Soak up the beauty of the Aegean's party island
Sitting smack in the middle of the Aegean Sea, picture-perfect Ios in the Cyclades islands is as breathtaking as they come. Popular with a young, lively crowd thanks to its world-renowned party scene, Ios offers so much more than just some of Greece's best nightlife. An Ios vacation rental also puts prime water sports and killer sunsets in your backyard. With a permanent population of just over 2,000, you'll have no problem finding a secluded beach to call your own. Add to that the unending charm of the village of Chola, and there's something to please everyone in your travel crew.
The most charming "capital city" you ever did see
When you picture what a small Greek island village should look like, you're likely imagining Chora. With whitewashed windmills, winding paths, and narrow staircases, it's just made for wandering and getting lost (don't forget your camera). Chapels and quaint houses are mixed in with boutiques and bars on the narrow streets that climb up from the sea. The best place to take it all in is from Panagia Gremiotissa church, the village's highest point. Be sure to catch a concert or play at the open-air Odysseas Elytis amphitheater. There are even ruins of a Venetian castle nearby.
From cold drinks to chilling out, there's a beach for that
There's no question that the beach rules the scene on Ios. With miles and miles of sandy coastline to choose from, you have your pick of joining the action or relaxing in solitude. Mylopotas is where the pretty young people come to party, starting midday and going till the wee hours. It also offers plenty of water sports for the young and old alike (although you'll find more in Ormos). If kicking back is more your speed, there are countless postcard-worthy nooks that are perfect for doing just that. Shutterbugs will want to spend a day wandering the streets of Chora.
The only white stuff here is the sand and buildings
Ios vacation rentals are in highest demand in the warm summer months, particularly from July to September, when high temperatures are pleasantly in the 80s, making for prime beach-going and partying weather. You'll also enjoy comfortable water temps in the 70s. In the cooler months of December through April, overnight lows tend to drop down to the mid- to upper 50s, so you might want a light jacket or sweater. You'll also see the most rain that time of year, peaking in January, though there's almost no chance you'll see snow.
So many more hills than you'd expect on such a small island
Expect to get plenty of exercise when you head to an Ios vacation rental, because you'll find hills everywhere. On all sides, you'll see steep cliffs descending to the sea below. But don't worry, there are plenty of pristine sandy stretches sprinkled along the rocky coastline too for relaxing. Measuring just about 42 square miles in total area, little Ios enjoys a privileged position in the heart of the Cyclades and the Aegean Sea. You'll want to take time to enjoy the jaw-dropping sunsets from its western shores.
Transportation options to and around Ios
The nearest airport is in Santorini National Airport (JTR), located 24.5 mi (39.4 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into Parikia (PAS-Paros National), which is 22.5 mi (36.2 km) away.
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