Chios is one of the great undiscovered islands of Greece — large, varied and possessed of a character entirely its own. It is the only place in the world where the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus) produces its precious resin, and this unique product has shaped the island's history, economy and identity for millennia.

The Island

Chios is the fifth-largest Greek island, sitting close to the Turkish coast in the North Aegean. It is a place of extraordinary contrasts: the lush, green north with its citrus groves and medieval villages; the dramatic, rocky south where the mastic trees grow; the elegant capital with its Genoese castle and cosmopolitan waterfront.

Sights and Attractions

The Mastichochoria — the mastic villages of the south — are unlike anything else in Greece. Pyrgi is the most famous, its houses decorated with intricate geometric patterns in black and white (a technique called xysta) that cover every surface. Mesta is a perfectly preserved medieval fortress village, its narrow lanes designed to confuse invaders. Olympi is smaller and quieter, but equally atmospheric.

The Nea Moni Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains some of the finest Byzantine mosaics in the world, dating from the 11th century. The Genoese Castle in Chios Town is one of the best-preserved in the Aegean. The Mastic Museum in Pyrgi tells the story of the island's most famous product with intelligence and style.

Beaches

Chios has excellent beaches, particularly in the south. Mavra Volia near Emporeios is extraordinary — black volcanic pebbles and deep blue water. Karfas north of the capital is the most popular sandy beach. Komi in the south is a long, sandy bay with clear water.

Eating and Drinking

The food on Chios is exceptional. The island is famous for its mastiha products — liqueur, chewing gum, cosmetics — but also for its tangerines, figs and wine. The tavernas in the mastic villages serve traditional dishes with local ingredients. Hotzas in Chios Town is a legendary institution for mezedes and local wine.

How to Get There

Chios has an airport with daily flights from Athens. By sea, it is served by ferry from Piraeus (around 8 hours) and connects to Lesbos, Samos and the Turkish coast.

Best For

Chios suits curious, independent travellers who want to understand Greece beyond the postcard — those interested in history, food, architecture and the living traditions of a proud island community. It is one of the most rewarding destinations in the North Aegean.

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Thinking about Chios? Talk to us — we can build it into a North Aegean itinerary alongside Lesbos and Samos.