If you’re seeking a lesser-known Greek island with a welcoming atmosphere, medieval villages, and beautiful beaches that can be enjoyed over a weekend, Chios is calling.
Just a short 30-minute ferry from Çeşme, Chios (also called Sakız Ada or Mastic Island in Turkish) is a refreshing alternative to the usual island-hopping routes.
Because Chios is compact, it’s ideal for a short trip. We originally considered calling this a “One Day in Chios” guide, but quickly realized two days gives you a far richer experience.
We recommend planning at least two days: one day to explore museums, medieval villages, and mastic groves, and another to relax and enjoy the town atmosphere. Use this itinerary as a starting point and adapt it to your pace and interests.
About this itinerary
This itinerary follows the exact route we used on our trip. To follow it precisely you’ll want a car for freedom and flexibility.
Day 1 (driving around Chios) is a full-day tour. We started mid-morning and returned in the evening, but feel free to adjust the schedule—skip stops or linger where you like. Use this plan to inspire your own exploration.
Day 2 focuses on Chios town center and can be completed in a few hours. If you prefer, keep the rental car for part of the second day to explore more of the island.
What to Know Before Traveling to Chios
Before diving into the itinerary, here are practical tips to make your visit smoother:
Driving in Chios
Do you need a car? Yes—renting a car makes it far easier to visit the island’s main attractions. Public transport and private tours are options, but a car gives you the best flexibility.
Roads: Main roads are in good condition—smooth and easy to drive.
Traffic: Outside Chios town traffic is light, especially in shoulder seasons. Signage points to key attractions and speed limits are posted.
Parking: Parking is generally easy and free—look for municipal lots outside village centers. Many historic village centers restrict vehicles because streets are narrow, so park and explore on foot. Always photograph where you parked; some villages have labyrinthine layouts designed centuries ago to deter pirates.
Helpful Travel Tips
Bring your passport. If you’re coming from Turkey, you’ll need a passport to cross into Greece.
Check visa requirements. Greece is part of the Schengen area, so verify whether your nationality requires a Schengen visa.
Buy ferry tickets in advance during high season—sailings can sell out.
Plan ferry schedules ahead of time. Some routes run less frequently off-season.
Your Turkish SIM card likely won’t work in Greece; consider an eSIM or local data plan for maps and translations.
Where is Chios?
Chios is in the northeastern Aegean Sea and belongs to the North Aegean islands. It lies very close to the Turkish coast (about 17 km from Çeşme) and is the fifth-largest Greek island. The main town shares the island’s name.
What is Chios famous for?
Mastic: Chios produces mastic, a resin used in food, perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. The island’s mastic heritage is celebrated in the Mastic Museum.
Citrus: Historically Chios was an important exporter of citrus; remnants of that agricultural tradition remain.
The Fragrant Island: Known as Myrovólos, Chios fills the air with scents from citrus blossoms, jasmine, and mastic trees.
Windmills: Scattered around the island, the windmills are picturesque symbols and popular photo spots.
How to get to Chios
By ferry
From Turkey: The easiest route from Turkey is the ferry from Çeşme; the crossing takes about 30 minutes and runs frequently in summer.
From Greece: Chios connects by ferry to other Aegean islands and to ports such as Piraeus, Thessaloniki, and Kavala. Check timetables seasonally as schedules vary.
By plane
Chios International Airport (JKH) is close to the town and has flights to Athens and several other Greek destinations, served by domestic carriers.
Chios Itinerary DAY 1 — Museums, Mastic Villages, and More
Kalimera! After picking up your rental car, start early to make the most of this busy day. The route below covers museums and several traditional mastic villages.
If you need breakfast, stop in town or at a local café on the way to the Perivoli Citrus Museum, located about 7 km from Chios center. Housed in an 18th-century mansion, the museum covers the island’s citrus history and includes a short documentary. There’s a small café where you can taste Kampos mandarin juice.
Next, around 20 km away, visit the Chios Mastic Museum to learn about mastic production, its cultural importance, and applications. The museum building is beautiful and includes a gift shop with many mastic products.
From the museum you can visit the Mastihohoria—the mastic villages. Start with Pyrgi, known for its black-and-white geometric xysta decorations. Park in the municipal lot and explore on foot.
Continue to Olimpi, a smaller village recognized for painted doors and windows created by a local artist to revitalize the town. If visiting between May and November, consider the Olimpi Caves as an optional stop—an impressive cave system with stalactites and stalagmites.
Finish the mastic village loop at Mesta, a fortified medieval village built with narrow streets and defensive walls. It’s easy to get turned around inside—photograph where you parked before you start exploring.
After Mesta you can either return to Chios town or continue to Vessa, Nea Moni (an 11th-century monastery and Chios’ only UNESCO site), and the picturesque Chapel of Saint Isidore of Sykiada for sunset views before returning to Chios town.
After returning your car, try one of these dinner spots in Chios town: Streat for burgers and European dishes, Shozo Cafe for meze and late hours, Piperoriza for healthy options, or Chicken Bar for budget-friendly chicken and burgers.
Chios Itinerary DAY 2 — Chios Center
Day 2 is relaxed and focuses on Chios town. This walking tour covers museums, the harbor, and historic sites.
Chios Maritime Museum: Start here to learn about the island’s seafaring past. Then pass by Chios Cathedral on the way to the waterfront promenade for a pleasant walk and café stops.
Shop for Chios specialties—look for mastic products, local jams, and sweets—then visit the Byzantine Museum, located in a former mosque, which showcases artifacts from the Byzantine era.
Stroll along Aplotaria Street for boutiques and ice cream, then enter Chios Castle to explore the walled settlement and walk along parts of the fortifications. Don’t miss the restored Ottoman Baths inside the castle complex.
If you have time and energy, walk north to the historic windmills—great for photos, especially at sunset.
Where to Stay – Hotels on Chios
These recommended hotels are conveniently located near Chios town center, making it easy to explore the island and access car rentals and attractions.
Amalia City Rooms
A family-run hotel with friendly hosts, spacious clean rooms, and views of the port. The owners can assist with car rental recommendations.
Agora Residence
A quiet property in the center with thoughtfully designed rooms and historic charm. Parking is available nearby if you’re touring the island by car.
Chios City Inn
A boutique-style stone house with modern comforts, local breakfast, and welcoming hosts—great for travelers seeking local character with quality amenities.
Urban Apartments
Modern apartments with kitchens and laundry—ideal for families or longer stays. Some options accommodate larger groups and include free public parking nearby.
Archontiko Frideriki Luxury Apartments
A charming, elegant property within walking distance of the center, offering a peaceful stay and on-site parking.
Did You Like This Guide?
We created this Chios itinerary from our personal experience to help you make the most of a short visit. If you found it useful, consider supporting independent travel guides or tipping creators who share free travel resources.
Teşekkür Ederiz! (Thank you!)