Ios is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece known for its beautiful beaches and lively and fun atmosphere, the perfect choice during a tour of the Cyclades, together with the neighboring Santorini.
Although the island is not that big, it is important to understand where to stay in Ios according to your needs and the type of holiday you are looking for.
In this guide we will see exactly which are the main tourist centers where to sleep in Ios.
Where to Stay in Ios
First of all it must be said that Ios has changed a lot over time and is no longer what it was 15 years ago, when it was considered the island of delirium and high, the perfect place for young people looking for exaggerated evening life and unbridled fun. That Ios is a distant memory and only those who have lived it can understand what I am talking about.
Today Ios is an island suitable for everyone: children, couples and families. In the period from mid-July to early August it is particularly popular with very young people ready to celebrate maturity.
It always remains a lively island, where especially the discos are frequented by the youngest, but it is also the right destination to spend a quiet stay and moderate evenings among restaurants and clubs.
The island has many beautiful beaches and deserves to be shot, the ideal would be with your own vehicle, but it is also possible to travel by bus.
After this introduction, let's see the 4 areas where to stay on the island of Ios.
Chora
Due to its strategic position, Chora is the best area to sleep in Ios, it is the only city on the island, where most of the accommodation facilities are located.
In particular, the Chora is perfect for those looking for evening entertainment, the capital is full of places to spend the evenings without having to move too much and above all without having to drive at night.
The choice of restaurants is also very wide, you can find food almost everywhere even in the many local street food kiosks.
During the day you can go around the island and visit the best beaches, some can also be reached on foot, others are well connected by public transport. And if you have a car even better, because you will be more independent and it will be easier to discover the most beautiful and less crowded beaches.
In general, the Chora is the right choice for everyone, even for those who are not looking for nightlife but want to stay in a good starting point for exploring Ios.
Mylopotas
An alternative to the Chora is the area of Mylopotas Beach, the most famous and busiest beach on the island. It is located about 10 minutes drive from the city and is a good base to stay overnight especially for the younger ones, in fact there is no shortage of entertainment both during the day and in the evening. The most popular place in the area is the Far Out, a village where you can stay and party at any time. The ideal place for the very young also because it offers both standard rooms and camping.
Keep in mind that the bus service runs until midnight, when the last bus leaves for the Chora. To return from the city late at night, you can use taxis or walk for about 24/30 minutes, usually there are always groups of people returning to Mylopotas Beach.
A good middle ground can also be to sleep in the area between the Chora and Mylopotas, so both places will be close together.
Ormos – Yalos Beach
For those looking for a quieter area, the best choice is around Ormos, where the port is located and close to Yalos beach, a location recommended especially for a family holiday.
And if you want to party one evening you can reach the Chora on foot or by bus. Also thanks to public transport you can visit the other beaches of the island.
Yalos Beach may not be the best but despite being close to the port it has a clean and pleasant sea.
Manganari
If, on the other hand, you want to stay away from it all and are looking for a stay of pure relaxation, the right choice is the Manganari Beach area, one of the most beautiful beaches ever, with a crystal clear sea and light sand.
Keep in mind that in addition to a few taverns and restaurants there is nothing, not even a mini market, so you already come with everything you need, also because the port is about 40 minutes by car.
The place is perfect for those who want to spend their days in the name of the sea and doing nothing. Forget the discos, clubs and shopping, you will have only the sea and the starry sky!
Conclusions
Now that you have seen which are the main areas for a stay in Ios, you will be able to find the one that suits you. In summary we can say:
Cry: Strategic position for fun and to get around the island;
Mylopotas: to party at all hours, ideal for very young children;
Porto Area: for a quieter holiday away from the chaos and to get around the island;
Manganari: Relaxing holiday near a beautiful beach.
Tips and Information for Traveling between the Greek Islands
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