Hiring an ATV or scooter in Ios

Everything you need to know

As an island that is only 18km long and 10km wide, Ios Greece is the perfect destination for exploring at your own pace.

Despite its size, there are many secluded beaches, viewpoints and even historical sights to see.

Where do I hire an ATV or scooter in Ios?

There are several hire companies at the port, in Chora (the village) and at Mylopotas beach (near Far Out) where you can rent a scooter, ATV or even a car for 1 or more days.

Make sure to check whether you need to return it by the end of the day, or within 24 hours after hiring.

If it’s peak season (June, July and August) you may need to organise and pay a couple of days in advance.

How old do I need to be?

Some places will require that you are over 23 and have a driver’s license to hire an ATV or scooter. But you can always hop on the back with a friend if you can’t drive one yourself.

Look out for the goat signs on the way to Manganari and you’ll find it! It is about 10-15 minutes by quad bike from Chora.

Final tip!

Always wear a helmet and remember where you park your bike (or take a photo)!

I’ve known one too many people (myself included) to have a few too many drinks and responsibly walk home but then forget where they parked in the first place.

Remember: Travel insurance won’t cover you if you’re drinking or under the influencer of drugs.

“Now I’ve got my quad bike, where should I go?”

Once you’ve got your vehicle, the island is your oyster!

There is only one main road around Ios so it’s easy to follow and you shouldn’t get lost. Google maps also works for most of these destinations except Never Bay.

1. Never Bay

This gorgeous cove was affectionately named by the original owners of Lost Boys bar, and it stuck! Once you get to the top you will need to climb down some pretty steep rocks, so wear decent shoes and go slow.

But TRUST ME, the views are unmatched, it is well worth the effort.

How do I get to Never Bay?

Watch the video below for instructions on how to find Never Bay. If you are in a car you will need to leave it at the bottom of the first hill – scooters and ATVs can go up but drive carefully! It’s very rocky.

@jetsetting_jacki Replying to @miaross 📍Never Bay - And don’t forget to pack your goggles!! The water here is crystal clear and perfect for snorkelling☀️🏝️🇬🇷 #iosgreece #greecetiktok #greecetravel #greecetiktokers #greekislands #greekisland #greekislandsummer #iosisland #mykonos #santoroni ♬ original sound - Jetsetting Jacki | 🌎📍✈️

2. Manganari beach

Besides the three main areas of Ios (the port, Chora and Mylopotas), the only other smaller town is Manganari. The beach is much quieter than Mylopotas but it still has stunning views and crystal-clear waters.

In peak season you can even try some water-sports like tubing or paddle boarding.

If you’re hungry, Manganari beach also has two small cafes to choose from. As the story goes, two brothers originally opened one cafe here, had a fight and ended up creating two competing businesses (up to you if you believe it).

3. Psathi beach

If you’re feeling hungry after all your exploring I would recommend stopping at Psathi. The Greek Taverna here serves up incredible traditional Greek cuisine – I love the fava dip and the platters are perfect for sharing.

There is also a stunning secluded beach if you want to go for a dip.

4. Homer's Tomb

If you want to learn a bit more about the history of Ios you can stop off at the Tomb of Homer. It is located near Plakatos beach in the north of the island.

There are several stories about the origins of Homer and if he is actually buried there (you can read more about these here https://www.greeka.com/cyclades/ios/sightseeing/ios-homer-tomb/)

It is about a 300m cliffside walk to the top of the hill with some stunning views across the Mediterranean – so regardless of your love of history I think it’s worth a stop.

5. Ios Cheese Factory

The Ios Cheese factory is called ‘Diaseli Ios Traditional Cheesery’ and you can either do the tasting of 8 different cheeses paired with wine, or the 30-minute tour. Check out their website here https://www.diaseli.com/en/

Look out for the goat signs on the way to Manganari and you’ll find it! It is about 10-15 minutes by quad bike from Chora.

Final tip!

Always wear a helmet and remember where you park your bike (or take a photo)!

I’ve known one too many people (myself included) to have a few too many drinks and responsibly walk home but then forget where they parked in the first place.

If you are taking a passenger make sure you check the Cc of the engine and ask if you’re not sure – there are some big hills in Ios and your passenger might end up running up if you don’t make it.

JETSETTING TO IOS GREECE