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Chios Greece Travel Guide: How To Explore Chios Beyond Santorini?
BY Sibashree Oct 29, 2025
Afternoon siesta is a cherished luxury where I come from. Thousand miles away, I did not expect to experience something similar in Chios, Greece. I was driving through Mesta, and the faint, sweet-spicy scent of mastic trees overtook me. I noticed one strange thing! Not a single shop was open, and even the ATMs were closed, despite it being a weekday. Curious, I asked my guide, and he said, “We loved our naptime in the afternoon. The shops are closed from 2 to 5 PM. We value our food and rest! There is nothing to rush!” This is the moment I felt at home in Chios. Chios in the eastern Aegean was hit by one of the largest wildfires of recent times in June and August 2025. These incidents were a major blow to the mastic trees and the entire region, with many trees destroyed by the wildfire. However, a few months down the line, Chios, Greece, is experiencing a positive rebound in its tourism landscape. Despite being a relatively new name compared to Santorini or the Amalfi Coast, it is gaining attention for its genuine charm. Despite an increase in interest, the tourism model here is focusing more on sustainability. Also, it is avoiding mass tourism to preserve its cultural heritage. In terms of accessibility, Chios is going to get a new airport very soon. Also, for hospitality, this eastern Aegean island depends heavily on family-run lodges. Moreover, the island is capitalizing on its natural beauty and medieval villages to stay true to the official theme of “Experience Chios.” Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Chios, Greece travel guide that takes you to local artisan workshops, cooking classes, adventurous places, and more. Exploring The Local Artisan Workshops And Experiences The mastic resin is the signature product of the region. The Pistacia lentiscus var. chia trees produce this resin. These are called the “tears” of Chios. The aroma is faint, but it lingers just like the most beautiful melody of a flute. My mastic harvesting tour was already set, and the experience I had will stay with me forever. We talk about environmental protection and sustainability. The people of Chios practice it in their lives. Nevertheless, along with the mastic harvesting tours, attending the weaving workshops, pottery classes, and distillation plants were the best local experiences in Chios. I also enjoyed my time at the local tavernas. 1. Mastic Harvesting Tours In Mastichochoria Pyrgi, Mesta, or other villages in the south are ideal for farm tours. These have cooperatives and farms, where harvesting takes place during August and September. I was lucky to be in Chios in August. The farmers here “wound” the trees so that they weep, and the tears are collected. Then, the tears are cleaned using a process called “Kefalari,” and watching the entire process is an immersive slow travel experience. I talked to an old man in Mesta who was collecting the resin by hand. As I approached him, he said, “We treat the trees like family. If one dies, we plant another. We also pass on these trees to our future generations.” Standing there, I could almost hear my grandfather, who used to say the same things about the trees he planted. In Mesta and Pyrgi, I saw the soil getting hardened wherever the resin had fallen. Children love collecting those. If you want to learn more about mastic harvesting in Chios, you can visit the Chios Mastiha Growers Association (CMGA). It now has around 4500 members from the 20 primary cooperatives spread across 24 villages. 2. Weaving Workshops In Pyrgi The houses in Pyrgi look wonderful, with distinct black geometric decorations. On some walls, I saw diamond shapes; others had stripes, and some even featured crisscross patterns. There is also a personalized touch in these geometrical shapes. I was standing near a house appreciating the diamond-shaped designs on the walls. An old lady peeped, and I asked her whether she had done the design or not! She started giggling like a little girl and said, “I have hidden the name of my husband in these diamond designs. It was a lot of fun when I asked him to spot his name for the first time.” Once again, I felt that emotions are universal and the art of finding joy in little things. The village also has a tradition of weaving. Explore the traditional looms and try your hand at the craft. 3. Pottery Classes In Armolia Armolia is the epicenter of pottery traditions in Chios, Greece. It is like a kingdom of brightly colored ceramics. Kefalakia, a one-necked Chian ceramic jug, is a must-buy. I tried my skills at a hands-on pottery class, and I must say that I was not so proud of what I made! 4. Soap-Making And Herbal Distillation Chios has the best flowers and herbs. So, you will find many small family-run businesses here, including soap-making and herbal distillation. They also make local olive oil, mastic oil, and distilled water. These small businesses have kept alive the heritage of natural wellness in Chios. 5. Getting Lost In The Alleys Of Mesta At Night View this post on Instagram A post shared by ᴍᴇꜱᴛᴀ ᴄʜɪᴏꜱ (@mesta.chios) It may sound a little scary, but it was fun for me. Mesta is like a labyrinth, and exploring this fortified village was like a treasure hunt. Indeed, it was planned this way to confuse the pirates who wanted to rob the town. After my dinner at the guesthouse, I wanted to take a quick stroll around, and after half an hour, I was clueless about the road to take. The alleys twisted and turned until I stood before a stone archway and a dead-end courtyard filled with vines. I could listen to my footsteps on the cobblestone road, and after a few minutes, I sat on a rock. Suddenly, something magical appeared before the eyes. The stars over the Aegean were unreal, and the absence of light pollution made it look like I could reach them by stretching my arm. I cannot tell you how long I waited there, and suddenly a call from my guesthouse broke my trance. The receptionist asked me to wait for a while and sent a guide from the guesthouse to guide me back. 6. Eating And Drinking At A Local Taverna Most tavernas I visited during my stay on Chios did not have a printed menu. That’s actually good, considering the menu is decided based on the fresh produce available on that day. My guide used to ask “Ti echete simera?” or “What do you have today?” The waiter used to read from the list of items that were offered for the day. Wellness And Retreat Travel In Chios, Greece View this post on Instagram A post shared by Royal Pearl Island Chios Hotel & Spa (@royalpearlisland) Chios opened its first luxury wellness retreat, Pearl Island Chios Hotel & Spa, last year. Nevertheless, Chios has been celebrating its unique wellness tradition for years now. 1. Mastiha And The Herbs Of Chios Furthermore, Chios has been harvesting mastiha for more than 2500 years, and this natural product has medicinal properties. In fact, this knowledge of cultivating mastiha has been identified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Mastiha gum has anti-inflammatory properties, it helps heal wounds, and it improves oral health and the digestive system. However, mastiha is not the only herbal ingredient grown here. The region also has chamomile, sage, thyme, and oregano. Furthermore, Souma, a traditional fig-based spirit is a crucial element in the wellness tradition of mastic oil and mastiha, the signature of Chios. 2. Holistic Healing In Chios The holistic healing facilities in Chios include meditation sessions near Mavra Volia beach. Furthermore, you can look for yoga retreats in secluded coastal villas and thermal spa visits in nearby Volissos. Away from the crowd, the thermal spa visit near Amani was the ultimate rejuvenation for me after a busy day. Cooking Classes And Culinary Tour In Chios, Greece I visited a cafe called Citrus Memories inside an old estate near Chios town. They served a citrus drink made with local fruits grown in Kampos. The juice was not very sweet. In fact, the hint of bitterness in the drink was the kick. The garden of the old estate had orange trees and stone walls around. So, it was like being in a different era. The citrus smell of the oranges offered the most refreshing olfactory experience, while the sound of cicadas was somehow felt healing. This was one of the best experiences of food and beverage in Chios, Greece. 1. Mastic Liqueur Tastings I tasted mastic liquor at a local taverna in Mesta. My guide told me that having the mastic liquor after food helps with faster digestion. The one I tasted had just the right hint of anise. However, it did not overpower the drink's citrusy finish. The texture of the drink was clean, and it cleansed my palate. 2. Cheese-Making Workshops I took a guided tour of the Sinanis' family's traditional cheese workshop. You will notice a wonderful fusion of modern and traditional techniques in cheese-making. Furthermore, you will get to taste their cheese along with other local produce. 3. Traditional Bread Baking In Wood-Fired Ovens Making bread in wood-fired ovens is one of the most cherished culinary traditions of Chios. I was fortunate enough to visit the Klossas bakery in the village of Volissos. Started in 1955, it is still run by the same family. The setup still has a traditional setup without windows, and they bake a limited variety of bread. 4. Farm-To-Table Cooking Classes With Local Chefs Many local chefs organize a farm-to-table cooking class using locally produced olive oil, citrus fruits, and seafood. I learned to make ipovrihio, a special sweet made using mastic. It is a flavored sugary paste served in cold water. 5. Festivals Celebrating The Food Of Chios I was lucky enough to be in Chios in the month of August. I could attend many festivals celebrating the local food. FestivalsSignificanceTimingSouma Festival• Celebrates the Souma spirit made from figs• Celebrated with local delicacies and traditional dance • First two weeks of AugustMountain and Livestock Festival• A three-day festival in Pityos• Vendors selling local produce directly to the public• July or early AugustAmateur Fishermen's Festival• Celebrated in Mesta• Kakavia, or fish soup, is served as part of the marine tradition• AugustPanagia Festival and Saint Markella Festival• Food and drink are shared at the village square • August and July, respectively Moreover, festivals celebrating local saints, such as the Feast of Agios Ioannis the Theologian, are ideal for enjoying local food and beverages. Goat or hake delicacies are served at the end of the religious ceremonies. Adventure Activities Beyond Hiking The diverse geography of Chios makes it an ideal place for nature walks and hiking. However, it offers many unique adventures. For example, swimming in the tiny coves near Vroulidia and Agia Dynami was the best experience for me. I started swimming at Agia Dynami early in the morning. The water was so clear that it felt like glass. I could see schools of tiny fish flickering like silver confetti. Also, after the swim, I went to the taverna up the hill. The owner there served grilled fresh sardines. The dog under the table, taking a nap, made the picture perfect. Nevertheless, sea kayaking, rock climbing, cave exploration, and mountain biking are some adventure activities in Chios, Greece. 1. Sea Kayaking Along Volcanic Beaches The southern coast around Emporios and Mavra Volia of the Black Pebble Beach is dramatic. The clear water here creates the perfect contrast with the dramatic volcanic beach. I loved kayaking here and explored the surreal geological formations that we cannot reach on foot. 2. Rock Climbing In Kambia Climbing the limestone cliffs in Kambia offers serious adventure. The crowd here is smaller. Also, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Aegean from the cliff top. 3. Cave Exploration In Olympoi Olympoi Cave is an active sinkhole. It has a unique geological formation surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites. It is a cooler retreat from the summer Sun, and every formation here tells the stories of the rich geological past of Chios, Greece. 4. Mountain Biking In The North The Amani Forest and the northern mountain ranges have many trails challenging the skills of a mountain biker. As the biker winds through the pine forests, they get to see the panoramic views of the surroundings. Hidden Historical Sites In Chios, Greece If you are a history buff, you can explore the following locations in Chios, Greece. • Daskalopetra (Homer’s Stone) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hidden Chios (@hiddenchios) Daskalopetra, or the stone formation at the center of this archaeological site near Vrontados, is said to be the birthplace of Homer. The ancient poet of the Iliad and the Odyssey. Steeped in mythology, the place looks over the sea. It offers moments of quietude and looks the most beautiful during the sunrise hours. • Anavatos Ghost Village The location of the Anavatos Ghost Village on a sheer granite cliff itself looks surreal. Also known as the “Mistress of the Wind,: Anavatos has been lying vacant since the 1822 Chios Massacre. I was walking through its alleys just before the sunset hours, and I felt history coming alive and the island celebrating its resilience at the same time. • Phanai Archaeological Site The Phanai Archaeological Site is at the southern tip of the island. It has the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the God Apollo. This site does not receive many visitors. So, exploring the remnants of the Hellenic civilization was quite thrilling. The beautiful coastal views add to its appeal. • Byzantine Churches Everyone talks about the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni Monastery. However, in search of something lesser known but equally meaningful, I reached Byzantine churches in the mountain villages of the north. These offer stunning iconography and architectural details, often overseen by a single, welcoming caretaker ready to share local lore. Interactive Cultural Places In Chios, Greece If you are traveling with your family, you can explore the following interactive cultural places. These are ideal for multigenerational tourists. 1. Chios Mastic Museum Hours Open: 1st March to 15th October (10 AM to 6 PM) and 16th October to 28th February (10 AM to 5 PM) Entry Fee: Standard Ticket - €3, Concession Ticket: €1.5, Free on Specific Days Such as 18th May, 5th June, and the Last Weekend of September View this post on Instagram A post shared by Çeşme - Chios Ferry Tickets (@sunrise_lines) The Chios Mastic Museum celebrates the tradition of mastic production, an intangible UNESCO heritage. Located in the Pyrgi Village, the museum is inside an eco-friendly building. This museum focuses on the uniqueness of mastic as a versatile product. Further, it shows how cooperatives have played an important role in the production of mastic products in the recent past. 2. Chios Castle Hours Open: 8 AM to 3:30 PM (Tuesday Closed) Entry: Free View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nazli Usta Lazaris (@yunanistandannotlar) Located in the north of the town center, Chios Castle used to be the fortified core of the town, starting from the Genoese period. Spanning over an area of 180,000 m2, the castle is still inhabited. 3. Giustiniani Palace Inside the Chios Castle, the Giustiniani Palace was the headquarters of the Genoese administration. As a museum, it holds archaeological and art exhibitions. 4. Chios Archaeological Museum Hours Open: 8 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Mondays in Winter) (Temporarily Under Renovation) Entry Fee: 10€ The Archaeological Museum of Chios has art exhibits from the Neolithic period to the Roman era. Furthermore, sculptures from the Prehistoric settlements, coins, inscriptions, mosaics, and more are exhibited in the museum. 5. Chios Maritime Museum Hours Open: 9 AM to 2 PM (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) Standard Fee: €3.00 Concession Fee: €2.00 Nestled in a neoclassical building, Chios Maritime Museum celebrates the rich maritime history of the island. It has nautical artifacts and ship models. Beaches In Chios, Greece Agia Dynami will always be my favorite with its calmness and the absence of any loud beach amenities. However, Mavra Volia is a more touristy one, with its dramatic black pebbles and sapphire water. Elinda Beach is another beach on the west of the island. It has a hidden cover, and it is famous for amazing sunset views of the Aegean. A 5-Day Itinerary In Chios, Greece They say that 3-4 days are enough in Chios. However, for me, even the five days I spent here were not enough. This is how I spent the days. DaysActivitiesDay 1• Mastic Harvesting Tour• Pottery Class in Armolia• Sea Kayaking near Mavra Volia• Attending the Souma Festival• Dinner at a TavernaDay 2• Early Morning Swim in Agia Dynami• Exploring Pyrgi and its Weaving Scene• Visiting the Mastic Museum• Visiting the Phanai Archaeological Site• Attending a Bread Baking ClassDay 3• A Trip to Daskalopetra and the Byzantine Churches• Visiting the Chios Castle• Exploring the Anavatos Ghost Village before Sunset Hours• Feasting at the Amateur Fishermen's Festival • An After-Dinner Stroll and Getting Lost in the Alleys of ChiosDay 4• Visiting the Chios Archaeological Museum• Mountain Biking near Kambia• Attending a Soap Making ClassTaking a tour of the Sinanis' Family's Traditional Cheese Workshop• Back to Chios in the Evening• Thermal Spa Visit near AmaniDay 5• Attending A Farm-to-Table Cooking Class• Collecting Olive Oil and Mastic Products• Off to the Airport Things To Remember For A Trip To Chios, Greece Here are some essential things you need to keep in mind for a trip to Chios, Greece. Family Travel Tips• Visit shallow beaches like Agia Fotini• Choose kid-friendly tavernas with playgrounds.• Visit interactive museums and farms Eco-Tourism & Sustainability Tips• Stay in an eco-lodge• Visiting the Amani Forest and its protected eco trailsEco-Lodges and Sustainable Travel• Mastic Eco Retreat• Volissos Earth Homes• Amani Forest CabinsPhotography Spots & Sunrise/Sunset Locations• Sunrise at Daskalopetra• Sunset over Volissos Castle• Colorful alleys of Pyrgi• Black pebble beach of Mavra Volia• Panoramic views from Anavatos How To Reach Chios, Greece? You have to reach Chios by air or sea. Here are the details. Also, many people include Chios as an extension of the coastal tour of Turkey, which is just a 30-45 minute ferry ride away. Nevertheless, here are the details. By Air• Route: Direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH).• Airlines: Aegean Airlines/Olympic Air and SKY Express.• Duration: The flight takes only 50 minutes.By Ferry• Route: Piraeus Port (Athens) to Chios Town Port (or sometimes Mesta Port)• Operator: Primarily Blue Star Ferries.• Duration: 7.5 - 10.5 Hours.From Turkey• Route: Çeşme, Turkey to Chios Town Port.• Duration: An incredibly short 30–45 minutes by high-speed ferry. Taking a car rental is the only way to explore Chios. However, if you drive, make sure that you can manage driving on the cobblestone streets. What Is The Best Time To Visit Chios, Greece? April to October is the best time to visit Chios, Greece. Furthermore, April to June is the ideal time for adventures, and July and August are the ideal time for mastic harvesting tours, hitting the beaches, and taking part in the festivals. September onward, the crowd becomes less, and you can enjoy the beauty of the quiet autumn here till October. November onward, the island does not have many tourists, and many facilities also shut down during these months. Budget For The Chios Trip My trip to Chios cost me around $2000. However, that does not mean that Chios is a very expensive place. Here is a quick breakdown of the expenses. ExpensesCostFlights$1200Accommodation for 4 Nights$180Food and Drink$150Local Transport$75Activities$150Total $1755 So, get ready to experience offbeat Greece and the most authentic Chios. Kaló taksídi! Chios Greece Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Chios, Greece. 1. Is Chios A Nice Island? Less than an hour away from Turkey’s coast, Chios is the fifth-largest island of Greece. It is a nice island with a pristine vibe and a rich heritage around mastic production, natural healing, pottery, and weaving. Furthermore, its historical ruins have many stories to share about the vivid past of the island. 2. Does It Snow In Chios? No, it does not snow in Chios because the air is typically around 62% humid. However, temperatures drop significantly in the months of January and February, and the temperature is around 6 to 12 degrees Celsius. 3. What Is Chios Food? Chios food is an extension of what is available as local produce. So, you will find the use of citrus fruits such as mandarin, local cheese such as mastelo, fish, and mastic resin. Furthermore, despite its distinct culinary heritage, food here shows an influence of the nearby Asia Minor.
