Ios port (Gialos)
Below, you can find all the necessary information about the port of Ios:
• Transportations • Facilities
In brief, the port of Ios is located 2 km from Chora (Ios Town) and is called Gialos. All ferries arrive and depart from there and it is very busy in summer.
Tourist infrastructure is developed in the area and guests have access to all types of facilities.
During the high season, the port may receive over 10 passenger ferries per day.
Ferries connect the port of Ios to several destinations, including Athens (Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio), Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Crete (Heraklion), and more.
Golden Star, Blue Star, SeaJets, Fast Ferries, Small Cyclades Lines, and Zante are the ferry companies that operate the routes, either via conventional or high-speed ships.
Ferry itineraries are frequent and daily throughout the summer. When the tourist season comes to an end, though, routes are limited.
➜ Book your ferry tickets to/from Ios!
Transportation options
KTEL Buses
Visitors traveling on a budget can capitalize on the local KTEL buses. Bus stops are located in all highly-visited spots, including the port, the capital (Chora), and some known beaches. A ticket desk is located in Chora, but it is also possible to buy a ticket inside the bus. There is storage space for luggage underneath all buses, which passengers can use for free.
Note that most bus routes are seasonal. If you plan on visiting the island during the low or shoulder season and use the local buses for your transportation, contacting their offices and asking about the timetables is advisable.
Taxis
Some taxis are available on the island, but catching one immediately after arrival is a quite rare phenomenon during the high season. A wise thing to do if you want to save time is to contact a local taxi driver in advance and pre-arrange your pick-up from the port.
To book a taxi, you can call the following numbers: +30 697 776 0570, +30 695 568 9849, +30 697 703 1708.
Car Rentals
Renting a car (or other vehicle) is the most convenient way to get away from the port and move around the island in general.
→ Some accommodations provide their customers with a shuttle service to pick them up from the port. To find out if this service is available and arrange your transfer, contact your accommodation before your arrival.
Keep in mind that the service is usually offered for an extra charge.
Port Facilities
As the region is very lively, all types of facilities are available in proximity to the port - hotels, car rental offices, shops, restaurants, cafes, and more.
Guests will also encounter ticket offices. These offices print you your ferry tickets when your company does not propose web check-in. You can also purchase ferry tickets on-site.
Chora, the busiest place on the island, is only 2 km away from the port. If you are interested in staying close to the port, check out our selection of hotels in Ios.
Good to know
The area around the port may be rather overcrowded during the high season, leading to an increase in traffic.