Chios, which is the 5th largest island of Greece, is remarkable with its touristic sea-sand-sun identity as well as the other islands, as well as the options it offers to those who love to visit the medieval cities. Unlike the blue-white Greek island image of Santorini and Mykonos, Chios offers you a new island concept with its yellow stone buildings adorned with geometric patternsb
As the name suggests, the island is famous for its gum trees and also stands out with its maritime trade. It is possible to see the Genoese-Byzantine-Ottoman influences on the island which has a very old history. The most important feature of the island, which remained under Ottoman rule for about 300 years, is that it is the center of the drop gum production. In addition, tourism, fishing and maritime trade stand out on the island.
It is a good idea to rent a car and motor to visit Chios, which is crossed by ferry from Çeşme Port. To enjoy the island, it is priceless to enter the sea in uninhabited virgin bays by traveling through typical narrow village roads or forest roads. There are many options for car rental and accommodation in Chios, where you can relax and enjoy fresh seafood.
On Chios, especially in the south of the island, the villages where chewing gum production is carried out are very well preserved. The most beautiful part of these medieval villages is that they are not yet completely touristic. People still live in homes for hundreds of years and maintain their culture very well. You can feel the classical Greek culture, you can also find something from us, Anatolia from the smiling face of people.
Mesta, one of the best preserved villages of Chios, is worth seeing for its 12th century buildings. The village was built as a fortress to protect it from pirate attacks and its narrow streets resemble a labyrinth with arched structures. In Mesta, where you will find the peace of the old times, you should eat ice cream in the village square and you should not forget to buy gummy products from the village grocery. Local shops in the villages can be preferred instead of shopping at the tourist markets in the center of Chios. Nevertheless, you can stop by the famous Jamel Rena in the center of the island and take a look at dozens of jams and look at the island-specific products.
The other village with the highest production of chewing gum is Pirgi. The two-storey houses, which are decorated with geometric mosaics of the exterior, attract the attention of the village with its narrow streets and medieval weather. It is very enjoyable to drink gummy soda in the cafes in the square and to chat with the warm people who stand out with their smiling face and a few Turkish. Olimpi, Kambos and Volissos are worth a visit if you have time.
On the other hand, there are many beautiful but unknown beaches on the island. Near the village of Olimpi, Ayia Dinami beach, a hidden paradise, is a sandy and charming beach with small vaccines. It is an unforgettable experience to swim in the beach where there is no place around. Mavra Valia, Vroulidia, Apothika beaches are other options for the sea. One of the most preferred beaches of the island is Karfas, which is 6 km away from the center and overlooks Çeşme. Sun beds and umbrellas are available in Karfas, which is especially preferred by families with children. You can also order food and drinks from the cafes and taverns at the back.
The best part of being on an island is that there is plenty of fresh seafood. Chios is also very rich in this respect. The taverns on the beach are great options for tasty and cheap food. You can eat as much as you want from the menu consisting of appetizers, Greek salad and fish, but you do not pay much money. You should also try Mastelo, an island-specific cheese.
Mastelo is cooked and served like Hellim cheese. Next to fish and appetizers, we can drink ouzo, the brother of our raki. Or the island’s unique beer, Chios Fresh Beer. For those who want a quick snack, the Greek wrap Gyros is a great choice. If you want to spend a nice time in a warm, friendly and cheap place on the opposite coast of the Aegean, Chios is one of the best options.
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