Top Things to Do in Tinos, in the Cyclades
The first time we visited Tinos we were shocked to discover that it’s one of the less touristy Greek islands. Even though it’s part of the Cyclades Archipelago, it receives far less tourists than Mykonos, directly in front.
You see, Greece is so beautiful and has so many islands that you can always find the one that’s right for you. To us, Tinos is perfect. The island has it all: historic architecture, splendid beaches, authentic temples, trekking paths, cute little towns, and delicious food. The following are our favorite things to do in Tinos.
Explore Tinos Town
Cycladic architecture has come to symbolize Greek architecture. Tinos Town boasts some of the finest in the country. Our favorite thing to do in the island is to walk about without a plan, and a phone.
White washed houses with blue windows line its streets. Most buildings have only two stories. Though there aren’t many parks nor tall trees, most houses have gorgeous plants. Don’t forget to check the Archaeological Museum, dedicated to local finds. The other must see is the Cultural Foundation of Tinos, a 1925 beauty on the port.
Visit the Our Lady of Tinos
We have to be honest: we are not religious. However, the atmosphere at the Church of Our Lady of Tinos, took our breaths away. It’s the most visited pilgrimage site in all of Greece. The 1830 temple is on the slope of a hill a 15 minute walk from the port.
You will see people kneeling all the way to the temple! It’s a testament to the country’s faith, humility, and wonderful traditions. They’ve come to pay their respects to the 7th Century icon of the Virgin Mary, patron of Greece. We sat down respectfully and could feel love all around us.
Do not skip the rest of the temple, including the chapel and art gallery. The most popular pilgrimage dates are January 30, March 25, July 23, and August 15.
Check Out the World Famous Pigeon Houses
The first time we visited, we noticed these elaborate white structures scattered all over the island. Little did we know that they were pigeon houses! The Venetians introduced pigeon breeding in the 17th Century to help with agriculture. Tinos mastered the art and produced some of the prettiest in the world.
Today some 800 of these structures, called Dovecotes, can be seen in Tinos. We believe the town of Tripotamos has the best. The village is 4 miles (6 km) north of Tinos Town. Walk around its arches admiring the views, and enjoying the silence.
Get Lost on the Streets of Pyrgos
Pyrgos is one of the prettiest towns in the entire country. It’s some 12 miles (20 km) northwest of Tinos Town. Some 500 people live in the town, the biggest on the island. You can take a public bus from the station next to the port in Tinos Town all the way to Pyrgos.
Pyrgos looks straight out of a fairy tale. Every one of its curvy streets is gorgeous. Its epicenter is the main square, easily identifiable by its massive tree. Our favorite temple is nearby, the Church of Agios Nikolaos. From there, it’s a short walk up the hill to the 1850s cemetery, the best place to catch the sunset.
Learn about Marble Crafting
Tinos is famous around Greece, and the world, for its marble. The first time we visited, we simply couldn’t believe our eyes! There are countless marble objects all over the island, in particular in Pyrgos. Delicate and impressive marble objects dot the village.
You will see marble fountains, sculptures, slabs, door frames, tables, benches, and a very long etc. In fact, Pyrgos has three museums dedicated to marble: the Museum of Tinian Artists, the Giannoulis Halepas Museum and the Museum of Marble Crafts. The first two are next to each other. The last one is up from the cemetery and offers unforgettable views.
Visit the Charming Kardiani Village
Kardiani is even smaller than Pyrgos, and to some even prettier. We love them both equally. The settlement is on the slope of a hill some 8 miles (12 km) from Tinos Town. Thus, the epic views over Syros and beyond.
Everything is made with white marble. The village is a maze of narrow alleys with typical Cycladic houses. Tall pine trees dot it. Two magnificent churches stand out: orthodox Agia Triada and catholic Panagia Kioura. The latter has a 5 story belfry and the most amazing marble decorations you will ever see.
Hit the Beach
Tinos has no shortage of fantastic beaches. The best one near Tinos Town is Agios Fokas, a long stretch of sand with tamarind trees. There are plenty of bars, lounges, and taverns.
However, our favorite beach is Agios Sostis. We love it because it’s a bay with no wind. Some of the beaches in the Cyclades are beautiful but too windy for our taste. This one is perfect for children and to swim. Pachia Ammos is to the north, under a massive dune. The sand is green! The water shallow and deep blue and there is no one.
If you don’t mind the wind and love dramatic scenery, head to Kolimvithra, in the middle of the eastern shore. The isolated beach is stunning.
Enjoy Delicious Greek Cuisine
As everywhere in the country, you will eat and drink like a king in Tinos. Since it’s a small scarcely populated island, most of the produce is local and fresh. Even the simplest salad tastes delicious. The local artichokes, louza meat, and petroma and stroggylo cheeses are famous in Greece.
We always go to eat by the sea in Panormos, the village north east of Pyrgos. We’ve been so many times to To Limanaki that it feels like family. Everything comes fresh directly from the sea!
If you are into wine, you have to visit T-OINOS Winery & Vineyards, 7 miles (10 km) from Tinos Town. We are talking about lush vineyards in the middle of massive granite rocks. The wine is superb, and the views amazing.
Hike among Hills and Mountains
Tinos is perfect for hiking. Due to its splendid weather, you can trek all year round. Granted, not in the middle of the day in the middle of summer, but we’ve trekked in the afternoon in August and had a great time.
The easiest trek is from Aetofolia to Kalloni and then to Kato Klisma, in the center of the island. It takes 1.5 hours and offers silence and marvelous views. Another easy one is from Marlas to Malli beach in the north. It takes less than two hours.
Now if you are up to it, trek from Tripotamos to Exomvourgo Castle. We did once and were rewarded with the most amazing views in the entire island.
Island Hop to Other Cycladic Islands
Who hasn’t dreamed of island hopping around Greece? In particular around the Cycladic islands. The archipelago features some of the country’s most famous islands, and for good reason. Every island in the Cyclades is unique and incredible.
Going to Mykonos is quite easy. Frequent ferries connect both islands in half an hour. It takes the same time by ferry to reach Syros, one of our favorite islands. From Tinos to Andros it takes between 1 and 1.5 hours. That’s why it makes sense to base yourself in Tinos and explore the rest of the islands.
Where to Stay in Tinos
Tinos is perfect for holidays with your family. We strongly recommend the Cavos Hotel in Ag. Sostis. We stayed there with my brother and his family.
His daughter loved the hotels’ friendliness. We loved that the beach was safe and that they took care of everything. If you are driving, a private villa by the beach or in a village is a great option too.
If you want to enjoy the little nightlife Tinos has to offer we suggest you stay at Tinos Town. Though there are no big parties, the town is packed with gorgeous tavernas and cute bars.
Plus, you have several interesting sites to discover. It’s also the best place to stay if you plan on using public transport to explore the island. We recommend the Infinity View Hotel.
Take a look at our post about the best places to stay in Tinos.
