Tinos, the third largest Cycladic island, has managed to harmonically combine religious tradition with art and culture.
In the main town of Chora, the magnificent church of Panagia (Virgin Mary) of Tinos, is the first thing one sees upon exiting the boat. Every year, crowds of people arrive to worship the miraculous icon. Old Tinos is located behind the port’s waterfront, which might not do justice to Chora and its beauties. The Archaeological Museum is worth going to, strolling through the old road leading up to the church, small shops on both its sides selling all kinds of souvenirs. Stroll through the picturesque alleys and enjoy your coffee underneath blooming bougainvilleas. You can also sample good food and a vibrant nightlife.
In the inland of Tinos you can feel the island’s particular aura, as it boasts 52 settlements of traditional white-washed houses with blue window frames, flower-filled terraces, and coats of arms etched on marble, cobbled alleys with arches, inviting you to explore them on foot, as cars are not allowed inside the villages. The village of Volax is worth visiting, abundant with rounded rocks, scattered in a large area, the only one in the island where you will come across them. Pyrgos is the most popular and largest village, where you can have your coffee and enjoy traditional galaktoboureko pastry on the main square under the plane tree. The village boasts a great legacy in marble sculpture, so the Museum of Marble Crafts is worth visiting.
Tinos has many gorgeous beaches, but, ideally, before you decide which one to go to, ask a local to advise you which side of the island will not be windy, according to the winds. The blue-green waters of Kalyvia are accessible under almost any weather conditions, the beach of Ysternia is beautiful and sheltered from the wind, Agios Fokas is a beach with amenities close to Chora and Kolibithra consists of two separate sandy beaches.
The most famous local products of Tinos are louza (cured meat) and local cheeses. Don’t forget to try the traditional sweet cheese pies.
Useful Phone Numbers
Municipality of Tinos: 0030 22833 60100
Citizens' Service Center (KEP) of Tinos: 0030 22830 29146
Health Center: 0030 22830 23781
Port Authority: 0030 22830 22348
Police: 0030 22830 22100
Fire Brigade: 0030 22830 23199
Taxi: 0030 22830 22470
Bus Station: 0030 22830 22440
