Chios Island Complete Travel Guide 2026

Chios Island (Sakız Adası) is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, directly across from Çeşme, Turkey. It's reachable by ferry in just 35 minutes. Known as the Aegean's hidden gem — the world's only mastic production center, UNESCO medieval villages, volcanic black pebble beaches, and rich history.

Quick Facts

Location: North Aegean, Greece
Access: 35 min ferry from Çeşme
Currency: Euro (€)
Language: Greek, English, Turkish
Season: May - October
Visa: Schengen (check status)
Plugs: Type C/F (same as Turkey)
Traffic: Right-hand drive

Guide Contents

How to Get to Chios?

The easiest way to reach Chios from Turkey is the Çeşme-Chios ferry route. Daily services run during summer (May-October), taking 35-45 minutes. One-way tickets cost €25-35. Passport is required for Turkish citizens. Walking onto the ferry and renting a car on the island is the most economical option.

Getting Around the Island

Public transport on Chios is limited. Renting a car is the most practical way to reach beaches and villages. Daily rental prices range from €30-65 with full insurance included. Turkish driving licenses are valid in Greece — no international license needed. Traffic drives on the right, same as Turkey.

Best Beaches

Chios's most famous beach is Mavra Volia — one of the world's rare volcanic beaches with black pebbles and turquoise waters. Karfas is best for families (7km away). Agia Fotini is perfect for diving, and Nagos for a quiet cove. A rental car is essential for beach access.

What to Eat?

Chios cuisine offers the finest examples of Aegean flavors. The island's unique mastic jam and mastic ice cream are must-tries. Fresh seafood, Greek salad, moussaka, souvlaki and local wines are highlights. The mastic village tavernas offer authentic Greek dining experiences.

Explore Chios by Car!

Starting from €30/day — drive freely around the island.

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