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The 4 Best Tours in Chios
Chios is a captivating island that offers more than just stunning views and delicious mastic. Its diverse tours allow visitors to experience the sea, history, and local culture firsthand. Whether you want to sail along the coast, explore charming villages on foot, or learn about its famous resin, Chios has a lot to offer.
One of our favorite experiences is the sailing boat cruise to Oinouses, which combines the thrill of being on the water with opportunities to snorkel, enjoy a BBQ, and see untouched coves. This tour captures the essence of Chios’s maritime charm. For those interested in cultural exploration, the Kampos private walking tour reveals the island’s quaint villages and traditional mansions, offering a glimpse into local life. And for a unique taste of mastic, the Mastiha shore excursion takes you through mastic villages and the museum, making it perfect for food lovers.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these exceptional tours, along with insights to help you choose the right one for your interests and schedule.
1. Chios: Sailing Boat Cruise to Oinouses with Meal & Drinks
This full-day semi-private sailing cruise is a fantastic way to see Chios from the water. Starting at Voyagers 24 LLC, the trip offers about six hours of sailing, swimming, and scenic views. The boat tour explores the secluded coves of Inousses and includes snorkeling gear for swimming in crystal-clear waters around Oinousses Island.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of adventure and relaxation. You’ll learn some basic sailing, enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ onboard (with vegetarian options), and take plenty of time to soak in the Aegean views. The itinerary includes scenic cruising along Chios’s northeastern coast, with a photo stop at Oinousses, making it an ideal choice for sea lovers wanting a hands-on experience.
The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 score based on three reviews. Travelers love the intimacy of the semi-private setting and the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters. The captain is attentive, and the meal is considered satisfying and well-cooked.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous travelers who want a full day at sea with good food, scenic cruising, and snorkeling. It’s a memorable way to see the coast and learn about local sailing traditions.
2. Chios: Kampos Private Walking Tour
If you prefer exploring on foot, this private walking tour of Kampos offers a leisurely dive into traditional Chios life. Led by a local guide, the tour lasts about 2.5 hours and takes you through winding streets lined with grand stone mansions—evidence of the island’s once-thriving citrus industry.
The tour includes visits to a traditional mansion, a citrus orchard, and the Tangerine Museum, giving a well-rounded insight into local agriculture and architecture. You’ll also get a chance to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of Kampos, a village that seems frozen in time.
Rated 4.9/5 from numerous reviews, this tour is praised for its personalized approach and deep local knowledge. Visitors mention the wellness pace, which makes it suitable even for casual walkers. It’s ideal for history buffs and those interested in local traditions, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, authentic experience perfect for those wanting a taste of traditional Chios without rushing through. Ideal for culture lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
3. Chios: Mastiha Shore Excursion
For a tour that combines culinary curiosity with cultural discovery, the Mastiha shore excursion is hard to beat. This 4.5-hour adventure takes you through the mastic villages of South Chios, with visits to the Mastic Museum, medieval Mesta, and Pyrgi with its distinctive façade.
The highlight is exploring mastiha cultivation, where you’ll learn how this resin is harvested from the local trees, and you’ll sample products flavored with mastic, such as sweets and liqueurs. The tour also includes stops at Kallimasia, where you get a short class on mastic harvesting, and a scenic walk through Mesta.
With a perfect 5/5 review score, visitors appreciate the hands-on experience of learning about mastic’s significance and tasting it in various forms. The tour is suitable for those interested in local products and history, and the group size (up to 2 people for $361) offers an intimate setting.
Bottom Line: Best for foodies and culture fans eager to learn about Chios’s famous resin and its role in local life. A unique, flavorful way to see the island.
4. Chios: Welcome Concierge Coffee Break with a Local
If you’re arriving in Chios and want a friendly introduction, this welcome coffee break is a great way to start. Taking place at the Chios Chandris Hotel, it offers a relaxed 1.5-hour session where a local guides you through an overview of the island’s highlights.
During this informal meet-and-greet, you’ll enjoy coffee or a drink, sample some local snacks, and discuss your interests with a friendly agent who can tailor your stay. It’s an ideal option for travelers needing a quick orientation or wanting personalized suggestions before exploring independently.
Rated 4.9/5, visitors find this experience helpful in setting the tone for their trip. It’s especially useful if you prefer a flexible, customized approach rather than a set itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a quick, friendly overview and personalized recommendations to make the most of their stay.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Chios
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a full day of sailing and adventure, the sailing cruise offers a memorable sea experience, especially if you love snorkeling and fresh seafood. If culture appeals more, the Kampos walking tour provides insight into traditional villages and architecture at a relaxed pace. Food and history enthusiasts should not miss the Mastiha shore excursion, which combines tasting with learning about the island’s famed resin.
For those arriving in port and wanting a quick, helpful overview, the Welcome Coffee Break is a friendly start. Think about what fits your schedule and interests—whether a full day at sea, a cultural walk, or a focused food experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, as these tours tend to fill up quickly. Check availability and start planning your Chios adventure today!
In summary, Chios offers an array of engaging tours that showcase its natural beauty, rich culture, and unique local products. Whether you’re drawn to sailing, historic villages, or mastic tasting, there’s a perfect match waiting. For most travelers, a combination of experiences—maybe a boat cruise and a cultural walk—can provide a well-rounded visit. Don’t forget to book ahead, and enjoy discovering this charming island!
