travel Guide

The Destination

Over the years Ios has gained a reputation as a non-stop partying destination for hedonistic youths. A little crowded, a little loud, a little unpolished, it is not difficult to understand why the island has been misunderstood as such. First impressions can be gravely mistaken though, and this is definitely the case when it comes to this island. Behind its somewhat touristy gloss, Ios has something that very few places can offer: a comforting simplicity reminiscent of life in the eighties and 75km of pristine sandy beaches.

The island’s landscape is typical Cycladic, with charming clusters of stark-white houses comfortably sitting on hilltops and along the coastline. Ios boasts spectacular beaches and the inland hiking paths afford stunning vistas of the coastline and neighbouring isles. From the buzzing town, with its endless variety of bars and restaurants, to the quiet villages of the east and the isolated inland settlements, there is something in Ios for every taste and style.

Highlights

PALAIOKASTRO

Palaiokastro is the ruins of an old Byzantine – and on later years Enetic – fortress that is perched on a rock about 300m above sea level. Take the path from Chora that leads to the fortress to enjoy the inspiring views. There, you will also find the church of Panagia Palaiokastritissa.

SKARKOS

An early to late-bronze age settlement just outside chora, where you can see the restored terraces and ruins of prehistoric Cycladic buildings. Make sure to check opening hours before you go because the archaeological area is not always open to public.

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In Details

BEST BEACHES IN IOS

Mylopotas

The island’s most famous beach, a long sandy stretch lined-up with bars and sunbeds. You will also find an array of watersports, including windsurfing.

 

Manganari

A dreamy nudist-friendly bay with fine sand, crystal clear waters and a relaxing ambience, situated at the south of the island.

 

Agia Theodoti

A wide sandy beach with brilliant blue waters, backed by rolling hills. The beach took its name from the little chapel that overlooks the bay.

 

Koumbara

A popular sandy beach with crystal clear waters, close to Chora. The beach is flanked with tavernas and hotels.

 

Kalamos

A stunning, isolated beach at the south-east part of the island, with fine golden sand and bright turquoise waters.

 

Papas

A charming, isolated cove right next to Kalamos, with fine golden sand and turquoise waters. The beach is nudist-friendly.

 

Psathi

A developed seaside area with a gorgeous fine-sand beach that is ideal for families with children who want the facilities but not the noise.

 

Gialos

A popular, family-friendly beach with fine golden sand and inviting clear waters. The beach is well organised with sunbeds, a beach bar and watersports.

 

Tris Klissies

A sandy stretch with dazzling waters on the way to Manganari, that remains tranquil even during peak season.

 

Diamoudia

A secluded cove backed by rolling hills, with fine sand, a few large pebbles and dazzling waters, situated about 7km from Chora.

 

Plakes

A beautiful, quiet beach at the secluded eastern part of Ios, with fine golden sand and azure waters. It is isolated, so remember to pack food and drinks.

 

Vathirema

Perhaps the most secluded among the beaches of Ios, a beautiful nudist beach with fine sand and bright turquoise waters.

 

Location

HOW TO GET TO IOS

There is no airport in Ios, so you will either have to take a ferry (7hrs) or a speedboat (3,30hrs) from Piraeus or a catamaran from Rafina (4hrs). Alternatively, you can fly to Santorini, Naxos or Paros and then take a connecting ferry from there.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Ios is a fully developed island featuring some upscale accommodation options and numerous luxury private villas. Enjoy your holiday here in utter comfort and privacy in the tranquil setting of your own villa with private pool that will embrace your holiday experience and elevate it to supreme levels of comfort and fun. Consult our elite guide featuring some of the top luxury villas in Ios or contact The Greek Villas expert team to help you select the private villa that fits your style and needs.

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