10 Reasons Why Ios, Greece is Better Than Santorini (Hidden Gem Guide 2025)

Ios, Greece, has quickly become my most enticing travel discovery – and honestly, I almost didn’t go there at all.

Originally planned as just a quick ferry stop between Santorini and Milos, this stunning Cycladic island completely changed how I think about Greek islands.

It’s one of the most stunning islands in the Cyclades (and I’m not just saying that). Easily gives Santorini a run for its money.

But here’s the thing most people don’t get: Ios has everything Santorini offers, minus the insane crowds and people literally fighting for selfie spots.

Everyone thinks Ios = party island. And sure, the nightlife is pretty epic if that’s your thing. But there’s so much more here.

Beaches that look straight out of the Caribbean, views that’ll make your jaw drop, and this super charming capital where you actually feel like you’re in Greece, not some Instagram theme park.

Plus, the vibe is just different. Locals wave at you. Taverna owners remember what you ordered yesterday. It’s what I imagine Greek islands were like before everyone found them.

Here are 10 reasons why Ios should definitely be on your bucket list – based on my accidental love affair with this place. Let’s jump in!

1. 35+ Beaches That Actually Put Santorini’s to Shame

Ok, this might sound crazy, but Ios has over 35 beaches to choose from. THIRTY-FIVE. And after hopping between both islands, I’m telling you straight up – Ios wins for beaches. No contest.

The water is this ridiculous shade of turquoise that made me double-check I was still in Greece and not somewhere tropical.

And the sand? Soft and light, perfect for those days when you literally can’t be bothered to do anything except exist on a beach.

Most of the popular, well-set-up beaches are on the west coast. Mylopotas Beach is where it’s at – this became my home base and I totally get why it’s famous.

Mylopotas has everything. Great hotels with sea views, restaurants that actually serve decent food (not always a given on Greek islands!), and nightlife that’s fun without being completely chaotic.

The beach changes personality throughout the day. Mornings are chill – perfect for coffee and people-watching. Afternoons get busier with water sports stuff. Evenings come alive with beachfront dining.

Pro tip: I tried paddleboarding here for the first time ever. Those calm morning waters are forgiving if you’re a total beginner like I was!

Where to stay in Mylopotas: If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, I highly recommend Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios – this is where I stayed and it was absolutely perfect.

The hotel is literally right on the beachfront of Mylopotas Beach, so I could walk out of my room and have my feet in the sand within 30 seconds.

What surprised me most? Rooms with balconies overlooking the sea, where I watched sunrises with coffee in hand – one of the best ways to start a day on a Greek island.

The hotel also has a pool perfect for afternoon relaxation when the beach gets too hot, plus their own restaurant Almyra By The Sea with bay views serving fresh seafood.

Here’s a little story that shows what amazing staff this hotel has: I lost my wedding ring when it fell between the deck boards on the restaurant patio.

I thought it was gone forever, but the Almyra staff literally dismantled part of the flooring to find it for me! These are the moments you remember for life – this wasn’t just a hotel, these were people who genuinely cared about their guests.

The location is unbeatable – you have Tavern Drakos practically around the corner, all the bars and clubs of Mylopotas within walking distance, and your own restaurant on-site if you don’t feel like going anywhere. 

Check availability at Dionysos Seaside Resort here – trust me, those morning coffees on the balcony overlooking the Aegean Sea will be unforgettable!

2. Secret Eastern Coast Spots Where You’ll Feel Like Robinson Crusoe

While everyone crowds the west coast, the eastern side of Ios is where the magic happens. I rented a quad bike (best decision ever) and spent a whole day exploring these winding coastal roads.

You can stop literally anywhere that catches your eye. And trust me, you’ll want to stop a lot.

This is where you find the quiet beaches. The kind where you show up early and might have the entire place to yourself. It’s pretty incredible.

Agia Theodoti became my absolute favorite. It’s tucked between these gorgeous hills and feels completely separate from the rest of the island.

Just a few sunbeds and a small dock. I brought a book, spent the whole afternoon swimming and reading, and felt like I’d found my own secret paradise.

Then there’s Manganari down south. Two beautiful beaches in these protected coves. The water is ridiculously clear and calm – perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want stress-free swimming.

Here’s what I learned: Go in September if you can swing it. Way fewer tourists, the sea is still warm, and you get this amazing golden light that makes everything look like a professional photo shoot.

3. Food That’ll Ruin Every Other Greek Island For You

I need to talk about the food situation on Ios because it completely caught me off guard. This island is serious about seafood. Like, seriously serious.

Tavern Drakos at the end of Mylopotas Beach? Hands down the best meal I had during my entire Greek island trip. Maybe one of the best meals period. The setting is gorgeous, the food is incredible, and I watched THREE couples get engaged there during my stay.

Definitely make a reservation though. I showed up without one like an idiot and had to wait over an hour. Worth it, but still.

What you absolutely have to try:

• Octopus in vinegar and honey (sounds weird, tastes amazing)
• Orzo with seafood (the mussels were clearly caught that morning)
• Whatever fish they recommend as catch of the day
• Homemade baklava (made by the owner’s mom!)

There’s also this place called Almyra By The Sea at Dionysos Seaside Resort in Mylopotas that does fancier Greek and Mediterranean stuff.

Their seafood risotto is unreal – I wasn’t expecting such high quality from a hotel restaurant. Plus they have these local wines I’d never heard of but loved.

4. Local Food Culture That Most Tourists Never Find

Beyond the fancy restaurants, Ios has these amazing authentic food experiences that most tourists completely miss.

When you’re up in the main town, you HAVE to eat at Tavern Sainis. It’s this traditional family place that’s been around forever. Three generations running it. The lamb kleftiko they make follows some ancient family recipe and it shows.

But here’s what blew my mind – the cheese situation on Ios. Most people have no idea about this.

There’s the Diaseli Cheese Factory where you can taste these incredible sheep and goat cheeses made using traditional methods that haven’t changed in centuries.

You absolutely have to try the blue goat cheese called Skotyri. It’s one of the oldest varieties on the island and tastes like nothing else I’ve had in Greece.

The owner gave me this private tasting and explained the whole aging process. Fascinating stuff.

This is the kind of authentic experience that makes Ios special. You’re not just eating tourist food – you’re tasting traditions that go back generations.

5. Postcard-Perfect Chora Capital That Feels Like a Movie Set

The charming capital, Chora, is absolutely enchanting and one of my favorite reasons to visit Ios. Nestled beautifully among rolling hills, this town stands out as one of the most picturesque spots in the Cyclades.

Unlike some Cycladic capitals that can feel overrun by tourism, Chora maintains its authentic Greek island character in the most charming way.

As you wander through the narrow, winding streets (getting lost here is half the fun), you’ll discover a delightful mix of souvenir shops run by local families, charming hotels that feel like staying with Greek relatives, and inviting cafes where time seems to slow down.

The stunning Cycladic architecture, with its whitewashed houses and vibrant blue accents, creates a postcard–perfect atmosphere that somehow manages to feel genuine rather than touristy.

Whether you’re shopping for unique trinkets or simply soaking in the scenery, Chora offers a magical experience that captures the essence of Greek island life.

Personal discovery: I spent an entire morning just walking these streets with my camera, and every corner revealed another Instagram–worthy scene.

But more importantly, I had genuine conversations with shop owners who were genuinely interested in sharing their island’s stories.

6. Historic Windmills & Churches That Tell Ancient Stories

Near Chora, you’ll find twelve historic windmills that beautifully contrast with the sea – these aren’t just tourist attractions, they tell the story of the island’s agricultural heritage.

Once used for grinding barley and wheat, these windmills are now a beloved landmark that defines Ios’s skyline.

But here’s what most visitors don’t know: if you come here just before sunset, the light hitting these white structures against the blue sea creates some of the most stunning photography opportunities in the Cyclades. I must have taken a hundred photos here!

The town also features numerous charming churches, with the most famous being Panagia Gremiotissa. Perched high above the town, it offers stunning views that honestly took my breath away when I first climbed up there.

Insider timing tip: Make sure to climb up to enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the sea and surrounding hills.

While sunset is magical here, for a quieter experience with equally beautiful light, visit early in the morning when the soft golden glow creates perfect photography conditions.

The blend of these historic structures with the natural landscape creates this perfect harmony that defines what makes Greek islands so captivating.

7. Sunsets That Rival Santorini (Without the Madness)

Okay, so everyone knows Santorini has amazing sunsets. But Ios gives it serious competition and you don’t have to fight crowds to see them.

The first time I watched sunset from Ios, I literally just stood there with my mouth open. The colors are unreal. And I kept thinking – why doesn’t everyone know about this place?

Best spot is definitely Panagia Gremiotissa church up in Chora. You get 360-degree views and can see all the neighboring islands scattered around like little gems.

There’s also this bar called Ios Club Sunset Dining Bar (the name says it all). Great cocktails, amazing views. They make this signature drink with local honey that tastes incredible while you watch the sun go down.

My secret spot though? Agia Irini church behind the port. Way less crowded and the view of the white church against the water at sunset is pure magic.

8. Photography Spots That’ll Make Your Feed Pop

Beyond the sunset spots, Ios has these incredible viewpoints that are absolute gold for Instagram.

The viewpoint near Agios Dimitrios chapel on the eastern coast shows Agia Theodoti beach from above. I’m not kidding when I say it looks fake, like someone photoshopped the perfect beach into the perfect hillside setting.

There’s also the Odysseas Elytis Outdoor Amphitheater near Chora. Even when there’s no show, the amphitheater makes a cool foreground for photos. And the views cover both town and sea.

Photography tip: Golden hour here is everything. That warm light hitting the white buildings and bouncing off the sea creates those dreamy shots that define Greek island photography.

9. Ancient Archaeological Wonders That Predate Santorini

Ios is home to fascinating historical sites that most visitors never discover, including some that are older and more significant than famous archaeological sites on neighboring islands.

One of the most remarkable sites is the prehistoric settlement of Skarkos – prepare to have your mind blown by this place.

Estimated to be around a thousand years older than Akrotiri on Santorini, this site near the port is one of the most significant archaeological locations in the Cyclades.

What sets Skarkos apart is its circular shape, which is extremely rare for prehistoric settlements. The settlement was strategically built on a high hill for commanding views of the port and sea.

When I climbed up to explore it, the panoramic views were absolutely stunning – you can understand exactly why ancient people chose this spot.

Archaeological insight: The preservation here is remarkable, and you can actually walk through ancient streets and see the foundations of homes that were inhabited over 4,000 years ago.

Standing there, I felt this incredible connection to the people who lived here millennia before me.

Another noteworthy spot is the ruins of the Byzantine fortress Palaiokastro in the northern part of the island.

Once crucial for controlling maritime routes, this fortress is located several hundred meters above sea level, making it both strategically brilliant and exceptionally picturesque.

10. Homer’s Legendary Literary Connection to Ancient Greece

Finally, don’t miss one of the most culturally significant sites on Ios: the tomb of Homer in Plakato – yes, that Homer who wrote the Odyssey.

This connection to one of history’s greatest storytellers adds a profound cultural dimension to your visit.

Set on a beautiful hill overlooking the sea, this site is popular among literature lovers and history enthusiasts. According to local legend, the legendary poet spent his last days on Ios, and it’s believed that his mother was born here.

While historians debate the truth of these stories, there’s something deeply moving about reading passages from the Odyssey while looking out at the same seas Homer would have known.

The views alone make it a worthwhile stop, but the literary connection adds layers of meaning to the experience.

Literary moment: I brought my copy of the Odyssey and read some passages while sitting there – it was one of those travel moments that gives you chills.

Whether or not Homer is actually buried here, the connection between this landscape and his epic tales of sea voyages feels absolutely perfect.

The walk to the tomb also offers stunning views of the island and surrounding Aegean, making it a perfect spot for reflection on the timeless connection between landscape, literature, and human storytelling.

Why Ios, Greece Completely Stole My Heart

So here’s the thing about Ios – it completely exceeded every expectation I had. And I went in with pretty low expectations because I thought it was just a party island.

Turns out it has 35+ gorgeous beaches, sunsets that give Santorini a run for its money, incredible food, charming architecture, and fascinating history. But what really got me was the authentic Greek island vibe.

Unlike some of the more famous islands that feel like theme parks now, Ios still has that genuine character. You feel like you’re discovering something special, not just following the crowd.

What started as a random ferry stop became one of my favorite Greek island discoveries. I’m already planning my next trip back to explore more hidden corners.

From swimming in ridiculously clear water to watching spectacular sunsets, exploring ancient sites to eating at family tavernas where they remember your name – every day brought something new.

It’s that perfect combo of natural beauty, culture, amazing food, and relaxed island vibes.

Have you been to Ios? Or is it moving up your Greek island bucket list? Which of these 10 reasons gets you most excited?

If this helped you out, share it with your travel-obsessed friends and drop a comment about your own Greek island discoveries – I love hearing about other people’s adventures!

Pin it for later!