When you land at Chios "Omiros" airport, most people drive straight to their hotel. Mistake. The route from the airport to the Mastic Villages is one of the prettiest drives in the Aegean — and if you do it in the golden hour, it gives you the first photo that becomes your wallpaper.
The route — step by step
Airport "Omiros" (JKH)
Leave the airport and turn right onto the main road. Head towards Kalamoti — not the town. It's the shorter, more scenic way.
Stop: Kalamoti (hidden beach)
Before you turn inland, turn left for Kalamoti beach. Small, no facilities, water like a pool. A perfect 30-minute pit-stop to shake off the flight and take a dip.
Stop: Armolia
A traditional gateway village before the Mastic Villages. Stop at the kafeneio on the square for a local frappé and a mastic-flavoured sweet. 15 minutes is enough.
Stop: Pyrgi (the painted village)
The most iconic village in Chios. Turn for the square and take your first photos of the painted facades. At the end of the square you'll find the church of the Holy Apostles — don't miss it.
Arrive: Mesta or Olympoi
Choose where you'll stay — Mesta (more popular, more places to stay) or Olympoi (more remote, authentic). Both are UNESCO-listed.
Tips for the drive
Fill the tank in town before you leave — fuel inland costs a little more per litre.
The road is good the whole way — you don't need an SUV. Any category will do.
If you arrive in the afternoon, aim to reach Pyrgi 30–45 minutes before sunset. The golden light on the painted walls is something else.
If you arrive in the morning, don't rush — make all the stops. You have the whole day ahead.
Airport delivery
We meet you with a sign in arrivals — free, island-wide. Just send us your flight number.