Ios Honeymoon, Greece

The famous ‘party island’ of Ios is just a short ferry ride from Santorini, making it a great option for a day trip. Of course you can always stay longer – a choice of accommodation and activities, from simply relaxing on some of Greece’s best beaches, to swimming, diving, windsurfing and water skiing, making in a perfect honeymoon and romantic getaways destination.

Things to do and see

In Chora (also known as Ios Town), climb up to the white church of Panaghia Gremiotissa, the highest spot in the village, for panoramic views over the island and the small harbour of Ormos.

Admire traditional whitewashed windmills, visit the hilltop ruins of a 15th century Venetian fortress and browse the winding stone streets of Chora, crammed with fashion and jewellery boutiques, cafes, tavernas and bars (which only open at night).

By day, watch locals chatting in cafes and playing backgammon in Hora’s tiny central square; after dark, this typically becomes the setting for noisy al fresco parties that spill into a myriad of alleyways packed with late-night bars offering a medley of rock, blues, Latin or jazz.

Best time to visit Ios?

Note: Peak season generally runs from July to August and is best avoided due to temperatures often exceeding 38°C and to the fact that the main islands are swamped with European holidaymakers.

From March to May, the temperature is cooler, hotel prices are more reasonable and the crowds non-existent. The winter off-season, from November through February, is generally quiet everywhere, however many hotels are closed.

Location

Getting there