Ios Chora Resort Guide

Ios Chora Guide

Introduction

The ancient Greek word ‘Chora’ means ‘space’ or ‘place’ and originally referred to the area governed by a city. Nowadays, it is often used to name the capital of an island, which explains why many islands have a place called Chora. For example, the capital of Naxos is commonly known as Naxos Town but could also be referred to as Chora.

Ios has a quintessential Cycladic Chora, located inland on a hillside at one of the island’s highest points. This charming town is characterized by its whitewashed buildings and narrow, painted streets, typical of the Cyclades Islands. At the top of the hill, three small churches stand alone, providing breathtaking sunset views over the surrounding landscape.

The Chora is easily accessible from the port of Gialos/Ormos by local bus and via a stepped path that takes about 10-15 minutes to climb. Its central location at the midpoint between the port and the main beach resort of Mylopotas makes it a great base if you want maximum convenience and access to the amenities and nightlife that Chora is famous for.

Accommodation

Most accommodation isn’t in central Chora itself but is spread out along the main road west and south of Chora, with a few more upmarket suites and villas on the eastern side close to the iconic windmills. Historically, accommodation in Chora tended to be of the budget variety, catering mostly to younger tourists seeking a close base for late-night partying in the many bars and clubs tucked away in the streets of Chora. However, in recent years several more upmarket hotels have appeared, such as the impressive Liostasi Hotel, keen to capitalise on Ios’ growing popularity and more affluent demographic.

Facilities

Chora offers all of the facilities you would expect from an island capital, with a couple of well-stocked supermarkets (Rollan and Aegeanmarket), a Shell fuel station, lots of restaurants, cafes and shops, and, of course, the array of bars and clubs.

Getting Around

As the island’s capital, it’s easy to get to and from Chora regardless of where you’re heading. The main bus stop is served regularly by busses heading between the port and Mylopotas, as well as those heading to other destinations on the island.

It’s possible to walk from Chora to Mylopotas Beach and the port without too much effort since it’s downhill in both directions. The same can’t be said for the return journey, however, which can be unpleasant in the daytime sun. A stepped path down to the port can be found just north of Sweet Irish Dream and is much quicker than following the winding road. For Mylopotas, you follow the road most of the way but can cut out the final section by taking the path next to Mario’s Restaurant which brings you out next to Ios Palace Hotel at the very northwestern edge of the beach.

Care is needed on the Mylopotas road, as it’s quite narrow in places and does get busy at times with traffic and in particular the local buses.

Summary

We’ve always chosen to stay closer to the beach when visiting Ios, preferring to travel to Chora in the evening to take advantage of its many restaurants and bars. Those who prefer to stay more centrally and travel to the beach will find Chora an ideal location and, with plenty of accommodation to suit a variety of budgets, should have no trouble finding a base here.

Ios Island Guide – Ios Accommodation – Ios Beaches