The Former Greek Party Island of Ios is Quietly Reinventing Itself (& it Shows)

Once a magnet for 20-something backpackers, the popular island of Ios is evolving in all the right ways. Here’s why it deserves a second look.

Long known as the wild child of the Greek islands, the island of Ios has spent decades earning its reputation as a magnet for backpackers, students, and sunburned twenty-somethings looking to let loose. 

And while I freely admit to adoring the lively island of Mykonos back in my 20’s, Ios was one island I always avoided on my early trips to Greece. Mostly due to its backpacker reputation. 

But today’s Ios is undergoing a bit of a renaissance. 

While the party scene is still alive and well—especially in Ios Chora’s tight maze of white houses and late-night bars—there’s a more refined side to the island emerging. 

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle).  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

With new stylish boutique hotel openings, upscale beach clubs, and locally rooted food experiences, Ios is beginning to attract a wider range of travelers.

Think honeymooners, couples in their 30s and 40s, and even families searching for natural beauty and some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cycladic islands—without the crowds of Santorini or the prices of Mykonos.

With crystal clear waters, panoramic viewpoints, and traces of ancient Greek history (yes, even Homer’s tomb), Ios is showing it has more to offer than just a good time after dark. 

If you’ve written it off as “just a party island” like I always did, it might be time to take another look.

Ios was an easy addition to my summer island-hopping itinerary. So I figured it might finally be time to give this recovering party island a chance. 

And you know what? It was a pleasant surprise. 

And while I’m sure the nightlife scene is still alive and well in the streets of Old Town after dark,  there’s a lot to see around the island of Ios during the day. 

From gorgeous empty beaches to historic sights, Ios is definitely worth a stop. Even if (like me) nightlife isn’t really your thing.

Here’s what to know before you go…

How to Get to Ios

Like most Greek Islands, Ios doesn’t have an airport.

But it’s easy to reach by ferry thanks to its prime spot along the popular north-south ferry route that connects Athens to Santorini, Paros, Naxos, and other Cycladic islands. 

Santorini and Naxos are the closest islands with an airport. Whether you’re flying into Athens or arriving from another island, you’ve got plenty of options to get to Ios.

From Athens

Most visitors arrive on Ios from Athens’ Piraeus port, where several ferries run daily—especially in the summer months.

• High-speed ferries (like Seajets) can get you to Ios in as little as 3.5 hours
• Conventional ferries (like Blue Star) take 7-8 hours, but are often more comfortable and affordable

You can also catch a ferry from Rafina, but routes to Ios from Rafina are less frequent. If you’re taking a high-speed ferry from Athens, be sure to bring seasickness meds. It’s a long ride on a fast boat!

Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.

From Nearby Islands

Ios is easy to add to an island-hopping itinerary in the Cyclades (as I did).

But even if you’re not island-hopping, I highly recommend shortening your ferry time by flying into Santorini or Naxos if you can. Both have non-stop flights from mainland Europe.

Ferry travel times vary greatly by type of ferry but here are the shortest travel times from other popular nearby islands (all with airports):

• Santorini (35–40 minutes)
• Naxos (40-45 minutes)
• Paros (1 hour)
• Mykonos (1 hour, 25 minutes)
• Milos (1 hour, 40 minutes)

Arrival at the Port of Ios (Gialos)

Ferries dock at the port area, known locally as Gialos.

As port towns go, it’s not especially charming like the swoon-worthy ports of Sifnos, Symi, or Hydra. But it gets the job done.

It’s a small but welcoming harbor, with cafés, rental car agencies, a few small shops, and quick access to Ios Town and Mylopotas Beach.

If you’re staying in Gialos, it’s easy to walk to your hotel from the port.

Where to Stay on Ios Island

While Ios used to be known mostly for shared hostel rooms and budget-friendly crash pads, the island’s accommodation scene is the best example of its upscale reinvention.

You’ll still find plenty of 2-star hotels and backpacker spots, but these days there are also luxury hotels, stylish boutique stays, and even private pool suites with breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea.

Here are a few of the best hotels on Ios:

Yialos Ios Hotel (Chora – Gialos) – This was my pick on Ios. Yialos Ios Hotel is a charming family-run hotel just steps from the port area. The location was perfect for me, just a 5-minute walk from the ferry and easy access to Chora via the bus stop right outside the hotel.

I splurged on a “Queen room with Spa Bath” and it was lovely and had a great sunset view.

The hotel also features a beautiful pool area with a bar and a delicious breakfast spread.

Kritikakis Village Hotel (Chora – Gialos) – This is a great budget-friendly hotel right across the street from the Yialos Ios Hotel (so equally convenient to the port and bus stop). It also has a great pool.

This one is a good pick for families or friends traveling together, as they have both family suites and spacious triple rooms.

Liostasi Hotel (Chora) – Perched above the port with sweeping views of the sea, Liostasi Hotel is one of the island’s leading luxury hotels. 

Suites feature outdoor pools, modern Greek design, and serene spaces perfect for couples or honeymooners. There’s a spa, an upscale restaurant, and a fitness center on-site. If you’re looking for style, privacy, and top-tier service, this hotel is my top pick.

Ios Grand Pool Suites (Mylopotas) – Located in the resort area of Mylopotas, this chic spot offers private plunge pools and sleek interiors. It’s walking distance to the beach, but far enough to enjoy quiet evenings. Perfect for couples and groups who want beach club proximity and a modern, boutique style.

Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel (Mylopotas) – Another standout in the Mylopotas Beach area, Levantes is all about design, comfort, and panoramic sea views. It’s a beautiful balance between sophistication and island simplicity.

Tip: Book an Executive Maisonette Suite with Private Pool and Sea View for a luxurious splurge that won’t break the bank.

How to Get Around Ios

Ios is a relatively small island and has the usual Greek Islands transportation options – take the bus, rent a car, or hike.

The good news? Distances are short, roads are solid, and there are several ways to explore depending on your preference.

Here’s a quick recap:

Ride the Local Bus 🚌

The local bus system on Ios is one of the better ones I’ve seen on the Greek islands.

Buses run regularly between the port area, Ios Chora, and Mylopotas Beach—with less frequent routes to Manganari Beach, Agia Theodoti, and other spots.

The fare is cheap, the ride is scenic, and it’s easy to catch a bus from the main square or port bus stop. Schedules are posted at stops and often available through hotel front desks.

Rent a Car, ATV, or Scooter 🚗

If you want full flexibility to explore the wonders of Ios—from ancient ruins to remote beaches—renting a car is the best way to go.

I wanted that flexibility, so I opted to rent a car for a day from Ios Rent a Car (near the ferry port).

Roads are paved and in great condition, and you can drive from one end of the island to the other in under an hour.

Renting a small car is ideal for longer day trips to places like Homer’s Tomb or the quieter east coast beaches. ATVs and scooters are fun for shorter distances, especially between Chora and Mylopotas Beach, but I’d skip them if you’re heading into hilly terrain.

Walking & Hiking 🚶‍♀️

Some parts of Ios are best explored on foot, especially around Ios Chora and the port area.

You can easily walk from the ferry dock to nearby hotels, cafes, and Gialos Beach in just a few minutes. 

The scenic uphill walk from the port to Chora takes about 15–20 minutes. It’s pretty steep in parts, but absolutely worth it for the panoramic views.

Once you’re in Chora, everything is walkable: lovely bars, shops, tavernas, and those iconic blue-domed churches are all packed into a compact maze of whitewashed lanes.

Tip: For a great guided trekking tour of Ios, book the top-rated Ios Island Trekking Tours: Discover Ios Unexplored. It’s a terrific way to explore the island with a private local guide. 

Best Things to Do on Ios

Whether you’re coming for the natural beauty, the vibrant nightlife, or simply to see what this “party island” looks like when it’s not dancing until sunrise, Ios has more to offer than most people realize. 

Here are the best things to see and do on the island—from golden sand beaches to ancient history.

1. Visit the Best Beaches on Ios

Ios has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cyclades, many with crystal clear waters, beach bars, and space to spread out—even in high season.

Mylopotas Beach – The island’s most famous and most accessible beach, just a short ride from Ios Town.

It’s lined with beach clubs, tavernas, and water sports outfitters, and still has that carefree energy that made Ios a hit with the backpacker set in the first place.

If you’re visiting Ios for a lively beach atmosphere, this is where you’ll find it. If you’re looking for a quiet beach day, choose any of the other beaches below. 

Manganari Beach – On the island’s south coast, this one is out of the way, but it’s well worth the trip.

In fact, I consider it one of the top 15 beaches in Greece.

Read More: 15 Stunning Beaches in Greece Worth Planning an Entire Trip Around

There are two picturesque sides to this beach that are separated by a small sandy outcrop.

Calm, shallow waters straddle either side of strip of sand and wide-open spaces make this one great for swimming and relaxing. It’s also partially organized so you can rent lounge chairs and an umbrella.

You can reach it by car or by bus in the summer months. There is also a great taverna on the beach for lunch.

Gialos Beach – Located right by the port area, this low-key beach is great for a quick swim before dinner or a final dip before catching the ferry.

Agia Theodoti Beach – A more remote and peaceful beach on the east coast, great for quiet swims and spectacular views.

This beach was completely empty when I visited and it was probably my favorite beach on the island.

Just as beautiful as the more famous Manganari Beach but far less crowded. Just keep in mind that there are no facilities here so bring everything you need with you.

2. Explore Ios Chora

The island’s main town, known as Ios Chora, is a classic Cycladic maze of white houses, steep staircases, and hidden chapels.

Start in the main square, where locals and visitors gather in the early evening before dinner or a night out.

Visit the Church of Panagia Gremiotissa, one of the highest points in Chora, with blue domes and sweeping views over the Aegean Sea. It’s also the most popular spot on the island to watch the sunset.

The town comes alive after sunset, but it’s just as lovely in the early morning, when it’s quiet and golden.

3. Visit Homer’s Tomb

One of the more unique (and mysterious) sights on the island is the so-called Tomb of Homer.

Located on the island’s northern tip, the site is tied to the history of Ios and the ancient Greeks, though scholars still debate the origin of the name Ios and the truth of Homer’s final resting place.

Whether or not you believe the legends, the site is peaceful and has breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding hills. There’s a small parking area and a well-marked short hike to reach the tomb. 

4. Stop by the Diaseli Cheesery & Museum

If you’re a foodie, don’t miss a stop by this family-owned cheesery where the Haros family has been making cheese for generations.  

What makes their products so unique is that the animals of the estate graze on the same plants (like thyme and oregano) that have been growing on Ios for hundreds of years.

The guided museum tour of the traditional cheesery ends with a tasty sampling of the goods.

After the tour, there’s a well-stocked shop where you can pick up a few of your favorites. Even if you don’t have time for the full tour, don’t miss a stop by the shop. 

More Info:  https://www.diaseli.com/en/

5. Dine on Fresh Fish & Classic Greek Food

Ios might be best known for bars, but the Greek food scene here is on the rise. Many tavernas now offer fresh fish, island-grown vegetables, and traditional dishes with a twist.

Look for rooftop spots with a view of Chora or casual beachside spots at Mylopotas and Gialos. The food is a good thing to plan your evenings around—especially if you’re skipping the late-night clubs.

So give Ios a chance, it might surprise you

Ios has long been stereotyped as just a party island. And sure, if you’re 22, chasing DJs, and living for late nights, you’ll still find that scene in full swing.

But that’s just one side of Ios today.

Beyond the bars and beach clubs, this beautiful island offers everything you’d want from the Greek islands: charming hilltop villages, golden sand beaches, historic ruins, and a growing collection of boutique hotels that rival anything you’ll find on Santorini.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor curious about the island’s reputation or a returning traveler ready to see a more grown-up side of Ios, now’s the time to go.

The crowds are a little older, the hotels are a lot nicer, and the sunsets? 

Still unforgettable.

Looking for more fabulous Greek Islands to visit? Start here:

10 Irresistible Greek Islands to Visit This Summer (#8 is Greece’s Best-Kept Secret) ☀️

The 7 Best Greek Islands for Beaches (You’ve Never Heard of #4)

Car-Free Hydra is This Summer’s Chic Greek Island Escape

Stunning Koufonisia Island is Where Greeks Vacation (& You’ve Never Heard of It)

Get 3 Stunning Greek Islands for the Price of One With a Trip to the Sporades