If you’re heading to Ios and looking for a way to really experience the island’s vibrant nighttime scene, a pub crawl might just be your best bet. While I can’t say I’ve personally done this exact tour, I’ve seen enough to know that it’s a popular choice among travelers eager to dive into the local party culture. This particular pub crawl, hosted by LIFE IS A BEACH PARTY HQ, promises a lively 4-hour adventure through some of the island’s most iconic bars and clubs, all with VIP perks thrown in.
What gets us excited about this experience? First, the organized nightly schedule means you don’t have to worry about finding the best spots on your own — everything is planned, and you get to enjoy the night without stress. Second, the inclusions like free shots, VIP entries, and a pre-party make it feel like you’re getting good value for the $40.72 price tag. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is geared toward those who love to party late into the early hours — it’s not for anyone wanting an early night. It’s perfect for young travelers or anyone wanting to enjoy Ios’ legendary nightlife, but probably not ideal if you’re traveling with kids or prefer quiet evenings.
Key Points
- All-in-one experience with 5 bars, 5 shots, and VIP access.
- Nightly events that keep the party going until sunrise.
- Pre-party at LIABP HQ offers a relaxed start before hitting the bars.
- No hidden costs; the listed price covers most inclusions.
- Age restriction of 18+ means it’s suited for adult travelers.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the event.
What to Expect from the Ios Pub Crawl Experience
This pub crawl is designed to give you a taste of Ios’s famous nightlife in a single night, making it a fantastic option if you’re keen to hit several spots without the hassle of organizing each venue yourself. It’s a private tour for your group, which means you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to meet like-minded travelers. Starting at Life is a Beach Party HQ on the main street of Chora at 11:00 pm, you’ll kick things off with a free pre-drink, setting a relaxed tone before the real party begins.
For more beverage-focused experiences, here's what we've covered in Ios
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Alt Bar Ios
The adventure starts at the Alt Bar, within the village. Here, the focus is on fun shots and buckets, which are perfect for warming up the crowd and loosening everyone up. The 45-minute stay gives you enough time to get your first drinks, meet your group, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The free admission makes it a good starting point, especially since you’re getting a shot on arrival. We loved the idea of starting with novelty shots — it’s a playful way to kick off the night.
Stop 2: Circus Bar
Next up is Circus Bar, operated by Australian musicians. This spot adds a bit of live music and a modern vibe to your night. The shot challenge at Circus is a fun way to keep everyone engaged, and the 45-minute stay ensures you get a good taste of the venue’s energetic environment. The free VIP entrance means you skip lines and jump straight into the action, which is a real plus in busy nights.
Stop 3: Shush Bar Ios
Moving on, you’ll head to Shush Bar, the island’s only silent disco. This is often a hit because it combines the novelty of wearing headphones with the buzz of a dance party. Choosing between three music channels keeps the experience fresh, and rave juice is a fun drink to try. Since Shush is usually full-house, being part of a guided group means you’ll likely get in without much trouble, and the 45-minute stay is enough for a quick dance or two.
Stop 4: Disco 69 Night Club
The next stop is Disco 69, one of the biggest clubs on the island. With VIP entry, you’ll bypass queues and head straight into the dance floor, where the music and drinks flow freely. It’s a top spot to really let loose and dance with an international crowd. The energy here is often high, and the large space allows for a full-on club experience without feeling cramped.
Stop 5: Sweet Irish Dream
The final stop is the legendary Sweet Irish Dream, open until 7 am, which makes it perfect for those wanting to keep the night alive. Free VIP entry before 3 am lets you skip the lines, and the group tends to stay here until the early hours or until the sun rises. The review from a traveler who called it “the highlight of the best bar crawl in Ios” makes it clear that this is a memorable way to cap off the night. The relaxed vibe and the chance to unwind make it a favorite among participants.
What’s Included and What’s Not
You’re paying around $40.72, which covers five shots, VIP entrance at each venue, and a pre-drink ticket. The shots are a nice touch — at each stop, you’ll get a welcome shot, which helps kickstart the drinks and camaraderie. The free laybacks at the last stop are a bonus, making the party even more relaxed. One thing to note, you’ll need to bring your own bottled water, as it’s not included.
The Atmosphere and Crowd
Based on reviews and the itinerary, expect a lively, youthful crowd mostly aged 18 and up. The experience caters to those who love to dance, socialize, and stay out late. The group size is likely intimate enough to feel personal but large enough to keep the energy high. Since the tour is private, you won’t be stuck with strangers, which adds to the relaxed vibe.
Timing and Practicalities
The tour begins at 11:00 pm and runs until around 7:00 am at the last venue. This is a long night, so bring your stamina. It’s near public transportation, which makes getting to the starting point straightforward, and canceling is free up to 24 hours in advance — useful if your plans change.
Honest Take: The Good and the Not-So-Good
This pub crawl offers excellent value for those who want to experience multiple venues without the hassle of organizing each one. The VIP entries and free shots help maximize your night, and the pre-party sets a fun tone. The only potential downside is the late start and long hours — it’s not ideal if you’re someone who prefers an earlier, quieter night. Also, if you’re not into late-night partying, this might not be your scene.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re a young traveler looking to mingle with a lively crowd and experience Ios’s legendary nightlife, this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for those who want a guided night out that covers several hotspots, saving you time and effort. However, if you prefer quieter evenings or are traveling with children, this might not be the right fit. It’s best suited for party-goers who enjoy dancing, meeting new people, and staying out until sunrise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for travelers under 18?
No, the tour is only available for those 18 and older, due to alcohol restrictions.
How long does the pub crawl last?
It runs approximately 4 hours, starting at 11:00 pm and ending around 7:00 am at the last venue.
Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you get 5 shots at each venue, plus a pre-drink shot at the HQ. The shots are included, but bottled water is not.
What should I bring?
Bring your ID to prove your age, some cash for extras, and water if you want to stay hydrated. Dress code is casual, but comfortable shoes are recommended for a night of walking and dancing.
Can I cancel this booking?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within that window aren’t refunded.
Is transportation provided between venues?
No, but the venues are within walking distance in the village, and the meeting point is easy to find.
Will I meet other travelers?
Yes, since it’s a private group, you’ll be with your own party, but the atmosphere tends to be social and fun.
Pub Crawl in Cyclades
“One of the best bar crawls I've ever been on. Nothing compares to Ios and LIABP know how to run one!! Do yourself a favour when you're there.”
Final Thoughts
This pub crawl in Ios offers a well-organized way to experience the island’s famous nightlife in one night. It delivers good value with VIP entries, free shots, and access to multiple venues, making it ideal for young travelers or anyone looking to dance the night away. The late-night vibe and lively crowd make it a memorable experience, especially for those who thrive on socializing and staying out until dawn.
While it’s not suited for anyone seeking an early or quiet evening, if you want to fully embrace Ios’s legendary party scene, this tour is definitely worth considering. Its focus on fun, convenience, and a diverse lineup of venues makes it an easy choice for an unforgettable night out on this beautiful Greek island.
