Chios is one of the largest islands in the northeastern Aegean Sea. With an area of 842 km2 and a coastline of 213 km, it is the fifth largest island in Greece. We would divide it into two parts where its "northern" part is significantly hilly and there is the highest mountain Pelion, which reaches a height of 1 297 m above sea level. Towards the island's capital, Chios, the landscape changes. The fertile Kambos plain near the capital is a centre of citrus cultivation. Oranges, lemons and tangerines are renowned here. Further south on the island are mastiff groves. Masticha is the hardened resin of the lentiscus tree, whose effects are exceptional and help, for example, with stomach and digestive problems, but it is also added to various cosmetic or food products. The use of mastic dates back to the Middle Ages. Products made from this 'resin' have made the island famous throughout the world. This "southern" part of the island is less hilly and has a large number of wonderful beaches and many other interesting places.

The main town of Chios is located on the east coast overlooking the Turkish coastal town of Çeşme and is said to be the birthplace of the poet Homer. It is dominated by a fortress dating back to the Byzantine Empire. Inside the walls are the remains of town houses, baths, a Turkish cemetery and a mosque, which today serves as a museum. The population is approximately 25 000, half of the island's population. Modern cafes, shops, houses and office buildings are harmoniously integrated with the older architecture to create a lively and attractive setting. Notable landmarks include the ancient theatre, the statue of Kanaris, the bronze monuments to the unknown soldiers and the old quarter. There is also a pleasant promenade along the coast with a harbour and a large number of tavernas.

The island is not yet one of the most popular tourist sites in Greece. As a result, even in high season you will find many beaches and resorts where you will have complete privacy and tranquillity. In 2022, not a single charter plane with travel agency clients landed here. With beautiful and unspoilt nature, less tourism, holidays on this island are one of the most refreshing experiences.

Chios is not only about the production of masticha, it also offers countless beautiful, clean and sandy or pebble beaches such as the popular Karfas beach in the resort of the same name, near the capital, Megas Limnionas beach, Elinta, Agia Dynami, Agia Fotini also in the resort of the same name and others, where there are suitable conditions for water sports. Many beaches are surrounded by stunning natural scenery, fragrant herbs and citrus groves.

The island is home to a variety of sights and natural phenomena. The small town of Pyrgi is definitely worth a visit and is famous for its decorated houses. Most of them are black and white decorative motifs in different shapes. Another amazing place is Mesta, it is a Greek traditional village and belongs to the Mastic Villages, a group of villages in southern Chios where the main activity is the production of mastic. The Mastic Villages have been added to the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Another interesting place is the village of Olympi distinguished by its remarkable architecture. The houses are built in such a way that the outer walls are joined, so that anyone facing the village will see a fortress with no visible openings, except for one door that allows people in and out of the village. In the summer, it can cool off nicely in the stalactite cave found nearby.

Basic information:

• Greek name: Chios, Χίος
• Capital: Chios
• Island area: 842 km2
• Population: over 54 000
• Highest peak: Pelineon - 1297 m above sea level
• Patron of the island: Agia Markella