Ios in 2 Days: A Love Story Between Blue and White

We are talking about an island where the sun warms your skin without burning it and the wind blows your hair without the need for an Instagram filter. I set foot on the island of Ios this summer and yes, I still haven't returned. I may be physically at home, but my heart is still on the streets of the island, sipping ouzo and finding myself again in those moments... Ios is a small but generous island in the middle of the Aegean, between Santorini and Naxos. My favorite part was the narrow streets with whitewashed houses and blue door and window frames. Walking here forces you to slow down and listen more carefully to the surroundings. Chora, the center of the island, is like a labyrinth, tiny but every corner hides a different beauty. The most famous church, Panagia Gremiotissa, is right on the edge of the cliff, mesmerizing with its view. The beaches are another story. Mylopotas Beach is a center of attraction with its golden sand and crystal clear sea. Here you can relax in the sea and have fun with beach parties starting in the afternoon. For those who like quieter places, there are beaches like Manganari and Koumbara, which are quiet and natural. Of course, there are also flavors you should try when you set foot on the island. Ladopsomo bread with olive oil, karpouzopita with watermelon, and amygdalota with almonds were among my favorites. Especially the goat cheese and fresh seafood are to die for. Ios is not only famous for its nightlife.The bars around Mylopotas are lively during the day, while in the evening the small streets of Chora are alive with the laughter of young people. But the island has more to offer than just partying; there are also small art-filled events, quiet boutique hotels and peaceful corners. Accessible by ferry, you can explore the island on foot or by renting a motorbike. For me, Ios was not just a vacation destination, but a place that showed me how to live life a little more lightly and beautifully.

Day 1 

Start the day early in the morning with a breakfast near Yialos Harbor. Taste of Joy is a favorite here; waking up to fresh coffee, fresh croissants and island jams warms you up. When you start like this, you feel like saying “Life is good”.
Then make your way to Chora. This is considered the heart of Ios. With its narrow stone streets and whitewashed houses, it's a place of discovery. You know how there are some places that just draw you in? It's best to walk around before the sun gets too high; both the photos turn out well and you don't get scorched.
If you crave seafood around noon, try Octopus Tree or The Nest. The fried calamari with a side of ouzo will make you feel like “I'm in Greece”.
In the evening, make sure to go up to Panagia Gremiotissa Church and watch the sunset. This place is like the soul of the island. As the sun slowly slips away, you see the Cyclades before your eyes. At that moment, words are not enough, you have to feel it.
For dinner, go to Katogi Tavern. It may look like a small place from the outside, but inside there is such good food and lots of conversation that it makes you smile. You can also stop by Disco 69 for some fun after dinner. The nightlife of Ios is not as flashy as Mykonos; it is more intimate, more “I am here”.

Day 2

Mylopotas Beach is perfect for those who want to swim and have some fun. It is also nice to relax at the Free Beach Bar on the beach.

Manganari Beach is a bit far but definitely worth the trip. The sand is like cotton and the water is so clear that you feel like a child again.

Agia Theodoti is a paradise for those who want calmness. If you want to take your book and get lost there, this place is ideal.

Drakos Taverna is a very good option for lunch. By the sea, the fish is so fresh that you may have made eye contact with the octopus hours ago.

If you want to turn your second night into a bit of a feast, Ios Club Sunset Dining Bar is the place for you. The view and the cocktails are so good that you don't know which one to choose. A place that makes you say “I have to go here!” on Instagram stories.

Mylopotas Beach

Where to Eat Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner?

For breakfast

Dining in Ios is not just about filling your belly; it's about the rhythm of the day, the island's weather, the coolness of the sea. Getting up early in the morning and having a snack while sipping your coffee by the sea, eating a light plate of food accompanied by an ice-cold drink in the shade in the heat of the afternoon, and slowly finishing the day slowly at a beautiful table in the cool of the wind in the evening... Each meal comes to you in a different way. Let's discover the island's most enjoyable stops together.

Taste of Joy: Modern, simple but hearty.
Nutelleria: Nutella lovers' paradise! Their pancakes are delicious.

For lunch

Drakos Taverna: A cozy place by the sea, full of classic Greek food.

Thai Me Up: Yes, a Thai restaurant on the island! The flavors are amazing and successful.

For dinner and entertainment

Katogi Tavern: Live music, a cozy atmosphere and plenty of food await you.
Lord Byron: It has a modern and beautiful menu for those looking for different flavors.
Ios Club: Ideal for romantic evenings and unforgettable views.

Accommodation Suggestions in Ios

Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel: Close to Mylopotas Beach. With terraced rooms and a pool, it's an eye-catcher. Just a 10-minute walk from the famous Mylopotas Beach, Levantes Ios Hotel is located on the sandy beach, offering views of neighboring islands. It offers a pool and stylish accommodation with a balcony overlooking the Aegean Sea. Featuring stylish décor blending ethnic, Mediterranean and classical elements, all units have a double bed and a luxurious bathroom.

Almyriki: Located in Mylopotas, just 300 metres from Mylopotas Beach, Almyriki offers accommodation with sea views, free Wi-Fi and free private parking. There is a private entrance to the apartment. Each room has a terrace with garden views

How to get to Ios Island from Turkey?

There are no direct flights to Ios from Turkey, but don't worry, transportation is much easier than you think.

You fly from Istanbul to Athens, it takes about 1 and a half hours. When you arrive in Athens, you go to Piraeus Port and take a ferry to Ios. The ferry time varies according to the company but it takes 3.5 to 6 hours on average. Ticket prices are usually around 45-70 Euros.

Another way is to fly to Santorini. After landing there, taking the ferry to Ios is both short (about 1 hour) and practical. Moreover, ticket prices are usually around 25-35 Euros. In other words, the journey is both enjoyable and leaves a taste as if you are traveling from island