Photo: Eva-tzi · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source
Chios
Medieval mastic villages, painted facades and quiet beaches in the east Aegean.
About the destination
Chios is a North Aegean island known for its mastic villages, where the resin of the mastic tree has been harvested for centuries. Pyrgi has houses decorated with grey and white geometric patterns, Mesta is a fortified medieval village, and Nea Moni is an 11th-century Byzantine monastery on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Citrus mansions, black pebble beaches and good food complete the picture.
What makes this place special
- Mesta and its fortified medieval layout
- Pyrgi and its patterned house facades
- The UNESCO-listed Nea Moni monastery
- The Kampos citrus mansions
- Mavra Volia black pebble beach
- The abandoned village of Anavatos
- The Mastic Museum in the south of the island
Across the seasons
Spring
In spring, Chios invites flower-lined paths, village walks and quieter coastal views. Orthodox Easter brings candlelit services and processions through local streets.
Summer
In summer, Chios invites long beach days, warm water and breezy evening walks. August's Assumption celebrations bring village feasts, music and dancing.
Autumn
In autumn, Chios invites quieter shores, soft light and walks after peak season. October's Ohi Day brings local parades and public commemorations.
Winter
In winter, Chios invites quiet waterfronts and local life away from the summer crowds. January's Epiphany brings the traditional blessing of coastal waters.
Map · Chios
38.368° N, 26.136° ENearby attractions
Nearby, Mesta and Pyrgi, the best-known mastic villages, lie in the south.
Popular places nearby
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Photo: Bob&Anne Powell · CC BY-SA 3.0
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Distances are approximate and measured in a straight line.