Port information & tips for Chios Island
Chios is a fascinating jewel in the northern Aegean, captivating visitors with its authentic Greek soul and rich history. The island's capital, Chora, welcomes guests with a charming waterfront promenade and a lively atmosphere that perfectly combines tradition and modernity. In close proximity to the harbor, the historic Kastro of Chios, an impressive medieval fortress, as well as the magnificent Giustiniani Palace and the Archaeological Museum, invite you to make cultural discoveries. Cruise ships dock at the central Port of Chios, located directly on the bustling promenade. Thanks to this prime location, guests can reach the city center with its cozy cafes and boutiques in just a few minutes on foot, while simultaneously enjoying unobstructed views of the azure sea.
Chios, the charming island in the eastern Aegean, is a popular cruise destination and easily accessible thanks to its integrated port in Chios Town. It is centrally located in the capital, allowing for short distances to all amenities.
Airplane
Chios Island National Airport (JKH), also known as Omiros Airport, is located only about 3 to 4 kilometers south of the port of Chios Town and guarantees a quick arrival. It is served from Athens (e.g., with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, Sky Express) and Thessaloniki, as well as other Greek islands. A taxi takes about 10 minutes and costs around 7 Euro directly to the terminal. In addition, KTEL city buses offer regular connections from the airport to the center of Chios Town, with departure times optimally coordinated with flight arrivals.
Ferry
Arriving by ferry is an attractive option, especially for travelers coming from other Greek islands or the mainland. Daily ferry connections exist from Piraeus (Athens), Lesbos, Samos, and Ikaria to Chios, among others. The travel time from Piraeus is between 6.5 and 12 hours. For guests wishing to arrive with their own vehicle, the ferry companies offer car ferries; furthermore, the island of Chios is well-connected via a developed road network and Highway 75 (EO Chios-Kardamyla). Peripheral parking spaces are also available at the port of Chios Town to relieve the city center.
Pre-Cruise Hotel and Local Transfer
For a relaxed start to your cruise, an overnight stay in one of the charming hotels in Chios Town is recommended, especially after long flight or ferry journeys. Numerous accommodations are located in the immediate vicinity of the port, often just a few minutes' walk away, and some even offer their own parking. From the main pier in the center of Chios Town, you can easily walk along the lively waterfront promenade to cafes and shops thanks to the short distances. Taxis are available directly at the port to take you to more distant destinations on the island, such as the famous mastic villages or the Nea Moni Monastery.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements as well as the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
