Ios Car Hire

Guide to Ios

Geography

The Aegean island of Ios is a member of the Southern Cyclades. Chora is the island's principal town. This Greek island contains just three inhabited settlements: Chora (the capital), Ormos (the major port), and Milopotas (the most popular tourist destination). Only Chora is inhabited during the winter. There are 1,500 people on the island of Ios, which has an area of 108 square kilometres with a length of 17 kilometres and a width of 7.5 kilometres. Located in the middle of the island, Pyrgos is the highest point in Ios, towering 713 meters above sea level.

Climate in Ios

With moderate, wet winters and bright, sunny summers, Ios has a Mediterranean climate. In the summer, the island is cooled by a northerly breeze. In January, the daily average temperature is 10.5°C. In July, the daily average temperature is 24°C. Summer, from mid-June to mid-September, is the best season to visit Ios for a beach vacation.

Culture

Skarkos Hill is the location of the biggest Bronze Age archaeological excavation on the island of Ios. Learn about the layout of the village or learn the ancient burial practices that were in place at the time of the colony. Skarkos is a great opportunity to get a flavour of Greece's ancient culture and history.

Things to do in Ios

Visit the Panagia Gremniotissa

Ios is widely renowned for its 365 churches, one of which is the Panagia Gremniotissa, which rises on top of a hill above Chora and is devoted to the island's patron saint. With its blue dome, whitewashed walls, bell tower, and palm tree right next to it, it can be seen from everywhere in Chora. The name of this church, which was built in 1797, signifies the Virgin Mary of the Steep Cliff. This position is ideal for stunning sunset photography, as well as breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the harbour.

Awe at the Odysseas Elytis Theatre

Designed by architect Peter Haupt, the Odysseas Elytis is an open-air theatre built in 1997 and can hold an audience of 1100 people. You will be amazed at the Greek marble architecture of the site. In summer concerts and performances including the Annual Homeria festival celebrating the venerated poet Homer, are held here. Even if there are no shows going on at the time of your visit, be ready to be impressed by the incredible views of Mylopotas Beach from the seats.

Visit Kolitsani Beach

If you're seeking a relaxing and sun-kissed beach on Ios, Kolitsani should be on your list. Kolitsani boasts quiet and crystal blue waters. It is located within a picturesque cove and can be reached by walking a downhill rocky trail for approximately 10 minutes from the car park or 30 minutes from Chora. It also provides convenient anchoring for sailing vessels. It's worth a visit if you want to avoid the more popular beaches, and the icing on the cake is that you won't be sent away if you decide to remain in your bathing suit. A Modern Art Museum, located above the beach, displays works by renowned painters.

Eating out in Ios

The majority of eateries in Ios are located in the port area or in the Chora. Here are some of our best picks. Katogi Taverna is one of the top restaurants on Ios, and you'll adore the variety of specialities on offer. Enjoy their hot feta dips, delectable tzatziki, and sautéed octopus. The welcoming and pleasant atmosphere sets the tone for a leisurely dinner. The Mills Restaurant, named after the iconic windmills of Ios, provides excellent moussaka as well as exquisite grilled calamari and other Fresh Greek salads. Those who can't live without their meat should go to Peri Anemon. You'll love their succulent souvlaki, gyros, and mouthwatering meatballs.

Ios Transport

Airport

The island of Ios has no airport. Santorini, Greece's most popular island, has the closest airport, called Santorini Thira International Airport (JTR). There are daily flights from Athens and Thessaloniki, two of Greece's main cities, as well as charter flights from other cities during the summer months.

Getting around Ios

It is pretty easy to navigate about Ios by using the public buses that run every 20 minutes between Chora, Ormos, and Mylopotas. Buses are also available to transport visitors to remote beaches such as Manganari and Agia Theodoti. The most convenient method to get to the island is to take a ferry from Santorini, Piraeus, or the Greek mainland. You may also hire a vehicle, a scooter, or an ATV. In fact, car hire is very much preferred by those travelling with children or in a large group as it offers increased comfort and convenience in getting around the island.