Day trip to Ios: 4 tips for an unforgettable experience
There are places where more than a lifetime would be needed to experience everything they offer. But sometimes, you only have a few hours available, so here at NetFerry can help you make the most of your day trip.
If you're a seasoned traveler, you will already know that when you return from a trip, you are never the same person as when you left. We are sure that your stay in Santorini has already been sublime. Still, suppose you want a unique experience to make your vacation unforgettable. In that case, we have an offer you can't refuse: a day trip to Ios!
The island of Ios, part of the Cyclades, is just a few kilometers from Santorini. It will take about 35 minutes to reach it by ferry, so it lends itself to several day trips. Grab your bag - we're off to discover Ios!
Read on for our 4 top tips for a day trip to Ios
1. Travel tips for Gialos and Chora
2. The beaches of Ios
3. Homer's grave
4. Skarkos
Buy your ferry to Ios now.
1. Travel tips for Gialos and Chora
You will have numerous travel options for Ios and all our itineraries by using our ferry booking portal, where you can independently compare the best prices and times for you. For a day trip, the advice is to leave early in the morning and return after sunset. Who can resist a beautiful sunset over the sea?
You will arrive in the little village of Gialos, where you will find a beach with the same name. Located in a tranquil bay, you can relax here for a few hours.
Just 2 km away is Chora: a charming labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, white houses with blue shutters and picturesque taverns. Walking through its streets, you will discover many churches and small local craft shops. This village is the ultimate traditional Greek village; you will love it!
Lose yourself and wander aimlessly: there is no more beautiful and authentic way to explore a new place, especially one so picture postcard perfect. You will soon find yourself in front of the main church on the island, located on the island's highest point and named Panagia Gremiotissa; enjoy the view!
2. The beaches of Ios
Like any self-respecting Greek island, Ios also boasts some fantastic beaches, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Cyclades. You will find the crystal clear waters and white sand you have been dreaming of. Among the most famous is Mylopotas, for its beautiful water and many bars and restaurants. Koumpara, an even more immaculate beach, is a paradise popular with naturists. Finally, the wonderful bay of Manganari, in the south of the island, boasts clear and deep waters. Which works best for you?
We know it isn't easy to choose, so we recommend renting a boat and going around the island to discover the wildest beaches, hidden caves and beautiful vistas from the sea.
3. Homer's grave
Did you know that Homer, the famous Greek poet and author of the Iliad and the Odyssey, died in Ios during a journey to Athens? Today you can visit his tomb in Plakoto, in the island's northern part, along with several ancient remains and a breathtaking view.
Of course, Homer's very existence remains between myth and reality, so many doubt the tomb's authenticity. But the charm of this story surpasses the truth, and Homer's tomb remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ios. So why not let yourself get carried away by the poem and look towards the horizon.
4. Skarkos
The archaeological site of Skarkos is a historical and cultural gem of the Greek islands and is located on Ios. Thought to be one of the best examples of a Bronze Age village, the site in Skarkos is full of prehistoric artifacts and relics from one of the world's oldest civilizations.
If you want to have a memorable experience and feel like you are taking a real journey through time, visiting the archaeological site of Skarkos is a must.
One can never get enough of the Aegean Islands. They are lands of boundless splendor, rich in culture, steeped in thousand-year history but always looking to the future.
You may not know this, but Ios is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. The island's lounge bars, discos and beach clubs, predominantly located in Chora, welcome tourists from all over the world every night to party until dawn.
Why not treat yourself to a unique travel experience? So get on the next ferry, set sail towards a new adventure, and make your dreams a reality. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Greece; Ios is waiting for you!