Ios, Greece
Boat Trips
Ios, Greece
Boat Trips
All Boat Tours
Best Things To Do
1. Ios town
Ios Town is the beating heart of the island, buzzing with activity and boasting the best nightlife. Explore its enchanting narrow streets, adorned with whitewashed buildings, and discover lively bars and restaurants offering a truly Greek experience.
2. Spend the Day at the Beach
Bask in the sun on Ios’ pristine white sandy beaches with turquoise waters. Mylopotas Beach, just 2km south of the main town, is a favorite, while the east coast offers gems like Paralia Kalamos. Relax, swim, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal beauty.
3. Take a Boat Trip
Embark on a must-do boat trip departing from Ios Town. Whether it’s a lively party boat, a snorkeling adventure, or a serene catamaran cruise, exploring the crystal-clear waters around Ios is an unforgettable experience.
4. Visit Paleokastro
Visit Paleokastro on the East coast to marvel at the ruins of a castle offering unparalleled views. This historical site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and provides a captivating glimpse into the island’s past.
5. Explore Hiking Trails
Discover Ios’ diverse landscapes through hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. Whether trekking to mountainous villages or exploring coastal paths, hiking in Ios offers a unique perspective of the island, with the summit of Pyrgos being a popular and rewarding destination.
6. Homer’s Tomb
Situated in the far north, Homer’s Tomb stands as an iconic site on Psathopyrgos Hill, providing spectacular sea views. Pay homage to the legendary poet while enjoying the serene and scenic surroundings.
7. Coastal Kayaking Tour
Embark on a coastal kayaking tour starting from Ios Town. Explore the island’s rugged beauty from the sea, witness stunning cliffs, and discover hidden coves for a memorable and adventurous experience.
8. Visit Ios' Churches
Similar to Santorini, Ios boasts charming blue-capped churches scattered across the island. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting these iconic landmarks, each with its unique character and charm.
9. Skarkos
Explore the archaeological site of Skarkos, located just north of Ios Town. Marvel at the well-preserved remains of a Bronze Age settlement, characterized by its distinctive circular layout, offering a unique glimpse into ancient island life.
10. Ios' Windmills
Admire the well-preserved windmills on the edge of Chora (Ios Town), adding a touch of charm to Ios’ skyline. These iconic structures provide a picturesque backdrop and a glimpse into the island’s historical heritage.
Best Things To Do
1. Ios town
Ios Town is the beating heart of the island, buzzing with activity and boasting the best nightlife. Explore its enchanting narrow streets, adorned with whitewashed buildings, and discover lively bars and restaurants offering a truly Greek experience.
Navigate the town’s cobbled streets during the day to appreciate its charm, and as night falls, immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife at popular spots like Slammer Bar and Orange Bar.
2. Spend the Day at the Beach
Bask in the sun on Ios’ pristine white sandy beaches with turquoise waters. Mylopotas Beach, just 2km south of the main town, is a favorite, while the east coast offers gems like Paralia Kalamos. Relax, swim, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal beauty.
Bring sunscreen, a beach towel, and plenty of water. Mylopotas Beach has a variety of beachfront cafes and water sports facilities for an active day.
3. Take a Boat Trip
Embark on a must-do boat trip departing from Ios Town. Whether it’s a lively party boat, a snorkeling adventure, or a serene catamaran cruise, exploring the crystal-clear waters around Ios is an unforgettable experience.
Book your boat trip in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure availability on the most popular excursions.
4. Visit Paleokastro
Visit Paleokastro on the East coast to marvel at the ruins of a castle offering unparalleled views. This historical site is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and provides a captivating glimpse into the island’s past.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around Paleokastro may be uneven, and don’t forget your camera for capturing the stunning vistas.
5. Explore Hiking Trails
Discover Ios’ diverse landscapes through hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. Whether trekking to mountainous villages or exploring coastal paths, hiking in Ios offers a unique perspective of the island, with the summit of Pyrgos being a popular and rewarding destination.
Carry a refillable water bottle, wear sturdy footwear, and choose a hike that matches your fitness level.
6. Homer’s Tomb
Situated in the far north, Homer’s Tomb stands as an iconic site on Psathopyrgos Hill, providing spectacular sea views. Pay homage to the legendary poet while enjoying the serene and scenic surroundings.
Visit during sunrise or sunset for a magical atmosphere and captivating colors over the Aegean Sea.
7. Coastal Kayaking Tour
Embark on a coastal kayaking tour starting from Ios Town. Explore the island’s rugged beauty from the sea, witness stunning cliffs, and discover hidden coves for a memorable and adventurous experience.
Choose a guided tour for safety and local insights, and don’t forget to bring a waterproof camera to capture the picturesque landscapes.
8. Visit Ios' Churches
Similar to Santorini, Ios boasts charming blue-capped churches scattered across the island. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting these iconic landmarks, each with its unique character and charm.
Respect any ongoing religious ceremonies, and if you’re interested in photography, early morning or late afternoon provides the best light.
9. Skarkos
Explore the archaeological site of Skarkos, located just north of Ios Town. Marvel at the well-preserved remains of a Bronze Age settlement, characterized by its distinctive circular layout, offering a unique glimpse into ancient island life.
Engage with on-site guides for a richer understanding of the historical significance of Skarkos.
10. Ios' Windmills
Admire the well-preserved windmills on the edge of Chora (Ios Town), adding a touch of charm to Ios’ skyline. These iconic structures provide a picturesque backdrop and a glimpse into the island’s historical heritage.
Visit during the late afternoon to capture the windmills against the warm hues of the setting sun, creating a magical scene.
Top Tips
1.
Ferries in Ios
Ferries, mainly departing from nearby islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, serve as the primary transportation to Ios. They dock at the island’s main port, offering convenient access to the vibrant life of Ios Town.
2.
Diverse Island Delights
Beyond its vibrant nightlife, Ios offers stunning beaches, such as Mylopotas and Manganari, scenic hikes to spots like Homer’s Tomb and breathtaking views from the hilltop windmills.
3.
Where to Stay
Stay in Ios Town for the best nightlife, shopping, and activities. Several beautiful beaches, including Yialos and Koumbara, are within a short distance, providing a perfect balance of entertainment and relaxation.
4.
When to Visit
Visit between May and October to enjoy the best weather and a lively party scene. During the off-season from November to April, many establishments close, and the island experiences a decrease in tourism.
5.
Safety in Ios
Ios boasts a low crime rate, making it one of the safest Greek islands. While petty crimes like pickpocketing are rare, it’s advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
6.
Younger Generation
Popular among younger travelers, Ios attracts tourists for its vibrant nightlife at famous spots like FarOut Beach Club and beautiful beaches ideal for daytime relaxation and water activities.
7.
Plan and Book Early
Due to limited availability, hotel prices in Ios can be high, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance is recommended to secure accommodation at reasonable rates.
8.
Hydration Essential
Tap water in Ios is not potable due to desalination processes. Ensure you stay hydrated by consuming bottled water, readily available in most establishments.
9.
Midday Break
Embrace the siesta culture in Ios, where many shops and attractions close in the afternoon, allowing locals and visitors alike to take a break before resuming activities later in the day.
10.
Take cash
It is recommended to bring some cash to Ios, as many local cafes, smaller establishments, and market stalls may only accept cash transactions.