Tinos is a hidden gem of the Cyclades, a Greek island that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Although often overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbors like Santorini and Mykonos, Tinos has become increasingly accessible in recent years. With a variety of beaches Tinos offers something for every type of beach-lover. And when it comes to activities on the island, there is no shortage of things to do, whether you're interested in exploring ancient ruins, visiting historic monasteries, or simply relaxing in the sun with a good book. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at Tinos and everything it has to offer.
Accessibility
Although Tinos does not have its own airport, it is still relatively easy to reach the island by ferry from the nearby ports of Athens (from Rafina and Piraeus), Mykonos, and Syros. The main ferry port on Tinos is located in the island's capital, Chora, and there are daily ferry services available throughout the year. During the peak tourist season (June to September), there are also high-speed catamarans available that make the journey from Athens or Mykonos to Tinos in under two hours. So, if you're coming from further afield, you may need to fly into Athens or Mykonos first before catching a ferry to Tinos. Regardless of how you choose to get to Tinos, the journey is well worth the effort for the chance to experience all that this unique Greek island has to offer.
Where to stay?
Tinos is a relatively small island, but there are several areas that make for great bases when staying on the island. Hora, the main town and port of Tinos, is a popular choice with visitors, thanks to its charming narrow streets and traditional architecture. Agios Ioannis Porto, located on the western coast of Tinos, is another good option, with a long sandy beach, a range of accommodation options, and easy access to other nearby beaches. Kionia, situated just a few kilometers north of Hora, is a quieter alternative, with a lovely beach and several tavernas serving fresh seafood. For those looking to get away from it all, the small village of Pyrgos, located in the northern part of the island, is a great choice, with its picturesque setting, art galleries, and local crafts shops. No matter where you choose to stay in Tinos, you're sure to be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm Greek hospitality.
What to do?
1. Panagia Evangelistria
One thing you simply can't miss while in Tinos is a visit to the Panagia Evangelistria. Located in the heart of Hora, this impressive church is not only one of the most important religious sites on the island, but it's also considered one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in all of Greece. Every year, thousands of people make the journey to Tinos specifically to pay their respects at the church and ask for the Virgin Mary's blessings. While exploring Hora, you will find many other smaller churches that are also worth a visit, but the Panagia Evangelistria should definitely be at the top of your list.
2. Best beaches
One must-visit beach in Tinos is the Agios Sostis Beach, a peaceful and secluded cove with crystal-clear waters that is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Another popular spot is the Livada Beach, a long and sandy stretch with plenty of umbrellas and sun loungers for rent, as well as beach bars and tavernas nearby. For those who prefer a more natural setting, the Kolympithra Beach is an excellent choice. Kolimpithra is a bay in the north of Tinos and it is actually two beaches: Big Kolympithra and Small Kolimpithra (Mikri Ammos and Megali Ammos). And last but not least, the Ormos Giannaki Beach is a family-friendly destination with shallow waters and a wide range of water sports on offer. Whether you're looking for peace and quiet or fun in the sun, Tinos has a beach that will suit your needs.
Some other recommended beaches are:
Agios Ioannis Porto bay
Agios Fokas Beach
Agios Petros Beach
Agios Romanos Beach
Rochari Beach (Panormos)
3. Villages to bring a visit
Tinos has some charming villages, each offering a unique glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. One of the best villages to visit in Tinos is Pyrgos, known for its marble carving workshops, art galleries, and beautiful architecture. Walk or drive 7 km downhill from Pyrgos to Panormos for stunning views of hills and sea. Panormos, named for its wind protection location, is a renowned fisherman's village with fresh seafood and a picturesque port lined with taverns and cafes.
Isternia, located on the northwest coast of Tinos, is another picturesque village that is worth a visit, with its narrow alleys, white houses, and stunning sea views. Kardiani offering some of the most breathtaking views of the island and the Aegean is situated on the western side of Tinos. It is a peaceful village that has several tavernas, and great hiking trails in the surrounding hills. To get the most out of your visit to Tinos and explore its villages, renting a car is highly recommended, as public transportation is limited and taxis can be expensive.
We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to Tinos. Have you been to any of these places before? Or perhaps you have your own favorite spots on the island that we haven't mentioned. We would love to hear from you! Share your own experiences and photos with us on Instagram using the hashtag #travellingtogreece
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