The location of Ios in the Cyclades allows for easy access to the island throughout the year, with daily service from Piraeus. You are able to choose between several ferry companies and ships, depending on the service and speed you would like.

With a speedboat your journey will take something less the 4 hours, while a regular ferry between 7 and 8 hours. You should also note that Naxos and Santorini offer direct access to Ios, while you can reach the island from the other Cyclades as well.

Destination Guide for Ios, Greece

A picturesque Greek island, Ios is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. With beautiful sandy beaches surrounding the bustling city, Ios is a great place to travel in Greece. The white washed houses and the dazzling domed churches give Ios a unique charm, and the city also has a great nightlife scene as well as many wonderful hotels, restaurants and shops. Younger generations have found their Mecca in Ios, as exciting events and parties are part of the culture in Ios.

Popular Attractions in Ios, Greece

Ios is home to a beautiful little town, Hora, which is the capital of the island. This town was constructed atop a hill, and the medieval castles, maze streets, and white washed houses create a beautiful panoramic view while touring the streets of this enchanting city. Some other attractions in Hora include the Archaeological Museum, the Temple of Apollo ruins, and the Agia Aekaterini church. Travelers can also see some of the ancient remains of the Hellenistic period in Agia Theodoti.

Beaches in Ios, Greece

Ios is one of the most well liked beach cities in Greece because of the many gorgeous, well kept beaches that populate the island. Among the most popular beaches in Ios are Agia Theodoti Beach, Koubara Beach, Yialos Beach, Manganari Beach, Mylopotas Beach, Tzamaria Beach, and Psathi Beach. Travelers can enjoy experiencing the pebbled or sandy beaches in Ios, Greece. Some of the beaches in Ios also have active campsites, so visitors can sleep right on the beach.

Shopping in Ios, Greece

Ios is a shopping hub with Internet cafes, touristy shops, and fine jewelry stores lining the streets. Travelers can satisfy any whim in Ios, from high fashion clothing to hand made souvenirs of the Greek Islands. Visitors may also want to take home some of the local island products: tasty cheese delicacies and golden honey. Local folk art shops also sell some beautiful ceramics, leather goods, and other interesting souvenirs.

Transportation in Ios, Greece

Visitors can travel to Ios by sea on a ferry or a catamaran service that runs twice daily. Ferries from Piraeus run frequently as well. The Island of Ios is connected to many major cities including Crete, Mykonos, Milos, Folegandros, Santorini, Naxos Island, Paros, Sikinos, Paros, and Syros. You can also arrive in Ios on a flight from the Santorini International Airport, although travelers will need to take a short ferry ride to the island after the flight. Inland travel options include buses, rental car services, rental motorbikes, and taxies.

Port Authority in Ios, Greece

The Port Authority in Ios, Greece manages the ferry systems and all of the marine vessels that enter and exit the island. Since the Port Authority oversees all of the operations of the port, they will keep close watch on the weather to ensure that vessels only travel when it is safe to do so. The Port Authority of Ios is responsible for ports on Ios and Sikinos and is also the supervising authority for the Port Authority Station of Folegandros and the Port Authority Toll of Sikinos.