Top Things to Do in Chios, Greece: A Traveler's Guide

Exploring Chios: A Greek Island Full of History, Beaches & Mastic Magic

Have you ever hopped on a ferry and felt like you were magically transported to another world—even though you could practically still see where you started? That’s exactly what it felt like visiting Chios, the fifth-largest island in Greece, just a short ferry ride away from the Turkish town of Çeşme. It may be close, but stepping foot on Chios feels like a full-blown vacation—passport stamps, new language, and that undeniable Greek island charm.

Whether you're coming from Turkey for a spontaneous escape or planning a more extended stay, Chios is full of culture, natural beauty, and off-the-beaten-path surprises. Here’s how to make the most of your island adventure.

Getting There: Easy Island Hopping from Mainland Greece

Reaching Chios from mainland Greece is simple and scenic—your two main options are ferry or flight.

If you're into slow travel and love watching the sea roll by, hop on a ferry from Piraeus (Athens’ main port). The overnight journey takes about 7 to 9 hours, depending on the ferry type and stops along the way. It's a great way to unwind and ease into island life. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months.

Prefer speed? There are daily direct flights from Athens to Chios, which take just under an hour. Aegean Airlines and Sky Express usually operate this route, and it’s a breeze—especially if you’re short on time but still want that island magic.

‍First Impressions: Chios Town & Its Portside Charm

Chios Town is the beating heart of the island and home to more than half its 54,000 residents. It’s got a relaxed, lived-in vibe—not overly polished, but full of character. The waterfront is dotted with restaurants, cafés, and shops, and if you’re anything like us, just watching the ferries back their way into the narrow harbor can be a form of entertainment.

One must-see here is the Chios Castle, a medieval fortress originally built in the 10th century. While the original structure has seen its share of earthquakes and wars, remnants of its Ottoman past remain—arched homes with bay windows and a beautifully restored hammam (Turkish bath) tucked within the fortress walls.

A Quick Escape to the Hills: Nea Moni Monastery

About 7 miles from Chios Town is Nea Moni, a stunning 11th-century monastery perched high in the hills. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place isn’t just beautiful—it’s sacred, quiet, and soaked in stories. According to legend, three monks found a holy icon here and prophesied the rise of a future emperor, who later funded the construction of the monastery.

Inside the church, you'll find some of the best-preserved Byzantine mosaics in the world. Trust us—it's worth timing your visit around the monastery's unique opening hours.

The Painted Village of Pyrgi: A Living Work of Art

Now, let’s talk villages—because the real magic of Chios lives beyond the city. Pyrgi, often called the “painted village,” is a standout. The homes here are covered in xysta—a black-and-white geometric decoration that's actually scratched into the plaster, not tiled as many believe. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like stepping into an open-air art exhibit. It's also one of the Mastic Villages, a group of seven southern villages famous for producing—yes—mastic, the tree resin that’s been treasured since ancient times.

Here, locals often set up chairs outside their homes, chatting with neighbors over coffee and watching the world go by. If you want to experience authentic Greek island life, Pyrgi is it.

Olympi and Mesta: Medieval Vibes & Maze-Like Streets

Close to Pyrgi are two more must-visit medieval gems: Olympi and Mesta. Olympi is peaceful and nearly deserted during the day, perfect for aimless wandering. Mesta, on the other hand, has a bit more bustle—and possibly the most labyrinthine layout of them all. Built as a fortress against pirates, it’s filled with tight alleyways, hidden corners, and charming nooks that make getting lost a joy.

At the heart of Mesta is a cozy square with a few restaurants and shops, and even in the busy season, it never feels overrun. Come for the architecture, stay for the serenity.

Beach Bliss: Volcanic Rocks and Turquoise Waters

What’s a Greek island without a great beach or two? Luckily, Chios delivers.

Gia Dinami Beach, near Olympi, was a jaw-dropper. Quiet, uncrowded, and ringed by hills, it felt like a secret. Don’t expect much in the way of facilities (bring your own snacks and gear), but the natural beauty makes up for it tenfold.

Another standout was Mavra Volia, famous for its black volcanic pebbles. It’s otherworldly, especially as the sun starts to dip and the crowds vanish. The water is crystal clear and surprisingly warm—even in September.

Mastic Magic: The Soul of Chios

If Chios has a trademark, it’s mastic. You’ll see it in everything from lemonade to cosmetics, and there’s even a whole museum dedicated to it—the Chios Mastic Museum just outside Pyrgi. The museum is sleek, interactive, and surrounded by mastic groves. You’ll learn about the labor-intensive process of collecting the resin, often done by hand and mostly by local women, and why mastic is so precious (each tree only produces a few hundred grams per year!).

Don’t skip the museum's outdoor walk through the fields—it ties the whole experience together beautifully.

Best Time to Visit Chios

If you want sunny skies without the crowds, mid-May through October is your sweet spot. We visited in mid-September and it was pretty perfect—warm weather, calm seas (mostly), and no tourist crush. July and August are peak season and can get hot and busier, but even then, Chios feels more mellow than the likes of Santorini or Mykonos.

How Long You Need

You could do a weekend escape and hit the main highlights—Chios Town, a beach or two, and one or two villages—but ideally, plan for 3 to 5 days. That gives you enough time to get lost in the medieval alleys, dip your toes in the Aegean, sip a Freddo under the sun, and still leave with a few mastic goodies in your bag.

Where to Stay on the Island

• Chios Town: Ideal for ferry access, restaurants, and a livelier vibe. Great for first-time visitors.
• Pyrgi or Mesta: Perfect if you want that romantic, village-style stay. You'll feel tucked away in history.
• Karfas or Agia Fotini: Beach lovers, these are your go-to areas with seaside hotels and chill vibes.
• Stone houses & Airbnb-style guesthouses: Especially in Pyrgi, they add so much character and keep you close to the heart of local life.

Local Tips for a Smoother Trip

• Rent a car: Buses exist but are limited. A car gives you the freedom to explore hidden coves and remote villages.
• Carry cash: Some smaller tavernas and shops don’t accept cards.
• Check monastery and museum hours: Nea Moni, in particular, has quirky opening times.
• Mastic lemonade is a must: Especially the fizzy kind with ginger—refreshing and local!
• Respect the pace: Chios moves slowly—meals are leisurely, shops might close mid-day. Embrace it.

Chios is Pure Island Soul

Our weekend in Chios was packed, yet peaceful. From ferry rides to fortress villages, from quiet beaches to Byzantine mosaics, every corner of this island surprised us. It’s one of those places that invites you to slow down and sink into the rhythm of local life—whether that means sipping a Freddo cappuccino by the port or getting lost in a medieval maze of alleys.

It’s not the flashy kind of island getaway, and that’s exactly why it’s unforgettable.