Discover Ios Town in Greece
Chora Ios Greece Nightlife & Beaches - Ios Town Cyclades
Travel to Ios Town Greece, the most fascinating capital in the Cyclades!
Ios, the island where the tomb of the epic poet Homer lies, is one of the liveliest Cycladic destinations boasting probably as much young crowds as no other island in Greece. Its capital, Ios Town or else Chora is one of the most scenic Cycladic capitals, bringing together all the wonderful features of the Greek islands.
Lying in the western part of the island, Chora is a twenty-minute walk up from the port and as it is amphitheatrically built on the hill it provides magnificent views over the glistening Aegean Sea. The arcaded winding cobbled streets, the numerous stark white chapels, as well as the beautiful cubic-style houses compose a truly lovely setting reflecting the charm of simplicity.
Ios Beaches
Ios has always been renowned for its beautiful beaches which welcome the keen swimmer or not-so-keen swimmer most months of the year.
On Ios Island, there are more than 30 organized as well as secluded beaches, consisting of either sand or pebbles. All of Ios Beaches boast stunning blue and crystal-clear water.
Mylopotas Beach, Ios
The most famous of the Ios Beaches is Mylopotas, This beach is also considered one of the most famous in the Cyclades. It is 3 kilometers from Chora and is located on the West Coast of the island. The fact that the sandy beach of Mylopotas is located in a huge bay ensures that you can have a peaceful swim even on the windiest of days. It is fully organized with sun chairs, umbrellas, bars as well as water sports. The beach is 2 kilometers in length.
Manganari Beach, Ios
Manganari Beach is truly heaven on earth and is one of the most impressive of the Ios Beaches. It is located approximately 20 kilometers from Chora and is renowned for its deep blue water and golden sand. The beach spans two bays protecting sunbathers and swimmers from the wind, providing these visitors the opportunity to enjoy the sea to the fullest.
Other Ios Beaches
Gialos Beach is a relatively big beach located near the Ios Port. It boasts white sand & Tamarisk trees making it an ideal beach for families.
Agia Theodotii Beach consists of beautiful sand and is located northeast of Ios.
Kolitsani Beach is located south of Chora. The beach boasts intense blue water, golden sand and unspoilt vegetation. It can be accessed by a pathway as it is not an organized beach.
Diamoudia Beach is 7 kilometers from Chora, is quite secluded and has a rocky sea bottom, making it ideal for scuba diving. This beach may not be an organized beach but it has beautiful pebbles and crystal-clear water.
Attractions in Chora, Ios Greece
There are quite a few attractions in Chora concentrating the essence of the Greek history and culture. In the eastern part of Chora you will see the 12 windmills, a feature of many Cycladic islands, and one of the quaintest landmarks in Ios Greece.
Behind the windmills is the theatre “Odysseas Elytis”, an ancient-style open-air theatre made of marble and stone, hosting glorious events, concerts and plays throughout summer. At Chora you will also find an archaeological museum, roofed under the town hall, where you will admire findings from different eras.
Nightlife in Chora, Ios Greece
The nightlife scene in Ios Town is definitely one of the most stimulating in the Aegean. From the early evening, when the night is still young, the crowds swarm to the village’s restaurants and tavernas for dinner, and then head to bars and pubs, while there are night clubs, too, for those who want to dance the night away.There is always something for everyone in Ios Greece, so after walk in the streets of Chora you will have spotted the place that suits you best.
Travelling to Ios Greece
You can travel to Ios Greece by ferry from the port of Piraeus (about 7 hours trip) or from Rafina Port by hydrofoil (5 to 6 ½ hours). Although there is no airport in Ios, you may alternatively travel straight to Santorini or Naxos by plane and from there take the ferry to Ios.
Useful Phone Numbers
- Ios Port Authority: +30 22860 91264
- Piraeus Port Authority: +30 210 414-7800
- Ferry Departures from Piraeus: Tel. +30 14541
- Rafina Port Authority: +30 22940 28840
- Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”: Tel. +30 210 353-0000