Hello there, KLEOS lovers.

I guess I should start by stating the important stuff first: I was born and raised on the island of Chios. I guess that makes it a good enough reason for one to ask me to convey information about the island. As a young adult, I fell in love with the Cycladic Islands, worshiping every unique detail that makes them so appealing. In the meantime, I became a public relations and marketing expert, as well as a make-up artist. As I was getting older, I started realizing how truly unique, beautiful, and rich in history and tradition my very own birthplace is.

It is no coincidence that my good friend Effie Panagopoulos and founder of KLEOS Mastiha Spirit asked me for a little guide of Chios! I hope you enjoy it and please feel free to reach out to me via Instagram @stammmo, for further info and ideas if you plan to visit the island at some point!

How to Get Here

There are regular ferries departing from the Port of Piraeus for the Port of Chios, and the route with stops at other islands takes about 9 hours. The price of a ferry ticket can start from 20€.

Alternatively, you can choose to fly to Chios, significantly reducing your travel time compared to the ferry.

Transportation on Chios

When visiting the island of Chios, you’ll find that the island’s public transport is both dense and regular, making it easy to get around. Upon arriving at the port, you’ll notice a convenient bus stop and several taxis ready to take you to various destinations.

For those looking to explore the island more thoroughly, renting a car or motorbike is a great option. Numerous rental agencies are available, offering a range of vehicles to suit your needs. Having your own vehicle allows for a more enjoyable journey, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Chios is generally 30 minutes from the center to the beaches.

Where to Stay on Chios

1. The Pearl Island of Chios Hotel & Spa is a brand new boutique resort featuring 48 suites. It combines an intimate atmosphere with luxurious and elegant accommodations. Central to its philosophy is a focus on wellness, which is enriched by curated and bespoke experiences.
2. My personal recommendation would be to choose to stay on the south part of the island, also known as Mastihohoria. Picturesque and medieval, Mastihohoria is considered the most beautiful part of the island. They’re also ideally located for one to explore some of the most beautiful and sought after beaches. You will find amazing medieval-style, stone houses to rent on Airbnb in several villages, including Kalamoti, Olympoi, Pyrgi, & Mesta. My favorite hotel options in this region are Lida Mary and the brand new Voltes Residences. They are both in the Mesta village.

Where to Eat in Chios

One thing is certain: food, and particularly good food, is prevalent in Chios! My absolute must-try list:

• Hotzas: In Chora, traditional local food with old Constantinople cuisine references.
• Vradypous: Beautiful and modern. Slightly creative and definitely delicious. A casual restaurant in the heart of Kastro, in Chora.
• Karavella: An absolute staple when it comes to simple & high-quality seafood. By the water in Komi beach.
• Veranda by Oz: Located in the Oz Bay, it’s the only option for sushi on the island. A very cute setup.

Where to Beach in Chios

Wellness and Sports Activities

• Hiking: Chios offers diverse hiking trails, from goat paths to stone-built roads, primarily in the island’s northern, mountainous region. Local authorities and volunteers aim to preserve these paths. They focus on safe routes for hikers while providing maps and GPS tracks for guidance.

Where to Drink/Nightlife in Chios

I have to be honest here, nightlife is not the island’s strongest suit. The only interesting and most OG nightclub is the notorious After, in the outskirts of Pirgi, which offers fun club nights with 90’s disco vibes that both locals and visitors love! In the same region, you can try great drinks in medieval surroundings at Kellari Bar & Paxata in Mesta.

Other bars include 44 Bar, on the port of Chora, featuring excellent cocktails.

Cultural Activities in Chios

Museums in Chios:

• The Mastic Museum of Chios: Located in the medieval villages of Mastichochoria, in South Chios, and showcases the history and cultural significance of mastic cultivation and processing. Recognized by UNESCO in 2014 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the museum highlights the timelessness and sustainability of this unique Chiotic product.
• Deos Project: Founded in 2021 on Chios, Greece, DEO Projects is the island’s sole contemporary art organization, offering exhibitions, residencies, public commissions, educational activities, and collaborations, with all programs and events free of charge. It aims to foster transnational dialogue and enhance the island’s cultural infrastructure, aspiring to become Europe’s premier contemporary art summer destination.
• The Citrus Museum: Housed in a historic 1742 mansion, showcases the rich history of Kampos’ citrus orchards through detailed exhibits and multimedia displays. Visitors can also enjoy a café and shop offering local flavors and products made by Citrus. 
• Last but certainly not least, the original Mastiha Shop is the Official Mastiha Producers Union Store and an absolute must-visit! You will find one on the port of Chios town and one inside the Mastic Museum. Discover a wide variety of culinary treats, pastries, and cosmetics featuring the amazing properties and aroma of mastiha, along with special gifts, and curated sets.

Festivals in Chios:

• The 3rd Medieval Festival of Chios will take place from August 28 to September 6, 2024, featuring cultural events supported by various esteemed organizations and notable speakers including the UK Ambassador in Athens, distinguished professors, historians, and authors. The festival will include a special tribute titled “Climate Change and Art,” showcasing classical music pieces about the environment.