Flip-Flops, Ferries & Feta: Island-Hopping in Greece
- shannastewart4443
- Aug 22
- 17 min read
“To meander at a leisurely pace through these island chains by boat is to be captivated by the same dramatic landscapes and enchanted islets that make the myths of ancient Greece so compelling.” – Laura Brooks
Island hopping in Greece is more than a vacation—it’s a mythic voyage through time, tides, and timeless beauty. From the slow-living rhythms of Ikaria, where locals defy the clock and longevity is a way of life, to the sun-drenched shores of Paros, with its charming villages and golden beaches, each island offers a distinct flavor of the Aegean. Milos stuns with lunar landscapes and hidden coves, while Folegandros whispers serenity from its cliffside paths and quiet authenticity. Ios pulses with youthful energy and secret hideaways, and Anafi, the most elusive of the bunch, rewards the curious with raw, untouched beauty and starlit solitude. Together, these islands form a mosaic of Greek magic—where ferries become flying carpets and every port is a portal to another world.
Best time to visit the Greek Isles:
The best time to visit the Greek islands—especially gems like Ikaria, Paros, Mykonos, Milos, Folegandros, and Ios—is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to early June) and early fall (September to early October)
Our journey includes:
Getting There:
Fly into Athens International Airport. The journey begins in Athens. From there you will charter a ferry to Icaria.
For more on Athens, see my post: https://www.wanderlusttravelbucketlist.com/post/top-destinations-in-2024
🚢 Ferry Details:
• Departure Port: Piraeus (Athens)
• Arrival Ports on Ikaria: Evdilos and Agios Kirykos
• Ferry Companies: Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways
• Frequency: Up to 7 times per week in summer
• Duration: Approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on the route and stops
• Ticket Prices: Start around €43–€59, depending on the season and port
If you're staying near Armenistis, arriving at Evdilos is ideal—it’s only a 20-minute drive, compared to 1.5 hours from Agios Kirykos.
Ikaria
Traveling to Ikaria, Greece is like stepping into a world where time slows down and life is savored with intention. Nestled in the northern Aegean Sea, this rugged, serene island is famed not only for its dramatic landscapes and pristine beaches but also for its residents’ extraordinary longevity—Ikaria is one of the world’s few Blue Zones, where people routinely live into their 90s.
Where to stay in Ikaria:
Covos Bay Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Gracefully standing on the edge of one of the most beautiful sea-beaten rocky cliffs of Armenistis bay, with a stunning panoramic view to the archipelago and the neighboring islands, Cavos Bay Hotel & Studios nestles in perfect harmony with the landscape. Built in a traditional style, embellished with chiseled stone, displaying wooden banisters and canopies in its design, and embedded ceramic details in its décor, the hotel emanates a carefree atmosphere that encourages its guests to relax and enjoy a unique accommodation experience in Ikaria. The Bar is open from morning till midnight, offering you a selection of snacks, different types of coffee, beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and -of course- cocktails. Sit back in the comfortable chair, relax, savor a drink, and enjoy the breathtaking sunset view, in a journey of the senses!
Karras' Star Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Welcome to Karras’ Star Hotel in the green village Avlaki, on Ikaria Island, ideally located close to golden beaches and stunning villages. Newly renovated and elegant, Karras’ Star Hotel has firmly established itself as one of the best in Ikaria with great views being offered from the stunning pool.
You can use the hotel as your wedding venue or as your base to explore the island and engage in fascinating activities ranging from hiking, surfing and bouldering to yoga, meditation, wine tasting as well as cooking and dance lessons.
Pantheon Apartments
3-Star Hotel
Welcome to Pantheon Apartments, ideally located just 9.7 kilometers from the airport for your convenience. The proximity ensures that you can easily access the comfortable accommodations shortly after your arrival.
The vibrant city center is a brief 5-minute journey from the apartments, perfect for exploring local attractions. For your daily needs, a supermarket is just 300 meters away, and the notable House/Museum of Venizelos is only 1 kilometer distant, enriching your stay with cultural possibilities. At Pantheon Apartments, comfort and convenience effortlessly meet.
Things to do in Ikaria:
🏖️ Nature & Beaches
• Seychelles Beach: Turquoise waters, dramatic rock formations, and a secluded vibe make this a must-see.
• Nas Beach: Nestled near ancient ruins and a river, it’s perfect for sunsets, swimming, and nearby tavernas.
• Halari Gorge Hike: A lush trail with waterfalls, stone bridges, and panoramic views.
🧘♀️ Wellness & Longevity
• Therma Hot Springs: Natural thermal baths with therapeutic properties—Ikaria is one of the world’s Blue Zones.
• Forest Pilates & Longevity Tours: Join wellness-focused excursions that blend nature, movement, and local wisdom.
🍷 Culinary & Cultural
• Afianes Winery: Tour a family-run vineyard, taste organic wines, and learn about ancient winemaking techniques.
• Cooking Classes: Dive into Ikarian cuisine with hands-on lessons using local herbs and ingredients.
• Panigyria Festivals: Traditional village celebrations with music, dancing, and feasting—especially vibrant in summer.
🏛️ Villages & History
• Christos Raches: A mountain village famous for its late-night lifestyle and bohemian charm.
• Agios Kirykos: The island’s capital, great for seaside strolls, cafes, and nightlife.
• Temple of Artemis: Explore ancient ruins and archaeological sites that whisper Ikaria’s mythic past.
🚶♀️ Adventure & Exploration
• Hiking Tours: Join guided hikes through forests, gorges, and coastal trails with local experts like Ikarian Footprints.
• Boat Trips: Sail to hidden coves and beaches, often paired with lunch and snorkeling.
Mykonos
Mykonos is one of Greece’s most iconic islands—famous for its glamorous beach clubs, Cycladic architecture, and vibrant nightlife, but it also offers serene corners and cultural depth if you know where to look.
Getting There from Ikaria:
🚢 Ferry Details: Ikaria to Mykonos
• Departure Ports: Evdilos (north Ikaria)
• Agios Kirykos (south Ikaria)
• Operators: Blue Star Ferries, Seajets
• Frequency: Up to 4 crossings per week in summer
• Around 1–2 per week in quieter seasons
• Duration: Fastest ferry: 2h 5m from Evdilos
• Average: 2h 30m to 3h depending on port and operator
• Price: Around €13.50 to €13.70 ($15–$16 USD) for economy tickets
Where to stay in Mykonos:
Ostraco Suites
4-Star Hotel
As a travel destination Mykonos is certainly no well-kept secret, its streets and beaches often crowded with throngs of tourists. Novelty isn’t everything, though, and the considerable natural charms of the Greek islands are still there to be experienced, if you know where to look.
And you don’t have to go far to get away from it all. High on a hillside above the city center you’ll find the Ostraco Suites, a stunning complex of 21 whitewashed suites with an astonishing view of the Aegean and the sort of private and insular atmosphere that only a small family-owned hotel can provide. It’s anything but old-fashioned, though — Ostraco has kept pace with the times, switching over to solar heating and adding massage, personal training and yoga instruction on request.
Each suite is individually decorated, stylish, contemporary rather than modern. Here white-on-white isn’t a design conceit but a nod to tradition, and hand-crafted beds and antique flourishes sit comfortably alongside sleek modern pieces and smart tiled bathrooms. Kitchenettes are standard, and the “executive” suites, despite the name, seem built for relaxation, complete with outdoor Jacuzzis.
The fact that there are not one but two wedding chapels on-site should give you some idea of what kind of place Ostraco is. Mykonos’s town and beaches are easily accessible, but a visit is by no means obligatory — for many, the hotel’s poolside bar and organic Greek restaurant are the perfect alternative to the bars and clubs in town.
Myconian Panoptis Escape
5-Star Hotel
Like its sister hotels, Myconian Panoptis Escape is a luxurious escape with dazzling sea views — in this case, 360-degree panoramas over Elia Beach and the bright blue Aegean from its clifftop perch. What further sets it apart is an air of exclusivity, thanks in part to the attentive butlers (or Artisans, as they’re called) that serve the hotel’s 21 stylish villas around the clock. Modern and boho-chic, the villas are outfitted with everything you could possibly need, and many have private pools or outdoor Jacuzzis facing the water. A large saltwater infinity pool and sanctuary-like spa offer additional space for relaxing like a Greek god or goddess.
Kalesma Mykonos
5-Star Hotel
Mykonos is already as desirable as any destination in the Mediterranean, and the luxe and alarmingly stylish Kalesma only raises the stakes. It’s set on a hilltop on the island’s west side, fifteen minutes from town, and feels like a private refuge — one whose suites and villas pay tribute to classic Cycladic architecture as well as modern interior design, and feature Rick Owens furnishings among their adornments.
There’s nothing smaller here than a one-bedroom suite, complete with a walk-in shower, a separate freestanding bath, another (outdoor) shower, and a private heated infinity pool, as well as an outdoor kitchen. From there the suites and villas only grow larger and more extravagant, culminating in the seven-bedroom Kalesma Leto Villa, practically a hotel within the hotel.
Kalesma Mykonos is also home to a spa in collaboration with Dr. Barbara Sturm; yoga and Pilates sessions are available as well. And there’s a decided focus on the other kind of restoration; the primary restaurant, Pere Ubu Mykonos, is joined by a poolside bar, a tavern-style restaurant called Kuveda, and the Aloni Sunset Lounge.
Things to do in Mykonos:
Mykonos offers a dazzling mix of glamour, tradition, and natural beauty. Whether you're chasing sunsets, history, or beachside bliss, here are some of the top things to do:
🏛️ Cultural & Historic Highlights
• Explore Mykonos Town (Hora): Wander through whitewashed alleys, boutique shops, and charming squares.
• Visit the Windmills: Iconic 16th-century structures overlooking the sea—perfect for sunset photos.
• Panagia Paraportiani: A stunning whitewashed church complex, one of the most photographed in Greece.
• Day Trip to Delos: Sail to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage island, rich in ancient ruins and mythology.
🏖️ Beaches & Coastal Fun
• Psarou Beach: Chic and upscale, ideal for lounging and celebrity spotting.
• Super Paradise & Paradise Beach: Legendary party beaches with DJs and vibrant energy.
• Agios Sostis & Fokos: Tranquil, untouched beaches for a peaceful escape.
🍷 Culinary & Nightlife
• Matogianni Street: The heart of Mykonos Town, filled with tavernas, bars, and designer shops.
• Beach Clubs: Nammos, Scorpios, and others offer gourmet dining, cocktails, and sunset vibes.
• Local Cuisine: Try kopanisti cheese, louza (cured pork), and fresh seafood at traditional tavernas.
🚶♀️ Off-the-Beaten Path
• Village Life: Explore the hilly interior and quiet villages for a slower, authentic pace.
• Farm Visits & Dairies: Discover Mykonos’ agricultural side with cheese tastings and local produce.
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, snorkeling, and catamaran cruises around the island’s coastline.
Paros
Paros is a dazzling Cycladic island in the heart of the Aegean Sea, known for its whitewashed villages, golden beaches, and vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. It’s a perfect blend of tradition, natural beauty, and modern indulgence.
Getting there from Mykonos:
⛴️ Ferry Info
• Duration: 40 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
• Season: March to November (peak in summer)
• Frequency: Up to 7 ferries/day in high season
• Operators: SeaJets, Golden Star, Fast Ferries, Blue Star
• Cost: €30–€60 per person; vehicles extra
• Departure Port: Mykonos New Port (Tourlos)
• Booking: Use Ferryhopper or Ferryscanner for schedules and tickets
Where to stay in Paros:
Angel's Pillow
3-Star Hotel
Angels Pillow in Paros is a dreamy adults-only boutique residence tucked into the heart of Naoussa, one of the island’s most charming and cosmopolitan villages. If you’re craving a blend of Cycladic elegance and modern luxury, this place delivers in spades.
Lilly Residence
4-Star Hotel
Lilly Residence – All Sea View Suites is a luxurious, adults-only boutique hotel located in Naoussa, Paros, just steps from the beach and a short walk to the town’s vibrant center.
Highlights
• Adults Only: Designed for tranquility and romance
• All Suites with Sea Views: Private balconies, whitewashed Cycladic architecture, and Aegean panoramas
• Luxury Amenities:
• Heated infinity pool with glass wall
• Moët & Chandon breakfast buffet
• Hermes® bath products
• Twice-daily maid service & turndown
• Airport/port transfers
• Location: 4-minute walk to Naoussa’s restaurants, bars, and boutiques
Cove Paros
5-Star Hotel
None of the Cyclades is an undiscovered secret, but Paros is quieter than some of its neighbors, and a hotel like Cove Paros does nothing to disturb that tranquility. It’s set just above the cove that gives it its name, and comprises some 45 luxurious, contemporary suites, each one provided with lavish bathrooms and plentiful outdoor lounge space — and the five signature suites come with private pools. The rest of the guests make do with the hotel’s impressive infinity pool, or find their way to the beach club for a sunset cocktail followed by dinner at RADA, the hotel’s impressive seaside restaurant.
Things to do in Paros:
🏛️ Cultural & Historical Gems
• Panagia Ekatontapiliani: A stunning 4th-century Byzantine church in Parikia, known as the “Church of a Hundred Doors”.
• Explore Parikia: The island’s capital is a maze of whitewashed alleys, Venetian architecture, and waterfront cafés.
• Lefkes Village: A serene mountain village with cobbled streets, traditional homes, and panoramic views.
🏖️ Beaches & Nature
• Kolymbithres Beach: Famous for its sculpted granite formations and calm turquoise waters.
• Golden Beach: Ideal for windsurfing and water sports.
• Santa Maria Beach: Great for snorkeling and laid-back beach vibes.
• Butterfly Valley: A shaded nature reserve with fluttering butterflies in summer.
🚤 Island Hopping & Sea Adventures
• Sail the Small Cyclades: Charter a boat or join a tour to explore hidden coves and nearby islands.
• Day Trip to Antiparos: Just a short ferry ride away, offering sea caves and a charming village.
• Excursions to Mykonos, Santorini, or Naxos: Easy to arrange from Paros for a taste of other Cycladic icons.
🍷 Local Flavor & Experiences
• Visit a Winery: Sample Parian wines and learn about local viticulture.
• Attend a Festival: Summer brings music, dance, and religious celebrations across the island.
• Fine Dining in Naoussa: Chic tavernas and seafood spots with sunset views.
For more on Paros, see my post: https://www.wanderlusttravelbucketlist.com/post/explore-the-world-s-best-kept-secrets-travel-dupes-for-every-bucket-list
Milos
Visiting Milos, Greece is like stepping into a natural sculpture garden carved by volcanoes and kissed by the Aegean. This Cycladic island is a rising star among Greek destinations—less crowded than Santorini or Mykonos, but every bit as breathtaking.
Getting there from Paros:
⛴️ Ferry Duration: Around 1.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on the type (high-speed vs. conventional).
🚢 Operators: Mainly Seajets (fast) and Blue Star Ferries (slower but scenic).
📅 Frequency: Daily in summer, fewer trips in the off-season.
💶 Cost: Ranges from €12 to €80, based on speed and seating.
📍 Departure/Arrival: From Parikia (Paros) to Adamantas (Milos).
🧭 Booking Tip: Use sites like Ferryhopper or Ferryscanner, and book early in peak season.
Where to stay in Milos:
Villa Sosanna
3-Star Hotel
Welcome to Villa Sosanna in Pollonia on Milos island. Enjoy the sea breeze and the beautiful colors of the sunset! The hotel offers high-quality services according to the well-known Greek hospitality for over 15 years and has therefore been highly recommended by Routard, Kykladen, and TripAdvisor.
Noma Milos
5-Star Hotel
Perched high over the Aegean on a remote stretch of the island’s southern coastline, Noma Milos is a sophisticated and sustainably built boutique hotel with sweeping water views. Rooms and suites are modern and high-ceilinged, outfitted in calming earth tones, with private sea-facing patios and minimalist furnishings in wood, stone, and clay. It’s a place designed for romantic getaways — each room has a single king-sized bed, and no children are allowed — and apart from a massage or a wine tasting, there's nothing to do except lounge around and enjoy the idyllic surroundings. When temptation strikes to dip in the crystalline water in the distance, the nearest beach is just a few minutes’ drive down the hill.
Domes White Coast Milos
5-Star Hotel
If Greek-island luxury hospitality sometimes feels formulaic, it’s because the formula is just about perfect: luxe accommodations, ocean views, Mediterranean flavors, and an atmosphere that’s laid all the way back. The best hotels in the genre excel because of the details, and in the case of Domes White Coast Milos it might be the modernist simplicity of the design that sets it apart, above all else; it looks fantastic, and it’s got everything else taken care of, from the private pools that come with each unit to the open-air restaurant on the terrace overlooking the ever-impressive Aegean seascape.
The views here are nothing short of extraordinary; the Sea View units look out over a 180-degree coastal panorama, and the public spaces are similarly well endowed. The en-suite plunge pools are supplemented by a central swimming pool, and the beach lies just a few minutes’ walk away. Meanwhile the restaurant is sister to the highly regarded MAKRIS Athens.
Things to do in Milos:
🌋 Explore the Landscape
• Wander through Sarakiniko, a surreal moonscape of bone-white rock and turquoise water.
• Sail to Kleftiko, a legendary pirate hideout with sea caves and towering cliffs—only accessible by boat.
🏖️ Beach Bliss
• Swim at Papafragas Caves, a natural pool framed by dramatic rock formations.
• Relax on colorful beaches like Firiplaka, Tsigrado, and Provatas, each with its own unique vibe.
🏛️ Culture & Villages
• Stroll through Plaka, the island’s hilltop capital, with sunset views and Cycladic charm.
• Visit Klima, a postcard-perfect fishing village with rainbow-hued boathouses.
• Discover ancient history at the Catacombs, Ancient Theater, and the site where the Venus de Milo was found.
🚤 Adventures & Activities
• Take a boat tour around the island to reach hidden coves and snorkel in crystal waters.
• Hike coastal trails or rent an ATV to explore Milos’s rugged interior.
Folegrandos
Folegandros is a Cycladic gem that feels like a secret whispered among seasoned travelers. With just over 12 square miles of rugged cliffs, quiet beaches, and whitewashed villages, it’s the kind of place where time slows down and every sunset feels cinematic.
Getting there from Milos:
Ferry Options
⏱️ Duration: 55 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the ferry type
🚢 Operators: SeaJets (fast), Blue Star, Fast Ferries, ANEK (slower, more spacious)
📅 Frequency: 3–7 times per week, with daily service in summer
💰 Prices: €7–€50 depending on speed and season
📍 Ports: Departs from Adamas (Milos), arrives at Karavostasis (Folegandros)
Where to stay in Folegrandos:
Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites
3-Star Hotel
Every moment at Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites is a new experience, a chance for something new, for something unique. Indulge in a luxury beachfront retreat in view of the endless sea while listening to the sound of its whispers. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean and pump up your adrenaline with exciting water sports adventures. Try the specialties of the local cuisine and discover the island’s secrets on daily excursions through magical landscapes to its golden shores, sites and attractions. Enjoy a series of exciting sunset cruises, boat excursions and helicopter transfers.
Anemi Hotel
5-Star Hotel
One must be at least somewhat comfortable with minimalism to appreciate the landscape of the Cyclades — stark cliffs, stark sky, stark sea — and the region’s architecture, with its white walls and simple, squared forms, was minimalist before the concept had a name. It’s a formula that can’t miss, just about anywhere in the Greek islands, but Folegandros, a relatively remote little speck of a place, offers up some of the most breathtaking emptiness in the whole archipelago.
ANEMI’s forty-four rooms, while extremely comfortable, are a studied (and decidedly modern) arrangement in spare luxury. The bright whiteness of the bedroom is offset only by large-scale artworks over your bed and the view of the bay of Karavostasis beyond your verandah. Restroom fixtures are beautifully utilitarian with modern tile work worthy of your vacation photo album. All rooms are equipped with kitchens and can make for a luxurious home away from home, and a couple of suites also boast private personal swimming pools, which make leaving almost entirely unnecessary.
But the island’s beaches and cliffs will inevitably draw you out, and after a day spent in this vast outdoor luxury, ANEMI’s restaurant will likely draw you back. Mediterranean flavors in modern arrangements can really only get better when enjoyed slowly beneath your own private trellis, maybe even with your toes dipped in a saltwater pool. So begins the cycle of the Cyclades, and with the help of ANEMI’s minimalist décor, minimalist demands and maximalist luxury, you’ll be happy to linger for quite a while.
Gundari
5-Star Hotel
Rising up from the Aegean Sea between the Cycladic islands of Santorini, Milos, and Paros is the much less-frequented Folegandros. It’s known for its wild beauty and dramatic landscapes, and Gundari was designed to match the rugged scenery. Raw luxury is the guiding principle: this clifftop property itself is large and windswept, occupying 80 acres on the island’s southern coast. The resort’s low-lying architecture, sustainably built with rock excavated from the site, barely disrupts the contours of the land, and the interiors are outfitted in earth tones and natural materials, including stone, straw, and timber.
Onto the luxury part: despite the expansive grounds, the resort has just 27 suites and villas, and even the simplest option is remarkably roomy. Every suite has as much outdoor space as indoor, with sleeping and living areas opening seamlessly onto private terraces with infinity pools and staggering views of the sea. There’s lounge space for sunbathing or relaxing in the shade, not to mention outdoor rain showers for rinsing off afterward. The look may be nature-inspired, even rustic, but the bathrooms are marble and the sound system is first-rate; the designers bring a touch of urban gloss from Athens. Higher-level cave suites are even more impressive with their cliffside positions and extras like double rain showers, vintage turntables with records, and stocked cocktail bars for shaking up drinks by the pool. Villas come with extra-large infinity pools.
With views like these from one's private deck and pool, it’s easy to stay put all day. But Gundari also has a larger infinity pool with a swim-up bar, a gorgeous indoor-outdoor spa, and a contemporary Greek farm-to-table restaurant with ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic garden.
Things to do in Folegrandos:
🏝️ Folegandros
Wander through the island’s whitewashed villages, hike dramatic cliffside paths, and soak in the peaceful, uncrowded vibe that makes Folegandros a true hidden gem.
🌊 Katergo Beach
Accessible by boat or a scenic hike, this beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and raw, untouched beauty—perfect for a tranquil swim or sunbathing in solitude.
🌅 Aspropounta Lighthouse
Set on a rugged cliff, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Aegean and is a magical spot for sunset lovers and photographers.
⛪ Church of Panagia (Virgin Mary) Folegandros
Perched above Chora, this iconic church rewards visitors with sweeping views and a peaceful atmosphere—especially stunning at sunset.
🏖️ Hohlidia Beach
Located near the port of Karavostasis, this beach is ideal for a relaxed swim before or after your ferry ride, with calm waters and easy access.
🏰Castle of Folegandros
Explore the medieval heart of Chora, where narrow alleys and ancient architecture tell stories of centuries past. It’s one of the oldest castle districts in the Cyclades.
Ios
Ios is a scenic Cycladic island known for its whitewashed houses, clifftop villages, cobblestone alleys, and stunning beaches. It blends youthful energy with traditional charm, making it a favorite for both party-goers and laid-back travelers.
Getting there from Folegrandos:
⏱️ Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
• 🚢 Operators: SeaJets, Fast Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, Maistros Santorini
• 📅 Frequency: Daily service, with 6–7 crossings per week year-round
• 💶 Prices: Start at €5.50, with high-speed options costing more
• 📍 Ports: Departs from Karavostasis (Folegandros) and arrives at Ios Port
Where to stay in Ios:
Avanti Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Ios Hotel ,Avanti is an intimate small luxury Ios hotel located in the heart of Ios Greece, at the famous Chora.
This Ios Chora Hotel is peacefully located in the upper part of the town of Ios island, offering splendid views of Ios town and partly of the Aegean Sea.
Ios Hotel Avanti comprises of 17 spacious, private rooms each one created with an individual minimal style and elegance, the ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday.
The friendly and welcoming staff of Ios Avanti Hotel in Chora Ios, the beautiful ambience created with little corners full of flowers, the relaxing pool area, the mini mal decoration and the splendid views of the town will add a feeling of privacy and calmness to the guest thus create a memorable holiday experience.
From its colorful surroundings, its minimal design and its inviting common areas, Hotel Avanti in Ios is the perfect point from which you are able to enjoy the breathtaking views of Ios chora and the enchanting beauty of the Aegean.
Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Just ten minutes from the port of Ios, overlooking one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of the island, this is paradise on earth. Created to offer an experience that will linger in your memory, the new Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel, nestled above the beach of Mylopotas, welcomes you.
True to the Cycladic tradition and architecture, the rooms, suites and maisonettes in our hotel are inspired by the island’s charms and combine the sparkling white of the Cyclades with the modern facilities and services sought by modern travelers.
Liostasi Hotel
5-Star Hotel
The Cycladic island of Ios is perhaps a touch less famous than some of its neighbors, but scarcely less spectacular, and the uncommon stylishness of Liostasi Hotel & Suites makes a compelling case. It’s perhaps not as isolated as some island luxury boutique hotels, but the convenience of its location, a short walk from town, is undeniable. And the experience from within Liostasi’s grounds is as sedate as you want to make it — though it overlooks the town and the harbor from its terraced pool deck, its resort-like atmosphere makes staying in an attractive option indeed.
In the interiors you’ll find a style that marries rough-edged rustic touches with the polished sheen of urban boutique-hotel design, as well as a wealth of unusual contemporary artworks. Every unit has a balcony or a terrace with a view, and a couple of the suites come with plunge pools. And the common spaces are equally appealing, from the main pool to the Elemis spa to Cine Liostasi, the hotel’s open-air cinema, and the poolside Grandma’s Restaurant, an award-winning Greek eatery whose menu is substantially more modern than its name might lead you to believe.
Things to do in Ios:
🏖️ Beach Escapes
Relax on stunning beaches like Mylopotas and Manganari, known for their golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're sunbathing, swimming, or paddleboarding, these shores are unforgettable.
🏛️ Culture & History
Explore the ancient ruins of Skarkos, a well-preserved prehistoric site, and visit Homer’s Tomb, a legendary spot said to be the resting place of the famed poet.
🌅 Sunset & Scenery
Climb to the Church of Agia Irini or the hilltop Chora for panoramic sunset views over the Aegean. The island’s windmills and cliffside paths offer perfect photo ops.
🚤 Adventure & Fun
Take a boat tour to hidden coves, rent an ATV to explore the island, or join a bar crawl in Chora for a taste of Ios’s lively nightlife.
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