Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Chios. Chios Island National Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Chios, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Greece vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Chios is roughly 30 minutes from JKH via Local Bus (KTEL Chios). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Chios from JKH
The most straightforward way into Chios is the Local Bus (KTEL Chios), which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Local Bus (KTEL Chios) is usually the smarter call.
What to See and Do in Chios
Two recommendations for your time in Chios:
Start with Chios Castle (Kastro). History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Then, if time allows, make your way to Chios Town Port & Waterfront Stroll. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside JKH, you can spend time at JKH Airport Cafe & Bar or try Chios Duty-Free & Souvenir Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near JKH
- In the city: To Tsikoudo (Το ΤÏίκοÏδο) and Piatsa Kafenio Ouzeri (ΠιάÏÏα ÎαÏενείο ÎÏζεÏί) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Chios.
- At the airport: JKH Airport Cafe & Bar (Main) and Chios Bites Grab-and-Go will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chios might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at JKH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Chios’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at JKH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Greece and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at JKH include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greece also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chios with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Chios may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.