From beachside bliss to wild nightlife, Ios offers endless opportunities for adventure and excitement. Whether you’re lounging on the sand or dancing under the stars, you’re sure to fall in love with the magic of this enchanting island. It’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking sun, sea, and endless parties. Here’s my guide to visiting Ios!
Know Before You Go
Before embarking on your Ios adventure, here are a few essential details to keep in mind.
Official language: Greek
Currency: Euro. €1 is equal to about $1.50 CAD
Plugs: The standard plugs in Greece are type C and F, with a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
Safety: Greece is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. The violent crime rate is low, and incidents are rare. However, like in many tourist destinations, petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Staying Connected
Staying connected while traveling is essential these days and the cost to use Canadian cell phone plans while abroad is insane. While visiting Greece I used an eSIM, specifically Airalo. They offer a variety of affordable data plans in countless destinations. You can purchase and activate the eSIM directly from your smartphone, so you don’t have to worry about removing your original SIM and keeping it safe throughout your travels.
Airalo eSIM ensures seamless connectivity, and with iPhones even allows you to keep your usual phone number for iMessaging. Simply download the Airalo app, browse available plans, and activate your eSIM to stay connected to the people and things that matter most during your travels.
When to visit
For warm, sunny weather, the best time to visit Greece, including Paros and the rest of the Cyclades, is from May to October. July and August are peak tourist months, with high prices and crowds. To avoid the busiest periods and potentially save money, consider visiting in May, June, September, or October.
Getting There
Ios is only reachable by ferry. Ferries operate from the ports in Athens as well as from other nearby islands such as Santorini, Paros and Naxos. The nearest airport is located on Santorini Island. If you opt to fly, you can catch a flight to Santorini and then transfer to a ferry for the journey to Ios.
Local Transportation
Getting around Ios is super easy thanks to various transportation options. You can rent a car, scooter, or ATV to explore the island independently or use the local buses and taxis to navigate between towns and beaches.
Things to Do
Explore the Town of Chora
Wander through the charming streets of Chora, the main town of Ios. With its whitewashed buildings, narrow alleyways, and picturesque views, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the island’s traditional Greek atmosphere.
Visit Panagia Gremiotissa Church
Climb to the top of Chora to visit Panagia Gremiotissa, one of the most iconic churches on the island. The church is known for its striking blue dome and incredible views over the Aegean Sea. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection, and the surrounding area is dotted with smaller chapels, adding to the charm of the visit.
FarOut Beach Club
Immerse yourself in Ios’s legendary party scene at FarOut Beach Club. Located on Mylopotas Beach, this iconic venue is a hub of activity day and night. Relax on sun loungers during the day, take a dip in the pool, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as DJs spin tunes that keep the energy high. As the sun sets, the club transforms into a nightlife hotspot, where you can dance the night away under the stars.
Best Beaches of Ios Boat Tour
Discover Ios’s stunning coastline with a Best Beaches of Ios boat tour. Visit 7 of the stunning beaches of Ios island: Kolistani, Sapuunochma, Klima, Pikri Nero, Pepa, Triprti, and Manganari, and snorkel at Never Bay where the movie the Big Blue was filmed.
Watch the Sunset Near the Amphitheatre
For one of the most breathtaking views on the island, head to the Odysseas Elytis Theatre, an open-air amphitheatre located just outside Chora. With panoramic views of the town and the Aegean Sea, it’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable moments and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Experience the Chora Nightlife
Ios is famous for its nightlife, and Chora is the heart of it all. From vibrant bars to lively clubs, the town comes alive after dark. Don’t miss the chance to dance the night away.
Where to stay
Skala hotel
Perched at the top of the hill, Skala Hotel offers a serene retreat just outside of Chora. With its pool and bar with stunning views of Chora, it’s a great spot to unwind during the day. The rooms are comfortable, many with balconies offering stunning views of the sea, town, or the surrounding hills. However, be prepared for the steep walk back after a night out in the clubs.
Francesco’s
Francesco’s is a favourite among travellers, especially those looking to stay right in the heart of the action. Located in the main town of Chora, it’s a lively place known for its social atmosphere. The hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories, making it a flexible choice for different budgets. With a rooftop bar offering incredible views of the town and the sea, it’s the perfect place to meet fellow travellers before heading out to explore the nightlife.
Far Out Beach Club & Camping
For those who want to be in the centre of the party, Far Out Beach Club is the place to be. Located right on Mylopotas Beach, this spot offers a range of accommodations, from basic tents and dorms to more comfortable bungalows. With its famous beach parties, pools, and lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for those looking to fully embrace the island’s nightlife.
Where to Eat
The Mills – For delicious meals with a stunning view of Chora, head to The Mills. This charming spot offers a variety of traditional Greek dishes that are perfect for refuelling after a day of exploring.
Yummy – When the night’s festivities wind down, Yummy is the go-to spot for a late-night (or early morning) gyros. It’s the perfect end to a wild night of partying. They also offer delivery which can be super handy if you stay outside of town.
Where to Drink
With no shortage of lively bars and unforgettable parties, Ios is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Here are some of the best spots to check out:
Fun Pub – Kick off your night at Fun Pub, one of the few places open before midnight. Enjoy karaoke sessions, a pool table, and a lively atmosphere to start your evening.
Escobar – escape to paradise at Escobar, known for their inventive cocktail buckets and impressive range of over 100 signature shots. Don’t miss the Harry Potter shot for a magical touch!
Shush Silent Disco – where you’ll dance with wireless headphones tuned to different music channels. It’s a fun and unique experience with great views from the outdoor terrace.
Delta Ball Pit Bar – Dive into fun at Delta Ball Pit Bar, where you can enjoy your favourite drink while playing in a giant ball pit. It’s a fun, playful spot with a dance floor and upbeat music.
Barmacy – for a taste of Ios’ techno scene, head to Barmacy. As the island’s only techno bar, it’s the go-to place for fans of electronic music.
Disco 69 – a retro-themed nightclub with neon lights and a mix of disco, house, and techno music. It’s a must-visit for a night of dancing and partying.
Traffic – another top spot on the Ios nightlife scene. This bar is known for its stylish interior, great music, and vibrant atmosphere. They often host guest DJs and themed nights, so there’s always something exciting happening.
Sweet Irish Dream – for the ultimate after-hours experience, check out Sweet Irish Dream. Opening at 3:00 AM, it’s the island’s top spot to keep the party going into the early morning.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, partying until sunrise, or simply soaking up the island’s charm, Ios offers an array of experiences to make your trip unforgettable. Enjoy every moment on this magical island!
