Things To Do
Rent an ATV or Car to Explore
One of the best ways to see the island is by renting an ATV (quad), scooter, or car. Many rental shops are located near the port, and having your own wheels makes it easy to explore beaches, viewpoints, and villages around the island.
Mylopotas Beach & Beach Clubs
Mylopotas Beach is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches on Ios. It’s picture-perfect with soft sand and crystal-clear blue water. Along the beach you’ll find many stylish restaurants and beach clubs with sunbeds, umbrellas, and great food and drinks. If you’re looking for a gorgeous beach day with a relaxed but chic atmosphere, this is the spot. Many beaches around the island also offer chair and umbrella rentals, making it easy to spend the day by the sea.
Walk Through Chora (the Main Town)
The island’s main village, Chora, is truly magical. It winds up a hill with narrow streets, whitewashed buildings, and beautiful views. One of the best times to visit is early in the morning, before the town wakes up. The soft morning light and quiet streets make it feel like you have the entire village to yourself. During the day it’s an idyllic Greek village full of charm, while at night it becomes lively with restaurants, bars, and nightlife if you’re looking for it.
Boat Tours & Island Adventures
There are also many boat tours and off-island adventures available from Ios. These range from half-day and full-day excursions that explore hidden beaches, swim spots, and nearby islands. It’s a wonderful way to see more of the Cyclades from the water. A great place to browse and book options is GetYourGuide, which offers a variety of experiences departing from Ios. There is also some land and sea tours offered by a local business, Acteon here: https://acteon.gr/iosboattours.php
Church of Panagia Gremniotissa
Sitting above Chora on a hill is the iconic Church of Panagia Gremiotissa, dedicated to the protector of the island. The name means Virgin Mary of the Steep Cliff. With its blue dome, white walls, and tall bell tower, it’s one of the most photographed spots on Ios. Built in 1797, it’s visible from throughout the village and offers incredible views.
Sunset at the Three Churches Walk
Above Panagia Gremiotissa you’ll find several small chapels including the Chapel of Agios Nikolaos, Agios Georgios, and the Chapel of Agios Eleftherios. These are all close together and make a beautiful short walk. While they’re peaceful in the morning, they are especially known for their incredible sunset views over the island and sea.
Tomb of Homer
Located about 12 km from Chora on Psathopyrgos Hill, the Tomb of Homer is believed to be the resting place of the famous ancient Greek poet. It’s a fascinating historic site and offers sweeping views across the island and surrounding sea.
Diaseli Traditional Cheesery & Museum
Located in the center of Ios, the Diaseli Traditional Cheesery & Museum has been run by the same family since 1922. Visitors can tour the original cheesery, learn about traditional cheese-making on the island, and taste locally made products. There’s also a small shop where you can purchase cheeses and other specialties.
Odyseas Elytis Amphitheater
The Odysseas Elytis Theatre is a beautiful marble open-air theatre that overlooks the sea. Named after the famous Greek poet, the theatre can hold around 1,100 people and hosts concerts and cultural events throughout the summer.
Archeological Site of Skarkos
Just a few kilometers from the port is Skarkos, the most important prehistoric archaeological site in the Cyclades. This Bronze Age settlement is over 1,000 years older than the famous Akrotiri site in Santorini and provides fascinating insight into early Cycladic life. The site has two accessible entrances and is well worth a visit.
Explore More Beaches
Ios has many beautiful beaches beyond Mylopotas. With an ATV, scooter, or car, you can easily explore quieter and less visited beaches around the island. Part of the fun of Ios is discovering your own favorite hidden swimming spot along the coast. Some of the other great beaches are: Manganari Beach, Agia Theodoti, Psathi Beach, Koumpara Beach, Kolitsani Beach.
Far Out Beach Club
If you want to party during the day there is a rave everyday at FarOut Beach club. Be sure to check their schedule as some days require tickets depending on the DJ! (We would advise against staying at their hotel, but can be fun for a darty).
Pathos Club & Restaurant
Great spot to catch the Sunset & Drinks!
Nightclubs
The Chora is known for partying that doesn't start until 1 am in some bars and ends at sunrise. Recs below but just walk around, you'll have fun! - Pash Nightclub - Traffic Bar - Johnny's Electric Rock Bar - Escobar - Circus - Disco 69 - Slammer
Resturants
Our favorites! but there are SO many great places to eat! By Mylopotas: - Drakos Tavern - Harmony - Bamboo - Salt - Almyra by the Sea Chora: - Katogi - Sainis Taverna By the Port: - Allo - Ithaka Restaurant Further Away: - Vilaeti Taverna