Private Pyrgi & Mesta Tour

Quick info

Location: Pyrgi
Tour highlights:
  • Visit Pyrgi Village: Admire the unique Xysta patterns decorating the village’s houses and learn about the history of Chios’ mastic villages.
  • Optional visit to the Mastic Museum: Discover the history, cultivation, and uses of the island’s famous gum mastic.
  • Scenic photo stops: Your local driver will point out the best locations along the route for memorable photographs.
  • Explore Mesta Village: Walk through the narrow alleys of this well-preserved Byzantine castle village and experience traditional village life.
  • Coffee stop in Mesta: Relax in a local coffee shop before returning to the port.
  • Private, fully guided experience: Tailored to your interests and pace.
Duration:
Languages: English

What to expect

Your private tour begins as soon as you meet your English-speaking driver at the port. Drive through the scenic southern part of Chios, stopping at select viewpoints for photographs.
Your first stop is Pyrgi, the island’s uniquely painted village, where intricate geometric patterns, known as Xysta, adorn every façade. For those interested, you can optionally visit the Mastic Museum nearby, which offers fascinating insight into the cultivation and production of Chios’ famous mastic gum.
Continue to Mesta, the best-preserved mastic village on the island. Built as a fortified Byzantine settlement, Mesta’s winding alleys and stone houses transport you back in time. Take a moment to enjoy a coffee at a local café before heading back to the port.
Throughout the tour, your guide provides local insights, historical context, and practical tips to make your visit as enriching and stress-free as possible.

Private Pyrgi & Mesta Tour

Discover the unique charm and history of Chios on this private, fully guided shore excursion. From the moment you are welcomed at the port by your English-speaking driver, your journey through the southern part of the island offers a blend of culture, architecture, and local flavors.
Explore the famous “painted” village of Pyrgi, wander the fortified alleys of Mesta, and, if you wish, dive deeper into the secrets of the island’s prized gum mastic at the Mastic Museum. With a private guide, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace, personalized insights, and a seamless experience designed exclusively for your group.
This tour combines history, tradition, and scenic beauty, creating a memorable experience of Chios beyond the typical sightseeing route.

  • Private tour with a licensed local guide/driver
  • Optional entrance to the Mastic Museum
  • Private, modern, air-conditioned vehicle (less than 5 years old)
  • Liability insurance coverage
  • Customizable itinerary with flexibility to adjust on the day
  • Guaranteed on-time return to your cruise ship
  • Personal expenses (coffee, souvenirs, optional museum fees)
  • Meals or beverages beyond the coffee stop

Itinerary

Why choose us

  • Exclusivity: Tour designed solely for your group, fully customizable.
  • Licensed local guides: Expert insights and authentic storytelling.
  • Greek family business: Supporting the local economy and community.
  • Guaranteed reliability:
  • On-time return to your cruise ship, or full coverage if delayed.
  • Money-back guarantee if your ship cannot dock (weather/strikes).
  • Top-quality vehicles: Modern, fully air-conditioned, professional drivers.
  • Early arrival: We meet you 30 minutes before your ship docks to ensure no delays.
  • Tailored experiences: Stops and pacing adjusted to minimize crowds and maximize enjoyment.

Useful Info & Extras

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats during summer months.
  • Moderate activity: intermittent walking and steps.
  • Family-friendly: tour can be adapted for children with engaging storytelling.
  • Flexible add-ons available: extra villages, local culinary stops, or scenic detours.
  • Capture the intricate Xysta patterns and Byzantine architecture with your camera.

Booking

Explore the hidden gems of Chios in comfort, style, and at your own pace.
Book now

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