A comprehensive guide covering where to stay in Ios, Greece with accommodations offering thriving nightlife scenes in Chora Bay and exhilarating watersports at Mylopotas Beach.
Discover Ios Greece. With breathtaking crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and charming villages. This small island is ideal for nightlife and Greek island-hopping adventures.
From luxurious hotels overlooking the Aegean Sea to bustling hostels nestled in the heart of the island’s bustling towns, Ios has a range of accommodation picks for all budgets and travel styles.
I’ve visited Ios several times and stayed in various parts of the island during my trips. My favorite resort is Far Out Beach Club due to its beachfront location and all-day pool parties.
In this guide, I’ll offer you a rundown of the three recommended accommodation areas in Ios and provide the best hotels & resorts to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
My Picks for Where to Stay in Ios, Greece
Here are my top 3 accommodations in Ios for each budget.
Read on for a more comprehensive breakdown with recommendations from each area.
1.
Known for being one of the best Ios island hotels it offers guests incredible views, an outdoor swimming pool, and free transport between the ferry port.
2. Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel Mid-Range
Hands down the best boutique hotel on Ios Island, boasting private swimming pools and situated in an excellent location.
3. Far Out Beach Club Budget
An excellent option for those party people wanting to let loose and enjoy a day of dancing around the pool to a live DJ or enjoying Watersports next door at Mylopotas Beach.
The Best Areas to Stay in Ios
Are you in the planning stages of your Greek Island adventure and wondering which area to stay on Ios? Generally, the three best neighborhoods are Chora, Mylopotas Beach, and Yialos.
Below is a short area guide, but read on for the top recommendations in each spot.
- Chora: This is the capital town of Ios. Here you will find many restaurants, hotels, and clubs.
- Mylopotas: Known for its incredible Mylopotas Beach this area is recognized for its watersports and beach party scene.
- Yialos: The main ferry port of Ios is located here. This is a quieter area with lots of cafes, restaurants, and swimming areas.
Chora - The Best Area to Stay in Ios for Nightlife
Chora is the capital of the island of Ios. This is the place you will want to be if you're looking for the best nightlife or a place to party. After dark, this quiet daytime area turns into a bustling spot for those wanting to dance the night away.
Pros of Staying in Chora
- Close to many restaurants and cafes
- Great nightclubs and bars
- Close to all of the historical locations in the center of town
Cons of Staying in Chora
- Can be loud at night
- Will need transport from the ferry port
Best Hotels in Chora, Ios
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Liostasi Hotel | $$$$ |
 | White Loft | $$$ |
 | Avanti | $$ |
 | Hotel Petradi | $$ |
1. Liostasi Hotel
Located in the heart of Chora, Liostasi Hotel is one of the best Ios Island hotels.
This 5-star resort features elegant accommodations overlooking the stunning Aegean Sea.
All beautifully decorated rooms and suites open up to a private balcony and patio. They each feature a satellite TV, a mini-fridge, free toiletries, and free Wi-Fi.
Offering a swimming pool and spa center, guests can spend their days by the pool watching the view or indulging in a massage treatment.
A daily Greek breakfast is served on the open-air veranda. Grandma's Restaurant serves beautiful Mediterranean dishes, while a range of snacks and cocktails can be enjoyed at Liostasi Pool & Cocktail Bar.
Free shuttle services to and from the Port of Ios are provided.
2. White Loft
White Loft is one of the best hotels on the island known for its modern design and seasonal outdoor swimming pool with spectacular views
This adults-only accommodation features air-conditioned rooms with a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, free wifi, and city views.
Guests can enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast each morning at the accommodation.
Popular points of interest nearby include Kolistani Beach, Yialos Beach & Katsiveli Beach.
3. Avanti
Located only 150 meters from Chora's main square, Avanti is one of the best-located hotels in Ios, Greece to stay if exploring nearby restaurants is on the list of things to do.
This family-run hotel offers a peaceful place to stay in Upper Chora. Guests can enjoy the beautiful views of the town and part of the Aegean Sea. The hotel features an outdoor pool and a bar.
All guest rooms at the hotel offer a private balcony with panoramic rooms of traditional Chora. You could spend hours relaxing on your balcony, soaking up the incredible views.
I highly suggest sinking your teeth into an unbeatable Gyro or souvlaki at Yummy's which is a 5-minute walk away!
Avanti is in close proximity to one of the most spectacular beaches on the island, Mylopotas.
4. Hotel Petradi
If you want to stay in one of the best hotels in Ios with jaw-dropping views of the Aegean Sea, Hotel Petradi is the place for you.
Located only 500 meters from the sandy beach of Mylopotas, this hotel features an outdoor pool with uninterrupted sea views, a furnished sun terrace, a restaurant, and a snack bar.
Overlooking the azure Aegean Sea, each guest room has air conditioning, a patio, and a private bathroom.
A range of fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops can be found in the main town of Ios Island which is just 500 meters from the accommodation.
The hotel is only a 700-meter walk from the ferry port and free on-site parking is available.
Mylopotas - The Best Area to Stay for Beach Life
Opposite from the neighboring island Santorini with its black sand beaches, Mylopotas is known for its incredible white sand beach. Mylopotas is perfect for those wanting to sunbake on the sandy shores or experience an adrenaline rush from one of the water sports activities that are available daily.
It's also very famous for the vibing Far Out Beach Club, one of the most happening beach clubs in Greece.
Pros of Staying in Mylopotas
- Views over Mylopotas Beach, home to one of the best beach resorts in Greece.
- Excellent area for swimming and relaxing
- Beach water sports and boating activities
- Lots of cafes, restaurants, and bars
Cons of Staying in Mylopotas
- Further from the center
- You may need to wait longer for public transport
Best Hotels in Mylopotas, Ios
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Calilo | $$$$ |
 | Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel | $$$ |
 | Dionysos Seaside Resort | $$$ |
 | Ios Palace Hotel | $$ |
 | Far Out Beach Club Resort & Camping | $$ |
1. Calilo
Although Calilo is noticeably smaller compared to other beach resorts found on Ios, there is no denying the uniqueness of this place.
Whether it is their comfortable sun loungers overlooking the beach or their stunning one-of-a-kind Calilo restaurant to wine and dine-in, you can expect to have a memorable experience here.
Even better is its location as it is only a short walk to Mylopotas Beach which I found to have some of the best water sports available in all of Greece. I enjoyed the donut ride which was totally worth it, just make sure to hold on tight.
2. Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel
As one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in the Greek Islands, Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel is a must-stay.
Only a ten-minute walk to Mylopotas Beach, located in an ideal place, the hotel overlooks the beach, offering stunning views of the nearby islands. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, where guests can spend their days soaking up the incredible views.
The entire hotel is built according to the traditional architecture of Ios, featuring stylish decor that fuses Mediterranean & ethnic elements. Each guest room features a double bed and a luxurious bathroom.
Some accommodation types also have a private pool if you're looking for more privacy.
The hotel is located in one of the best areas for windsurfing and diving, and the front desk can help you plan activities.
3. Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios
Want to stay at one of the best Ios Island hotels with its own tennis court and private beach? Look no further than Dionysos Seaside Resort Ios.
This stunning 4-star property features elegant rooms that offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, pool, or garden. Each room has air conditioning, a satellite TV, a mini fridge, free Wi-Fi, and a balcony.
The resort also features a tennis court, two swimming pools, a beach bar, and the nearby Almyra by the Sea Restaurant.
Guests can spend their days by the pool or engage in fitness games by private beach. Alternatively, work out in the fitness center which is located on-site.
Ios Town is 2.5 km from the hotel.
4. Ios Palace Hotel & Spa
As one of the most ideally located hotels in Ios, Greece, Ios Palace Hotel & Spa is a must-stay.
Overlooking the beautiful Mylopotas Beach, this resort features three swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa center.
Guests can start their day by having breakfast with a view next to the pool. Whether you want to have a quiet stay and spend your days at the spa or explore what the island has to offer, the resort is in a prime location.
Tomatini is the hotel's new restaurant and serves Europe's longest list of margaritas. People travel from all over to indulge in delicious cocktails.
Related:
Top Accommodation Picks on Paros Island (Cyclades)
5. Far Out Beach Club Resort & Camping
If you're searching where to stay in Ios to party, Far Out Beach Club Resort & Camping is the place!
Located only 20 meters from Mylopotas Beach, this resort features a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and three bars, making it the ideal place to party.
The accommodation has tents and concrete bungalows that open to a patio with beautiful views. I suggest opting for a bungalow to avoid a night battling mosquitoes! Some accommodation types also have a fan and built-in beds. Communal bathrooms can be found on-site.
After a long night of partying, guests have a lot to choose from when it comes to breakfast, snacks, and other meals. There are also BBQ facilities, a pizzeria, a sushi bar, and a mini market nearby.
During the day, guests can play football, basketball, and beach volleyball before heading to the on-site club. The Far Out Club is the most famous on the island.
Yialos - the Best Neighborhood for Families Visiting Ios
This area is known for being the main entrance to the Island of Ios. It has the main ferry terminal and is a great place if you're arriving late or leaving early for the ferry. It is a much quieter area and has many cafes, restaurants, and lesser-known swimming areas.
Pros Staying in Yialos
- Cheaper prices
- Easy location for ferry arrival and departure
- Great area for families
- Quiet beaches closeby
Cons of Staying in Yialos
- Can become busy when the ferry arrives
Best Accommodation in Yialos, Ios
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
 | Relux Ios Hotel | $$$$ |
 | Yialos Ios Hotel | $$$ |
 | Acteon Hotel | $$ |
1. Relux Ios Hotel
For a quintessential Cycladic experience, the Relux Ios Hotel is a must-stay on the Greek Island of Ios.
Located in the heart of Yialos Town, this lovely hotel offers an outdoor pool and restaurant.
Each hotel room has free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a minibar, and a private bathroom with some rooms offering direct views of the heart of the Aegean Sea.
The property is a short walk from Yialos Beach, and restaurants, cafes, and bars are nearby.
2. Yialos Ios Hotel
If you love staying at boutique hotels, then you can't skip Yialos Ios Hotel.
Only steps from the beach and close to the Port of Ios, the Yialos Ios Hotel boasts a warm atmosphere with beautiful bohemian-designed rooms.
Guests can spend their days lazing by the hotel's pool or splashing in the ocean at the beach. The hotel also offers complimentary transfers to and from the port.
Some of the best things to do near the hotel include wandering the narrow streets of the town or trying delicious food at one of the many restaurants. My favorite in this area is Tropicana Cafe which overlooks the beach and has a tasty Tropicana burger that always hits the spot!
3. Acteon Hotel
Located in Ios Port, Aceton Hotel is a modern property just steps from Yialos Beach.
Aceton Hotel is a great hotel if you're a budget traveler and it is open year-round.
The spacious rooms feature air conditioning, a TV, and a private bathroom. Most of the rooms have stunning views of the port and Yialos Beach.
There is a bus stop near the hotel that offers transport to Mylopotas, Chora, and other areas of the island.
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Bonus Luxury Accommodation on Ios: Agalia Luxury Suites
If you don't mind splashing a few more dollars to experience world-class service, then you must stay at Agalia Luxury Suites.
Located just 50 meters from Tzamaria Beach, this property features an outdoor pool and restaurant boasting jaw-dropping views.
Each tastefully decorated room comes with a furnished balcony, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a minibar, and a private bathroom. Some rooms also feature stunning Aegean Sea views and a private pool.
Guests can spend their days relaxing by the pool or exploring the picturesque island of Ios. A bus stop is just a few meters from the hotel and can take you to the main areas of the island.
The on-site restaurant serves lunch and dinner dishes.
My Hotel Selection Process
- Accommodation Criteria: I select hotels & resorts in Ios based on current prices, location & proximity to main attractions Mylopotas Beach and Chora nightlife, as well as current reviews, ratings, and recommendations.
- My Experience: I've visited Ios twice and stayed in multiple hotels & hostels. I've personally reviewed and read through hundreds of listings, comparing them all based on my criteria to select hotels offering the best value for money.
- Top Reviews: All hotels I've selected maintain exceptional ratings on booking sites such as Hotels.com, Expedia, & Booking.com.
- Local Insights: My hotel & resort selections are based on online listings and word of mouth with recommendations from other travelers & local tour operators. I had a friend working at Far Out Beach Club who helped with many tips for the island on my last visit.
Read more about how I review & select hotels & accommodations.
I'm Olly, a full-time traveler for the past 5 years. Each accommodation option in this guide is handpicked by me. Read my travel review ethics statement.
FAQ About Accommodation on Ios
What are the best areas to stay in Ios for nightlife?
Chora is the top choice for nightlife enthusiasts. It is a quiet area during the day and a nightlife hub with great clubs and bars at night.
Where should I stay in Ios for beach activities?
Mylopotas Beach is ideal for beach lovers. Known for its white sand beaches and water sports, it's perfect for those looking to sunbathe or enjoy thrilling activities like water skiing or being pulled around on a donut.
Is there a family-friendly area to stay in Ios?
Yialos is the best neighborhood for families. It offers a quieter environment with easy access to the ferry, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly cafes and restaurants.
Is it easy to get around Ios?
While some areas like Mylopotas Beach may require public transport or a rental car to reach, Ios is relatively small, making it easy to explore different areas. Plus, many accommodations offer transport services just be sure to check this before booking.
When is the best time to visit Ios?
The best time to visit Ios is from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is warm, and all activities and accommodations are fully operational. I arrived in June and most hotels were fully booked out as this is high season so be sure to book early.
More Greece Accommodation & Travel Guides
I hope that this up-to-date accommodation guide has helped you plan where to stay on Ios, Greece.
While you're here, check out some of my other guides.
- 11 Amazing Santorini Cave Hotels - My popular guide to Santorini's most unique luxury accommodations
- Top 10 Santorini Day Tours - ten unmissable experiences you can book for your trip to Santorini
- Best Beach Resorts in Greece - Find out where to stay in Greece for amazing beach resorts
- Best Hotels in Athens - discover the best accommodation picks in the capital of Greece
- Best Hotels in Paros - my accommodation guide to Paros Island
- Top Luxury Resorts in Mykonos - a list of the best luxury resorts in Mykonos
