What Is South Of France? What Will Be The Perfect South Of France Itinerary? 

Key Highlights:

  • What Is The South Of France?
  • Why Is The South Of France So Popular?
  • Where To Go In South Of France?
  • How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?
  • Where To Stay In The South Of France?
  • Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget?
  • What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach?
  • What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults?
  • What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France?

Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination. 

The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030.

Moreover, the South of France is home to many luxurious hotels, chateaux, and villas, such as Le Collectionist luxury villas in Provence. These high-end accommodations cater to ultra-high-net-worth travelers and ensure a premium experience. 

However, there is more to visiting the South of France. Natural abundance, cultural heritage, and great food make it a destination for wholesome travel delights

In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will explore the various aspects of the South of France and why it is a dream destination. We will also share a 7-day itinerary so that you can plan the trip well. 

What Is South Of France? 

What Is South Of France

The South of France is a district region, comprising Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), itself, is a combination of six district departments. Those are:

  • Alpes-Maritimes
  • Bouches-du-Rhône
  • Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
  • Hautes-Alpes
  • Vaucluse
  • Var

This region caters to every type of traveler and is almost an epitome of the natural wonders we love to visit. 

The French Riviera beaches complement the rugged beauty of the Alps here. On the other hand, Provence promises the most quaint experience with vineyards, small villages, and hills smelling like lavender. 

You can add to that the cultural and artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and the cosmopolitan vibe of cities such as Avignon and Marseille. Marseille especially indulges you with the charm of the French good life, and it’s for wanderers who just want to travel slow and connect. 

Bordeaux with its best wines and vineyards, Verdon Gorge with its serene green landscape, and Camargue with its wetlands and wildlife are other prominent destinations in the South of France.

Why Is South Of France So Popular
  • Gorgeous seaside towns
  • The majestic Alps
  • Roman ruins
  • Medieval villages
  • Long stretches of vineyards
  • The Best wines
  • The tranquility that makes you connect to nature!

These are reasons why everyone loves the South of France. Now, nobody will take away the best from the South of France. However, some new developments make the South of France more popular among modern travelers. 

1. Better Accessibility And Travel Connectivity: How To Reach The South Of France?

The South of France is well connected to Paris. You can take a flight from Paris, and it takes around 90 minutes to cover the distance. 

Furthermore, you can take the SNCF Connect sleeper train, running from Paris to Cannes or Nice. For a more luxurious journey, board Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Cannes

It is an 18-hour journey with breakfast and gourmet meals. 

Irrespective of the train you choose, you can buy the unlimited rail pass for the commute between Paris and the South of France. 

2. Urban Improvements To Enhance The Experience Of Global Travelers 

Nice has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. It now has the Promenade des Anglais, which is ideal for strolls and tourists who love to explore the city on foot. 

Furthermore, today, the sidewalk looks beautiful with many trees and cafe terraces. 

Moreover, the new Convention Center here just hosted the U.N. Ocean Conference 2025 in July. Also, it is likely to have a tram line directly connected to the airport and a pleasure port for excursions on boats.

3. Aix-en-Provence Is To Have New Cultural Sites And Updated Museums

Atelier des Lauves, the studio of the famous French impressionist, Paul Cezanne, reopened in Aix-en-Provence on 28th June, 2025

Also, Jas de Bouffan, his family’s home, was opened for the first time.

Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, the first independent art foundation of France, just had an expansion to celebrate its 60th anniversary last year. After the expansion, the foundation now has an exhibition space of 5,300+ square feet

This space shows the works of Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall

Furthermore, Nice’s Musée Matisse reopened in 2024 after a long period of renovation work, and La Malmaison, the contemporary art exhibition space of Cannes, reopened

4. The Celebration Of Perfume Heritage In South Of France 

The South of France is the Mecca for a perfume connoisseur. The Rose et Marius in Aix-en-Provence or the factory of L’Occitane en Provence in Manosque have enhanced the tourism experience for tourists having a keen interest in fashion and perfumes. 

Moreover, at Rose et Marius, you can attend a workshop and design your own perfume. On the other hand, you can register online and visit L’Occitane en Provence for a face diagnostic and get a free hand cream. 

5. For The Love Of Ceramics And Pottery 

Marseille, the port city of the South of France, is now emerging as the new hotspot amidst all the glamor and glitz of the French Riviera. 

Since the COVID-19 era, many Parisians have also moved to Marseille for the quality of life, and the high-speed train ride to this port city from Paris is an amazing experience. 

Furthermore, Aubagne, just outside this city, is a popular destination in the European ceramic landscape. Ravel Poterie, Santon Di Landro, and Louis Sicard are some important potteries here.

Where To Go In South Of France? 

The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France.

1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes

Nice And Alpes-Maritimes

Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes. 

Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais. 

Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism. 

Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches

2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille

Bouches du Rhône And Marseille

Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are:

  • Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde
  • MUCEM museum

Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh. 

Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region. 

3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon

Var And Its Capital, Toulon
  • Mediterranean coastline
  • A vibrant nightlife
  • Rich maritime history
  • A beautiful harbor

Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines

4. Avignon And Vaucluse

Avignon And Vaucluse

Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France. 

Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances.

Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse. 

In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards. 

5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains

Alpes de Haute Provence And Digne les Bains

With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields.

It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron. 

Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer. 

Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown.

6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap

Hautes Alpes And Gap

Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers. 

Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications

How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like? 

Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert.

7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to Visit
Day 1Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence
• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence
Day 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and Gordes
Day 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking there
Day 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des Anglais
Day 5• Monaco day trip
Day 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso Museum
Day 7• Day trip to Cannes

Where To Stay In South Of France? 

I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence

Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate. 

Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region. 

Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d’Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature.

What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France?

What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France

April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France.

In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius. 

On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France. 

South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France. 

1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget?

If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. 

• Antibes
• Nice
• Avignon
• Cannes
• Saint Paul de Vence
• Monaco
• Roussillon

Furthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. 

Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants. 

2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults?

From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. 

Here are our favorites.

• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais
• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films
• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience
• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border

3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach?

Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France. 

4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France?

Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. 

Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports.

5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France? 

Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. 

These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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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.