FAQs ABOUT CHIOS

The ferry journey from Cesme to Chios typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the type of vessel. High-speed catamarans complete the crossing in approximately 20 minutes, while conventional ferries may take up to 40 minutes.

The distance between the two ports is only 10 nautical miles (approximately 18 kilometers).

You may also check How to Get to Chios section for detailed information.

During summer season (June to September), ferries typically depart from Cesme at 08:30, 10:00, and 18:00 daily. The first ferry usually leaves around 08:30-08:45, and the last departure is at 18:00. During winter months (October to May), there are fewer sailings, usually 3 per week on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Schedules vary by operator and season, so it's recommended to check current timetables before traveling.

Please also check Cesme Chios Ferry Departures for detailed information.

Ferry ticket prices range from €25 to €40 for a one-way adult ticket. Round-trip tickets cost between €25 and €50.

Prices vary depending on the ferry operator, season, and booking time. Children discount is also available for 0-5 and 6-12 ages.

Please check Cesme Chios Ferry Tickets for ticket rates.

The main ferry operators on the Cesme-Chios route are Turyol, Sunrise Lines, and Erturk Lines. Each company offers different schedules and vessel types, including both conventional ferries and high-speed catamarans.

Turkish citizens require a Schengen visa to enter Greece. However, a simplified "visa express" program is available specifically for Turkish citizens visiting Greek islands like Chios, allowing stays of up to 7 days.

Citizens from Schengen Area countries and certain other nations with visa-waiver agreements can enter Greece without a visa for short stays. Non-EU citizens should check their specific visa requirements before traveling.

The Cesme Chios ferry route operates year-round, but with significant differences between seasons. Between June and September, there are about 24 ferry crossings each week. Daily departures at 08:30, 10:00, and 18:00 are available from June onward.

During the low season (October-May), the route usually has around 3 weekly sailings. Ferries operate regularly throughout the year, with increased frequency during the summer months

You may check Cesme Chios Ferry Departures for more information.

Yes, certain ferry operators allow vehicles on board. Erturk Lines and some other operators accept cars, motorcycles, and motorhomes. It's essential to book vehicle tickets well in advance, especially during peak season, as capacity is limited.

It's highly recommended to arrive at least 60 minutes (1 hour) before departure. During peak summer season, ports can be extremely busy with long queues at passport control and customs. Arriving early ensures you have sufficient time for check-in procedures and avoid missing your ferry.

Yes, you can easily buy ferry ticket online through our website.

All passengers must carry a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date) for this international crossing. EU/Greek citizens may use their national ID card instead. Non-EU citizens need a passport and may require a Schengen visa depending on travel direction and nationality.

You'll also need your ferry ticket confirmation (printed or digital). Turkish citizens whose passports contain entry and exit stamps for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are not permitted to enter Greece by the Greek authorities.

Yes, ferry operators allow pets on board. You'll need to carry necessary pet documentation, including a pet passport with required vaccinations. If traveling with a pet, you must inform the ferry company in advance, carry all necessary documentation, and take full responsibility for your pet.

Ferries offer basic amenities including air-conditioned seating areas, open decks for viewing, and snack bars serving drinks and light refreshments. Due to the short journey time (20-40 minutes), cabins are not available on this route. All ferries provide comfortable deck-lounge seating.

Yes, day trips are very popular and easy to arrange. Multiple daily departures during summer make it convenient to visit Chios and return to Cesme on the same day. Some ferry companies offer special same-day return ticket deals at discounted rates.

While planning your trip to Chios, you may find our Chios Island Guide section very helpful for planning your day or short stay.

The Cesme ferry port (Ulusoy Port) is located on the western edge of Cesme town, approximately 5 minutes walk from the town center. The port is easily accessible by local buses, taxis, or on foot. There's parking available near the port.

Yes, there's a 1-hour time difference. Greece (Chios) is 1 hour behind Turkey (Cesme). This means when it's 10:00 in Cesme, it's 09:00 in Chios. Remember to adjust your watch when traveling between the two countries.

Ferry companies are generally flexible with luggage size and weight. You can keep your luggage with you or store it in designated luggage areas on board. There's no formal check-in procedure for luggage. Each operator has their own baggage policy, so it's best to check if traveling with oversized items.

Yes, it's possible to buy tickets at the port on the day of travel, but this is not recommended, especially during peak summer season. Ferries can sell out quickly, and advance booking online ensures you secure your spot.

Summer months (June-September) offer the most frequent service with multiple daily departures and warm weather perfect for beach activities. However, spring and autumn provide a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds.

Winter season has reduced service but offers a calm, quiet atmosphere. The ferry operates year-round.

Yes, Turkish citizens born in Northern Cyprus (as mentioned on their passport) or those with Northern Cyprus entry stamps may be denied entry to Chios due to international disputes between Greece and Northern Cyprus. Check your passport carefully before booking to avoid refund issues.

Ferry services may be delayed or canceled due to adverse weather conditions, particularly strong winds, rough seas, or storms. Winter months (November-February) see the highest risk of weather-related disruptions.

Ferry operators prioritize passenger safety and will notify passengers of cancellations in advance when possible. In case of cancellation, tickets can typically be rescheduled for the next available sailing at no extra charge.

Ferries arrive at Chios Main Port (Chora Port), located on the northeast corner of the harbor in Chios Town. The terminal includes passport control, customs, security, and a duty-free shop. The port is walking distance from the town center, hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Our cancellation and refund policy depends on when you notify us of your cancellation.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Our cancellation and refund policy depends on when you notify us of your cancellation.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Generally, Cesme Chios ferry tickets are non-refundable. The terms explicitly state that passengers have no right of withdrawal and tickets are non-refundable.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Yes, you may request a one-time free date change up to 24 hours before the departure time. Changes requested within 24 hours of departure may be subject to restrictions. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to modify your booking.

Yes, you can change your Cesme Chios ferry tickets to open ticket by contacting us at least 24 hours before the departure time. However, these tickets must be used within the same calendar year.

Refunds are always issued to the same credit card that you used for your booking. Depending on your bank, it usually takes 2-7 business days for the refund to be processed and for the funds to appear in your bank account.

Generally, tickets are company-specific, so you would likely need to cancel and rebook with a different operator.

Yes! Children discount is also available for 0-5 and 6-12 ages.

Please check Cesme Chios Ferry Tickets section for more details.

If you are studying in a higher education institution, you can have the relevant discount during your booking. Please note that you will be asked to show your student card before check-in, so make sure that you bring it with you on the day of your trip.

The trip may be canceled or postponed due to reasons beyond the Company's control, such as bad weather and sea conditions, strikes, technical malfunctions, war, natural disasters, or official decisions.

In this case, the passenger can only change their ticket to a different date, subject to availability; no refund or compensation will be paid.

Meander Feribot collaborates with ferry companies operating routes throughout the Aegean Sea. We currently offer:

ferry to Lesvos from Ayvalik,
ferry to Lesvos from Aliaga,
ferry to Chios from Cesme,
ferry to Samos from Kusadasi,
ferry to Kos from Bodrum,
ferry to Kos from Turgutreis,
ferry to Rhodes from Marmaris
ferry to Kastellorizo from Kas.

You can book ferry tickets online on meanderferibot.com in just a few quick and easy steps. Booking a ferry has never been simpler! Here’s how it works:

1. You choose departure and destination ports, one-way or return tickets and travel dates. You can also select the number of passengers. Click on the 'Search' button to proceed to step 2.

2. In step 2, all available ferry crossings and itineraries will be displayed. Please select the itinerary that you prefer and click 'Buy Your Ticket'.

3. In step 3, uou will have to provide contact details for the lead passenger and enter the passenger details along with credit card details. Now you will click 'Pay Now' button. You will be redirected to our bank's secure payment gateway to complete your booking.

Your ferry tickets are booked! We will send you a booking confirmation email with your booking details and all the necessary information for your trip. Enjoy your holidays!

Yes, it's recommended to buy Cesme Chios ferry tickets early and make advance reservations to guarantee your booking, especially during peak summer season.

Once you have made a payment and your booking has been successfully completed, you will be redirected to the booking confirmation page, where you will find your booking details. You will also receive a booking confirmation email with all the necessary information for your trip.

You can book ferry tickets through our website or by visiting our office up to 1 hour before departure.

No, it is not necessary to confirm the departure time of your ferry, as it is uncommon for ferry schedules to change. We thus recommend that you check your email once on the day before your departure and once on the day of your ferry trip.

You can also contact us the day before your trip to get the latest information on schedule changes and delays.

Yes, we offer special rates for group bookings, but advance booking is required, especially during the peak summer season (July-August), to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

For tailored group rates and assistance, please contact us and our team will get back to you promptly.

You can use e-tickets on your phone.

Passengers should arrive at least 60 minutes before departure Cesme to Chios (All Ports). During busy summer periods, arriving at least 1 hour early is highly recommended. Please make sure that you allow enough time for check-in and other procedures on international ferry routes.

It is important to note that if you arrive late for check-in or boarding, you may not be allowed to travel. In this case, you will most likely not get a refund.

You can easily make a request for the confirmation email to be re-sent to you by contacting us.

Ferries depart from the port of Cesme, which is just a 5-minute walk from the town center.

Be prepared to present a valid travel document (ID or passport). The company reserves the right to deny boarding if these documents are not provided. You will first go through check-in at the operator's office and you will continue with custom and passport control procedures before boarding.

Ferry tickets are nominative and require personal details including full name, gender, nationality, and date of birth for issuance. Ferry companies are required by law to record specific details of every passenger traveling for international crossings for customs and immigration purposes.

Chios is world-famous for mastic production, a unique resin harvested from mastic trees that grow exclusively in the southern part of the island. This natural product has been cultivated for centuries and is used in culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal applications.

The island is also known for its medieval villages, Byzantine monasteries, and diverse beaches.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Chios..

The Chios Mastic Museum is a modern facility dedicated to the cultivation and processing of mastic. Through interactive exhibits and historical displays, visitors can learn about traditional mastic cultivation techniques, its economic significance, and its varied uses throughout history.

It's essential for understanding the island's most distinctive agricultural treasure.

Absolutely. Nea Moni is a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1042 AD by Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos. The 11th-century monastery is renowned for its stunning mosaics, considered some of the finest examples of Macedonian Renaissance art in Greece.

It's located in the center of the island at an altitude of 670m on the slopes of Mount Provation, around 12km from Chios Town.

The mastic villages (Mastihochoria) are medieval settlements in southern Chios that were major mastic producers. The most beautiful include Pyrgi, with its geometric patterns on external walls, and Mesta, a well-preserved fortified village.

Olimpi is another charming mastic village characterized by narrow stone-paved alleys, arched passageways, and fortress-like houses built close together for protection against pirates during the Middle Ages.

Pyrgi is a lovely medieval-style village with distinctive geometric patterns painted on the external walls of houses, making it among the most beautiful villages on the island. This unique decorative technique, called "xysta," creates stunning black and white geometric designs that are truly one-of-a-kind.

The medieval castle in Chios Town dates from the Byzantine and Genoese periods. Beyond the castle walls, you'll find museums including the Public Central Historical Library of Chios "KORAES," founded in 1792, which houses 290,000 volumes.

The Argenti Museum on the first floor features historical paintings and a unique collection of folklore objects.

Mavra Volia is unlike any other beach in Greece due to its shore made up of big, black, shiny pebbles created by a volcanic eruption from the nearby Psaronas crater. The dark but crystal-clear waters make it one of the most memorable beaches in Chios. It's located near Emporio village in the south.

Karfas Beach, 7 kilometers from Chios Town, is the most developed family-friendly resort with fine golden sand, very shallow and warm waters. The beach is organized with deckchairs, umbrellas, and water sports facilities. Agia Fotini, with Blue Flag status and 700 meters of coastline, is also excellent for families.

Chios offers scuba diving through professional diving centers, including discovery dives for beginners. Popular beaches like Apothika offer kayaking, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), and cave exploration.

Beaches like Bella Vista and Afanis Naftis are perfect for windsurfing, while Karfas and Komi beaches offer jet-skiing and beach volleyball.

Yes, near Olimpi village is the impressive Olympi Cave, a 150-million-year-old cavern discovered accidentally in 1985. It's 57m deep and filled with multicolored stalactites and other rock formations, with a humidity level of 95%. There's also Agio Galas Cave in the northern part of the island.

Kampos is a traditional settlement just 6 km from Chios Town, founded by Genoese invaders in the 14th century and currently under protection from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

It features earth-colored aristocratic mansions with high walls, vast orange orchards, tree-roofed alleys, and scented gardens. Many old mansions have been converted into guesthouses, and you can explore on foot or by bicycle.

Yes, daily boats depart from Chios Town port to Oinousses, a tiny island with traditional architecture, lovely beaches, and a calm environment.

Psara is another small island with gorgeous beaches, a traditional village, and rich historical past, ideal for total isolation and privacy. Ferry services also connect to Turkish coast at Cesme.

The Maritime Museum of Chios, housed in a 19th-century mansion, charts the island's long seafaring tradition with paintings and models of ships, photographs, and navigation tools.

The Byzantine Museum is housed in a 19th-century Ottoman mosque and contains items dating from early Christian times to the 17th century. The Archaeological Museum features Neolithic and Classical finds.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Chios.

Yes, Mount Pelinaio offers magical hiking opportunities through the Greek countryside. The mountain is impressive year-round: blooming in spring, with vast Aegean Sea views in summer, full of attractive colors in autumn, and often snow-covered in winter.

There are also marked trails around Nea Moni monastery and through the mastic villages.

Daskalopetra (meaning "teaching stone") is a beach where Homer was supposedly said to sit on a stone and teach. It's located near Vrontados village and combines legend with the pleasure of swimming. According to historians, Chios claims to be the birthplace of Homer.

Nagos Beach at the northern end of the island features tiny colored pebbles, crystal-clear waters, lush greenery fed by springs, and a pretty hilltop chapel. Trachili and Avlonia beaches are secluded coves perfect for relaxation.

Agia Markella near Volissos is a stunning beach often featured on postcards and visited by pilgrims, offering serenity.

Yes, Chios hosts fascinating traditional events including the famous "rocket war" at Easter, where rival parishes in Vrontados launch homemade rockets at each other's churches.

The island also hosts music concerts, theater performances, and traditional festivals throughout the year. The Monastery of Agia Markella celebrates on July 22nd.

Volissos is a beautiful village constructed along the slopes of a hill with rich history. The stone houses and picturesque paths create a romantic atmosphere. The area around Volissos is also surrounded by some of the island's most serene beaches, including Limnos, Lefkathia, Managros, and Agia Markella.

Yes, excursion boats run regularly from Chios Town to nearby islands like Oinousses. Private boat charters are available for exploring the coastline and hidden coves. Many operators offer day cruises with stops at multiple beaches and swimming opportunities, as well as fishing charters and diving excursions.

Komi Beach on the southeastern coast is the only true stretch of sand on Chios, making it popular for families and beach lovers. It's known for its vibrant, energetic atmosphere with numerous tavernas, cafes, and bars lining the shore. The beach also offers various water sports and has a lively nightlife scene after sunset.

Yes, the Citrus Museum in Chios presents documents and historical elements of local citrus fruits and production, particularly the famous Chian mandarin. The Kampos area is filled with traditional citrus orchards that you can explore while walking through the historic settlement.

All beaches on the west coast of Chios offer amazing sunset views. Managros and Agia Markella near Volissos are particularly spectacular for watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea. The west coast beaches are generally less crowded than east coast resorts, making them ideal for peaceful evening visits.

Chios is accessible by air through Chios Island National Airport, which has direct flights from Athens and seasonal connections from other European cities. You can also take a ferry to Chios from Cesme, Piraeus (Athens), Lesvos, Samos, and other nearby islands.

The best time to visit Chios is from May to October, with July and August being the warmest months. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, ideal for sightseeing and exploring villages.

Chios is part of Greece and the EU Schengen zone. EU citizens need only a valid ID card. Visitors from the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The Euro (€) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for small tavernas, villages, and local markets.

Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, especially among younger generations. Learning a few basic Greek phrases is appreciated by locals.

You can rent a car, scooter, or ATV to explore independently. Local buses (KTEL) connect major towns and villages but have limited schedules. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance, especially in remote areas.

While not absolutely necessary if you're staying in Chios Town, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island's medieval villages, beaches, and attractions at your own pace, as public transportation is limited.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Chios.

Yes, ATMs are available in Chios Town and larger villages. However, smaller villages may not have ATM facilities, so it's wise to withdraw cash before heading to remote areas.

Shops typically open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Many close on Sunday afternoons. Restaurants usually open for lunch around noon and for dinner from 7:00 PM until late. Hours may vary during tourist season.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in Chios Town and most areas, though many locals and visitors prefer bottled water. In remote villages, it's advisable to ask locals or stick to bottled water.

Chios uses Type C and Type F plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. Visitors from the US, UK, and other countries may need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Yes, Chios is very safe for travelers. Crime rates are low, and locals are welcoming. Standard precautions apply: watch your belongings in crowded areas and don't leave valuables in rental cars.

Pack light, breathable clothing for summer, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light jacket for evenings and air-conditioned spaces. If visiting religious sites, pack modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.

Chios has a general hospital in Chios Town and health centers in larger villages. Pharmacies are well-stocked and pharmacists can provide advice for minor ailments. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The European emergency number is 112.

Specific numbers include:

Police: 100
Ambulance: 166
Fire Department: 199
Tourist Police: 171
Coast Guard: 108.

Most tourist accommodations have emergency contact information readily available.

Mobile coverage is excellent in Chios Town and most populated areas. Coverage may be spotty in remote mountainous regions. Major Greek carriers include Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind. EU visitors can use their phones without roaming charges.

The main tourist information office is located in Chios Town near the port. You can also find information at your hotel, travel agencies, and online. Local travel agencies can arrange tours and activities.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is customary for good service. Taxi drivers appreciate rounding up the fare. Hotel staff may be tipped for exceptional service.

Drone use in Greece requires registration and adherence to regulations. Flying near archaeological sites, military installations, and airports is prohibited. Always check current regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying.

Chios has both organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas (for a fee) and many free, unspoiled beaches. Popular organized beaches include Karfas and Mavra Volia, while numerous secluded coves offer a more natural experience.

Standard EU customs regulations apply. Antiquities cannot be exported without special permission. Be aware of duty-free limits on tobacco, alcohol, and other goods. Prescription medications should be accompanied by a doctor's note.

Chios Town and modern hotels generally have good accessibility. However, many medieval villages have steep, cobbled streets and limited wheelchair access. Beaches vary in accessibility. It's best to research specific accommodations and attractions in advance.

You may also visit Chios Island Guide for planning your trip to this island.

Mastic is a unique resin harvested from low-growing mastic trees cultivated exclusively in the southern villages of Chios. The harvesting process, called "kentima" (embroidery), involves making incisions in the tree trunks, causing teardrops of resin to drip out and be collected in August.

This tradition has remained virtually unchanged since Byzantine times and has been included on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Mastic has been cultivated on the island since the 1st century AD and is used in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, cosmetics, cooking, sweets, and beverages.

There are about 20 medieval mastic villages in southern Chios, with the most noteworthy being Pyrgi, Mesta, Olymbi, Vessa, Armolia, Nenita, and Patrika.

These villages feature distinctive architecture including tightly-packed houses and domed rooftops introduced by the Genoese occupiers (1346-1566) that served as protection and lookout points for pirate raids.

The Rouketopolemos is a spectacular Easter tradition that takes place in Vrontados village on Holy Saturday before Easter.

Two rival churches, Agios Markos and Panagia Erythiani (located 400 meters apart), stage an annual "battle" by launching tens of thousands of homemade rockets at each other while celebrating mass, with the objective of hitting the opposing church's bell tower.

According to local legend, this tradition dates back to the Ottoman period.

Pyrgi is renowned for its ceramic "xysta" - detailed and decorative black-and-white geometric designs that adorn the facades of houses. These distinctive patterns are created using a unique technique of etching plaster with simple tools, making the village visually stunning as you walk through its cobblestoned alleyways.

The most characteristic Chian dance is the "Pyrgousikos," a fast, cheerful, and lively dance performed in a trio with two men and a woman in the middle dancing vividly in a V formation.

Other traditional dances include the "Syrtos" (performed in couples), "Thetos" (danced in a circle), "Talimi" (representing warriors' movements during battle against pirates), and "Diplos" (where people create human double chains from every neighborhood until they reach the central square).

Traditional Chian dishes include braised goat, handmade spaghetti (shaped by hand) from the northern villages, kopanisti (a soft, creamy cheese with a peppery flavor), mastelo cheese, malathropitakia (fennel-filled fried pies), and fish specialties like fried marida pies. Stewed beans with tangerine puree is another distinctive local dish.

Chios is famous for its citrus fruits, particularly mandarins, which have been registered as a PDO product. The Chians use mandarins extensively - eating them fresh, making juice, desserts, jams, liqueurs, and syrups. They even add mandarin zest to traditional dishes like bean soup and use it to flavor meats and cuttlefish.

Kampos is a traditional settlement founded by Genoese invaders in the 14th century, located just 6 km from Chios town. It's one of the island's most fertile valleys, known for its citrus orchards (oranges, lemons, and tangerines) and colorful neoclassical mansions with exceptional architecture.

The area features about forty churches and magnificent wooden gates protecting the orchards.

Nea Moni is one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece, established in 1024 by Byzantine emperor Constantine IX Monomachos.

It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses some of the most beautiful mosaics in the world by the altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary, representing the finest examples of Macedonian Renaissance Art.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Chios.

Traditional festivals (panigiria) play a leading role in Chios's cultural life every summer, especially in August, transforming the island into a celebration land. The occasion is usually a religious celebration, as each village has a saint to honor, creating a vibrant atmosphere of music, dance, and feasting.

The Agas custom is one of the oldest traditions on Chios island, revived every Ash Monday (Shrove Monday) in the central square of several villages including Mesta, Olympoi, and Lithi.

This tradition dates back to the Turkish occupation when Turkish rulers of the mastic villages punished local people with heavy penalties. It's essentially a satirical replica of the trials that were held during Ottoman rule.

Chios produces several unique spirits including souma (made from figs), ouzo flavored with anise, coriander, fennel, lemon flowers or mastic, and various mastic-flavored liqueurs.

The island also produces Ariousios Oinos, a top-quality red wine that has been produced since antiquity and was considered the nectar of the Gods.

Like the rest of Greece, Chios observes the 40-day Lenten period where animal products are forbidden. Traditional preparations include making Easter buns (tsoureki) and dyeing eggs red on Holy Thursday.

The island hosts special church services, processions of the Epitaph on Good Friday, and on Easter Sunday, families gather for festive meals featuring spit-roasted lamb.

Chios produces mizithra (fresh and dry), kopanisti (a peppery, creamy spread cheese), green brine cheese, and mastelo - a registered cheese name made from cow's and goat's milk that is excellent for grilling. Local yogurts are also made with mandarin and mastic aromas.

Chian folk music has multiple influences tracing back to Ionian rhythms of antiquity, Byzantine musical legacy, Latin conquerors, and the folk musical tradition of Asia Minor and the Aegean islands.

There are songs narrating stories about pirates and dramatic romances like the "tripatos" from Nenita, and songs accompanying mastic producers during harvest like the "Skoiniatikos." Notably, French composer Maurice Ravel composed "Five Greek Songs" in 1904 inspired by Chian folk songs.

The variety of traditional clothing styles on Chios was comparable to the variety of folk music, with different features in every village. The island has two surviving folk costumes, and travelers during the Genoese and Ottoman periods were fascinated by the beauty of Chian women and the variety of their traditional attire.

Chios has a long maritime tradition, with the Chiots being known for their seafaring activities.

The 19th century saw dynamic development of Chian shipping with the successful transition from sailing vessels to steam, supported by shipping insurance companies, academies, and the expertise of Chian personnel. The island's strategic position made it an important trading center throughout history.

Anavatos is known as "the Mystras of the Aegean Sea" - an abandoned Byzantine village set on a steep hill with a stone wall surrounding it. The village suffered during the Massacre of Chios in 1822 at the end of Ottoman occupation, after which it was abandoned.

Today, there are around 400 mostly open houses with unique architecture including wooden ceilings, small living spaces, low doors, and small rounded windows.

The Genoese ruled Chios from 1346-1566 and left a lasting impact on the island. They intensified mastic production, introduced the architectural style of tightly-packed houses and domed rooftops for defense, built mansions in the fertile Kampos valley, and established the fortified mastic villages that still stand today.

Mastic is enjoyed in various forms in daily life: as "ypovrychio" (submarine) - a heaped spoonful immersed in cold water, in liquor or ouzo making, in cookies and sweets, in chewing gums, and as a flavoring agent. It's also used in traditional medicine and cosmetics, making it an integral part of Chian identity.

Chios has several types of handmade pasta that are true works of art. Traditional varieties include fytilaki (a short type), tagliatelle with mastic flavor, and the traditional spartos pasta. The handmade pasta creation process is meticulous - the dough, distinctive shape, and drying time in the sun all contribute to its exceptional taste.

Chios Music School helps local youth explore and preserve the island's rich folk music repertoire, traditional musical instruments, and dances. The Chios Youth's Music Lab is a group of young people dedicated to preserving and promoting local traditional music.

Many villages also maintain folklore museums and cultural associations that keep traditions alive through festivals and educational programs.