Whitewashed hilltop church and Aegean Sea at sunset.

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Ios

Ios’ image has long been linked to holiday sun, sea and sex, with a reputation for nonstop, booze-fuelled partying. It’s partly true: there’s no denying that from June to August, the island is the much-loved stomping ground of youth and hedonism. But it’s so much more – if you want it to be – and the partying doesn’t infiltrate every village or beach.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • Panagia Gremiotissa

    Panagia Gremiotissa

    Ios

    Head up the alleyway behind Sally's Rooftop Garden and then proceed upwards by trial and error, along cracked steps and through ancient archways, and…

  • Skarkos

    Skarkos

    Ios

    Crowning a low hill just north of Hora, this Early Bronze Age settlement is one of the Aegean's most significant prehistoric sites. There are restored…

  • Homer's Tomb

    Homer's Tomb

    Ios

    A remote and beautiful 13km drive northeast of Hora lies what is locally believed to be the final resting place of Homer, Greece's greatest poet, who…

  • Archaeological Museum

    Archaeological Museum

    Ios

    This musuem, on the main road that passes by Hora, is a must for those interested in antiquity. It displays a wealth of finds from the early Bronze Age…

  • Manganari Beach

    Manganari Beach

    Ios

    Sandy beach furthest from Hora by road, with a taverna and sun loungers.

  • Psathi Beach

    Psathi Beach

    Ios

    Sandy beach to the east that's particularly popular with windsurfers.

  • Mylopotas Beach

    Mylopotas Beach

    Ios

    Long, golden sand beach to the west, very popular for water sports.

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