The Greek island of Ios was included among the world’s top 100 “hidden paradises” by Business Insider, which published its annual list with a view toward the upcoming travel season.
The list was compiled based on extensive research, including interviews with travel bloggers, major tourism organizations, and travel agencies, to identify the most beautiful islands across the Americas, Oceania, Europe, Asia, and Africa that have preserved their authenticity.
“Looking at beaches with white sand and crystal-clear waters, you might think you’ve seen it all, but that’s not the case. There is much more beauty out there than you could ever imagine,” noted the study’s author. The Business Insider list features exotic destinations without the crowds associated with overtourism, highlighting locations in France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the U.S., Mexico, etc.
The list describes Ios, located in the Cyclades group, as “a stunning destination with many alternative activities, featuring beautiful beaches, a unique atmosphere, impressive nightlife, and a range of options.” Spain’s Conde Nast Traveller echoes this, ranking Ios’s main town, Chora, among Greece’s most beautiful villages, mentioning that “the spectacular view from Panagia Gremiotissa, the highest point in the village, is unforgettable, especially at sunset. Behind the whitewashed windmills lies the open-air Odysseas Elytis Theatre, which is particularly vibrant in summer. The island’s Archaeological Museum is also located in Chora, where visitors can admire archaeological treasures from Skarkos, one of the most significant ancient settlements in the Cyclades.”
The Municipality of Ios is currently running a promotional campaign for the destination, supported by specialized consultants to boost its presence in established and emerging travel markets such as the UK, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, France, the U.S., and other countries.