Bicycle rentals on Ios island

Cycling around Ios island reveals that the entire island fits within just a few kilometers—yet every single one holds something unique. You can descend from Chora to the sands of Mylopotas Beach in minutes, head back up at sunset as the white-washed streets glow in golden light, or set off the next day to reach Homer’s Tomb in Plakoto, with the Aegean Sea stretching out on both sides of the road. No waiting for buses, no trudging under the August sun—just you, your bike, and the whole island waiting to be explored.

Though small, Ios is steep. It’s a classic Cycladic island where the port, Chora, and the main beaches are connected by a network of short but genuinely hilly roads; getting around on foot is more exhausting than it might seem, and public transport is both limited and infrequent. A bicycle—ideally an electric one—is the perfect solution for navigating these short distances and significant elevation changes. It also gives you the freedom to reach spots like Manganari or Agia Theodoti on your own terms—places that are rarely, if ever, served by the bus.

The 10 Best Places to Visit in Ios by Bike

1. Mylopotas Beach — The island’s expansive sandy beach, located just below Chora; it’s the perfect spot for swimming or water sports, reached via a short, flat ride.
2. Chora (Ios Town) — The whitewashed old town, home to windmills and churches; it serves as the natural starting or ending point for any route.
3. Homer’s Tomb (Plakoto) — A scenic journey to the northern tip of the island—said to be the final resting place of the poet—with the sea as your constant companion along the way.
4. Manganari Beach — Cross the island from one side to the other to discover a collection of tranquil beaches with turquoise waters on the southern coast.
5. Agia Theodoti Beach — less crowded; it is reached via a country road that passes by a small chapel and the ruins of a Venetian *kastro* (castle).
6. Paleokastro (Palaiokastro) — a ruined Venetian castle above Chora, offering panoramic views that make the short climb well worth it.
7. Koumbara Beach — just a stone’s throw from Chora and the port; perfect as a first stop for a quick swim.
8. Psathi Beach — a remote beach on the northeast coast, ideal for those seeking a quieter escape.
9. Plakotos — a small settlement near the northern tip, offering expansive views over the Aegean.
10. Ormos (the port of Ios) — the port village, featuring waterfront tavernas; an ideal spot to complete a circuit between Chora and Mylopotas.

What do you need to rent a bicycle on Ios?

For a standard bicycle, no license of any kind is required; you can simply rent one by presenting your ID. Many rental shops have a minimum age requirement (usually 16) and may ask for a small deposit—payable in cash or by card, depending on the operator. If you decide to rent a moped or scooter instead, you will need at least an AM-category license. For models with an engine capacity exceeding 125cc, you will need the appropriate motorcycle license, along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you are not an EU resident.

How much does it cost to rent a bicycle on Ios?

In the low season, prices range from approximately 3–8 EUR per day. During the high season—July and August—prices rise to 15–25 EUR, while premium or electric models can cost between 20–35 EUR.

April, May, and October are the most affordable months to book.
July and August see the highest demand and the highest prices.
Booking in advance during the summer helps ensure you get the specific model you prefer.

When should you book? What is the best time to visit?

High season runs from July to August, characterized by intense heat and the highest demand for bicycles all year. Low season spans from November to March, a period when many businesses on the island close entirely. The best balance of good weather, reasonable prices, and smaller crowds can be found in May, June, September, and October.

Local traffic rules

In Greece, traffic moves on the right. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycles and scooters—with strict enforcement and heavy fines—though they are not a legal requirement for conventional bicycles. Speed ​​limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and up to 130 km/h on motorways; however, given the narrow, winding roads on Ios, you will rarely reach these speeds. The general blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l, but it drops to 0.2 g/l for motorcyclists and new drivers. It is therefore wise to exercise caution, even when cycling after a meal at a seaside tavern.

Types of bikes available

On our website, you can rent the following types of bicycles: classic, tandem, road, carbon, cyclocross, touring, trekking, hybrid, mountain (MTB), cruiser, comfort, city, commuter, urban, Dutch-style, women’s, children’s, folding, tricycles, bikes with baskets, geared bikes, bikes with suspension, bikes with rear racks, fat-tire bikes, and electric bikes.

Available bike brands

On our website, you can rent bicycles from the following manufacturers: Avanti, Batavus, Bianchi, Trek, Cannondale, and Cube.