Welcome to the sun-soaked island of Ios, a picturesque gem in the Cyclades where crystal-clear waters meet golden beaches and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a party-loving backpacker, a couple seeking romance, or a family in search of relaxation, Ios offers a range of accommodation to suit every traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore the three best areas to stay in Ios: Chora, the charming main town with its winding streets and lively atmosphere; Mylopotas Beach, a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts; and the Port of Ios, perfect for those who want easy access to ferries and a more laid-back vibe. From luxury hotels with stunning views to budget-friendly options near the best beaches, we’ll help you find the ideal place to stay in Ios. So pack your sunscreen and get ready to discover the perfect base for your Greek island adventure!
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Ios, Greece 💎:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hide Out Suites
- ✨ 5-Star: Liostasi Hotel & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Relux Ios Hotel
- 🛏 3-Star: Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Afroditi Hotel
- 🏢 Apartment: The Yacht Front Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Giannakas Studios
- 🏩 For Couples: Sea Sound - White Katikies
Quick Guide on Best Place to Stay in Ios, Greece ☀️:
- 🎭 For Nightlife and Culture: Chora
- 🏖️ For Beach Life and Water Activities: Mylopotas Beach
- 🚢 For Convenience and Island Hopping: Ios Port (Yialos)
1. Chora – The Charming Hilltop Haven for Nightlife in Ios
🏛️ Picture-perfect: As I wandered through the winding streets of Chora, I was instantly captivated by its quintessential Cycladic charm. Whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea create a picturesque backdrop that’s perfect for your Instagram feed. The capital of Ios is perched high on a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
🎉 Party central: If you’re looking to party, Chora is where it’s at. The town comes alive after dark, with bars and clubs pumping out music until the early hours. I recommend starting your night at Slammer Bar for their famous (or infamous) shot-and-helmet combo before hitting the dancefloor at Disco 69.
🏺 History galore: History buffs, rejoice! Chora is home to fascinating archaeological sites and museums. Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum, where you can dive into Ios’s ancient past. For a touch of literary history, visit the reputed grave of Homer, located just outside town.
🍽️ Tasty eats: Chora boasts some of the best restaurants on the island. I suggest trying Katogi for traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Their moussaka is to die for!
🛍️ Retail therapy: Here’s a list of my favorite spots for retail therapy in Chora:
- Mosaic Art for unique handmade jewelry
- Ios Portraits for personalized souvenirs
- Drakos House for local products and wines
- Nopic for stylish beachwear
Where to stay in Chora? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Chora
- Liostasi Hotel & Spa – One of the most beautiful boutique hotels on the island, offering a pool and spa center with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Ideal for couples looking to enjoy the nightlife of Ios.
- MVGM Home – A charming hotel located in the heart of Chora, perfect for those who want to stay close to shops and restaurants while experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Ios.
- LIKNO'S Ios Island Resort – A picturesque resort offering beautiful views and easy access to the main areas of Ios. Great choice for travelers looking to explore the Greek island of Ios.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Chora
- Afroditi Hotel – A budget-friendly option in Chora, providing good value for those who want to stay in the capital without breaking the bank.
- Olgaios Hotel – A comfortable and affordable hotel, perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the nightlife in Ios without spending too much on accommodation.
- Petalidi Studios – Simple yet cozy studios located in Chora, offering a great base for exploring the beautiful beaches on the island.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Chora
- Village Twins Hostel – A lively hostel in the heart of Chora, perfect for budget travelers and those looking to party in Ios.
- Village Twins 1 – Another branch of the popular Village Twins, offering affordable accommodation for backpackers visiting Ios.
- Golden Star Ios – A budget-friendly option in Chora, ideal for those who want to stay on the island without spending much on accommodation while enjoying easy access to nightlife and beaches.
2. Mylopotas Beach – Sun, Sand, and Surf Central
🏖️ Sandy paradise: Mylopotas Beach is hands down one of the best beaches in Ios. With its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike. I spent countless hours here, alternating between lounging on a sunbed and cooling off in the refreshing Aegean.
🏄♂️ Thrill seekers: Adrenaline junkies, listen up! Mylopotas is the place to be for water sports. From jet-skiing to windsurfing, there’s something for everyone. I tried my hand at paddleboarding and had a blast (even if I spent more time in the water than on the board).
🌅 Insta-worthy sunsets: Trust me, you haven’t seen a sunset until you’ve watched the sun dip below the horizon from Mylopotas Beach. Grab a cocktail from one of the beach bars and prepare to be mesmerized.
🦞 Seaside dining: After a day in the sun, refuel at one of the many beachfront tavernas. My top pick is Salt, where you can enjoy fresh seafood with your toes in the sand.
🏛️ Cool spots: Check out these cool spots near Mylopotas Beach:
- Skarkos archaeological site
- Odysseas Elytis open-air theatre
- Agia Irini chapel
- Gialos Beach (for a quieter alternative)
Where to stay in Mylopotas Beach? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Mylopotas Beach
- Hide Out Suites – A luxurious suite-only resort offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Perfect for those looking to stay in one of the best hotels on the island of Ios.
- Sea Sound - White Katikies – A picturesque resort in Ios with an outdoor pool and beautiful Cycladic architecture, ideal for travelers seeking a complete guide to luxury accommodation in Ios.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Mylopotas Beach
- Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel just a short walk from Mylopotas Beach. It’s one of the best places to stay in Ios for those wondering where to stay that combines comfort and value.
- Giannakas Studios – A family-run hotel offering comfortable accommodation in Ios, perfect for those looking to stay on Ios without breaking the bank.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Mylopotas Beach
- Far Out Hotel & Spa – A popular choice for those who want to stay in Ios for nightlife and partying. It’s one of the best areas to stay for young travelers visiting Ios.
- Hotel Aegeon – A budget-friendly option close to Mylopotas Beach, ideal for those traveling to Ios on a tight budget but still want to be near the action.
- Noufaro – A simple yet comfortable hostel, perfect for backpackers looking to explore the best nightlife Ios has to offer while staying in one of the three main areas of the island.
3. Ios Port (Yialos) – Gateway to Island Adventures
🚢 Easy access: Yialos, the port of Ios, is where your island adventure begins. It’s the perfect base if you’re planning on island hopping in Greece or want easy access to transportation. I found it incredibly convenient to stay here when I first arrived, allowing me to get my bearings before exploring further.
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly: The port area has a more laid-back vibe compared to Chora, making it ideal for families or those seeking a peaceful place to stay. The shallow waters of the nearby beach are perfect for little ones to splash around in.
🐙 Seafood heaven: Some of the best seafood restaurants on the island are located right here in the port. I recommend Octopus Tree for their grilled octopus – it’s so tender it practically melts in your mouth!
⛵ Island hopping: From Yialos, you can easily book boat tours to explore Ios’s hidden beaches and nearby islands. I took a day trip to Santorini from here and it was absolutely worth it.
🏘️ Local vibes: Here are some of my favorite spots to experience local life in Yialos:
- The Fish Market for fresh catches of the day
- Ios Bakery for mouthwatering pastries
- Yialos Beach for a quick dip
- The windmills for a touch of traditional charm
- The small chapel of Agia Irini for stunning views
Where to stay in Ios Port (Yialos)? 🏠
⭐ Best Hotels in Ios Port (Yialos)
- The Yacht Front Apartment – A luxurious apartment offering stunning views of the Ios ferry port. Perfect for those looking to find the best place to stay near the port on this picturesque island of Ios.
- Yacht Front Apartment No.1 – Another excellent option for travelers who want to be close to the ferry port. Ideal for those who want to get to Ios easily and start exploring right away.
- Yacht Front Studio No.3 – A stylish studio apartment that provides a perfect base for your complete travel guide to Ios, with easy access to ferries for island hopping to places like Santorini.
🏨 Best Moderate Hotels in Ios Port (Yialos)
- Relux Ios Hotel – One of the best boutique hotels in Ios, offering a blend of modern comfort and traditional Greek hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for those wondering where to stay in Ios.
- Ios Port Studio – A comfortable and convenient option for travelers looking to stay near the port. Great for those who want to explore one of the 5 best areas in Ios.
- Ios Port Studio No.7 – Another great studio option in the port area, perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and convenience.
🛏️ Best Hostels in Ios Port (Yialos)
- Acteon Hotel – A budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on location. Great for those who want to party in Ios without breaking the bank.
- Helios Pension – A simple yet comfortable hostel, ideal for backpackers and budget travelers looking to explore Ios Island.
FAQs about Best Areas to Stay in Ios Island, Greece ❔
How many days should I stay in Ios?
The recommended duration for a stay in Ios is 3 to 4 days. This allows enough time to explore the island’s best beaches and attractions.
Is Ios still a party island?
Yes, Ios is still known as a party island, especially during the peak summer months from June to August. It’s particularly popular among college-age travelers for its vibrant nightlife.
What is the main town in Ios?
The main town in Ios is Chora. It’s also sometimes referred to as Ios Town.
What is the largest city in Ios?
Chora is also the largest settlement on Ios. It serves as the island’s capital and main hub for accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife.