This complete Ios travel guide for couples on a budget covers the best things to do, affordable beaches, where to stay, travel costs and money-saving tips for visiting Ios, Greece.
If you’re dreaming of stunning sunsets, lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, is a great choice for couples who want a romantic Greek island without Santorini-level prices! From the moment I stepped off the ferry, I was captivated by its whitewashed villages and beautiful blue-domed churches. I’ve travelled to many Greek islands myself and prefer Ios to Islands like Santorini and Skiathos if you would like an idyllic, traditional and affordable destination.
Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly getaway, a fun island escape or a relaxed beach holiday, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable and affordable trip to Ios.
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Best Time to Visit
If you are interested in visiting Ios for the nightlife the best time would be to visit in peak season, July and August. Drawing in young travellers for the buzzing nightlife.
I would recommend visiting during shoulder season, May, June and September where the weather and sea temperature are still warm and bars and restaurants are all open but slightly less lively. Prices are cheaper too!
Locals have explained that businesses tend to start closing early November and opening again in March/April, closing completely over winter. Weather in March and October still have an average day temperature of 20 degrees if you are just looking for somewhere to relax with a bit of sight seeing.
How to get to Ios
Traveling to Ios, Greece, involves a combination of flights and ferry rides, as the island doesn’t have its own airport. Here’s some further info to help you plan your journey:
1. Fly to Athens or Santorini
- Athens (Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport): Many international airlines operate flights to Athens. From Athens, you’ll need to take a ferry to Ios.
- Santorini (Santorini National Airport): Fly into Santorini, which is closer to Ios. Low-cost airlines like easyJet offer flights to Santorini. easyjet.com
We took a flight to Santorini and spent a few days sight seeing the island before travelling by ferry to Ios.
2. Ferry to Ios
- From Athens (Piraeus Port): Ferries from Piraeus to Ios operate daily. The journey duration varies depending on the ferry type:
- High-Speed Ferries: Approximately 5 hours.Conventional Ferries: Between 7 to 11 hours.
- From Santorini: The ferry ride from Santorini to Ios takes about 35 minutes – 1 hour. This short trip offers stunning views. A return cost around €50, this was in peak season and a specific day so can be cheaper.
Booking Tickets
- Ferry Tickets: I’d advise you to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (July and August), they can sell out and increase in price. You can compare schedules, prices, and book tickets through platforms like Ferryhopper and FerriesinGreece.
Additional Tips
- Travel Authorization: Starting in late 2025, UK travellers will need to apply for a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) authorization before visiting certain countries, including Greece. The application costs €7 and is valid for up to three years.
- Seasonal Variations: Ferry schedules can vary based on the season. Always check the latest timetables and book ahead to ensure availability.
Getting Around
Ios is a fairly small island and getting around is quite simple with most places close together. Buses run between the main areas or rent a scooter or car if you would like to see more of the island
- Local bus (KTEL) – The bus service departs regularly from the port, in peak season buses to main towns and beaches such as Chora, Myloptas run every 20 minutes. The frequency and times do change so make sure you check the schedule. Tickets start at €2.
- Rent a scooter or car – Renting is great for being able to see the island at your own pace, visiting more remote beaches in an adventurous way. there are many companies at the port and book online in advance for the best price. You must have a valid drivers licence for any rentals and be over 21 for car rentals with an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
- Taxis – There are a limited number of taxis in Ios, I recommend you booking in advance. The taxis are found at the port or ask your reception desk in advance if you need one booked from the hotel. I recommend skip them if you can!
- Water taxi – During the summer, water taxis operate between popular beaches, offering an enjoyable mode of transport.
Things to See and Do
1. Visit the Beaches
Mylopotas Beach is the most popular on the island, popular but not overly busy it is great for sports such as snorkelling and windsurfing. Arrive before lunch to get the best spot, Mylopotas beach is around 1km long so there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants along the front with that perfect view. For those budget travellers there is a corner shop and unorganised space for those who’d like to bring there own things.
2. Visit the Main Town, Chora
The main town of Ios, Chora, is vibrant and stunning with the whitewashed architecture and blue-domed churches, perched on a hill just a 5-minute drive or bus ride from the harbour where ferries arrive.
By day, have a leisurely stroll down the narrow, cobblestone streets browsing the boutiques, cozy cafés, and traditional tavernas. After sunset the town comes alive and by midnight, the energy shifts, and Chora transforms into a party hotspot, with clubs opening their doors and the music lasting until dawn.
3. See Homer’s Tomb
Ios is believed to be Homer’s final resting place, with his tomb just 30 minutes from Chora in a valley of olive trees and vineyards. Though just a simple headstone, the panoramic Aegean views make it worth the visit. Best of all, it’s free, and renting an ATV (€26/day) is a great way to explore the island on the way there.
4. Visit the Odysseas Elytis Theatre
The Odysseas Elytis Amphitheater, named after the famous Greek poet, is a stunning open-air venue built in 1997 in the style of an ancient Greek theatre. It hosts cultural events, from concerts to the Homeria Festival honoring Homer. Even if there’s no event during your visit, it’s worth the short walk from Chora for the breath taking sea views alone.
5. Walk Along the Port
Visit the Ios port for a laid-back start to your day for a nice stroll. Grab a frappé or ice cream, browse Votsalo boutique for Greek designer beachwear, or simply enjoy the relaxed seaside vibe before your ferry or boat tour.
Daytrips and Boat trips
Exploring Ios by boat is a must! From hidden and secluded beaches to nearby islands, there are plenty of exciting boat tours and day trips to choose from. Boat trips in Ios are great as many of the beaches are secluded so a day trip will give you a well-rounded experience.
- Magganari Beach Tour – Cruise along the coast to the Magganari beach with crystal-clear waters and golden sand.
- Ios Sunset Cruise – Experience the Aegean sunset on a traditional boat.
- Sikinos Island Day Trip – A short boat ride takes you to Sikinos, a quiet, authentic Greek island perfect for exploring. – Popular day trip!
- Hidden Coves & Snorkelling – Discover secluded beaches, sea caves, and snorkelling spots only accessible by boat.
Most tours depart from Ios Port, with prices starting around €30-€80 per person. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, a boat trip from Ios is the perfect way to soak in the island’s beauty! Also have a look on Get Your Guide for price comparisons!
Many people wish to travel to a nearby island after visiting Ios, some of the most popular Islands are Paros, Naxos and Mykonos all reached by direct ferry. You are able to get to Naxos in around 40 minutes, ferries leaving 3 to 4 times a day in peak season. With plenty to do for everyone due to the size of the island visit archaeological sites, traditional villages, beautiful villages its great for a short visit!
Where to Eat and Drink
Ios has fantastic food I definitely made the most of eating here! Offering everything from traditional Greek tavernas to trendy beachfront restaurants. The prices are very reasonable especially if you compare to islands such as Mykonos. A few restaurants we visited and loved which were also recommended to us:
- The Nest (Chora) – A cozy, family-run taverna serving authentic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood. Perfect for a traditional meal in a warm atmosphere.
- Drakos Taverna (Mylopotas Beach) – A seafood lover’s paradise! This seaside taverna is famous for its grilled octopus, fresh fish, and seafood pasta.
- Sainis (Chora) – Greek Traditional Cuisine Meze and Tapas, very traditional and recommended by locals. We had to book in advance here, excellent prices, couldn’t finish it all! (The 1st photo shown above)
Ios Nightlife
Ios is famous for it’s nightlife but does suit everyone at anytime of the day or night, with cocktail bars, laid-back pubs, beach parties and clubs. The island does come alive after dark, with clubs, and beach parties that go until sunrise. Here are some popular spots:
- Far Out Beach Club (Mylopotas Beach) – The ultimate day-to-night party spot, with DJs, pool parties, and beachfront vibes. A must-visit for those who love big crowds and high-energy music, events in high season and pool with free sunbeds.
- Steps Bar (Chora) – A unique, distinctive street bar, with pillows, homemade carpets and candles covering the steps to the windmill it gives the vibe of a theatrical play.
- Helios (Chora) – With a love for rock music we found our favourite bar, a local bar with great music and lovely people we went back every night to see again.
Where to Stay in Ios: Best Areas & Hotels for Every Budget
Choosing the right place to stay in Ios depends on your budget, travel style and how lively or relaxed you want your trip to be. For couples travelling on a budget, Ios offers a great mix of affordable hotels, romantic boutique stays and beachside accomodation without Santorini-level prices.
🏨Best areas to stay in Ios
Chora (Ios Town) – Best for couples who want restaurants, nightlife, sunset views and easy access to shops and bars. It’s lively in the evening but still has quieter boutique hotel options.
Mylopotas Beach – Perfect for couples who want to stay close to the beach. Great for relaxing days, beach bars and water sports, with easy bus access to Chora.
Manganari Beach – Best for couples seeking peace, nature and a more romantic, secluded stay. Ideal if you want fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
🏨Budget Accommodation in Ios
If you’re travelling affordably, Ios has excellent low-cost stays that still offer comfort and great locations.
Hermes-Ios Rooms To Let – Where we stayed, would really recommend
A fantastic budget-friendly option with beautiful sea views, a social atmosphere, themed nights and a great location close to Chora. Rooms from around £40 per night for a double which is ideal for couples.
Popular for budget travellers and younger couples, located near Mylopotas Beach with a lively, social atmosphere. From £30 per night per tent in August
Affordable, simple and well-located, offering great value for travellers who want to save money.
A budget-friendly and centrally located choice near Chora, perfect for exploring town on foot.
Mid-Range Hotels in Ios (Best Value for Couples)
If you want more comfort without overspending, these mid-range hotels offer great value:
- Boutique hotels in Chora with sunset views
- Stylish hotels near Mylopotas Beach
- Small romantic hotels with balconies and pools
- Try Seabreeze Hotel Ios ‘Exceptional’ 3* hotel with infinity pool, sea view room and able to walk both to the port and into Chora. From £485 per week in May
These are ideal for couples wanting a comfortable but an affordable stay.
Luxury & Romantic Hotels in Ios (For Special Trips)
If you want a romantic or special occasion stay:
- Boutique luxury hotels with private pools
- Sea-view suites perfect for couples
- Quiet hotels in Manganari Beach for privacy and relaxation
- Try Calma Ios, Villa for up to 5 people with private pool. Located in Chora and in walking reach of a beach and restaurants. Recommended to rent a car if you’re coming for a week. From £1435 per week in May
These are great for anniversaries, honeymoons or romantic escapes.
Ios Travel FAQ’s
☀️Is Ios expensive? – Ios can be affordable with budget accommodation and local dining.
☀️Is Ios just a party island? – No, it also offers peaceful beaches and romantic spots. We visited last week in August and didn’t realise it was a party island until late at night, make what you want of the island!
☀️How many days do you need in Ios? – 3-5 days is ideal for most travellers or enjoy a relaxing week away in Greece.
☀️Is Ios better than Santorini? – Ios is cheaper and more relaxed, while Santorini is more luxury-focused.
☀️Is Ios good for couples? – Yes, it’s great for both romance and fun
Summary:
Ios, Greece, is packed with stunning beaches, nightlife, history, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or party, this I hope this guide has had everything you need to book your unforgettable trip!
Looking for somewhere else to travel in Greece? Read Is Santorini Expensive? Budget Travel as a Couple
