Generally, Chios is not a touristy island, so once the travel connoisseurs are offered the chance to visit it; they hardly miss out on it.

Every day itineraries connect Chios with Piraeus port and Lesvos. Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways schedule itineraries with modern ships like Ariadne and Blue Star 1. These ships are equipped with comfortable cabins, air type seats and facilities like bars and restaurants. Normally, there is ship departure planned early in the morning and late at night. The estimated time of travel is about seven hours. Chios is very close to Cesme port (Turkey), so in case you have a valid passport with expiration date at least six months after your date of travel, you may arrange for a day trip to Turkey.

Due to its fertile soil Chios produces wine, ouzo, liqueurs, fruits, olive oil and above all the unique mastic which cannot be produced elsewhere. The travelers’ first impressions once they arrive at the Chora which is also the main port of the island is rather discouraging, but this is not a representative image of the island.

Stroll in the alleys of Kampos, an area close to the Chios capital which is full of mansions surrounded by flourish estates. If you are lucky enough you will arrange your stay at one of these estates which have been turned into accommodation according to fine agritourism standards.

If you wish to discover Chios you will need to rent a car. Enjoy a cup of coffee at Pyrgi village with its unique architecture, get lost in the narrow paths of Mesta, a medieval fortress-shaped village, and take a deep dive at “Mavra Volia”, a fantastic beach with black volcanic sand and deep blue waters.

Do not miss a visit to “Nea Moni”, one of the most historic monasteries in Greece, nether to Anavatos, a deserted medieval village with a Byzantine tower, which remains well-preserved. The village gives the impression of hanging on a cliff.

Visiting Chios during any annual folklore festival would be a nice opportunity to enjoy the traditional delicacies and dances of the locals. Normally, most of the festivals take place on August when the availability on ferry tickets is limited, so you may probably need to book in advance. Check the best ferry tickets options on euroferries.com.