Ios: The island that wants to steal Santorini's glory!

Ios, the island nestled like a "sandwich" between Santorini and Mykonos, records increasing trends in inbound tourism each year.

Is Ios one of Greece's most up-and-coming tourist islands? 

While Santorini's sunset has travelled to every corner of the world, Ios's equivalent is, on the one hand, more impressive, and on the other, quieter, as it doesn't attract the thousands of people crowding Oia from all sides of the globe!

Although Ios lacks the luxury of Mykonos and Santorini, its isolation between these two cosmopolitan islands offers clear advantages.

Ios's beauty can certainly be compared to the wild beauty of neighbouring Santorini, yet the island's traditional small villages and the azure-blue doors of its houses make you feel as if you've stepped back in time!

In recent years, Ios has been changing – becoming much more touristy. A few years ago, it was a peaceful island where you could wander around all day in your swimwear.

Now, the island boasts luxury restaurants, beach bars, and accommodations catering to a high-end clientele.

 

Mylopotas Beach

Mylopotas Beach is one of the most popular on the island and, more generally, in the Cyclades.

The beach offers "sugary" crystalline sand and sparkling blue sea, and it's large enough to accommodate the crowds even during the high season in August.

 

Tour to remote beaches

If you have the chance, you can rent a boat or take a cruise to visit one of the dozens of hidden beaches on the island.

There, nestled among the rocks and cliffs, you'll find paradisiacal coves with tranquil, crystal-clear waters.

Trypiti and Pepper Beach are two examples of quiet and secluded beaches that invite you for a dip in their waters.

Even though Ios is so close to cosmopolitan Santorini and Mykonos, it's surprising how many "empty" spots you can discover on this island, without many people around!

 

Where to watch the sunset in Ios

The sunset in Ios is magical – it's no wonder it's compared to Santorini's!

You'll get the best view of the sunset from Lorenzena Beach.

At this beach, the sun disappears on the horizon, behind the rocks – here you'll be able to capture your best photos with the sunset as your backdrop!

The beach is not organised, so it's a good idea to bring supplies such as water and small snacks.

 

Churches of Ios

One of the first things you'll encounter in Ios Chora are the dozens of churches located at its highest point.

Climbing to the top of the rock is perhaps one of the most important things you can do in Ios.

Here you will have a unique view of the entire island and the Aegean Sea.

Also, this spot is an excellent choice to enjoy the sunset.

 

Windmills

Just like in Mykonos, there are windmills in Ios that have remained from older times.

Today, they stand there as a meeting point and a photo opportunity.

They are located at the top of Chora, where the winds once helped turn the mills to grind wheat.

 

Getting to Ios

Access to Ios is only by sea.

The island does not have an airport and is served by Santorini and Mykonos.

You can book flights to Santorini and from there take the regular ferry to Ios, or book flights to Mykonos and from there again by ferry to the port of Ios.

The other option is directly from Piraeus with cheap ferry tickets, where the ship will bring you straight to the port of Ios.

 

When to visit the island

The best period to avoid large crowds (if you're seeking peace and quiet on your holiday) is from September 10th until the end of the month.

Another tranquil period is the entirety of June, when the hordes of tourists have not yet arrived.