The visitor of Ios will not only be enchanted by its natural beauty but also by its attractions, a stamp of different periods of time and influences.

Starting from the ancient times, we should not miss the ancient City of Skarkos, in Kampos area, which testifies the Early Cycladic Period and many of its characteristics.

Also, in the place of Plakoto we meet the grave of Homer. In the Archaeological Museum, in the Chora of Ios, we may find further and more detailed information about the history of the island.

As in every island, in Ios we can see many churches. Moreover, according to tradition in Ios there are about 365 churches, one for every day of the year. We should mention the small church of Aghia Eirini in the Port, and the church of Aghios Georgios (St. George) in Gialos. Quite characteristic is the church of Panagia Gkremniotissa (of byzantine architecture) built on a hill in Chora with spectacular view. It is said the habitants of the island found the icon of Mary in the rocks of Mylopotas, after been thrown in the sea by Cretans, before the Turks could destroy it.

We should also mention the theatre “Odysseas Elytis”. Inaugurated in the year 1997, it’s located in Tsoukalaria and disposes of 1000 seats. It is an open theatre of ancient greek rhythm, designed by Peter Haupt in a special way in order to protect the viewers from the northern winds.
We shouldn’t miss to mention the characteristic Windmills, which dominate at the right of Chora.

Finally, you can have a walk towards Palaiokastro, where you will see the ruins of the byzantine castle. It is located at the western part of Ios and be sure that the view from up there will surely worth it.

Regions of Ios

Chora
It is the capital of Ios. It is located in a higher level than Limani, about 2 kms away. The view from up here, on the hill, is marvelous. Here we can see the traditional Cycladic architecture. The little, white-painted houses are characteristic as well as the cobblestone streets. As in every island, also in Ios we can see the innumerable churches (in a total of 365). In the highest point of the capital, we observe the Holy Church of Aghios Nikolaos.
The modern town is located in exactly the same point as the old one. In Plakotos we can see “the grave of Homer”. Eastern of Chora pop proud the 12 Windmills, directly linked to the architecture of the island and its cultural heritage. Further information about the antiquity of Ios can be found in the Archaeological Museum.

Limani (Port)
Reaching Ios by boat, Limani awaits you willing to hug you and make you relax. At the right part of the harbor entrance, you will see the all-white church of Aghia Eirini (of the 17th century). In Gialos, as the port is called by the locals, you can find everything, from well informed agencies to shops, restaurants, hotels etc. It is one of the most secure ports in the Aegean Sea, no wonder why they call it “Little Malta”. In a short distance to the port are the famous beaches of Golden Beach and Koumpara, which really worth a visit.

Magganari
At the southern part of Ios we meet the town of Magganari. Here is one of the most popular beaches of the island, which every summer gets full of tourists and celebrities yachts. It is easily accessible by bus or vessel from Chora, Limani and Mylopotas. Five beaches in a row form one single, extremely beautiful golden beach, which will be erased from your memory with great difficulty. Finally, don’t miss to taste the traditional cuisine by paying a visit to the fish-taverns along the beach road.

Mylopotas
The town of Mylopotas is located about 3 kms away from Chora. It has a fully organized beach, where you can practice water sports. It is considered as one of the greatest beaches of the Aegean Sea, with clean waters. It has fairly won the Blue Flag. Do not miss this dream sight, it will be something unforgettable.