Top reasons to visit Chios
- Stunning Beaches: Chios boasts picturesque beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and family-friendly activities.
- Historical Sites: Explore the fascinating Chios Castle and ancient monasteries that showcase the island's rich heritage.
- Charming Villages: Discover picturesque villages that offer an authentic Greek experience and delightful local culture.
- Vibrant Markets: Enjoy the lively public market and charming shopping areas, perfect for souvenirs and local delicacies.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in sailing trips and various outdoor activities that highlight the stunning coastal scenery.
Find great hotels in Chios
Chios offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming hotels to inviting guesthouses, catering to various preferences. Whether you seek a beachfront retreat, a family-friendly haven, or a pet-friendly escape, you’ll find the perfect lodging to enhance your Greek holiday. With numerous hotels in Chios featuring essential amenities and excellent reviews, your stay is sure to be both comfortable and memorable.
- Chios Chandris Hotel: Set in the heart of Chios, the 4-star Chios Chandris Hotel is an ideal choice for families and adventure seekers alike. Rated 9.0 out of 10 by guests, this hotel offers an array of adventure sports and recreational activities on-site and nearby, including surfing lessons, sailing, and bicycle rentals. The property is particularly accommodating for families, featuring amenities such as babysitting services, free cribs, and child-friendly breakfast options. With a focus on creating memorable family vacation experiences, Chios Chandris Hotel blends comfort with excitement.
- Grecian Castle Hotel: The 4-star Grecian Castle Hotel, with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, caters primarily to business travellers seeking convenience and comfort during their stay in Chios. This hotel is strategically located, making it suitable for those on work-related trips. Its amenities are designed to provide a seamless stay, allowing guests to balance work and relaxation effortlessly. With a refined atmosphere and attentive service, Grecian Castle Hotel is a distinguished choice for professionals visiting the area.
- Golden Sand Hotel: A 4-star beachfront property, Golden Sand Hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10 and is tailored for families and pet owners. Guests can enjoy direct beach access and facilities such as a shared playground and arcade game room for children. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing dogs and cats, subject to specific policies. With a focus on creating a fun and relaxing atmosphere for families, Golden Sand Hotel offers a delightful blend of beachside leisure and family-oriented amenities.
Where to stay in Chios
Chios, a captivating island in the North Aegean, offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore Chios Town’s charming streets, rich history, and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy family-friendly beaches and outdoor activities that cater to all ages. Nearby, the picturesque villages and stunning landscapes invite you to immerse yourself in the authentic Greek experience. Whether you're seeking relaxation or exploration, Chios promises memorable moments for every traveller.
- Chios Town: Nestled on the eastern coast of Chios, Chios Town is a vibrant hub that offers a delightful blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. With its moderately seasonal visitor pattern, the town comes alive during the summer months, particularly from June to August, when tourists flock for its picturesque beaches and bustling public markets. Highlights include the charming marina and the scenic dock port, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy water activities or simply relax by the shore. Shopping enthusiasts will find a variety of stores and local markets to explore, adding to the town's lively atmosphere.
- Limnos: Located in the vicinity of Chios, Limnos is a captivating village renowned for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The peak tourist season runs from July to September, drawing visitors eager to immerse themselves in the island's historical sites and natural beauty. Limnos is perfect for those seeking a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural exploration, with its historic landmarks and lovely sandy shores providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway. The tranquillity of the island, especially during the quieter months of January to March, offers a unique escape for those looking to unwind.
- Karfas: Situated along the coast of Chios, Karfas is a charming village known for its serene beaches and scenic landscapes. The village experiences seasonal tourist traffic, with the highest influx occurring between June and August. Karfas is ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring appealing family-friendly beaches and opportunities for walking and relaxation. The local marina adds to the village's charm, while spa facilities provide a perfect retreat for those in need of pampering. With its beautiful surroundings, Karfas offers a picturesque setting for a laid-back holiday.
Things to do in Chios
Shopping
In Chios Town, visit the local markets for unique handmade crafts and traditional products. If you're up for a drive, head to Chios Shopping Centre, where you can find a variety of shops, including fashion and local delicacies, perfect for souvenirs.
Recreation
At the Chios Wellness Retreat, immerse yourself in holistic therapies amidst the island's serene landscapes. Engage in yoga sessions by the sea, complemented by rejuvenating massages and organic treatments that refresh the mind and body.
The 14th Century Monastery Spa offers a tranquil escape with its historic charm, featuring traditional Greek therapies and herbal baths that promote relaxation and well-being.
Adventure
Explore the stunning Mavra Volia beach, known for its unique black pebbles and crystal-clear waters. For adventure seekers, hiking the trails of Mount Olympus offers breathtaking views and diverse flora, while the ancient village of Pyrgi invites you to wander through its distinctive medieval architecture and intricate facades.
Nightlife
Visit the vibrant Mastiha Bar for creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, head to the Old Port Cafe, where you can enjoy a selection of local wines while soaking in the stunning harbour views.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Chios
Chios provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers, with free attractions such as Karfas Beach, Lithi Beach, and the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni Monastery. To save on transport, consider walking or using buses. For accommodation, the cheapest months to visit are January, February, and October, with Saturday being the least expensive night to stay. Book about a month in advance for the best rates, or search for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also lead to significant savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Chios are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Chios about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Chios is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Chios is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Chios with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Chios
Chios, a charming destination in the North Aegean Islands, is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, fascinating monasteries, and the historic Chios Castle. Whether you're seeking a relaxing family vacation or a cultural experience, Chios offers a variety of attractions, including the captivating Chios Island and its renowned castle. This idyllic locale promises a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.
- Cave of Sykia Olymbi: Discover the enchanting Cave of Sykia Olymbi, nestled in the heart of Chios. This natural wonder offers outdoor adventure vibes, inviting you to explore its intriguing rock formations and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the cave's depths.
- Castle of Chios: Step back in time at the Castle of Chios, a historic fortress that exudes culture and romance. Wander through its ancient walls and admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, while learning about the island's rich heritage.
- Karfas Beach: Relax at Karfas Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand where beach vibes reign supreme. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe under the Mediterranean sun, or indulge in local seafood at nearby tavernas.
Best time to go to Chios
The best time to visit Chios can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Chios falls in August, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Chios falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Chios
Flying into Chios is convenient with Chios Island National Airport (JKH), located 3km from the town. Nearby accommodation options include the Argentikon Luxury Suites, a luxurious 5-star hotel 3km away that offers complimentary airport transportation. The Chios Chandris Hotel and Grecian Castle Hotel, both 4-star rated and situated 2km from the airport, provide easy access as well. For those considering other airports, Mytilene International (MJT) is 87km away, with hotels like Elysion Hotel and Theofilos Paradise Boutique Hotel nearby, while Samos International (SMI), 101km from Chios, is home to Casa Cook Samos and Doryssa Seaside Resort, both conveniently located.