Chios Island: The Pearl of the Aegean

Chios, neighboring Turkey's Cesme shores, is a mysterious and deep-rooted island famous for its mastic trees (Mastiha) that grow only on this land in the world. The mastic trees covering the south of the island have shaped the life and culture in this region. Managing to stay away from the noisy structure of mass tourism, Chios is perfect for those seeking a quiet, peaceful, and cultural Aegean holiday with its stone paths, windmills, citrus orchards, and historical medieval villages resembling a labyrinth.

To discover the cultural wealth of the island, you should first turn your direction to the Mastihohoria (Mastic Villages) region. The unique village of Pyrgi, whose exterior facades are engraved with geometric black and white patterns called 'Xysta', and the village of Mesta, built of stone in the shape of a labyrinth to protect against pirate attacks, are the most striking places of the island. The 11th-century Nea Moni Monastery, on the UNESCO World Heritage List, dazzles with its gold mosaics. On the coastline, Mavra Volia beach with its volcanic black stones and Karfas beach with its fine sand are the most preferred beauties for swimming.

Regular ferry and fast catamaran services from the Aegean coasts of Turkey to Chios island are the most fun and fastest way to start your holiday. You can reach the island comfortably with flights you can find all year round. To enter Chios island, which is located within the borders of Greece, Turkish citizens must have a valid Schengen visa or a Green Passport. In addition, foreign tourists can easily travel to the island with their valid passports. Before your trip, you can securely purchase current ferry ticket prices and departure times by comparing all companies on Ferrybook. Do not neglect to be present at the port (check-in area) at least 1 hour before the ferry departure time in order not to waste time in customs and passport control lines at the port. You can easily reach all tourist spots on the island using car rental, motorcycle, or bus networks.

Can I go to Chios with a gate visa?
Yes, you can get a gate visa for Chios by submitting the required documents to your agency a few days before your trip.

What to buy from Chios Island?
Jam, liqueur, Turkish delight, cosmetic products, and soaps made from mastic are the most beautiful and authentic souvenirs you can buy from the island.

How is transportation on the island?
Since historical villages (Pyrgi, Mesta) are far from each other and the port, exploring the island by renting a car is the most comfortable method.