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A tiny Greek island looks set to enjoy a tourism boom in 2026 as travellers seek authenticity instead of over-hyped destinations.
Several travel guides and media publications have highlighted Ios as a place to visit this year, recognised for both its lively culture and untamed nature.
It comes as the Cyclades island looks to promote a new tourism narrative emphasising sustainable development and quality of life.
Ios highlighted as a must-visit destination in 2026
Several international publications have included Ios in their travel recommendations for 2026.
British newspaper The Times has ranked Chora, the capital of Ios, among the 25 most beautiful villages in Greece. The article says the traditional settlement attracts visitors with its white, cube-shaped houses and narrow, steep streets.
A must-visit attraction is Panagia Gremiotissa, a church which lies at the highest point of the island and affords impressive panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, which are especially mesmerising at sunset.
The publication also highlights the island’s important historical sites, such as the prehistoric settlement of Skarkos, which dates back to the 3rd millennium BC, and the Tomb of Homer.
The Italian website WomTravel.it, which focuses on modern travel trends among young people, has also promoted the island.
It has identified a growing preference of younger generations for destinations that offer a multi-dimensional mix of experiences: a vibrant social life, outdoor activities and cultural interest.
In a related list of 14 European ‘next generation destinations’, the trend site ranks Ios ninth.
The island has also been included in the annual list of the top Greek islands in the French travel guidePetite Futé.
Ios focuses on sustainable tourism development
The mayor of Ios, Gikas Gikas, has recently highlighted that the island’s strategy is no longer limited to enriching tourist experiences, but aims to create a destination with a high quality of life both for visitors and for the permanent local community.
Greek authorities have given the green light to €100,000 of funding for restoration efforts following natural disasters and the improvement of basic infrastructure on the island.
The project for the construction of an indoor gymnasium has also been included in the Public Investment Programme, with a total budget of €1,862,000. The new sports complex will be able to meet the needs of both residents and visitors.
The developments mean Ios looks set to become a leading sustainable destination in 2026, setting it apart from other Greek islands where tourism is straining local infrastructure and community resources.
