How to get to Chios

Picturesque Chios, located in the northeastern part of the Aegean Sea, is not just an island, but a true treasury of medieval history and the home of unique mastic. This corner of Greece attracts travelers with its authentic fortress villages and secluded beaches, offering a peaceful retreat away from mass tourism.

Reaching the island is possible via various routes, making planning a trip to Chios flexible and convenient. The island possesses its own airport and a developed maritime network connecting it with both the mainland and neighboring islands, as well as the coast of Turkey.

The fastest way to arrive on the island is by air, landing at Chios Airport (JKH). This air hub is located just a few kilometers from the island's capital, ensuring a convenient start to your journey immediately after landing.

If there are no direct flights, you can consider flying to neighboring transport hubs. The nearest airports are located on the island of Ikaria and in the city of Mytilene (Lesbos), as well as in the Turkish city of Izmir, from where you can continue your journey by sea.

Since Chios is an island, there is no direct railway connection, and there are no train stations within its territory. The railway network of Greece is limited to the mainland, so a train cannot be the sole means of transport for this journey.

Tourists who prefer trains can travel to major coastal cities that have ferry connections to the island. For example, one can travel by rail to the vicinity of Izmir in Turkey, and then transfer to a ferry to cross the strait and arrive in Chios.

Bus routes to the island involve a combination of land transport and ferry crossings. A convenient option is the journey via Mytilene: covering a distance of about 110 km will take approximately 3.3 hours, making this route quite fast and untiring.

For travelers departing from the direction of Turkey, there is a route from the city of Izmir. Although the distance is about 272 km, travel time can extend up to 27 hours due to logistical connections and border crossings, so this option should only be chosen if you have ample time.

Traveling by car to Chios implies using car ferries. One of the fastest routes is via Izmir: the distance of 105 km can be covered in about 2.5 hours, including the crossing from the port of Cesme.

Routes from neighboring Greek islands are also popular. The road from Mytilene will take about 2.6 hours (111 km), whereas the journey from the island of Ikaria will be longer — about 6.6 hours, allowing you to enjoy sea views during the long crossing.

Chios is an island with a rich history and unique traditions, requiring a special approach to planning. To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, pay attention to the following recommendations.

1. Clothing and Essentials. It is hot and windy here in summer, so bring light clothing made of natural fabrics and a head covering. For evenings and trips to the mountains or caves, be sure to pack a windbreaker or a light sweater.
2. Transport. Public transport does not reach all remote villages. The best solution is renting a car or a scooter to freely explore the famous mastic villages (Mastichochoria).
3. Finances. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted in most hotels and city restaurants, but cash is preferred in small taverns and shops in remote villages.
4. Health and Safety. The island is safe for tourists. Pharmacies are marked with a green cross, but it is better to bring specific medications with you. It is recommended to purchase bottled water.
5. Communication. The official language is Greek. English is understood in tourist zones, but by learning a couple of phrases ("Kalimera" — good morning, "Efcharisto" — thank you), you will earn the special favor of the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Greeks are very hospitable. Do not refuse a treat if it is offered to you from a pure heart. When visiting temples and monasteries, one should enter in modest clothing (shoulders and knees must be covered).
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph military facilities and zones marked with special signs, as the island is located in a border zone.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to buy products with mastic (cosmetics or sweets) — this is a unique souvenir produced only in the south of Chios and nowhere else in the world.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this hospitable Greek island.