Ios is a fantastic island for bike tours. Its combination of rugged hills, ancient ruins, and charming villages makes cycling an excellent way to see the sights at your own pace. Whether you want a quick spin around the archaeological sites or a more in-depth exploration of Ios’ traditions, there’s a tour for you. We especially love the Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery for its mix of history, local flavors, and easy riding—perfect if you prefer a guided experience that covers more ground without breaking a sweat.
If you’re after a more personalized journey, the 5-6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours offers a chance to explore multiple archaeological sites and local legends at your own pace. For a shorter, scenic ride, the Electric Bike Tour Around the Upper Valley proves perfect for those with limited time or a preference for casual sightseeing. Let’s look closer at each of these top options.
1. Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery
Starting from Chora, this tour is a great introduction to Ios, especially if you love a blend of archaeological sights and local food. The tour uses an electric bicycle, making the ride smooth and accessible, even on some hilly sections. After a short downhill to the port area, you’ll visit the Skarkos archaeological site, where you can learn about Ios’ ancient past without feeling rushed. The highlight is the visit to Diaseli Traditional Cheesery, where you’ll taste fresh cheese and hear stories from the family that’s been making cheese here for generations.
This tour lasts about 4 hours, making it manageable for most travelers. The reviews praise George’s know-how and enthusiasm, noting he’s committed to sharing authentic insights rather than just giving a standard tour. The small group size and focus on local traditions make this experience stand out. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded taste of Ios’ history, flavors, and scenery, all while avoiding overly long or crowded tours.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a relaxed, informative ride with a delicious cheese tasting and some cultural context.
2. 5-6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours
For those seeking a more personalized experience, this private tour hits all the high points of Ios. Starting from Chora, the tour covers the prehistoric site of Skarkos, where you’ll learn about ancient civilizations. It then takes you to Homer’s Tomb at Plakotos, a site shrouded in legend and history, perfect for literature fans or anyone curious about Greek mythology.
What makes this tour stand out is the in-depth stories and the chance to visit Dimitri’s family cheesery, where cheese-making traditions have been passed down through generations. The 5-hour duration offers enough time to explore without feeling rushed, and the guide’s expertise ensures you get real local insights. Guests rave about George’s passion and knowledge, making this a favorite for history and culture enthusiasts. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a customized, immersive experience and are comfortable with cycling.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a flexible, all-encompassing tour with rich storytelling and a focus on traditions.
3. Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer’s Tomb
This 4-hour tour provides a focused look at Homer’s Tomb and the archaeological site of Skarkos. It starts from Chora and follows with a visit to the legendary resting place of Homer at Plakotos. The ride is easy and accessible, thanks to the electric bikes that help you cover more ground without fatigue. After a brief walk at Skarkos, you’ll cycle along quiet paths with views of the island’s natural beauty.
What’s great about this tour is its compact schedule—perfect if you’re limited on time but still want to see key historical sites. Reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the beautiful scenery. The tour appeals especially to those interested in Greek mythology or archaeology, with a less intensive itinerary that still hits the highlights.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs or anyone interested in Homer’s legend who prefers a shorter, relaxed ride.
4. Electric Bike Tour Around the Upper Valley
This short but sweet 2-hour tour is perfect if you’re after a lighthearted introduction to Ios’ landscape and traditions. Starting from Chora, you’ll visit the archaeological site of Skarkos and then explore the main roads of Ios, with stops to learn about local history and nature. The ride is mainly flat, making it suitable for casual cyclists or families.
A highlight is the chance to collect oregano or figs, depending on the season, adding a hands-on, authentic element to the experience. This tour is ideal if you’re limited on time or prefer a low-impact, scenic ride that still offers insight into island life.
Reviews mention the friendly guide and the relaxed pace, making it excellent for those who want a gentle introduction to Ios’ natural and archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: Great for casual cyclists, families, or travelers in need of a quick, informal overview.
$69.79 per person
How to Choose the Best Bike Tour in Ios
Choosing the right bike tour depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If you’re passionate about archaeology and local food, the Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery offers a well-rounded experience with a delicious cheese tasting. For a more customized, in-depth exploration, the Private Chora E-Bike Tour provides flexibility and detailed storytelling. If your focus is on legendary sites like Homer’s Tomb, the shorter Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer’s Tomb is perfect.
For those with limited time or who prefer a casual ride, the Around the Upper Valley is a relaxed option that offers a taste of Ios’ natural beauty without much effort.
When booking, consider factors like budget—these tours range from about $69.79 to $138.91—and your interest level. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Ios offers a variety of bike tours that cater to history lovers, foodies, and casual explorers alike. Whether you want a guided journey through ancient sites, a private customizable trip, or a short scenic ride, there’s an option for every type of traveler. For the best experience, pick a tour that matches your pace and interests, and book ahead to enjoy a smooth, memorable adventure on this beautiful Greek island.