1. Welcome to Tinos island
The sacred island of Tinos, is thought to be the holy island of the Virgin Mary. Numerous beaches can be seen from the peaks of the unending mountain range that crosses it lengthwise. The dovecotes on Tinos, made of white washed native stone, are works of art in their own right. The islands twenty exquisite villages are unique examples of folk architecture.
If you would like to visit the few picturesque villages of Tinos, you could use the main bus services, the buses will take you to most villages and in the summer time the buses are very frequent.
For more information about buses on Tinos : +30 22830 22440
If a bus does not help you, then the next best choice is to call a taxi on Tinos: +30 22830 22470
Ferries to and from Tinos island: There are ferries from Piraeus Port and Rafina Port ferryboats depart daily heading to Tinos Island. The trip from Piraeus lasts 4 h 30 min and from Rafina 4 h in a regular ferry and 1 h 40 min. on a speed – ferry. There are also routes from Lavrio Port.
If you would like to visit the few picturesque villages of Tinos, you could use the main bus services, the buses will take you to most villages and in the summer time the buses are very frequent.
For more information about buses on Tinos : +30 22830 22440
If a bus does not help you, then the next best choice is to call a taxi on Tinos: +30 22830 22470
2. Activities on Tinos
There are lots of activities to enjoy on Tinos, such as swimming in the green-blue sea, water sports, fishing and hiking.
HIKING: There are many tracks that were created during the past centuries due to the need for transporting goods from the fields to the ports, as well as for communication reasons. Nowadays there is a track network covering 63km that has been recently restored by the Regional Operational Programme of Southern Aegean. This is consisted of 10 hikes that have been mapped and marked so that there are easy to follow. We highly recommend this activity to those who wish to explore the beauty of the Tinian countryside:
Falatados-Mirsini-Livada-Faros
Xinara-Exombourgo-Koumaros-Skalados
Arnados-Kehrovouni-Mountados-Tripotamos-Exombourgo
Kionia-Ktikados-Chora
Falatados-Volax-Agapi
Mirsini-Tsiknias
Steni-Potamia-Lihnaftia
Dio Horia-Faneromeni-Agios Ioannis Porto
Kalloni-Koris Pyrgou-Platia-Pyrgos
Kardiani-Isternia-Pyrgos-MalasHIKING
CLIMBING: The lunar scenery of “Volax” with its totally round rocks, create a huge natural attraction. The large rock (hill) of Exombourgo is also a great challenge for those who love climbing.
HUNTING: Tinos has been a popular hunting destination for a lot of years. During hunting season a lot of hunters arrive on the island. Turtle-doves, quails, woodcocks, thrush partridges, hares and wild rabbits are some of the preys to be encountered. Beware, though, of wild animal sanctuaries where hunting is prohibited.
FISHING – DIVING: The crystal clear waters and the difficult approach of some parts of Tinos, creates ideal fishing places for all kinds of fishing, such as spear-gun fishing, rod fishing and out on boats. Scuba diving and sea excursions with small boats are offered to explore the big blue.
WINDSURFING: There are certain beaches with strong winds and ideal conditions for can windsurfing.
SURFING: You can rent surfing equipment, attend surfing lessons and surf at Kolympithra beach.
DAILY EXCURSIONS: There are a lot daily excursions organized by our tourist agencies
- Tour around the island by bus.
- Daily trips to Mykonos and Syros.
- Daily trips to Delos, the famous Aegean island since ancient times. A ancient land of worship and the place with the most sunlight in the world.
NIGHT LIFE: Last but no least, if you don’t get to fill your day, the night life on the island is very interesting!
3. Best beaches on Tinos
Ayia thalassa beach on Tinos: Ayia thalassa beach (Holy sea beach) is one of the most secluded beaches on Tinos. It is a sandy beach and the many trees around the beach provide shade for those that wish to avoid the hot sun. Although this beach is located only 400 meters away from Panormos, towards the west, you might need to bring some drinking water with you when visiting this beach. You can reach this beach by car or by bus.
Ayia Kiriaki beach on Tinos: This beach begins at the little church of Ayia Kiriaki (after which the beach has been named after) and ends at the end of the beach of Ayios Sostis. This long beach has three different names: Ayia kiriaki, Stiliantari and Ayios Sostis and the beach is located in the new area called Ayios Ioannis Porto. It is a sandy beach with sun beds and umbrellas and crystal clear water. There are many hotels, restaurants, taverns and a mini market on the shore. You should bear in mind that the beach of Ayia Kiriaki is quite exposed to the North Wind.
Ayios Petros beach on Tinos: Named after the small chapel upon the rock close to the beach Saint Peter, Ayios Petros is a particularly quiet beach with white smooth sand and blue clear waters. Ayios Petros beach is quite isolated, so you must remember to take some water, an umbrella and perhaps a picnic with you. The beach is also not protected from the winds.
Ayios Romanos beach on Tinos: This beach has particularly clean waters, the beach has sand and pebbles and it is very close to the main town of Tinos.
Ayios Sostis beach on Tinos: This beach is located exactly opposite from the island of Mykonos and is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches on Tinos. There is a long pier for those who wish to dive into the light blue waters, Ayios Sostis beach is a sandy beach and offers a lot of shade for those that wish to avoid the strong sun rays. There are taverns, restaurants, hotels and shops at a short distance from the beach. The beach is protected from the strong North winds and one of its characteristics are the cleanness of the beach and the sea.
Ayios Fokas beach on Tinos: This is the largest beach on Tinos and also the most organised beach on the island. It is located quite close to town but if you like to walk you can walk for a very long distance and rest at any point under the shade from the many trees. There are shops and restaurants all along the beach. Umbrellas, sun beds and sun chairs are also available.
Apigania beach on Tinos: This is a beautiful exotic beach on the island of Tinos. You must walk though as the beach is not accessible by car. Its characteristics are the blue – green waters and the fine white sand. There is not much shade on the beach and you should remember to take some water and something to eat. It is located after Kionia beach before you reach Yiannaki beach.
Kavalourko beach on Tinos: This is a quiet, dessert beach located after Ayia Thalassa beach. In order to get here, you must first get to Ayia Thalassa beach and then walk on the small dirt track next to the little chapel. It is a sandy beach and the many trees around the beach provide shade for those that wish to avoid the hot sun.
Kalyvia beach on Tinos: When the strong northern winds blow, this little beach is very protected. It is a small beach located about 13 kilometres away from the main town of Tinos on the way to Ysternia beach and just before you reach Yiannaki beach.
Kionia beach on Tinos: Located just 2 kilometers away from the main town of Tinos, this is considered to be the most cosmopolitan beach on Tinos. It is an organised beach with a beautiful view to the island of Syros. There are a couple of beach bars, taverns, shops and restaurants at a very close distance to the shore.
Kolympithra beach on Tinos: Located 20 kilometers north of Tinos is the bay of Kolyimbithra which has two beautiful beaches of fine sand, protected from strong winds and offering fresh, crystal-clear waters. Hotels, restaurants and cafe bars can be found in the surrounding region.
Livada beach on Tinos: A quiet, picturesque beach with very fine gravel and a view to the Northern side of Tinos. A few meters before you reach the beach, you will see a small pond with ducks and turtles while up the hill behind the beach you will find a beautiful tavern with traditional Greek dishes. Its unique characteristic is the shapes of the rocks on the left side of the beach, they are worth taking a look at.
Lychnaftia beach on Tinos: Located just 5 kilometers away from the main town of Tinos, you can find this small isolated beach with its clean waters and sandy shore. There are no taverns nearby so you might want to take some water and a picnic with you.
Ormos Yiannaki beach on Tinos: This beautiful beach lies just below the village of Kardiani and can be reached from the village by footpath, or by a relatively newly paved road which branches off the main road between Tinos Town and Pirgos. A mix of sand and pebbles, the beach has two taverns and some sunshades, and lovely views across the sea to Syros. In fact, looking over your shoulder and up the mountainside to Kardiani is pretty fantastic too.
Ormos Ysternia beach on Tinos: Just below the mountain village of Isternia, is the small bay (Ormos) of Isternia. Here, you have a choice of pebble or sand beach, plus two excellent fish taverns and a cafe, all right at the water’s edge. During the evenings, the view across to Syros is accompanied by a lovely sunset. A long, winding, steeply paved road opposite the village of Isternia accesses the bay. We offer some pleasant accommodation at this slightly remote area, and the views, both land and sea, are fantastic.
Pachia Ammos beach on Tinos: This is one of the most isolated and exotic beaches on Tinos, located just 10 kilometers away from Chora, the main town of Tinos. It is really a large sand hill that leads to a picturesque and exotic beach with crystal clear and clean waters. Although the road is rough the final destination will certainly award you.
Plati Yialo beach on Tinos: Located very close to Kionia beach, this is a secluded, beautiful and protected from all winds beach. You must walk for about 200 meters to reach the beach as there is not a road. There are no shops or taverns near by so you must bring your own drinks and food. It is a large long beach with beautiful clear waters.
Porto beach on Tinos: Located just six kilometers east of Tinos Town is the most well-developed resort area of the island, besides Kionia. The area which we generally refer to as Porto is actually two bays; the beaches on the longest of the two bays, though one contiguous long stretch, are variously called Ai. Sostis, Skilandari, Lauti, and Ag. Kiriaki. There’s a fair amount of self-catering accommodation here, plus a few taverns, and a mini market. The public bus from town terminates at Porto Bay, the second bay and where we have a concentration of high-quality accommodation. The sea bottom drops off very gently, and the beaches are superb for children.
Rochari beach on Tinos: This is an exceptional beach, relatively cosmopolitan, with regular fine sand and a beautiful view to the Northern Aegean Sea. It is quite organized with deck chairs and plenty of natural shade from the many trees. You can also have a snack or lunch at the canteen nearby or have a drink at the beach bar. If you decide to find somewhere near to eat, the wonderful village of Panormos is very close with very interesting tastes from quality taverns in a magnificent environment.
Santa Margarita beach on Tinos: This beach is reachable by taking the small road descending from the village of Steni. A beautiful beach with turquoise waters. There are no taverns or shops near by so you must provide your own beverages.
Stavros beach on Tinos: Just after the main town of Tinos (Chora) before you reach Kionia beach, you will come across Stavros beach, the beach has been named after the small chapel which is located very close to the sea. The many trees offer all guests shade and there are many choices of taverns, restaurants and shops at a close distance.
4. Sightseeing on Tinos
The Church of Panagia Megalohari: Although there are many churches in Tinos this is by far the most famous. People from all over Greece travel to Tinos for pilgrimage at the miraculous 800 years old icon of Virgin Mary that was founded in Tinos (January 30, 1823) after a vision of a local nun (Sister Pelagia) had in summer of 1822. The church was started to built in 1823 on the spot where the icon was found and became a major Marian shrine like any other site which usually spots on miracle connected with Blessed Virgin Mary (for the Catholics similar sites are Our Lady of Lourdes in France, Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico etc)
When I was young I was confused with the name of the church and even today if you ask a Greek he will name the church Panayia Megalochari (She of Great Grace), Panayia Evagelistria (Virgin Mary bringer of Good News) or just Panayia tis Tinou (Our Lady of Tinos)
If you want to avoid the mass you better visit late in the evening or during the weekdays. In Sundays it gets really crowded because there are many people that come here for their child’s baptism. Of course you can not imagine how crowded it can get on august 15 when is the celebration of Kimisi tis Theotokou (Dormition of Theotokos, the falling asleep of the Mother of God) similar to catholic assumption of Virgin Mary, the difference is that Orthodox Christians believe that her soul and body received by Christ after her natural death while Catholicism talks about entering heaven alive.
Anyway, that day it’s impossible to find a ferry ticket to Tinos so plan ahead. Other dates that the church gets packed is on January 30 (anniversary of the date that the icon was found), march 25 when is the celebration of Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary, it’s called Evangelismos in greek, means something like “spreading the Good News”, july 23 (anniversary of Sister Pelagia’s vision)
We walked up Megalocharis avenue and before we enter the main gate we admired the mosaics of the forecourt (pic 2). Once inside the complex you see people lighting candles on the right or visiting some of the different chapels, churches or museums and galleries inside. Of course most of the people go directly to Evagelistria church. Sometimes there’s a line with people waiting patiently to see and kiss the icon of Virgin Mary.
You can see several different icons inside but the most impressive is to see the tamata (votive offerings usually made by silver or gold) that people have brought here as the icon is believed to be a source of numerous miracles. People come here and give a tama in gratitude for a prayer answered by Virgin Mary or as a reminder of a particular need (usually a health issue), you can see them hanging, most of them made by gold.
Not much else to do inside, photo isn’t allowed so unless you plan to worship the icon you can spend your time at the other buildings (see next tips). Don’t forget that this is a religious area, dress appropriate and respect those who have come here to pray.
The Wall of the Ancient Town
The village Tarabados in Kambos Tinos
The Monastery of Ayia Triada: A turn off from the old road to the villages, directly after the church of Ayia Paraskevi, leads to the fertile southeastern section of the island. Left on this turn off, at a distance of 2,5 kilometers, from the town, you will encounter the old monastery of Ayia Triada (Saint Trinity) on a beautiful site. During the Turkish occupation, a school was run by the monks which bolstered the morale of the subject Tinians. The church has an important iconstasis and many beautiful icons from the 18th century and it is surrounded by edifices in which are housed a folk art museum, library and room dedicated to the apostile Paul.
The dove cotes on Tinos
There are dove cotes on other Cycladic islands also but Tinos has the most and the most grand. The Tinians kept and keep pigeons mainly for the food but also for their dropping which makes a rich fertilizer. The dove cotes are mostly built in the country side at well chosen locations near cultivated land and water, on the slopes of mountains and ravines; they decorate the landscape in a striking way. The dove cotes are large stone built towers of which the lower room is mostly used for storage for agriculture and live stock products, while the upper floor is for the pigeons. Although the pigeons have been on the island for many years, it seems that the Venetians introduced their systematic breeding. The exact number of dove cotes on Tinos is unknown but they certainly precede over 600. The majority of them are in the central and the eastern sections of the island and in the Tarabados valley. Most of the surviving dove cotes are buildings from the 18th and the 19th century.
The Graves of the Geometrical Era in Kardiani
The Sanctuary of Poseidon and Amphitriti in Kionia
Komi on Tinos
The Church of Agios Ioannis in Komi
The relics of the Neolithic Era
The Monastery of Agia Xeni and the churches
The spring, the house of the famous sculptor Giannoulis Halepas
The green marble quarries and the sculpture workshops in Pirgos
Kalloni village on Tinos
The villages Loutra, Kalloni, Krokos and Volax in Komi
The Archaeological Museum, the Art Gallery in Chora
The Tinos Sculpture Gallery in Tinos Town
The Museum of the Artists of Isternia in Isternia
The Folklore Museum in Komi
The Sculpture Museum in Pirgos
The Chalepas museum
84201 PYRGOS , TINOS , GREECE
Tel.: +30 22830 31262 Fax: +30 22830 31462
E-mail: kpanormu@otenet.gr
The Ursulines museum on Tinos
The traditional villages on Tinos
The caves on Tinos: Tinos has several interesting caves, here is a short description of the most important caves: 1) The cave of Gastrion which is located in the village of Kionia. 2) Mygospilia or Kammeni Cave: This cave lies in the middle of the north coast of Tinos a few kilometers west of the small village Aetofolia where the mountain mass of Kastelia – Kalanista rises up. It is approximately 55 meters long and its entrance faces the coast, quite high above the sea level. One must crawl to enter this cave. In its interior, there are many bones of women and children and swarms of green flies and ants. This cave is of keen geological, historical and entomological interest. 3) Drakolakos: this cave lies 4 km west from the village Platia and about one kilometer south of the Vathi Bay. Visitors enter through a rocky and uneven passage and then descend to a depth of several meters where he finds himself in a fairly spacious chamber that ends in a pit. 4) The cave of Vrekastro: It lies on the eastern shore of the like named hill 3 kilometers away from the town. The sea comes into a cave to a depth of approximately 5 m and one can enter by boat. 5) The cave of Voulismeni: located on the eastern shore of the like named site, 1 km away from Faneromeni. It’s floor is rocky and wild pigeons roost there. 6) The cave of Kithara is located about 3 km north of the Vouismeni cave and the sea enters its entire depth (6 km). Wild pigeons also roost here. 7) The Fournaklion cave: is located on the like name bay between cape Parargiros and cape Axachopos on the northern east coast and the sea enters its entire depth (6 km). There is a fresh water spring to its rear. 8) The cave of Spilias: located 1 kilometer away from the bay of Livada between cape Fero Krimno and cape Diasphae, from the actions of the waves, five ajoining caves have been formed, the two largest of the five have a length of 20 – 40 meters. There is a fresh water spring in one of the caves. 9) The cave of Krouftes: It is north of Falatados in the region of Mt. Flambouros and the approach to its entrance and interior needs great care. 10) The cave of Mourounia: located on the northern west side of Tinos. It is 15 meters deep and can be entered also by a small pleasure craft. 11) The cave of Koufagreli: It lies in the northern sector of the island, 3 nautical miles west of the harbour of Panormos, between the cape Parianos and cape Dordia. The cave is 6 meters deep lies at the back of the cove. 12) The caves of Panormos and Kamara: Both of these caves are located on the northern west side of Panormos bay, near the small headline of Kamena. The first cave was discovered in 1845, in which lies a marble quarry and is divided into two chambers with an important rnamentation. The second has a depth of 4 meters and can be entered by boat.
Caution: For those that wish to explore the caves on the northern and the eastern coasts of the islands should take great care of the weather forecast that is forseen.
The town of Tinos: The town, which the locals call Chora is a small settlement that has grown and developed very quickly over the last decades. There used to be only one- story and two story houses where are there are now three-story and four-story apartments. A few small streets still exist with the old Cycladic picturesque atmosphere, with the stove paving and the small court yards or gardens of the houses. Previously, the town was called Limani (port) or Ayios Nikolaos, after the old church that bears the same name, there were only a few houses which served the commercial and the shipping activity and it was the port of the medieval town of Xobourgo. This town began to grow during the Turkish occupation. The discovery of the icon of the Virgin Mary gave a new impetus to its development which peaked during the period after the World War II. As we mentioned previously, this town already has 70% of Tinos’ population and 90% of the island’s tourism. Arriving at the port of Tinos, you will see two streets at right angles to it, leading to the church of the Panayia, (the Virgin Mary). To the left, is the most recent street, Megalochoris avenue, and the right street is the older Evangelistras street. The city hall, the telecommunications building (OTE) and the Archeological Museum are on Megalocharis Avenue.
5. Villages and settlements on Tinos
Agapi village: One of the island’s oldest villages with particularly beautiful architecture. Paved narrow streets, stunning arches, traditional houses with lintels of unique beauty and the traditional well with the laundry bowls, which is a monument of the village. The name of the village ‘Agapi’ means love, so this is the love village, but the village was named after the church of Ayios Agapitos which is worth visiting as well as the area Griza with running waters and the verdurous gully with the dovecots (See sightseeing on Tinos). The village also operates a traditional little tavern.
Aetofolia village: It is the last village of Kato Meria. For many years it has been one of the centers of ceramics of the Cyclades. Today there is an effort to revive this art and a museum of traditional ceramics will open in the village.
Aetofolia has one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the area “Kannava”. A little further, we meet the medieval settlement “Tis Koris o Pyrgos” (The Girl’s Tower). Myth has it that here lived Persefoni, the daughter of goddess Dimitra. Others say that here was the Tower of a queen in exile weaving in her loom, while her servant goldsmiths made the golden sow and the twelve pigs that, according to the myth, will be found by a young daughter who will be born in this area.
Sites of natural or historical interest are Kammeni Spilia, Ellinikaria and Tou Polemou o Kampos.
Arnados village: A picturesque village on the slopes of mount Kechrovouni, close to the Monastery of Ayia Pelaghia, which is 7km away from the Town of Tinos.
It is renowned for its magnificent arches of the medieval era and the paved streets under these. In the great square you can see the impressing church of the Ascension of Christ of 16th century architecture.
Venardados village on Tinos
Vollaks village on Tinos: A unique landscape in the world in regards to its ground form. Scattered round rocks(!) like thrown lumps on barren ground constitute a unique moonscape, unusual for the visitor.
Among the rocks lie white houses that constitute a view of unfamiliar architecture. In the village, there is a summer stone theater where cultural events are organized in the summer.
The residents’ main occupation is basketry, an old art that is worth seeing on site.
If you want to relax, the village has a coffee shop, as well as very nice taverns serving local specialties.
Duo choria on Tinos: A small picturesque village near Ktikados. It also has the characteristically paved streets, the white houses and flowery yards. It has a view to the sea and is adorned by the church of Ag. Triada.
For the visitors that would like to taste local delicacies, there is a tavern.
Kalloni village on Tinos: A verdurous village at the edge of the grassland of Komi. On its entrance a monument has been built for those who have fallen in battle for the country.
Its church is a remarkable three-aisle basilica that honors the name of St. Zacharias and is surrounded by a wonderful yard of pebbles.
In this traditional village with the streets fragrant with the housewives’ flowers, there is a carpet manufacturing school, small taverns and coffee shops.
To Kalloni belongs also the old male monastery “I Aghia Ypakoi” with monk cells. From this comes the old name of the village “Kelia” (Cells).
Kampos village on Tinos: It lies in the centre of Tinos with view to the hill of Exombourgo and the valley of Komi and Kalloni.
The visitor can admire the village’s traditional beauty, its architecture, cleanliness and the lust of its inhabitants to keep it this way. The village’s traditional washhouse is kept until today.
It is trying crackers and bread from the village’s bakery. Finally, you can eat at the tavern – coffee house at the center of the village.
Kardiani village on Tinos: On of the most beautiful villages of Tinos that you shouldn’t miss. It lies 16 km from Town and is the first village of Exo Meria.
Situated on the slope of mount “Pateles” with a very nice view towards the sea. Verdurous, with flowing waters, high platens, beautiful two story houses with picturesque staircases, flowery yards, limy paved streets, arches, it will certainly impress you.
Three great churches stand out: At the edge of the village, Ayia Triada, at the center Koimisi tis Theotokou (Holy Mary’s Assumption) and at the other edge Kioura, in the foundations of which lies a refreshing spring.
Before arriving to the village, there is a road leading to the beaches: Ayios Petros, Kalyvia and Yiannaki Bay. Those particular beaches are attracting the tourist’s interest.
Karkados village on Tinos: This village looks like the natural sequence of Kalloni. It is worth admiring the church of Sotiras, an old church, whose campanile impresses for its great inclination. Visitor call it a “Small Pisa”.
Karya village on Tinos: A beautiful village, sparsely populated, that used to accommodate the country houses of well-off citizens of the Town. Among eucalypts and pomegranates, you will find residences of particular beauty, with history starting from the Byzantine era.
It is worth visiting its museum of popular art, but also enjoy the magnificent view of the Aegean.
Kato klisma village: A picturesque agricultural village with ruins from two old olive presses. There are also many dovecots in the area with unique designs, also samples of the island’s architecture. This is the point where the grassland of Komi -Kalloni starts with its many waters, reeds and endless green.
Kechros village on Tinos: A small picturesque village where in older times the craft of “stratourades” (saddle manufacturers) was flourishing. Today you will find a tidy village with clean paved streets, offering the traditional Greek hospitality to its visitors.
Koumaros village on Tinos: The picturesque village of Koumaros, rooted in the North side of Exombourgo. One of the oldest villages that keeps the Cycladic colours.
The festival of Sotiras and Evaggelistria on August 22 nd will be unforgettable to you.
Krokos village on Tinos: A small village, full of green and flowers. It owes its name to the plant “krokos” (crocus). Home doctor and philosopher Markakis Zalonis.
Today local specialties and meat are served in its picturesque taverns.
Krikados village on Tinos: A traditional village with magnificent view towards the sea, with arches and paved streets, limy roads and great houses decorated with marble lintels.
The village has two churches: At the village’s entrance lies the church of Timios Stavros with the remarkable campanile. A little closer to the center is the church of Megalomata with the lovely marble entrance.
The old fountain with the stone laundry bowls completes the village’s beauty and picturesqueness.
The village’s festivals are on September 14th , the Elevation of the Holy Cross, and on February 2 nd , the Hypapante. The village also has traditional taverns.
Komi village on Tinos: A beautiful village, verdurous, built over “Lazarou Perastras” river.
Komi’s Cathedral is the church of St. John, a very old church with a remarkable icon of the Italian painter Gagliardi. In Mesa Komi a marble inscription of the classical period, as well as part of a Byzantine inscription survive.
Komi has a winery with tasty and good wine. It is worth buying fresh vegetables, fruit and lemons from Komi, which are produced all year long in its Grassland.
A tasteful surprise is the village’s tavern – pizzeria.
Loutra village on Tinos: A small picturesque village with great history, since the Jesuits and the Ursulines sisters had built their monasteries here. The school of the Ursulines had a primary school, junior high and high school and a boarding house and until recently a carpet manufacturing school.
In ancient times, renowned baths used to be on the village’s boundaries. In Loutra one can admire the two monasteries where small museums operate and the church of St. Ignatius Loyola, founder of the Order of the Jesuits.
The village’s well provides enough water and the orchards all sorts of fruit, all year long.
Mamados village on Tinos: One of the island’s last villages, on the north west part, known for its green marble quarries, as well as its marble craftsmen.
Continuing from the village, you will reach the uninhabited village Ismail, from which sratrs the road that leads to the Tinos – Andros straits and the coastal settlements Kmela – Mali.
Marlas village on Tinos: One of the island’s last villages, on its NW part, known for its green marble quarries, as well as its marble craftsmen.
Continuing from the village, you will reach the uninhabited village Ismail, from which sratrs the road that leads to the Tinos – Andros straits and the coastal settlements Kmela – Mali.
Monastiri village on Tinos: The imposing and at the same time humble monastery of Kyria ton Aggelon (St. Pelagia) was built around the tenth century. It touches the visitor with its story, but also with the devoutness that the area inspires.
Here, in 1822, sister St. Pelaghia has a vision of Megalochari (Virgin Mary) who revealed her the spot to find Her Holy Icon. It is worth visiting the cell of St. Pelaghia, the church with its wooden carved temple, Panaghia Katogiotissa and other sites.
The site should be respected, so visitors are suggested to wear simple and humble clothes.
Mountados village on Tinos: Mountados is a traditional settlement that dates 1000 years back(!). It used to be quite developed in terms of arts and letters. One of Tinos’ few villages with a school.
It is the village of the Paximadis family, members of the Filiki Etaireia (Revolutionary Society of Friends) during the Revolution, as well as of important artists like Lampakis and Platis.
Today it is a picturesque village 4 km outside Tinos with hospitable inhabitants that impresses with its clean paved streets and its traditional houses.
Myrsini village on Tinos: One of Tinos’s old villages. It has a beautiful three-aisle church of fine architecture.
From Myrsini, you can go up to Tsiknias (the mount of Aeolos) or go down to Livada beach
Ksynara village on Tinos: A 19th century village at the feet of Exombourgo. Seat of the catholic diocese of Tinos during the Byzantine times and the catholic archdiocese until today.
It was a cultural, educational and small industrial center. Its small industries served the whole island: blacksmiths, shoemakers, a notary and a silver and goldsmith.
Two churches are representative of the architecture of Tinos: Panaghia of Rodario 1860 – 1870 (Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese) and Apostles Peter and Paul of 1836.
Panormos village on Tinos: It is the seaport of Pyrgos village and one of the most beautiful destinations in Tinos. Ideal location with smooth traffic.
It has a beautiful traditional little port with quality taverns all along. It is an ideal place to eat or even have a drink or coffee with view to the North side sea and the beautiful small island “Planitis”.
Since, however, it is very close to the beaches Rochari, Aghia Thalassa and Kavalourko, you can plan your little excursion first to swim and then to eat.
Quality in taverns is almost equally high. However prices range a lot. So, make sure you carefully select by seeing more than one price lists and asking for availability of what is contained in these before you sit.
Perastra village on Tinos: Perastra in Greeks sounds like “passing by”. It was named so because of the fact that it was an important passage in the past. Verdurous, built on both sides of the homonym river. You will find beautiful old stone bridges, nice fountains, ruins of olive presses and watermills.
Potamia village on Tinos: A picturesque village with view to the sea, Mykonos and Delos. It is built at the meeting point of streams “Xinari”, “Gourouni” and “Akeratou”. Its running waters used to move the area’s 4-5 watermills.
The village’s church honours the Virgin Mary. Exactly below the village there is access to the beaches Santa Margarita and Lychnaftia.
Pyrgos village on Tinos: It is the largest village in Tinos after the Town. Most people distinguish it from the other villages of the island, perhaps not unjustly. It is not only considered very beautiful, but also an outdoor museum of popular art, which keeps unaltered the traditional Cycladic architecture.
Filled with marvelous creations based on marble that give a sense of nobility, artistry and the unquenchable thirst of man for inspiration.
Indeed, wherever the visitor might go in Pyrgos (House & Museum G. Chalepa – N. Lytra , Museum of Panormite Artists, Cemetary of Pyrgos, School of Fine Arts of Pyrgos) he will only admire creations that make you wonder on the abilities of these people that give life to a cold piece of marble.
At the end of your trip, don’t forget to rest at the village’s square and have traditional coffee and have real homemade galaktoboureko (a delicious pastry with syrup and cream) under its beautiful perennial platens.
Skalados village on Tinos: It constitutes the connection between the two informal parts of the island (Ano Meria and Kato Meria). Here was born the modern actress Anna Fonsou and the catholic priest and poet Nikolaos Perpinianis.
Skalados is a developing village, white with paved streets, two taverns – coffee shops and an old primary school, which has been converted to a space for cultural events in summer.
Sklavochorio village on Tinos: A small but important village for Tinos. Here Nicholaos Ghyzis, was born, one of the greatest modern Greek painters with a bright career in Munich who left a rich cultural heritage not only to Tinos, but to the whole of Greece.
Smardakito village on Tinos: This village is built on the SE side of mount “Raches” with view to a lot of villages of Kato Meri and Exombourgo.
A most picturesque village with paved streets and two storey houses, decorated with lintels and tidy yards.
Its church is St. Antony with a tall tower-like campanile. In its front there is a large paved square with the traditional wash house and running water from the old fountain.
If you are looking for traditional tastes, the tavern – coffee house of the village is known in Tinos for its delicacies.
Steni village on Tinos: A large village built to the west of the highest mountain on Tinos, Tsiknias.
In this village the shoemaker industry used to flourish in old times. Today there is a carpet manufacturing school of the Hellenic Organization of SME’s and Handicraft. The churches of St. Nicolas and St. Anthony are remarkable monuments.
The village has taverns, coffee shops, cafeterias and bars. One can visit from here Tsiknias, Faneromeni and the Santa Margarita beach.
Tarambados village on Tinos: A village of the 17th century, Its characteristic feature are its many arches. Its houses are built on both sides of the main road.
In Trabados, 11 dovecots have been renovated in the green of the village’s stream, which are accessible due to the well maintained paths.
Tzados village on Tinos: A very small village on the edge of the plateau of Leivadia, over Karya village. It has a great view of the Town of Tinos and the sea.
Triantaros village on Tinos: Together with Dyo-Choria village, they are considered the balconies of Tinos in terms of view. This one, though, is renowned for its excellent stone craftsmen.
Its clearly traditional architecture, the beauty of the landscape and the surrounding area have attracted many foreigners as permanent inhabitants.
Tripotamos village on Tinos: Tripotamos is built between three rivers – valleys at the feet of Exombourgo.
One of the oldest villages of the island, with beautiful arches, staircases, galleries, paved streets that lead from one neighborhood to the other.
Over the village and on the slope of Exombourgo lies the Sanctuary of Dimitra, where a large series of big relief jars was found that now are in the archaeological museum of Tinos.
In Tripotamos the custom of “Kavos” is celebrated at Christmas. It’s a custom affected by the early Christian era, the medieval era and the Mount Athos customs.
Near Tripotamos is the island’s unique industry, the cheese factory, that produces original dairy products. Here one can visit the island’s only working pottery factory.
Ysternia village on Tinos: A picturesque village, situated on “Meroviglia” on the west part of the island, 20 km from the Town of Tinos. It is decorated with marble paved streets, arches and two storey houses with marble lintels and beautiful yards. The village has a magnificent view towards Syros.
It is a real balcony to the Aegean.
The people of Ysternia work as marble craftsmen. Every house is a sample of their lust for good taste. Besides, Ysternia is home of many creators like: G Vitalis , I. Vitalis, του L. Lamera, των Fytalis brothers and L. Sochos.
Falatados village on Tinos: It is one of the largest villages of Tinos and dates back to the 1400s. It is the village where Dim. Vlassis was born, the worker that saw for the first time the miraculous icon of Panayia of Tinos in 1823.
In this village one can admire the imposing church of Ag . Triada, a basilica, which lies in its centre. You can also visit the private collection of popular art and the church museum, have lunch in its taverns, rent a room and go around in the countryside: Voliana, Kakia Skala and Livada.
Chatziarados village on Tinos: A small picturesque village near Ktikados. It also has the characteristically paved streets, the white houses and flowery yards. It has a view to the sea and is adorned by the church of Ag. Triada.
For the visitors that would like to taste local delicacies, there is a tavern.
6. The history and mythology of Tinos
Tinos is a Greek island situated in the Aegean Sea. It is located in the Cyclades archipelago. In antiquity, Tinos was also known as Ophiussa (from ophis, Greek for snake) and Hydroessa (from hydor, Greek for water). The closest islands are Andros, Delos, and Mykonos. It has a land area of approximately 194 square kilometers and a 2001 census population of 8,574 inhabitants.
Between 1207 and 1715, Tinos was in Venetian hands. From 1715 to 1821, Tinos was ruled by the Ottoman Empire before joining in the Greek War of Independence. It was known as İstendil during Ottoman rule.
Tinos is famous amongst Greeks for: the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, its 80 or so windmills, about 1000 artistic dovecotes, 50 active villages and its Venetian fortifications at the mountain, Exobourgo. On Tinos, both Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic populations co-exist, and the island is also well known for its famous sculptors and painters, such as Nicholaos Gysis, Yannoulis Chalepas and Nikiforos Lytras.
The island is located near the geographical center of the Cyclades island complex, and because of the Panayia Evangelistria church, with its reputedly miraculous icon of Virgin Mary that it holds, Tinos is also the center of a yearly pilgrimage that takes place on the date of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (August 15, “Dekapentavgoustos” in Greek). This is perhaps the most notable and still active yearly pilgrimage in the region of the eastern Mediterranean. Many pilgrims make their way the 800 meters from the ferry wharf to the church on their hands and knees as sign of devotion. The day also commemorates the 1940 sinking of the Greek cruiser Elli by an Italian submarine on August 15, 1940 at Tinos’s harbor.
The island’s mineral resources include marble, Verde antico, asbestos and a granite mine near Volax (also known as Volakas).
7. Rent a car on Tinos
*Jason Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 24283 – (+30)22830 24061- (+30)6945493369
Web Site : http://www.jason-rentacar.gr
* Vidalis Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 23400 – (+30)22830 25995
Web Site : http://www.vidalis-rentacar.gr/
* The little green Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30) 2283022834
* Koulis Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 23995
* Lagouros Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 22291
* Markouizos Antonis
Tel./Fax : (+30) 22830 24805
mobile: (+30) 6979.978569
8. Useful information about Tinos island
Tinos, is thought to be the holy island of the Virgin Mary. Numerous beaches can be seen from the peaks of the unending mountain range that crosses it lengthwise. The dovecotes on Tinos, made of white washed native stone, are works of art in their own right. The islands twenty exquisite villages are unique examples of folk architecture.
If you would like to visit the few picturesque villages of Tinos, you could use the main bus services, the buses will take you to most villages and in the summer time the buses are very frequent.
For more information about buses on Tinos : +30 22830 22440
If a bus does not help you, then the next best choice is to call a taxi on Tinos: +30 22830 22470
Ferries to and from Tinos island
There are ferries from Piraeus Port and Rafina Port ferryboats depart daily heading to Tinos Island. The trip from Pireus lasts 4 h 30 min and from Rafina 4 h in a regular ferry and 1 h 40 min. on a speed – ferry. There are also routes from Lavrio Port.
If you would like to visit the few picturesque villages of Tinos, you could use the main bus services, the buses will take you to most villages and in the summer time the buses are very frequent.
For more information about buses on Tinos : +30 22830 22440
If a bus does not help you, then the next best choice is to call a taxi on Tinos: +30 22830 22470
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS ON TINOS ISLAND
Main police station on Tinos: +30 22830 31371
Port Police on Tinos:
Hospital / Health center on Tinos: +30 2283360000., +30 22830 23781
Fire department on Tinos:
Tourist information office on Tinos: +30 22830 23670
Ferry schedules on Tinos:
Travel agency on Tinos:
Taxi station on Tinos: +30 22830 22470
Bus station on Tinos: +30 22830 22440
Lawyer on Tinos:
Municipality of Tinos:
Taxation office on Tinos
Post office on Tinos
Water Company (faults) on Tinos
Electricity Company (faults) on Tinos
Dentist on Tinos
Private Doctor on Tinos
Children’s doctor on Tinos
RENT A CAR OR BIKE ON TINOS ISLAND
*Jason Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 24283 – (+30)22830 24061- (+30)6945493369
Web Site : http://www.jason-rentacar.gr
* Vidalis Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : (+30)22830 23400 – (+30)22830 25995
Web Site : http://www.vidalis-rentacar.gr/
* The little green Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : +30 22830 22834
* Koulis Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : +30 22830 23995
* Lagouros Rent A Car
Tel./Fax : +30 22830 22291
* Markouizos Antonis
Tel./Fax : +30 22830 24805
mobile: +30 6979 978569