What is Chios Famous For?
Explore the Top Attraction and 5 More Reasons to Visit
You want to know what Chios is famous for and find even more reasons why the island is worth visiting? You’ve come to the right place!
What sets the 5th largest Greek Island apart from other destinations is undoubtedly its exclusive production of mastic. This aromatic product, known locally as “Mastix,” has been harvested here for centuries, exclusively in the southern part of this island.
But there are many more reasons why you should be visiting Chios island: 90+ beaches, charming and unique villages, unspoiled nature and the best part: nearly no tourists! The island is still a real hidden gem with a beautiful setting in the Aegean Sea!
I have spent 4 full days trying to visit and explore it all, but Chios has just too much to offer, so that I will have to return to accomplish that.
Keep reading my travel guide to find out about Mastic, recognised by the UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage and 5 more reasons why Chios is absolutely worth visiting.
What is Chios famous for? Its Mastic Production
Chios Mastic is not just a product, it’s a cultural heritage that represents the essence of the island. The mastic trees, scientifically known as Pistacia lentiscus, are cultivated in the ‘mastichochoria’, the mastic villages in the south of the island.
The production process is so unique that it has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Once hardened, the sap is used in a variety of ways, from food specialties such as mastic gum and candy, to beauty products and pharmaceuticals. Its distinctive pine-like aroma and slightly bitter taste make it a favorite ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in desserts and liqueurs.
I received my first taste of Mastic, a small snack, on the flight from Athens: what a nice welcome! When on the island, you can find it really everywhere, shops, coffee places….
Mastic Museum
The Mastic Museum, located close to the village of Pyrgi, is a great place to find out more about that special product. I’m not really a museum person, but the Mastic Museum is really interesting and absolutely worth a visit.
Not only do you learn about the hard manual work involved in extracting the cultural asset, but you also get an exciting insight into the history of the island, which I personally had no idea about before my visit.
My tip: Be sure to watch the informative movie inside the exhibition! For more on the islands rich history, visit the Archaeological Museum and the Maritime Museum in Chios Town.
The museum is very interactive and media based. After your exhibition visit, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the rolling hills with their small Matrix villages from the large terrace, stroll through the plantation and examine the different Matrix tree species.
At the museum store, you can stock up on mastic products: from chocolate to chewing gum to liqueur. Mastic is found almost in everything and everywhere on the island and makes a great souvenir.
5 More Reasons Why Chios is Worth a Visit
Here are some more must-see destinations in Chios and places the beautiful island should be known for!
1. The painted village of Pyrgi
Chios has many picturesque and traditional villages. My favorite one was Pyrgi, in the south of Chios, which is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages on the entire island.
Pyrgi is the largest of the more than 20 mastic villages that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is famous for its unique black and white geometric patterns that decorate the exterior walls of almost every building.
Walking through Pyrgi’s narrow, labyrinthine streets, I couldn’t help but feel like walking through a living museum.
This traditional art form is called “Xysta” and makes the village a visual highlight. The origins of Xysta date back to the Middle Ages when Chios was under the rule of the Genoese nobility.
How is Xysta created? First, the plaster is applied to the walls, then the artists draw the patterns on it with black paint. The plaster is then partially scraped off again to reveal the white lines that form the characteristic designs.
2. Chios’ breathtaking nature
The island’s unspoiled nature is definitely a reason why Chios is worth visiting! I was totally impressed by the diversity of the island’s landscape:
The north and northwest of the island are dominated by rocky mountains and steep cliffs, ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Mount Pelinnaio is the highest point of the island at almost 1300 meters above sea level.
The central part of Chios is characterized by extensive mastic forests. The landscape here is lush and green, with numerous small villages nestled against the hills.
Northwest of Chios town is the barren and treeless Aepos plateau. The south coast offers some of the most beautiful beaches of Chios, with crystal clear water and soft sand, ideal for sunbathing. The west coast is known for its secluded bays and small fishing villages.
Hiking in Chios
I was really surprised by the number of beautiful hiking trails on Chios. They are maintained by the association “Friends of Chios Trails” and many volunteers.
For a great overview of the various hiking options, from narrow mountain paths to wide old trade routes, visit Chios Hiking.
The island has also just inaugurated a 90km long distance hiking trail, which is perfectly marked and maintained. It runs in 7 stages from Lithi beach in the west of the island to Agiasmata beach in the north, of which I hiked and absolutely enjoyed the first and last one.
Unfortunately, getting to the stages as an individual hiker and back is (still) difficult to realize, as public transport is nearly not existing in those areas. Therefore, I highly recommend hiking with a local guide from Chios Trails, as I did.
The advantage of hiking with a local is obvious: you learn soooo much more about the island and its history, as well as the flora and fauna!
My guides George and Daniel were just great, so knowledgeable, and they answered all my questions with passion and enthusiasm. I could tell how they love their island!
George, the owner of Chios Trails, knows everything and everyone on the island, speaks perfect English and will also help you plan other hikes or organize transfers if you want to hike on your own (⇨ Georges’ Email).
3. Nea Moni Monastery
Nea Moni (New Monastery) is one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990. It is located in the center of the island, in a peaceful and wooded valley.
The hole place was founded in the 11th century by the Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos, who vowed to build a monastery when he became emperor.
During the Chios Massacre of 1822, which took place during the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule, 2000 Chiots who had sought refuge in the monastery were killed here.
In the small chapel at the entrance to the monastery, a large number of skulls (with bullet holes in them) are displayed to remember this cruelty. In 1881, an earthquake destroyed the dome of the church and the bell tower. From 1900 everything was rebuilt and restored.
The domed church is impressive with its finely crafted mosaics and unusual octagonal dome construction. You can also visit the monks’ dining room and a small museum within the monastery walls.
4. Ghost village of Anavatos
Already the location of today’s ghost village of Anavatos, about 20 km west of Chios Town, is spectacular, as it practically sticks to the 400-meter-high cliff.
My photo tip: Visit the village in the morning, the afternoon sun is not ideal for photographing the village (see my picture below).
The medieval village was abandoned after the massacre of Chios in 1822 and the earthquake of 1881. Today an elderly lady is the sole resident. Apart from her, there is only a small café at the entrance of the village, which fills the ruined walls with life.
You can walk freely through the ruins of the houses and look around. Unfortunately, due to restoration work, it is no longer possible to climb up to the fortress and church on top of the hill.
5. Chios Town
The lively harbor town is overwhelming at first glance if, like me, you have previously been hiking in the deserted northern part. Half of the island’s population lives in Chios Town.
Chios castle is particularly beautiful. Behind the well-preserved city walls hides a district with narrow alleyways, old houses and lots of cute but shy cats. Don’t miss a visit to the lavishly restored old Ottoman baths in the northern part of the castle.
Approximately one kilometer further north and already outside the impressive walls, you’ll find the iconic 4 windmills. That landmark and photo spot is another place that Chios is famous for.
Within the more modern and newer part of Chios town, on the main square of Vounaki, you will find the former Mecidiye Mosque, which is now houses the Byzantine Museum.
About 3 km south of the city center, southwest of the airport, lies Kampos. The wealthy citizens of the city lived in this green valley in the 14th century. Thanks to natural water resources, large gardens with fruit and citrus trees were created.
The citrus museum, which is located in one such villa with a garden, provides information about this period. You can also buy many citrus products or, and this is my recommendation, try them in the adjacent, beautiful café on site (⇨ Location).
FAQ’s
Why do people go to Chios?
People visit Chios for its unique mastic production, stunning medieval villages like Pyrgi and Mesta, beautiful beaches, unspoiled nature and the rich cultural heritage.
What food is Chios known for?
Chios is known for dishes that incorporate mastic, such as mastelo (lamb cooked in mastic-scented wine) and mastic-flavored desserts. The island also offers fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
Is Chios a party island?
No, Chios is not typically considered a party island. It is more famous for its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and tranquil environment, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a rich cultural experience rather than a vibrant nightlife scene.
Is Chios expensive?
Chios is generally considered more affordable compared to popular Greek islands like Mykonos or Santorini. Costs for accommodations, dining, and activities are relatively moderate, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers.
Where is Chios located?
Chios island is located very close to Asia Minor and it is separated with a narrow sea canal of only 7km from the coasts of Turkey. You can get to Chios by plane or ferry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chios offers an unparalleled blend of unique cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery and tranquil atmosphere. From its world-famous mastic production to its over 90 unspoiled beaches and lovely villages, Chios is a real, still unspoiled treasure trove.
With fewer tourists compared to other Greek islands, Mallorca or Malta, it offers an authentic and tranquil getaway. Don’t miss the opportunity, even it is just for a Day Trip to explore this hidden gem of the Aegean while it is as untouched as it is.
I certainly plan to return and spend more time on that fantastic island, as there are a lot more reasons why Chios is worth visiting.
Disclosure
I was able to write this article because I was invited on a press trip by the Chios Regional Unit Tourism Department. My opinion was in no way influenced by this, nor was I given any guidelines for this article.
Many thanks for that!
Thank you as well for the great experiences I was able to have on site!
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