Dan & Mags

September 10, 2024 • Ios, Greece

Dan & Mags

September 10, 2024 • Ios, Greece

The Island

Ios or Nios, as local people call it, is one of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades.


From intense fun to quiet secluded places you can enjoy breathtaking seabed colours and a landscape of unique natural beauty.


Natural paths, sandy beaches, sea caves, picturesque landscapes, 365 churches, sport activities, hiking, entertainment, history, museums, you name it.


On top of all the natural beauties, Ios has an amazing community that has been welcoming people from all around the world for many years.


Come and explore the island we are lucky enough to call home.


@discover_ios_island

www.visitiosgreece.com

Things to do

Meltemi Boat Tours Watersports & Diving

Picture of Meltemi Boat Tours Watersports & Diving
Mylopotas, Ios 840 01, Greece
697 347 9306

Discover island paradise with scenic boat tours, that highlight the fantastic coastline and the best beaches Ios has to offer.

Entertain yourself with a wide range of water sports and scuba diving activities, that are offered with the latest equipment and professional instructors.

Website

Tomb of Homer

Picture of Tomb of Homer
Chora 840 01, Greece

The Tomb of Homer in Ios, Greece: Homer was among the greatest poets in ancient Greek historian who wrote epics like Odyssey and Iliad. Legend has it that it was on the island of Ios where Homer took his last breath and now he lies buried in his grave at Plakoto, at the northernmost part of the island on a hill. Some say that Homer's mother, Clymene, was from Ios and that is why Homer chose to spend his last days there.

Some say he died succumbing to a sickness that developed after he had a fall, others that Homer was unable to solve a riddle posed to him by the locals and so they had to kill him. Homer supposedly died somewhere between 1100 and 900 B.C. His tomb was supposedly discovered by Pasch Van Krienen who was a government representative during the Russian Naval Brigade.

To get to the grave, you can either take a motorbike or a car from the port or from Chora and make your way up to Pano Kambos, an extremely fertile valley full of vineyards and olive trees and then to Koulida. From there, if you leave the asphalt road and take the path to the left you will be on your way to the Plakoto beach. Just a few meters short of that is the path that will lead you to the ancient ruins of graves that are from the Hellenistic period of which one is supposedly that of Homer's.


Sikinos Island and Winery Tour

Picture of Sikinos Island and Winery Tour
Mylopotas, Ios 840 01, Greece

“Wonderful things happen to one in Greece, wonderful good things which can happen to one nowhere else on earth.” Sikinos retains the charm and beauty associated with a Cycladic island. Join us for a great day out on an island where the locals have embraced tourism in their own way and on their own hospitable terms.

Speed boat transfer in twin engine 10 metre boats

Fully guided day with bus transfers included

Village tour: Picturesque village, Church of Panagia Pantanssa, Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi

Stopping at traditional coffee shop

Visit temple of Episkopi (ancient Greek & Roman temple)

Manali Winery visit, wine tasting with epic views. (Lunch optional)

Departs 9:30am Returns approximately between 6:00pm – 7:00pm, every Tuesday & Saturday


Book in advance with Meltemi Watersports

"Diaseli" Traditional Cheesery & Museum

Picture of "Diaseli" Traditional Cheesery & Museum
Διασέλια Διασταύρωση Ψάθης- Μαγγαναριού Ίος, Κυκλάδες, Ios 840 01, Greece
697 279 8071

Haros family inherited from their grandfather an already rich heritage that dates back more than a century.

"Diaseli" offers the visitor a savouring experience in the middle of the Aegean Sea while travelling in time.

The museum was created by the family but also with the full support and contribution of the entire local community of the island. Priceless antiques narrate the wandering of Ios over the centuries.

Paleokastro - Old Castle

Picture of Paleokastro - Old Castle

Paleokastro is on a hill on the east coast of Ios island with an excellent view to Paros, Naxos, Amorgos and other islands of the Aegean.

The castle was built in 1397 by Marco Crispo, one of the sons of Franzesco Crispo who had usurped the rule of the Duchy of Naxos since 1361. The purpose of the castle was to protect the island from pirates (mostly Turks). It was founded on a previously byzantine castle.


Entrance is for free. You can reach this castle by car/scooter/atv taking the road towards Psathi.

A Journey to Ios

Picture of A Journey to Ios
Chora, Ios 840 01, Greece

Photo gallery museum dedicated to the work of German photographer Christian Diener who managed to capture residents and traveler's faces as well as moments of the local tradition of the 60s and 70s.


"There is no journey without knowing the roots. It provides a foundation of understanding, a sense of identity and purpose, and a roadmap for further exploration and growth.


A historical perspective that helps us comprehend the present and envision the future."

Kolitsani Beach

Picture of Kolitsani Beach
Chora 840 01, Greece

The small beach of Kolitsani is located south of Chora, 1km from the port. The beach itself is rather narrow, yet very impressive for its green crystal clear waters and golden sand. This is a popular anchorage for sailing yachts. It is protected in all sides by rocky hills and green trees and provides idyllic scenery for tourists.

Kolitsani has no tourist facilities, like umbrellas and sundecks. Kolitsani beach is recommended for nudism and more private sunbathing during the low season. Kolitsani is found between Chora and Mylopotas, ideal to avoid the noisy crowds and in close distance to tourist facilities. The beach can be reached on foot down a steep hill.

Sunset

Picture of Sunset

If theres anything Ios has is spectacular sunset views with a garanteed scene that will take your breath away.


Whether it is up the top churches or from the museum, grab some bevs and snacks, sit down and enjoy.

Archeological Site of Skarkos

Picture of Archeological Site of Skarkos
Chora 840 01, Greece
2286 091246

Skarkos is an early Bronze Age settlement found in Ios. It is the most important prehistoric archaeological site of the Cyclades located only a few kilometers from the port of Ios and about one thousand years older than the famous Akrotiri of Santorini. Skarkos provided archaeologists with important information and significant evidence on how societies were organized in Cyclades during this period. It was built in a circular shape and on a high altitude so that its residents could overlook the port and the sea.

The village had a very well-organized street planning with squares and two storey buildings with stone-paved floors, fenced patios and defensive walls. Excavations discovered stamps and engraved symbols which show that people used them to declare their identity, as well as evidence of drainage system and cemetery. Several findings of the excavations are nowadays hosted in the Archaeological Museum of Chora; pottery, kitchen utensils, metal, stone and bone tools are some to name but a few. Furthermore, findings showed that the settlement probably had commercial transactions with neighbouring islands such as Milos and Santorini but also the mainland.

Agia Theodoti

Picture of Agia Theodoti

Following the road to Epano Kambos, on the north east of the island, you are directed to Agia Theodoti, a wonderful beach located 14km from Chora. The beautiful beach with the golden sand and azure waters is known for its calm atmosphere and natural beauty.

This is an ideal swimming destination offering spectacular sunsets. Agia Theodoti can easily combine the cosmopolitan excitement and relaxing moments in total privacy. The endless beach shore is surrounded by a long tuft of trees providing enough shade to visitors. There are many sun beds and umbrellas, a traditional tavern and rooms to rent.

Never Bay

Picture of Never Bay
Ios, Greece

Never Bay is a secluded bay surrounded by giant cliffs off on three sides. Never Bay is not it’s ACTUAL name, However, Never Bay was coined by the boys from @lostboysbar. Hence, people started using the name. This place is quite difficult to find, but NOT impossible.

This bay is suitable for taking photos of the crystal clear turquoise water, cliff jumping, snorkeling (there are so much fish down there!).


A must see, pack a picnic and spend the day in paradise.



Flat Rock

Picture of Flat Rock

A small hike from the southern end of mylopotos beach you will find yourself treking over some pretty raw terrain and come out at Flat Rock. A wonderous natural flat rock where you can laze in the sun and swim in the crystal clear water. Pretty secluded and pretty amazing, you'll feel as though you've taken another adventure from your island escape.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, pack snacks, lots of water and sunscreen.

Tzamaria Beach

Picture of Tzamaria Beach

The small and hidden beach of Tzamaria, can be found in the northwest part, walking distance from the port. It is one of the least known. Wedged between Gialos beach and Koumbara beach but with its own very specific identity. A small inlet right in front of the port so that it will not be difficult for you to see the ferries going back and forth to the Greek Islands, with a small sandy coast mixed with pebbles, clear, transparent and a little cold waters.


Given its position and the rock formations on both sides, it is perhaps one of the very few beaches on the island of Ios that is always sheltered from the wind.

Koumbara Caves

Picture of Koumbara Caves

A short swim off Koumbara beach, you will find the Koumbara Caves. Three caves that form a network, and connected by tunnels, you can swim through.

Food

Lord Byrons

Picture of Lord Byrons

Because size does matter, you won't find any small plates at Byrons. Mediterranean style food in the heart of Chora.


Piece of advice, go for the night specials! They never disappoint.


Whilst you are there, give little Bruce Lee a pat and say hi to our favourite bartender Molly.


Book in advance! Especially if you want to dine on the terrace.

Katogi Tavern

Picture of Katogi Tavern
Chora, Ios 840 01, Greece
698 344 0900

Tapas are always a great idea and even better if they are Greek! Go say hi to Theodora and enjoy one of the best food and cocktail menus on the island.


Highlights: Fresh pasta purses and tortilla cones.


Dan's favourite drink? Cucumber Delight


Must book a table in advance.

Delfini del mar

Picture of Delfini del mar
Mylopotas 840 01, Greece
2286 091016

Brunch? Dinner? Drinks? Delfini has it all!

One of the most epic water front spots on Mylopotas beach.


Go say hey to one of our favourite people, Corey, soak in the sun, the crystal clear Aegean and let the day drift on by from meal to meal and drink to drink.

Kafeneio H Nios

Picture of Kafeneio H Nios
Chora

A must-visit place if you are in Ios. Traditional but also modern, offers breakfast and coffee in the morning and also drinks and cocktails at night, with live greek music.

Thai Me Up

Picture of Thai Me Up
Chora 840 01, Greece
2286 091668

Pad Siew with a view!


One of our favourite spots for brunch and dinner. Really good Thai food made by Thai people. A gem of Asian Cuisine right in front of the port of Ios.

Harmony Ios

Picture of Harmony Ios
Mylopotas Beach, Ios 840 01, Greece
2286 091613

Few places on the island can reach a level of perfection and one of them is definitely Harmony Mexican restaurant. Situated in the northern headland of Mylopotas beach, it is considered one of the best establishments in Ios mainly for its breathtaking view and for its Mexican cuisine.

Harmony is located in a hacienda-style house seemingly carved out of the rock face, sitting on an enviable spot overlooking the bay. The menu is filled with rich flavors, a keen feature of Mexican cuisine and a wide range of Mexican dishes, like tortillas, tamales and many vegetable dishes. Harmony Mexican is rated among the popular restaurants on the island by major travel guides.

The place is ideal for a romantic meal, or for a group out to have fun, and the atmosphere is simply awesome with love couches, snug loungers and all kinds of comfy tables across which you can play out and guzzle down Mexican beer and jugs of sangria, while listening to some chill out music and waves lapping at your feet.

The Nest

Picture of The Nest
Chora

Traditional Greek cuisine run by a local family in the heart of Chora. One of our favourites for its variety of tasty vegan and vegetarian dishes! =]

Agora cafe

Picture of Agora cafe
Chora

Great spot for speciality coffee. Gluten free, raw and vegan options available.


Greek live music at night with authentic Cycladic character location.