Ios Greece | tourist holiday travel guide to Greek island Ios


	Ios Greece \| tourist holiday travel guide to Ios

Ios sits in the southern part of the central Cyclades group just south of the islands of Naxos and Paros. Ios was once the party capital of the Mediterranean, but has recently lost out to other more aggressive resorts such as Faliraki on Rhodes and Ayia Napa on Cyprus. The capital is still a hedonist outpost. Sun, sex and sin await the youngsters who have been sailing in for decades for the annual beach bar binge.
Ios was once neck and neck with Faliraki in Rhodes as party vomit capital of the Greek islands. It is considerably tamer now and the island fathers have done much to restore its reputation. So brassed off were the locals with loutish behaviour they imposed a 3 am weekday shutdown on clubs. And beyond the lager lout capital there lies a classic Greek island with some wonderful beaches and timeless villages. If you are not the party type then avoid the capital and head north or west for peace and tranquility on some of the best beaches you will ever see.

Overview

Hidden from the party pandemonium of the capital is a classic small Greek island with impressive mountains, neat hillside villages even more impressive beaches (more than 30 of them).
From June to September, ferries disgorge cargoes of carefree youngsters with no interest in the island, its people or its culture. They are just here for a bloody good time. To meet the demand the main town of Chora transforms every evening into a mad mayhem of disco and drinking.
If you are young, like wearing lewdly printed T-shirts and enjoy sweltering with hordes of other young, semi-naked drunks, this is the island to head for.
Aggressive, in-your-face bars shower cheap booze to the deadheaded drone of dumbed down disco. Drugs are rife, overzealous drinkers can pass out in the middle of the street and crime is a problem.
It's great fun if you are a teenager but the sober visitors will prefer the upmarket resorts, well insulated from the noisy partygoers - though they tend to be swanky and priced accordingly.
The best to avoid the teenage hordes is to arrive on the fringes of the season, before the boys and girls hit town or well after they have gone.

Cyclades map

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Chora

Buses to Yialos and Mylopotas
Plays held at Odysseus Elytis

READERS RECOMMEND

Best eating

Lord Byron, Vesuvio

Best clubbing

Aftershock, Planet Ios

Best drinking

Astra, Barmacy, Mojo

CHORA is the only town on Ios. By day it is a dormant village of white cube houses stacked up the hillside, dotted with the blue domes of churches and capped by a dozen decaying windmills. By night, and especially after midnight, it transmutes into a frenzy of drinking, partying and vomiting as competing discos and bars out-decibel each other with techno-pop, heavy metal, punk, rock and even jazz.
The town centre is now little more than a rash of bars and clubs wrapped around the main square. The bars are very small but together they must total more than 100. Most offer cheap booze while some offer a free condom with every cocktail. If the booze is cheap, so is the quality. The local drinks known as 'bombas' are reputedly spiked with home-made alcohol. For headbangers you first don a helmet, take a shot then the barman hits you on the head with a hammer - so stylish. But quantity is the only requirement in this town and all-night drinking was the norm until the locals could stand no more and forced bars to close at 3 am, on weekdays at least. The early morning closure usually prompts a stampede to out-of-town dance clubs on the cliffs.
Predictably, food is unlikely to be at the top of your list if all you want to do is party - you just need something to soak up the alcohol - and taverna menus are seriously unimpressive. The best you can do is queue for a greasy gyros or burger.
For those out and about in the daytime there is the main church of Panagia Gremiotissa with its beautiful icons, easily recognised by the palm tree outside. The windmills are a reminder of former days though now only tarted up for tourists and the ruins of a medieval castle sits on the hilltop with an archaeology museum and art galleries on the ground floor

Chora

Yialos

Boat excursions to various beaches
Buses to Chora, Mylotpotas and Koumbara

READERS RECOMMEND

Best eating

Mills

Below the Chora is the port area of ORMOS, YIALOS or GIALOS, one of the biggest natural harbours in the Aegean. The main plaza is packed with shops and travel agents while the promenade is thick with tavernas and cafes as well as gift shops. There is a small fishing boat quay at the end of the marina where the men still mend their nets on the quayside. To the south is the 17th century chapel of Agia Irini with a double set of altars.
The long sandy beach of Yialos is to the right of the port and there are yet more restaurants, bars and cafes. The beach is a good alternative to the more crowded Mylotpotas where most of the youngsters hang out.
Various walking trails start at Yialos. Paths from here lead here to remote sandy beaches at Kolitsani, the hill village of Kambos and beyond that, at Skarkos, are various ruins of archaeological interest. An old stone flagged path leads up to Chora past the domed church of Agios Giorgios hacked into the cliff. The path may be steep but there is pleasant shade from overhanging eucalyptus and drinking fountains along the way.

Yialos

Koumbara

Boat hire
Buses to Yialos

On the headland south of Yialos is KOUMBARA or KOUBARA, an area of small coves and sandy beaches. The main beach is long (about 300m) and sandy with beach tavernas and room nearby. But its main attraction are the clutch of small and delightful sandy coves to be explored on foot around the headland. The odd outcrop of rock also makes this an ideal place for snorkelling and the many secluded coves make it a favourite with naturists. It is walkable from Yialos (about 30mins) but there is a regular bus on the hour that takes about 5mins.

Koumbara


		Plakato
		You must head north out of Yialos for the next beach of note, there is nothing worth the trip on the west coast. At the northern tip of the island is the beach of PLAKATO which sits beneath PANO KAMBOS and the reputed site of Homer's Tomb. The asphalt runs out after the village of Vouni and a dirt track branches left to Plakato and right to ancient ruins where tradition has it that the poet was buried. One tale has it that Homer's mother, Clymene was from Ios, another that he was killed after failing to answer a local riddle. Anyway, the original graveyard has long since slipped down the earthquake-prone cliff and what remains is said to be Byzantine anyway so a trip here requires good footwear and a good imagination. Nevertheless the islanders are very proud of the connection and on May 15 each year they hold a festival -Homeria - when and a flame is carried from the port to his tomb.	Homer's tomb

Agia Theoditi

Buses

The huge sandy beach at AGHIA THEODOTI is set in a sheltered bay facing east for those early enough to catch a breathtaking sunrise over the islet of Ikaklia in the bay. Local tavernas serve basic but delicious food and there are many rooms to let in the area. A favoured haunt of wealthy Athenians this has helped push up local prices so don't expect a cheap meal.
Sand shelves gently into the sea which is usually limpidly calm. Nearby is the 16th century church of Ag. Theodoti, the oldest on the island, that gives the bay its name. A celebration is held here on September 8 each year to mark a famous victory over marauding pirates.
The resort is also overlooked by the ruins of the 15th century Venetian fortress of PALIOKASTRO. It was built in 1400 by the Venetian Duke Marco Crispi and the remains of the old Venetian town can still be seen inside.

Agia Theoditi


		Psathi
		A new road has opened up the course sand beach at PSATHI which was once the domain of egg-laying loggerhead turtles but now seems the main destination of mating windsurfers. The resort is reached through a lovely green and fertile valley of olive and citrus groves (in spring at least, the landscape is far less attractive in the summer). Flat wide sands are backed by tavernas and apartments. Doubtless a beautiful spot, but the sand is quite coarse underfoot and the beach is north facing so it can collect a fair amount of rubbish in the prevailing winds and it can shelve pretty steeply into the sea in places. On windy days the sea swells can attract scores of windsurfers to the bay. To get there follow the signs from Ag. Theodoti.	Psathi


		Kalamos
		A long sand and pebble beach at KALAMOS on the eastern coast is said to offer a good alternative to those who tire of the increasingly popular Manganari to the south. The area around the long and beautiful beach is a nature reserve and, being relatively remote and off the tour bus route, a peaceful haven that you are likely to enjoy with few other visitors. There are enough visitors to support a beach cantina that supplies sun beds and umbrellas. Waters are clear and with outlying rocks to give good snorkelling. If you prefer even fewer crowds there are even more remote beaches both north and south within easy walking distance. North lies a small cove at PLAKES and to the south, just over the headland, is the hidden cove of PAPA and further south still TRIS ELIKES, a trio of beautiful secluded beaches, accessible only on foot.	Kalamos Tris Elikes


	Manganari
Excursion buses daily	One of the most romantic areas of Ios, MANGANARI sits on the south east coast about 23 km from Yialos. It is actually four beautiful white sand beaches necklaced along a coast of crystal clear water. There are beach tavernas, bars, cafes and water sports though to spoil the peace as it is now a very popular day out for trippers with regular bus excursions. Then again it is still big enough to find peace and quiet if you are prepared to do a spot of walking. The secluded bays make the place attractive for naturists. Tavernas were noted for their fresh fish menus but are now turning to more profitable burgers for the visiting hordes of youngsters. Too get there by car drive through Mylotpotas and take the hill road turning right before Kalamos monastery. Bus excursions can be booked in all travel agencies and buses leave from Yialos, Chora and Mylopotas returning in the afternoon or you can catch a water taxi from Yialos, quick but expensive.	Manganari

Mylopotas

Frequent buses to Chora and Yialos

MILOPOTAS or MYLOPOTAS is the main beach for Chora has a 1km crescent of wide, golden sand that is said to rival any in the Mediterranean - if you can find somewhere to enjoy it. In season it heaves with tan-oiled bodies during the day while its all-night beach parties are infamous. Non-stop beach music is broadcast load and clear all day for the benefit of young revelers warming up for a frantic night's drinking. A cluster of upmarket hotels has sprouted up at the head of the beach and there are two campsites for backpackers. The bay is awash with cafes, bars and restaurants which are open day and night, there are watersports galore and all the usual sun beds and parasols.
A beach campsite is a resort in itself with a 24-hour bar, two swimming pools, restaurant and head-throbbing loudspeakers.
But at least the beach is long enough to escape the worst of the racket. Farm tracks take you to the quieter southern end where naturism is in favour.
Buses leave Chora every 15mins or so but it is only a 20mins walk so by the time you have waited for the next bus you can be there.

Mylopotas



		IOS MAP

Ios is one of the southern Cycladic islands in the central Aegean Sea with nearest northerly neighbours Paros and Naxos, Amorgos. The highest point is Mt Pirgos at 713 m. It has an area of 108 sq km, about 17 km long and 7.5 km wide.



		IOS WEATHER

The warmest months are July and August, with an average daytime temperatures of 28C though the prevailing north east wind brings some fresh air. In spring Ios is much greener than the parched summer period.

JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
8	9	15	17	19	26	28	28	23	18	9	9	Avg temp °C
0	0	2	6	24	30	31	31	30	26	5	0	70°+ days
5	6	7	7	9	10	12	12	9	6	4	3	Sun hours

Ios weather forecast

JAN	FEB	MAR	APR	MAY	JUN	JUL	AUG	SEP	OCT	NOV	DEC
6.3	5.3	3.9	2.5	1.7	0.6	0.3	0.7	3.6	5.7	7.7	7.9	Avg rain (cm)



		IOS FACTS

Size: 18km(11m) by 10km(6m.
Population: 1,100.
Season: May(19C)-Oct(18C)
Getting there: Ferries from Athens (Piraeus) and from Paros, Naxos, Santorini and Crete.
Getting about: Taxis, car and bike hire. There are daily buses to the main beaches.
Water: Not drinkable - use bottled only. There are a few drinking water wells and these are signposted.
Island hopping: Good. Several ferries daily to Cyclades islands.
Special interest: The post office is at Chora. Monday to Friday 07.30 to 14.00.
Archaeological Museum of Ios is housed in a yellow neoclassical building with displays of ceramics, Romans artifacts, prehistoric tools and Cycladic figurines. Opens 0800 to 1400 Tuesday to Sunday and the admission is free. (tel: 22860) 91246

Telephone +30 22860
Police Station: 91222
Medical Centre: 91227
Port: 91264
Post Office: 91235
Pharmacy 91562
Rooms (Chora - Mylopotas): 91591
Rooms (Gialos - Kambos): 0 91219

Cash machines in Chora (3), Yialos (2)


		The beautiful Greek Islands are renowned for their spectacular scenery, magnificent mountainous backdrops, stunning sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. Holidays to the Greek Islands are often most cherished for this combination of sunshine, warm waters and beaches set against truly wonderful scenery. Whether it is a traditional beach holiday you would like or something with a little more history, you'll find that a break away to the Greek Islands is just the answer!


		Sailing
		There are frequent ferry links to mainland Piraeus (7.5hrs) and regular sailings to Syros, Paros, Naxos, Sikinos, Folegandros, Santorini, Anafi and Milos, Sifnos, Kimolos, Mykonos and Crete. A tourist office (tel: 91028) at the end of the pier opens about 30mins before boat sailings for tickets.


		Driving
		There are buses every 15mins between the port at Yialos and the beach at Mylopotas via Hora. Buses run hourly from the port to Koumbara. Bus driver will drop you outside your hotel if you ask . Excursion buses run daily from Yialos, Chora and Mylopotas to Ag Theodoti and Manganari, returning in the evening. Motor bikes and cars are for hire in the main resort. There are a few taxis running from Yialos to Chora and Mylopotas. Taxis to the beaches can be arranged if you haggle the price - you will need to get back though. Distances from Yialos: Koumbara: 1.5, Chora: 2, Mylopotas: 5, Manganari: 23, Ag. Theodoti: 12, Paleokastro: 18, Psathi: 20, Kalamos: 16, Plakotos: 13.

		Flying
		There is no airport on Ios. Charter flights go to Mykonos or Santorini then you catch a ferry. An alternative route an Olympic flight from Athens to Naxos and then a ferry.



		IOS PHOTO GALLERIES
		Going to Ios this year? If you would like your photo gallery here then email details. It takes 10 photos to make a gallery and they can be of the whole island or of a particular resort. . For examples see photo galleries for Alonissos, Skiathos and Corfu



		IOS SITES

		A personal pick of websites on Ios
		Ios Greece : A complete guide to Ios Island Greece with many hotels and other accommodation located in all the beautiful areas. - If you want your site considered email me

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Ios Greece | tourist holiday travel guide to Ios

IOS MAP

IOS WEATHER

IOS FACTS

IOS PHOTO GALLERIES

IOS SITES

A tourist holiday travel guide to the Greek island of Ios