Chios, a beautiful island in Greece, is often overshadowed by more famous destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. However, this lesser-known gem is bursting with rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic culture. We spent a week exploring this underrated island, and we'll take you through the highlights of our recent visit to Chios, exploring its charming towns, delicious food, and breathtaking beaches.

Chios, Greece, is a captivating island in the Aegean Sea, known for its unique charm, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. Famous for its production of mastic, a rare resin harvested from mastic trees, the island offers visitors a glimpse into an age-old tradition. Chios is also home to picturesque medieval villages like Pyrgi, with its striking black-and-white painted buildings, pristine beaches like Agia Dynami, and fascinating historical sites, including the Byzantine Monastery of Nea Moni and Chios Castle. Whether you’re drawn to its cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, or relaxed vibe, Chios promises an unforgettable Greek island experience that will get you off the typical beaten path when Island hopping in Greece.

Getting to Chios

We arrived in Chios after a quick 35-minute ferry ride from Turkey, costing around $36 per person. This was a pleasant surprise, as we had previously experienced higher prices in Turkey. Chios is the fifth largest island in Greece and offers a unique blend of Greek and Turkish influences due to its proximity to the Turkish coast.

Book your ferry tickets here

Chios Windmills: A Scenic Start

Our first stop was the stunning windmills located about 1.5 kilometers outside of Chios Town. Dating back to the 19th century, these beautifully restored windmills overlook the sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea. The sight of the windmills, complete with their sails, was something we had never seen before. The setting was picturesque, making it a perfect spot for photography and a leisurely stroll.

Exploring Chios Town

Back in Chios Town, we found a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of cafes and restaurants bustling with locals and tourists alike. Visiting in late September was ideal as the summer crowds had thinned out, but the town was still lively. We learned that Chios is a university town, contributing to its energetic coffee culture. The coffee here is exceptional, and we were eager to try the local favorite: Fredo cappuccino.

Delicious Greek Food

After exploring the town, we stopped for lunch at a local eatery called Vounaki. We couldn't resist the allure of a Greek gyro, packed with juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce. The addition of fries in the wrap is always a fun twist. The flavors were incredible, and it was a much-anticipated taste of Greece after our time in Turkey.

A Visit to Chios Castle

Next, we explored Chios Castle, which dates back to the 7th century. Unlike traditional castles, this one features a town within its walls, creating a fascinating blend of history and modern life. The castle's architecture and its integration into the town added to its charm, making it a worthwhile stop on our journey.

The Painted Village of Pyrgi

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Pyrgi, known as the painted village. The buildings here are adorned with intricate black-and-white geometric patterns, creating a striking visual experience. As we wandered through the narrow streets, we were captivated by the artistry that went into the designs. This village felt authentic, with a strong sense of community and local life.

Discovering Mastic

While in Pyrgi, we learned about mastic, a unique resin produced from mastic trees found on the island. This resin is used in various products, from liqueurs to cosmetics. We tried mastic lemonade, which had a refreshing and slightly minty flavor, showcasing the versatility of this local ingredient. Mastic is a significant part of Chios's heritage and economy, and tasting it was a must-do experience.

Relaxing at Agia Dynami Beach

Our adventure continued as we made our way to Agia Dynami Beach, known for its stunning aquamarine waters. This beach is a true paradise, with golden sand and beautiful scenery. Despite some wind, the beach was inviting, and we couldn't resist taking a dip in the refreshing water. The locals had pointed us to this beach, and we were grateful for their recommendations.

Final Thoughts on Chios

Our day in Chios was filled with unforgettable experiences, from exploring historical sites to relaxing on beautiful beaches. The island's charm lies in its authenticity and tranquility, offering a refreshing alternative to the busier tourist hotspots. We highly recommend visiting Chios for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Greece.

Plan Your Trip to Chios

Ready to experience the charm of Chios? Here are a few essentials to make your trip seamless and stress-free:

Where to Stay

We split our time between in Chios between Chios town and a small beach village called Agia Fotini. If you do stay in town be prepared that it can be loud at night (it’s a university town). The beach village we stayed in was small, quaint and our accommodations were only a short walk to the beach.
To find accommodations we usually search dates on Google to find the best options. WE typically book using either Booking.com or Expedia. Both options have everything rrom cozy guesthouses in historic villages to beachfront hotels, there’s something for every traveler’s taste and budget. If going in high season, book early to secure the best deals and enjoy the island’s warm hospitality.

Travel Insurance

You should absolutely not travel without insurance! Travel smart with SafetyWing travel insurance. Whether it’s a short getaway or an extended trip, their flexible plans have you covered for medical emergencies and unexpected situations, giving you peace of mind while you explore Chios.

Stay Connected
Don’t let spotty Wi-Fi slow you down (we typically find the wifi in Greece not that best). With an Airalo eSIM, you can enjoy affordable and reliable mobile data throughout Greece. Stay connected for maps, bookings, and sharing those amazing Chios sunsets in real-time. It’s much easier to set up than a tradition SIM, it’s so quick and easy and typically quite affordable. We find an eSIM came in handy in Chios as both places we stayed had very slow wifi and we used our phone’s data instead.

What to Pack
Check out our resources section for all sorts of ideas of what to pack on your next trip to Greece.

These essentials will make your trip smooth and unforgettable. Start planning your Chios adventure today!