Discover Chios
A Land of History & Beauty
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Chios is a stunning, mountainous island, world-famous for its unique mastic trees and rich historical and natural heritage. Wander through the medieval fortified villages of Mesta, Pyrgi—renowned for its striking geometric wall designs—and Olympi. Explore impressive castles in Chios Town, Vrontados, and Anavatos, and visit sacred sites such as the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni and the Monastery of Agia Markella.
The island is home to countless must-see landmarks, including the traditional windmills north of Chios Town, the imposing Chios Castle and Castle of Volissos, and the fascinating Chios Mastic Museum near Pyrgi. In Chios Town, discover the Archaeological, Maritime, and Byzantine Museums, or visit Daskalopetra—Homer’s Rock—in Vrontados. Scattered across the island are medieval watchtowers, while natural wonders like the caves of Olympi and Agio Gala offer breathtaking beauty and intrigue.
For a peaceful escape beyond Chios, take a short trip to Oinousses, a serene island with traditional charm, or visit Psara for its rich history and untouched beaches.
Whether you seek family-friendly shores, secluded coves, or breathtaking sunsets, Chios offers beaches for every mood:
Popular: Emporios (Mavra Volia - black pebbles), Karfas (sandy), Vrondados, Agia Fotini, Megas Limnionas & Lithi
Near Mesta (<20min): Trahilia, Didima, Apothyka, Aylonia, Merikounta, Salagona, Agia Dynami, Agia Irini, Emporios & Komi
Scenic & Unique: Vroulidia, Tigani Makria Ammos, Elinta, Agia Markella, Papalia, Gerita, Limnos, Daskalopetra & Magemena
Remote & Quiet: Lampsa, Lefkathia, Managros, Metohi, Giali & Prastia
Mastiha (or Masticha) a unique natural resin harvested exclusively in southern Chios, in the region known as Mastichochoria.
Mastiha (or Masticha) a unique natural resin harvested exclusively in southern Chios, in the region known as Mastichochoria.
This fragrant resin, drawn from the mastic tree, has been prized since antiquity for its many uses: Chewing gum – the original natural gum! Flavoring for food, desserts, and liqueurs; Cosmetics and skincare and Traditional medicine for its antibacterial and digestive benefits
This fragrant resin, drawn from the mastic tree, has been prized since antiquity for its many uses: Chewing gum – the original natural gum! Flavoring for food, desserts, and liqueurs; Cosmetics and skincare and Traditional medicine for its antibacterial and digestive benefits
Visit the Chios Mastic Museum near Pyrgi, and explore local shops for mastiha-based products like soaps, oils, sweets, and toothpaste.
Mesta is one of the most remarkable and well-preserved medieval fortified villages on the island of Chios, Greece. It was built by the Genoese in the 14th century to protect inhabitants from pirate raids and invasions. A labyrinth of narrow alleys, high stone walls, and interconnected houses forming a defensive perimeter. The outer walls of the houses form the village’s defensive wall. Historically, the village had one main gate (kapetanios gate) which still exists and could be closed at night. The central Tower (now main Taxiarchis church) and the other 5 towers around the caste perimeter, were used for surveillance and as a last refuge during attacks. The Main Taxiarches church (Megalos Taxiarchis), is one of the most impressive and historically rich churches on the island and among the largest in all of Greece. The Old Taxiarches Church (Palios Taxiarchis) is a deeply historic and spiritually significant site. In Mesta you will also find various Café Bars and restaurants, mini markets for essentials, grocery and a butcher shop. Various local product shops selling souvenirs, mastiha, honey, herbs, and handmade goods are also located around the village.
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