Chios shines as a destination for travelers who love authentic experiences, distinct local flavors, and scenic landscapes. Unlike some Greek islands that rely heavily on mass tourism, Chios offers a genuine sense of place—whether you’re soaking up history in its villages or sailing along its coast. Among the many ways to explore, we particularly enjoy a sailing boat cruise that takes you around Oinousses, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, or walking through the labyrinthine streets of Kampos to see traditional mansions (see more). These tours highlight what makes Chios different: its maritime charms, local craftsmanship, and lush citrus groves.
If you’re after a taste of local produce, the Mastiha shore excursion is a must, giving insight into the island’s unique resin and a chance to visit villages that look like they’ve stepped out of a storybook. For those who prefer a laid-back start, the Welcome Concierge coffee break offers a friendly introduction to Chios with a local touch. Whether you’re seeking active outdoor fun, culture, or a relaxed overview, Chios has options to match.
Quick Overview
Our list features four top tours that showcase Chios’s diverse appeal:
– An exciting sailing cruise to Oinousses with a meal and drinks, perfect for sea lovers.
– An in-depth private walking tour of Kampos, exploring traditional mansions and citrus orchards.
– A mastiha shore excursion, uncovering the island’s famed resin and visiting charming villages.
– A friendly coffee break with a local, ideal for a quick, personalized overview of the island.
1. Chios: Sailing Boat Cruise to Oinouses with Meal & Drinks
At number 1 on our list, this full-day semi-private sailing cruise offers an unforgettable way to see Chios’s northeastern coast. From the moment you step aboard, you’ll be immersed in the pleasures of the Aegean Sea—sailing past secluded coves and enjoying the wind in your hair. The highlight is exploring Oinousses, a small island famous for its maritime history and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling with provided gear.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of sailing, swimming, and onboard dining. You’ll learn how to sail the boat, which adds a hands-on element, and enjoy a BBQ meal with options for meat or vegetarian dishes. The crew’s friendly attitude makes it easy to relax and take in the scenic views. This trip is well-suited for those who want an active day on the water without sacrificing comfort or good food.
Guests often praise the beautiful scenery and the personalized experience of a semi-private cruise. The 6-hour duration strikes a good balance, making it a satisfying day without feeling rushed. The only potential downside is that it’s a full day, so travelers with limited time might prefer a shorter activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sea lovers and those wanting a taste of sailing with a delicious onboard meal, this cruise offers a memorable day on the water.
2. Chios: Kampos Private Walking Tour
Coming in at number 2, the Kampos Private Walking Tour provides a relaxed, personalized look at one of Chios’s most charming neighborhoods. This tour is especially good for travelers who enjoy wandering through historic streets at their own pace, discovering stone mansions, citrus orchards, and small museums along the way.
Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the labyrinth of narrow streets and peek inside a traditional mansion, gaining insights into the island’s past prosperity. The visit to a tangerine museum and citrus orchard offers a tangible connection to Chios’s famed produce. The walk is wellness-oriented, allowing for spontaneous stops and questions, making it ideal for those who prefer a flexible, intimate experience.
Guests love that this tour is tailor-made to your interests, and its short duration (about 2.5 hours) makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its high rating of 4.9/5, with many appreciating the personal attention and depth of local knowledge.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want to get a feel for traditional Chios and enjoy a leisurely, private walk through its historic streets.
3. Chios: Mastiha Shore Excursion
Ranked third, this Mastiha shore excursion offers a deep dive into the island’s most famous product—mastiha resin. For up to $361 per group, up to two people, this tour is a fascinating blend of cultural heritage and sensory experience, perfect for those interested in local craftsmanship.
The tour visits mastiha villages, where you can walk through mastic fields, and explore the Mastic Museum to understand the cultivation and harvesting process. Visiting Pyrgi, with its iconic whitewashed houses decorated with intricate geometric patterns, and the medieval Mesta village, adds cultural depth. The tour also includes tasting local products flavored with mastiha, offering a delicious insight into Chios’s unique flavor profile.
Led by an enthusiastic guide, many reviews highlight the interactive nature of the experience. One visitor raved, “From hands-on learning about mastic harvesting to wandering through beautiful villages, this tour is an eye-opener.” The 4.5-hour itinerary makes it suitable for travelers with limited time but eager for an immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for lovers of local food and culture, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Chios’s most distinctive product.
$361 per group up to 2
4. Chios: Welcome Concierge Coffee Break with a Local
Finally, the Welcome Concierge coffee break is the perfect short introduction to the island. At just 1.5 hours, it’s suited for travelers who want to get their bearings and enjoy a casual chat with a local expert.
The experience begins at the Chios Chandris Hotel, where you’ll enjoy local coffee and snacks while discussing your interests with a friendly agent. It’s a flexible, no-pressure way to gather tips, get personalized recommendations, and start your trip with a local’s perspective. This tour is especially useful for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Reviewers appreciate the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to ask questions about the best things to see and do. It’s a simple, practical way to set the tone for your stay in Chios without committing to a longer activity.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick, personalized overview of Chios and local insights before exploring on their own.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal tour in Chios, think about your interests, pace, and budget. If you love the sea and want a memorable day on the water, the sailing cruise (see details) offers a high-value experience with scenic views. For a more relaxed, cultural introduction, the private walk in Kampos (check availability) is perfect. If you’re curious about Chios’s famous mastiha resin, the shore excursion provides an immersive taste of local craftsmanship.
Travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick overview will find the coffee break (more info) especially helpful. Budget-wise, consider what’s included—some tours, like the cruise, offer full meals, while others focus on cultural insights or tasting.
Booking early is wise, especially in high season, to secure your preferred time slots. Think about your fitness level—the sailing cruise involves some physical activity, while walking tours are more relaxed. Whether you’re after a day at sea, a walk through historic streets, or a deep dive into local flavors, Chios’s tour options deliver a memorable taste of the island.
Chios offers a wonderful mix of adventure, culture, and local flavor. With options ranging from sailing adventures to cultural explorations and tasting tours, there’s something for every traveler. For a balanced experience, consider combining a sailing cruise with a walking tour or mastic visit—these will give you a broad appreciation of what makes Chios special. Remember to book early, especially if you want a specific experience, and enjoy your time exploring this unique Greek island.