An island for all ages
Villages with typical Aegean architecture , and also settlements with a long history...
Beaches with fine sand and crystal waters, small and large, crowded but also secluded ones... Places to drink and dance until you drop, but also quiet spots for relaxation and isolation... These are only some of the elements that make Ios a destination that enchants everyone who visits it, each for a different reason...
Reaching the port we see in front of us the small church of Aghia Eirini, white and beautiful, which welcomes us to the reach Chora. Built amphitheatrically, all white, beautiful, romantic, charming in its typical Cycladic architecture. At the entrance we come across the Metropolitan Church, which is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary). Wandering the picturesque cobbled alleys, we gaze at the white houses with various small churches among them, as well as shops of all kinds. Going up the stone steps we reach Panaghia Gremiotissa, from where we have a panoramic view, with the whole village unravelling in front of it. After admiring the amazing view we head towards the area called "Anemomyloi" ("windmills"; 12 in total); many years ago the windmills were a part of the island's productive power, but now they are a tourist attraction.
Going even further up we reach Tsoukalaria, where the island's "diamond" is located, the stone and marble open theatre "Odysseas Elytis" (1,000 seats), built over looking the Aegean Sea, one of our great poet's favourite spots, with amazing view towards the bay of Mylopotas and the Aegean Sea in general. Here every year the Municipality of Ios organizes the "HOMERIA", with concerts and theatre performances.
IT IS ALSO WORTH VISITING
The early-Cycladic settlement in the location of Skaros. It is the largest, so far, and most important settlement of the early-Cycladic world.
Homer's grave. According to tradition, Homer's grave is located at the island's northern part, in the location of Plakotos.
Ios' lighthouse. It was built in the end of the 18th century by French craftsmen and was repaired in 2005 with traditional materials and method.
Palaiokastro. Here are the remains of a byzantine castle built 300 m. above the sea, overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Koumpara. Large beach located in a protected bay, left of the port, which is also an exciting spot for diving.
Treis Klissies. Small, leeward bay with three beautiful beaches.
Police: +30 22860-91222
Municipality of Ios: +30 22863-60400, www.ios.gr
Health Center: +30 22863-60000
Buses: +30 22860-92015
Port Authority: +30 22860-91264
IOS STAR TRAVEL (Blue Star Ferries Tickets): +30 22860-91252
TAXI: +30 22860-91437, +30 22860-91745, +30 22860-91606
Post Office: +30 22860-91235
Alpha Bank: +30 22860-27703
