CHIOS – OINOUSSES – IZMIR
6-Day Trip
DAY 1
Departure at 02:00 from Xanthi. Crossing the Greek-Turkish border and a stop at the duty-free shops. We then enter Turkey and continue our journey through Keşan and Gallipoli.
We cross the Dardanelles via the suspension bridge and continue towards Çeşme, with intermediate stops for rest. The route takes us past Ayvalık and İzmir.
We then explore the picturesque and famous village of Alaçatı, with free time to stroll through its traditional cobblestone streets, known for their distinctive architecture, old Greek houses, local shops and cafés.
We continue to Çeşme, where we have free time to walk around the historic centre and the waterfront area.
We board the ferry with our luggage and depart at 19:00 for Chios. Upon arrival in Chios, we proceed through customs and then board a local coach to our hotel.
Arrival at the hotel and overnight stay.
DAY 2
Morning departure at 09:00 towards the Mastiha Villages of Chios. Our first stop is Armolia, followed by a visit to Mesta, an impressive medieval village and a characteristic example of defensive architecture, where we will have time to explore.
We then depart for Pyrgi, a traditional settlement known as the “Painted Village”, famous for the unique xysta geometric designs decorating the façades of its houses. Free time to explore and enjoy a coffee. Afterwards, we will have the opportunity to visit the Chios Mastiha Museum and discover the history and traditions surrounding Chios mastiha.
We continue to the seaside village of Emporios, where we will have free time for lunch and swimming.
Return to the hotel and, in the evening, an outing to Chios Town for a free stroll. Overnight stay.
DAY 3
Breakfast at the hotel and departure for an optional cruise to Oinousses. Approximately one hour from the port of Chios, opposite Lagkada, lies the island complex of Oinousses. Arrival at Aignoussa, the main island, a picturesque and peaceful settlement built amphitheatrically on a hillside, with beautiful cobblestone streets and traditional mansions.
As we enter the port, we will admire the distinctive bronze mermaid statue, while in Naftosynis Square stands the statue of the Unknown Sailor, dedicated to sailors who lost their lives at sea. The island’s rich maritime tradition and unique architecture create a beautiful setting for exploration and photography.
We will then have the opportunity to visit the Oinousses Maritime Museum, which showcases the island’s rich maritime history through ship models, nautical instruments and tools, old photographs, paintings and other interesting exhibits.
Free time to explore the island and enjoy its beautiful natural scenery, beaches and crystal-clear waters. Return to Chios Town and free time.
DAY 4
Breakfast at the hotel, boarding with our luggage and departure at 08:45. Our first stop is Nea Moni, one of the most important Byzantine monuments of Chios, where we will have time to explore and discover this historic site.
We then depart for Anavatos, the famous “dead city” of Chios, an impressive and imposing medieval settlement built in a steep and inaccessible location. Stop for coffee and free time to explore. We continue to Daskalopetra, in Vrontados, a location traditionally associated with Homer and his stay on Chios.
We then depart for the port, where we will have free time for an individual lunch. Boarding the ferry and departure at 17:00 for Çeşme. Upon arrival at the port, we proceed through customs and board the coach waiting for us at the port exit.
Departure for İzmir, arrival at the hotel and check-in. Dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 5
Breakfast at the hotel and free time in İzmir for shopping and sightseeing in the famous Kemeraltı, the city’s large traditional bazaar, offering a wide variety of shops and products.
Boarding the coach at 11:30 and departure for our return journey.
Stop in Ayvalık, where we will have time to explore the town and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the market. Afterwards, free time for an individual lunch at one of the area’s traditional tavernas.
Meeting point and departure towards the Greek-Turkish border. We cross the Dardanelles via the suspension bridge and continue our journey.
Arrival at the border and completion of the necessary border formalities. Entry into Greece and continuation of our journey towards our hometown.
Arrival in the evening, bringing our trip to an end with beautiful images and wonderful memories.