Chios is the only place on Earth where mastiha is produced — an aromatic resin harvested from ancient trees that has shaped the island's identity for over 2,500 years. Just a short ferry from Cesme, Chios offers a Greek island experience unlike any other.
From fortified medieval villages and UNESCO-listed heritage to dramatic volcanic beaches and the legacy of Homer, Chios invites you to discover a living culture rooted in centuries of tradition.
Chios stands apart among the Greek islands with a character all its own. The southern half of the island is home to the Mastichochoria — 24 medieval mastic villages where fortified stone houses and labyrinthine alleys have remained unchanged for centuries.
UNESCO inscribed the traditional know-how of mastiha cultivation on its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2014, recognising a living tradition passed down through generations on this remarkable island.
Beyond the mastic groves, Chios captivates at every turn. Wander through the geometric black-and-white facades of Pyrgi, explore the Genoese castle in Chios Town, swim at Mavra Volia's striking black pebble beach, or visit the clifftop ghost village of Anavatos. Our Chios island guide covers all the essentials.
The island's heritage runs deeper still. Nea Moni, an 11th-century monastery with breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest in Greece. Chios also claims to be the birthplace of Homer, and its cuisine — infused with mastiha in everything from sweets to spirits — is a destination in itself. Check ferry departures from Cesme and taste it for yourself.
Chios offers something genuinely rare among the Greek islands — an authentic, unspoiled destination where ancient traditions are still a living part of daily life. As the world's sole producer of mastiha, the island holds a cultural treasure found nowhere else on Earth.
Medieval villages adorned with striking geometric art, beaches ranging from black volcanic pebbles to golden sand, and world-class Byzantine heritage including two UNESCO-recognised sites make Chios endlessly rewarding to explore.
Here you will find warm Greek hospitality without the crowds, exceptional local cuisine infused with mastiha and fresh Aegean seafood, and a rich tapestry of history stretching from Homer to the present day.
For travellers crossing from Turkey's Aegean coast, Chios is an undiscovered gem just 30 minutes from Cesme. Check ticket options and see for yourself.
Chios is the only place on Earth where mastiha is produced, but the island offers far more than its famous resin. Explore UNESCO-protected medieval villages, visit one of Greece's finest Byzantine monasteries, swim at dramatic volcanic beaches, and walk in the footsteps of Homer. Discover what makes Chios unforgettable — and just 30 minutes from Cesme by ferry.
Mastic Production
Chios is the only place on Earth where mastiha resin is cultivated — a unique treasure with over 2,500 years of history, inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Medieval Mastic Villages
Wander through the UNESCO-protected Mastichochoria — Pyrgi with its striking black-and-white geometric facades, Mesta's perfectly preserved labyrinthine alleys, and Olympi's hidden medieval charm.
Nea Moni Monastery
Visit one of Greece's most important Byzantine monuments — an 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking golden mosaics, set in a forested hillside above Chios Town.
Mavra Volia Beach
Swim at one of the most unusual beaches in the Aegean — dramatic black volcanic pebbles meet crystal-clear turquoise waters on Chios's striking southern coastline.
Homer's Birthplace
Explore Daskalopetra, the ancient stone seat where the legendary poet Homer is said to have taught his students — one of Chios's most evocative historical sites.
Authentic Island Experience
Chios remains beautifully unspoiled by mass tourism, offering genuine Greek island hospitality, traditional village life, and a pace that lets you experience the real Aegean.
Mastic Gastronomy
Taste unique mastiha-flavoured sweets, liqueurs, and local specialities found nowhere else in the world — Chios's cuisine is a destination in itself.
The Cesme to Chios ferry runs daily with a crossing time of approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a day trip to the mastic villages or a longer island stay. Compare ticket options and book your crossing today.
BUY YOUR TICKET TO CHIOS
From the geometric facades of Pyrgi and the labyrinthine streets of Mesta to the golden mosaics of Nea Moni and the black pebble shores of Mavra Volia, Chios rewards curious travellers at every turn. Plan your visit with our complete Chios island guide.
Explore our gallery featuring the unique landscapes of Chios, from the medieval charm of the Mastic villages to the striking volcanic shores of Mavra Volia. Get a glimpse of the authentic architecture and crystal-clear waters that await you on this Aegean gem.
Chios is famous for producing mastic, a unique tree resin found nowhere else, and its stunning medieval villages like Pyrgi.
Ferries from Cesme to Chios depart daily in summer at 08:45 and 17:00-18:00, with reduced winter sailings around three times weekly.
Ferry tickets from Cesme to Chios start from around €20-€50 for foot passengers, with prices varying by season and operator.
Once you’ve wandered through the mastic villages and medieval castles of Chios, the rest of the Aegean is waiting. We offer seamless connections to nearby islands, allowing you to easily extend your holiday. From the emerald landscapes of Samos to the vibrant streets of Kos, find your next destination below.
Birthplace of the mathematician Pythagoras, Samos is a lush, green island renowned for its sweet Muscat wine and impressive ancient ruins.
Discover the Heraion temple and the Tunnel of Eupalinos. Just a short, scenic ferry ride from the port of Kusadasi.
Known as the island of Hippocrates, Kos features a beautiful blend of ancient Greek ruins, crusader castles, and long, sandy beaches perfect for cycling.
Visit the Asklepion and the medieval Neratzia Castle. Easily accessible via regular ferry services from Bodrum and Turgutreis.
The largest Dodecanese island, home to a UNESCO medieval Old Town, Lindos Acropolis, and beautiful coastline reached from Marmaris.
Step into the Palace of the Grand Master and explore the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. Fast ferry connections from Marmaris.
Greece's most remote island gem, known for its colorful harbor, the spectacular Blue Grotto, and a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere from Kas.
A peaceful 20-minute crossing from Kas. Perfect for swimming in turquoise waters and enjoying a car-free island escape.
Third-largest Greek island, celebrated for its olive groves, petrified forest, thermal springs, and rich literary heritage from Ayvalik.
Explore Molyvos Castle and the vibrant streets of Mytilene. Frequent departures from Ayvalik to Greece’s third-largest island.
The island of mastic, featuring UNESCO-protected medieval villages, striking geometric facades, and authentic Aegean charm from Cesme.
Visit UNESCO-protected mastic groves, the black pebble beach of Mavra Volia, and the historic Nea Moni Monastery. Daily ferries from Cesme.
