Chios is a wonderful island in the eastern Aegean Sea, with stunning beaches, a distinct character, and local delicacies, such as masticha (mastic), to enjoy. It features traditional and medieval villages, many forts and castles from the Venetian era, and amazing architectural sites, including the Medieval Castle in Chios Town, the Windmills, and the Castle of Volissos.
It is also known for its sandy and pebbly beaches, which can cater to everyone’s needs and tastes. Around the island, you will find both organized and secluded beaches to spend the day.
Want to visit Chios? Here’s all you need to know on how to get from Athens to Chios:
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Getting from Athens to Chios
Fly to Chios from ATH International Airport
Chios Island has a National Airport called “Omiros,” located 3 km from Chios town, in an area called Kampos. The airport receives domestic flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, Limnos, Mytilini, and Rhodes all year round.
From ATH International Airport, the main companies operating this route are Aegean Airlines/Olympic Air and Sky Express. The journey lasts approximately 50 minutes, and the prices can start from 47 Euros for a single ticket.
The best airline to travel within Greece is Aegean Air/ Olympic Air (same company). Find below available flights and prices.
After you reach Chios, you can take the bus outside the airport. Call +30 22710-22079 to find further info. Or you can also call a radio taxi at +30 2271041111, +30 6984969119, +30 6908386900, +30 6949904885. The flat fee from the airport to the center of Chios town is 8 Euros (as of now-changes may apply.)
Find further details about the airport here.
Take the ferry to Chios.
The distance between Piraeus port and the port of Chios is about 122 nautical miles. You can travel directly from the port of Piraeus in Athens to the Port of Chios in about 8 hours and 50 minutes, while other ferry options may take up to 10.5 hours, depending on the ferry schedule and company.
Prices may start from only 31.50 Euros for economy seats but can also go as high as 121.50 Euros, depending on needs, preferences, and seasonality.
Click here for the ferry schedule and to book your tickets directly.
or enter your destination below:
Tip: If you plan your holidays during the high season, which means July and August in Greece, book your tickets in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Private Transfer from ATH Airport to the port
The ATH International Airport is approximately 43 km from the Port of Piraeus so your safest option to reach the port in time if you are arriving in Athens by air is to book your private transfer. You can also find taxis in the hubs right outside, but you can avoid the fuss by booking your private transfer via Welcome Pickups.
Their airport pick-up services include English-speaking drivers for better communication. There is also the benefit of a flat fee but pre-paid to avoid surprises and overcharges. Conveniently, they also offer flight monitoring services to arrive on time and avoid delays.
Find more information here and book your private transfer.
How to get around the island
Rent a vehicle
Your best option to explore Chios is to rent a car or a motorcycle to have the freedom of movement. You can choose a vehicle by renting from local contractors or travel agencies.
Alternatively, several platforms can help you compare prices and find the best option for you.
I recommend booking a car through Discover Cars, where you can compare all rental car agencies’ prices and cancel or modify your booking for free. They also guarantee the best price. Click here for more information and to check the latest prices.
Take the public bus
Another option is to take the local bus around the island of Chios. There are local bus lines (KTEL) daily that get you to and from various destinations. This is the cheapest solution, with low bus fares and frequent schedules.
The central bus station is in Chora. The public bus services many routes towards many destinations, including Kampos, Volissos, Mesta, and the beaches Mavra Volia and Emporios. Prices can start as low as 1.20 Euros for a single ticket, and the island is divided into zones to establish price ranges and distances.
Learn all about the Local Bus (KTEL) Services here or by calling +30 2271022079
Taxis or private transfers
You can find taxi hubs in the center, including Chora and the port.
Alternatively, you can call +30 2271041111, +30 6984969119, +30 6908386900, +30 6949904885 to find transportation options.
Take the sea bus
Sea buses depart daily from the port of Lagkadas to Oinousses island. Jump on one to get a glimpse of the stunning island.
Hop on a water taxi
Choose the water taxi option to discover secluded beaches and places that can’t be easily reached by land. Book your private water taxi by calling +30 694 4168104, +30 697 9049136, +30 694 5473590 or +30 693 2331529.
FAQ About your Trip from Athens to Chios
The island of Chios is 134 miles away from Athens, and 122 nautical miles from the port of Piraeus, which translates to 7.5 to 10 hours by ferry.
Yes, from Chios, you can mainly access these five neighboring islands: Lesvos, Samos, Limnos, Psarra, and Oinousses. You can also find ferry crossings to Ikaria and Mykonos.
Chios is a big island with lots to see, but generally, 3 to 4 days would be enough to explore most of its beauty.