Mostly known for its party side, Ios offers way more than this. It is packed with archeological monuments and boast s few trekking trails leading you into its countryside. So if you are not a party-lover do not worry, there is still a hell lot to do on the island.
Upon having arrived at the port in the evening, we began our walk to the top of the hill where our accommodation was to be positioned, according to Google Maps. Well, that didn't work out really well. (Galileo, where are you when we need you?) And it was not the only time Google was completely off on this island. But thanks to kind locals and our exceptional geography skills we managed to escape the maze of infinitely-looped narrow streets.
Vesuvio Chora
Although we were correctly directed to the town of Chora, our rooms were closer to the main asphalt road than to the top-of-the-hill church we were navigated to. Our host Mike (not the same Mike 😉) kindly welcomed us and was available for any questions during our stay.
The room was claustrophobic due to its tininess, but we got used to it. Thanks to a small kitchenett, we were able to prepare our dinners and freshly scrambled eggs for breakfast. Do not expect to get woken up by daylight as there are no windows (well, there are some which provide you fresh air, but no light), so make sure to set up your alarm clock!
Not only Naxos, windmills were used by past civilisations on all Cyclades, thanks to strong constant winds. Now replaced by electricity turbines, the mills have become a visually-appealing tourist attraction.
Standing strong at a hill-top, they offer a delightful view on the Chora village. They are also a starting point to many hiking trails.
Windmills
When it comes to beaches, Ios is no exception. In fact, among 47 beaches, it offers some of the most beautiful places to swim. Some of them can be reached on foot, some require you to take a bus or rent a vehicle, while others can only be approached using a boat.
We visited Mylopotas beach, which is only 20 min of walk away, and Paralia Gialos, located just next to the port. We were unable to reach the Manganari beach, which is said to be the most beautiful.
Paralia Gialos
(Because you will.)
At first glance, all streets look the same. There's hardly any horisontal distance between them, so don't count to rely on any sort of navigation. By the way, less than 10 % of streets are drawn on Google Maps.
Despite all that, it is a unique experience walking them – and remember, if lost, locals are always there to help you.
Beautiful streets of Ios Chora
Slovenia is said to have a church on every hill, but Ios goes further than that. With up to three churches on each hill-top and many of them everywhere in-between, there's a church for every day in a year.
Some of them look very similar on the outside while others stand in unique styles. Some are just next to asphalt roads while others require a strenuous effort to be reached.
Church of Aghia Triada
(You will anyway, if travelling by ferry)
Ports are always an interesting thing to see and Ios is no exception. Many little boats, cosy restaurants, local fishermen fishing and ferries arriving. It is a unique vibe that just needs to be experienced. We would also recommend to walk up to the church at the port to see it from above.
Visit the port
Odysseas theatre at night
Built only in the previous century, it follows the structure of ancient theatres. Thanks to reduced visit frequency by COVID-19, we were able to explore all physical and audible properties.
Stand in the middle of the stage and you will hear the incredible acoustics: without any effort, everyone there will hear you and you will even get natural audible feedback (thanks, sound interference!).
If you are that kind of a person, you need no further explanation. Most bars and clubs open no earlier than midnight and you won't find your way out until early morning.
Seven Eleven was the only restaurant we visited during our stay in Ios. At first we were treated with salted butter and home-baked bread. Then we ordered a Greek tranditional Soutzoukakia and richly topped Anussis pizza. The food was delicious, the owner was nice and so was the atmosphere.
Other days we cooked for ourselves as we had a kitchenette.
Entree
Soutzoukakia & Pizza Anussis
Home-cooked dinner