Things To Do
in Chíos
Chios is a lush Aegean island known for its historic mastich production and a coastline lined with olive trees and empty beaches. Its east coast hosts Pyrgi, famed for its distinctive black-and-white walls and atmospheric medieval quarters in the capital, while the south hides ancient mastichochoria and dramatic limestone scenery. The island blends monasteries, stone towers, and market stalls with a welcoming, laid-back pace that invites long lunches and slow strolls along the harbor.
Visitors discover a cuisine rooted in sea, herb, and resin, with generous hospitality and plenty of scenic views around every bend.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in Chios Town, indulging in traditional Greek pastries. Afterward, wander through the charming streets, admiring the old stone houses and the majestic architecture of the Chios medieval fortress. A quick visit to the Archaeological Museum will enrich your understanding of the island's history.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a taverna overlooking the harbor, where you can taste fresh seafood and local specialties. Post-lunch, head to the nearby Nea Moni, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to marvel at its stunning Byzantine mosaics and experience its serene atmosphere. Take a scenic drive through the countryside to explore the traditional villages scattered across the island.
As the sun sets, return to Chios Town for a stroll along the waterfront promenade. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Chios such as mastiha-infused dishes. Wind down your day with a glass of ouzo, while listening to the sounds of the sea.
Begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation, then set off towards the southern part of the island to explore the mastic villages. Visit Pyrgi, also known for its unique geometric house decorations and narrow alleyways. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the mastic cultivation process at the local museum.
Head to the village of Mesta, where you can enjoy lunch at a traditional eatery. Explore the medieval streets and perhaps pick up some locally made mastic products. Afterward, visit the village of Armolia, known for its pottery, where you can observe artisans at work.
Return to Pyrgi to experience a delightful, home-cooked dinner with local families who are known for their hospitality. Engage in conversations with locals while tasting unique mastic-infused recipes. End the evening with a scenic drive back to your hotel, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧀Local snack or cheese and bread | $5-10 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich masticha culture and medieval villages
- Balanced pace with sea views and good food
- Relatively uncrowded compared with bigger islands
- Limited direct international flights (seasonal)
- Rural areas can be less convenient without a car
- Some sites have seasonal hours
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Ya sou" - Hello
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakalo" - Please
- "Miláte Anglika?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chíos
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic black-and-white geometric walls along the eastern coast.
A UNESCO-listed Byzantine monastery set among olive groves with dramatic frescoes.
Medieval fortress and waterfront vantage points for sunset photography.
Stone towers and white houses perched on limestone hills with sea views.
Food in Chíos
Chíos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy vanilla ice cream lightly infused with Chios mastiha resin for a distinct resinous aroma.
Must-Try!
A sweet herbal liqueur that showcases the island's iconic resin.
Fresh fish, squid, or octopus simply seasoned and char-grilled.
An assortment of small plates like olives, cheeses, tomatoes, feta, and local greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub of fresh produce, cheeses, olives, herbs, and local snacks.
Seasonal street food such as grilled seafood, fried calamari, and tasty pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly kalimera (good morning) or kalispera (good evening) and a handshake.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries; remove hats indoors.
Engage politely; Greeks value hospitality and warm conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Chíos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; if service is good, leave about 5-10% or rounding up the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns; some rural tavernas may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming almond trees; ideal for hiking and city strolls.
Hot and dry with refreshing Meltemi winds; beach season and lively festivals.
Warm seas and harvest time for mastiha; comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Mild and occasionally rainy; fewer crowds but many sites are accessible.
Chíos at Night
Hiking in Chíos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate loop with olive groves and hillside views overlooking the valley.
Short ascent to hilltop vantage points with views over the southern coast.
Flat, easy trail along the coast ideal for photography at sunset.
Airports
How to reach Chíos by plane.
The island’s main airport close to Chios Town, with seasonal and domestic flights.
Major international hub with frequent domestic connections to Chios and other destinations.
Nearby regional airport offering additional connections to the broader Aegean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing Greek communities with strong ties to agriculture, fishing, and crafts.
Mostly European and Greek travelers seeking culture, beaches, and food.
A small but visible fishing and shipping community along the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal conditions are favorable around Chios, especially in summer.
Popular among locals; many towns have amateur teams and friendly matches.
Various trails through mastichochoria, olive groves, and coastal paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chíos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose mezethes, grilled vegetables, fresh salads, and dairy products; ask for meat-free options.