📌Tinos belongs to the Cyclades Islands and is located about 120 km southeast of Athens between Andros and Mykonos. It has an excellent ferry connection with Athens and the other islands. It is characterized by a traditional style and a peaceful atmosphere.
✔Tinos is a magnificent island with fantastic natural landscapes, beautiful picturesque villages, great beaches and exceptional hospitality!
▪ Untouched by mass tourism, Tinos is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, hiking, fantastic landscapes and beaches, art, architecture; for those looking for a peaceful holiday and authentic Greece.
▪ An island where tradition and authentic Greece are preserved, where the calming effect is expressed due to its spirituality.
▪ Tinos is famous for the Church of the Evangelistia, which is located in the main town of Chora. Famous for windmills and dovecotes, fantastic nature with about 50 mountain villages! The island is also known for sculptors and painters. On Tinos, there is a fusion of two religions and Orthodox and Catholic Greeks live side by side.
▪ The extraordinary hospitality adds a special touch to this incredible island. The way of life of the locals truly impresses and enchants visitors!
▪ Great gastronomy adds even more flavor to all the virtues that make this beautiful island special. The local food is outstanding and a real temptation for the palate. For every recommendation!
▪ Tinos is an island where numerous agricultural products are grown, exceptional cheeses and milky products, honey and white wine are produced.
Mystical & Spiritual Chora
The main town and port of Chora is located on the southern side of the island.
Mystical and incredible Chora has typical Cycladic architecture with whitewashed houses and narrow paved streets, picturesque churches and squares surrounded by beautiful flowers.
Chora has plenty traditional tavernas, cafes and shops that fit perfectly with the beautiful surroundings and give extra charm to this remarkable place. Wherever one steps, can notices the specific artistic stamp of people who appreciate beauty and art.
You should try the extraordinary local food, which is gastronomic perfection and provides bliss for the palate and senses! For every recommendation, enjoyment in traditional tavernas!
People who live in Chora and on Tinos should be singled out in particular. People are extremely hospitable, generous, smiling, charming and connoisseurs of art and culture! Visitors are enchanted by the way of life of the locals!
The imposing Holy Church of Panagia Evangelistria stands out on the hill, which is one of the largest Saints in Greece! The walk from the harbor to the church is a mystical and calming experience due to the spirituality of the Holy Church.
Holy Church of Panagia Evangelistria
Holy Church of Panagia Evangelistria
The Holy Church of Panagia Evangelistria is located on Tinos and is one of the largest sanctuaries in Greece. The famous Holy Church was built in the 19th century at the place where the miraculous icon was found after the visions of the nun Pelagia by the Virgin Mary. Since then, it has been the largest Christian pilgrimage shrine in Greece and one of the most famous in the world!
The icon is believed to be the source of numerous miracles! There are inspiring stories about the redeeming intervention of the Virgin Mary that people were lucky enough to experience after fervent prayers! The Church is considered the protector of sailors and the healer of the weak and sick. The icon was found in the first days after the creation of the modern Greek state and was declared the patroness of the Greek people.
The Church is a monastery complex built on a hill 800m from the harbor on the site of an early Byzantine church. On the ground floor is the Chapel of the Apocalypse, which began to be built in 1823 when the Holy Icon was found. Above the small chapel is the monastery complex! On the ground floor, next to the copy of the icon, there is a fountain with Holy Water! The church itself is an impressive building made of marble.
Elli Mausoleum – It contains a monument dedicated to the first victims of World War II in Greece, members of the crew of the cruiser Elli, which was torpedoed in 1940 in the port of Tinos. There are numerous items that have been recovered from the cruiser Ellie.
Hiking
Tinos is an exceptional island for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Numerous well-marked trails across the island lead through mountain villages, stunning natural landscapes, and all the way to hidden or well-known beaches along the coast.
The mountain villages are connected by a network of excellent walking paths, making hiking a perfect way to explore authentic settlements and the island’s remarkable natural beauty.
Among the most impressive sights are spectacular viewpoints such as Mount Exomvourgo with its steep cliffs and fortress remains, phenomenal views from the villages of Kardiani and Isternia, then the fertile Falatados plateau at around 300 meters above sea level with relatively flat terrain, as well as the unusual giant boulders and rock formations around the village of Volax, creating a surreal and almost otherworldly landscape.
Mount Exomvourgo
Exomvourgo is an impressive and monumental mountain, with its summit reaching 559 meters above sea level.
One of the best and most attractive hiking trails on the island leads to the top of this remarkable mountain. The trail from the village of Falatados to the summit takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. It is partly steep, but every step is rewarded with wonderful panoramas that captivate visitors.
At the steep summit lie the remains of a medieval fortress, from where a spectacular panoramic view opens over the entire island and the endless blue of the sea.
As you slowly turn around in place, breathtaking scenes unfold before your eyes: views of the capital Chora and the island of Mykonos in the distance, the impressive Kechrovouni Monastery nestled high in the mountain and surrounded by smaller villages, the fertile Falatados plateau, as well as green slopes dotted with villages overlooking the opposite side of the island.
As you soak up all the beauty of this almost unreal place and stand before a majestic view that leaves you breathless, it becomes easy to understand why Tinos is truly an incredible island!
Island tour
Picturesque mountain villages
🎬 Picturesque mountain villages
Beside fantastic nature, the traditional villages located in the mountains are the true gems of Tinos!
These striking villages have preserved their authentic traditional style and way of life.
The villages are surrounded by exceptional nature and offer wonderful views of the surrounding landscapes.
It is simply impossible to choose which one to visit first and my advice is to explore as many villages as possible!
On Tinos, the asphalt road around the island leads to high altitudes and passes through numerous picturesque mountain villages.
First, a presentation of three wonderful mountain villages – Pyrgos, Kardiani and Isternia – each with its own special charm, with Pyrgos standing out as a true gem of Tinos.
Magnificent marble Pyrgos
The charming village is one of the most beautiful places in Tinos and in the Cyclades! It is located 22 km northwest of the main town of Chora.
The scenic village is surrounded by mountains rich in marble, and visitors are especially impressed by the marble buildings crafted by local craftsmen. Marble is present on buildings and houses, arches, fountains, and squares, making Pyrgos a true architectural pearl.
Walking through Pyrgos is a unique visual experience: A perfect Greek village with beautiful white houses and narrow marble paved streets, charming squares and picturesque churches surrounded by Bougainvillea and flowers. Paradise for soul and senses!
After wandering and walking through the streets of Pyrgos, true enjoyment comes from spending time in one of the inviting local tavernas or cafés, soaking in the enchanting ambiance and tranquil atmosphere.
A visit to the Museum of Marble Crafts is highly recommended, as it showcases the island’s rich history of marble and art dating back to the Ancient period.
It is also worth visiting the two beautiful and impressive churches of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Dimitrios.
Kardiani
Kardiani is one of the most beautiful villages on Tinos and is located on the western side of the island, about 15 km from the main town of Chora.
This wonderful mountain village is set on the slope of a high mountain and nestled in lush greenery, and is known for its numerous freshwater springs.
The houses are traditionally built of stone and marble, while the labyrinth of paved alleys and stairways that follow the natural terrain makes the village a distinctive architectural gem of the island.
A walk through the picturesque village is an enchanting experience that exudes peace and special energy.
On the central square stands the impressive church of Agia Triada, along with a small plateau offering an incredible view of the turquoise blue sea and the island of Syros – a sight remembered for a lifetime.
Isternia
After the village of Kardiani comes Isternia, a charming mountain village with a spectacular view of the blue sea and the island of Syros in the distance.
The village is located about 18 km northwest of the main town of Chora, set on a mountain slope.
It is worth strolling along the marble-paved streets and enjoying the traditional houses with marble lintels and arches, as well as the marble workshops of local artisans who preserve the artistic heritage of this area.
A special pleasure is taking a break at one of the local tavernas or cafés, enjoying a drink or a light meal accompanied by a fascinating view that lingers in memory.
Mountain villages along the road from Chora to the other side of the island.
Triandaros
When you take the asphalt road from Chora towards the mountains, after about 8 km you will reach the wonderful village of Triandaros.
It is a real pleasure to stroll through the scenic streets of this charming village, where white houses with wooden windows and flower pots create an authentic atmosphere of local life.
It is worth stopping at one of the local tavernas and enjoying the fantastic view of Chora and the blue of the Aegean Sea, while a gentle breeze carries the scents of Mediterranean herbs and the sea.
The village exudes peace and tradition, making it ideal for leisurely walks and frequent stops to enjoy the silence, enchanting scenery, and encounters with friendly locals.
Dio Horia
Next along the route is the medieval traditional village of Dio Horia, nestled on a mountain slope with breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape and the blue sea.
The village is adorned with picturesque houses decorated with lovely details and abundant flowers, while its special charm is enhanced by numerous springs with ornate fountains and a paved square.
The magical labyrinth of narrow, winding streets with arches and passageways formed by the upper floors of the houses offers a true journey into the past, through tradition and authenticity.
Arnados & Kechrovouni Monastery
The village of Arnados is the highest on the island, located on the southern slope of Mount Kechrovouni, about 10 km from Chora.
This traditional village is decorated by white houses and narrow winding streets, offering magnificent views of Chora and the blue of the Aegean Sea. A walk through the village is a pleasure, filled with peace and the authentic atmosphere of mountain life on Tinos.
On the central paved square stands the church of Agios Sotiros, recognizable by its white facade and bell tower, serving as a quiet center of the village’s spiritual and social life.
Near the village there is the divine Kechrovouni Monastery, a must-visit site.
The monastery that resembles a fortress dates back to the 10th century. It features traditional architecture – beautiful white walls, churches with impressive bell towers and marble arches that testify to the site’s rich history and spiritual importance.
It was here that the nun Agia Pelagia experienced an apparition from the Virgin Mary, guiding her to discover the miraculous icon.
A visit to the monastery offers not only a spiritual experience but also wonderful view of the surrounding landscape, further enhancing this exceptional experience.
Falatados Plateau
The Falatados Plateau is a fertile plain at an altitude of 300 meters, with relatively flat terrain and surrounded by high mountains.
Around the fertile Falatados plain lie two picturesque villages, Steni and Falatados, which further enhance the landscape with their charm.
Steni
Located on the fertile Falatados plateau, the village of Steni exudes a calm and easygoing atmosphere.
White houses with wooden windows and flowers, narrow paved streets and small squares create a harmonious whole that reflects tradition and the local spirit.
A walk through the village reveals interesting architectural details and glimpses of everyday life, while the silence and serene ambience creates a feeling of complete relaxation.
Falatados
Falatados is the second largest village on Tinos, located in the heart of the fertile plateau, about 12 km from Chora.
The lovely village is adorned with traditional white houses with colorful windows and flowery courtyards, narrow paved streets with arches and squares that form a charming ambience filled with harmony and beauty.
Particularly striking is the main square, where the impressive church of Agios Ioannis and the Agia Triada stands, surrounded by picturesque tavernas and cafés that give the village a special charm and energy.
Walks through the quieter parts of the village reveal its warmth and character, a blend of tradition and a relaxed atmosphere.
Surrounded by green fields and orchards, Falatados offers a strong sense of connection with nature, while the scents of Mediterranean herbs further enrich the village experience.
Volax
Volax village is one of the most impressive locations on Tinos, known for its unusual giant boulders and rock formations that create a surreal and fantastic landscape.
This unique setting gives the village a special energy, while walking among the massive stones and charming flower-adorned houses leaves a strong impression, as if stepping into another world.
In the immediate vicinity of Mount Exomvourgo are the villages of Koumaros, Xynara, and Loutra, surrounded by greenery and characteristic dovecotes, one of the symbols of Tinos.
Koumaros
Koumaros is a traditional village located on the slope of Mount Exomvourgo, surrounded by lush greenery and recognizable for its numerous dovecotes that dominate the landscape.
The village is peaceful and quiet, with a beautiful church, unusual winding streets, medieval houses with arches, and old stone fountains.
From slightly elevated points in the village, beautiful views open toward the fertile and green surrounding hills.
One of the best hiking trails on the island connects the village with the summit of Mount Exomvourgo, offering breathtaking views during the ascent, as well as a spectacular panorama from the very top that is long remembered.
Xinara
Xynara is a traditional village built on the slope of Mount Exomvourgo, about 8 km from Chora.
In the past, it served as the cultural and educational center of the island, as well as the spiritual seat of the Catholic Archdiocese.
Today, the village is recognizable for its spacious square, important churches and buildings of local institutions, as well as for its beautiful view of Mount Exomvourgo and the surrounding landscape.
Loutra
Loutra is a peaceful traditional village set in a green valley on the slope of the Exomvourgo mountain, surrounded by fertile fields and characteristic dovecotes scattered across the hillsides, giving the landscape a distinctive Tinian character.
In the past, it was an important religious center, and today it feels like an open-air museum, as only a small number of residents live in the village.
The village exudes silence and the spirit of past times, making it ideal for a leisurely walk and for enjoying traditional architecture harmoniously blended into the natural surroundings.
Komi
Komi is a charming village with lovely squares, picturesque churches, and pleasant streets for a relaxed walk.
The village is located about 13 km from Chora, at the beginning of a fertile plain that stretches all the way to the sea and the well-known Kolymbithra beach.
Top 10 Tinos beaches
Tinos is an island with great beaches and fantastic landscapes.
Various beaches for everyone’s taste – Sandy beaches with fine or coarse sand, pebble, family-friendly, cosmopolitan and popular, as well as untouched and secluded ones.
They are perfect for swimming & diving, and the crystal-clear sea and a relaxed atmosphere guarantee unforgettable enjoyment.
▪ Top 10 Tinos beaches. My recommendation! ⬇
1️⃣ Laouti
2️⃣ Kalivia
3️⃣ Agios Romanos
4️⃣ Agios Ioannis
5️⃣ Agios Fokas
6️⃣ Agios Sostis
7️⃣ Kionia
8️⃣ Agia Thalassa
9️⃣ Isternia
🔟 Rohari
Coastal Tour
The coastal tour starts from the main town of Chora, heading east.
Agios Fokas beach
A long sandy beach and one of the most popular on the island, located just next to Chora, about 1.5 km away.
The gorgeous turquoise-blue shallow waters are perfect for swimming and families. The best spot is all the way to the left, near the hill, where the sand is finest and the vibe is best for relaxation and snorkeling around the rocks.
The beach is organized with beach-bars and tavernas, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and watch the sunset.
In the background, trees provide natural shade for those seeking a stay in a natural setting. Due to the beach’s length, there is plenty of space for peace and privacy.
The asphalt road continues around due to the configuration of the terrain, while the walking path follows the coastline, passing by a few small wild beaches where you can enjoy seclusion in an untouched setting.
Agios Sostis beach
The popular sandy beach is located on the southern side of the island, about 5 km from Chora.
The beach features lovely soft golden sand and shallow crystal-clear sea, as well as a beautiful view of Mykonos in the distance.
On the shore there is a small white church after which the beach takes its name, while several tamarisk trees offer shade.
The surrounding area offers plenty of accommodation options, and although there are a few beach-bars on the shore, the atmosphere remains calm and relaxed.
Laouti beach
The most beautiful beach on Tinos, located in the same bay as Agios Sostis, separated from it by a small strip of rocks along the shore.
The wonderful beach features fine, powdery golden-yellow sand and incredible shades of shallow turquoise waters that entices you to enjoy the water for a long time.
The exotic ambiance, open horizon and enchanting view of Mykonos in the distance give this beach a special charm and a true sense of a Mediterranean paradise
There are a few bars on the beach, but most of it remains untouched, while few trees further enhance the idyllic setting.
Laouti is perfect for those seeking a combination of extraordinary natural beauty, crystal-clear waters and space for complete relaxation.
Agios Ioannis Porto beach
A popular and well-maintained sandy beach located in a sheltered bay, about 6.5 km east of Chora.
The picturesque and peaceful beach features shallow crystal-clear waters with beautiful shades of blue and very fine gray sand, making it an excellent choice for families and carefree swimming.
Most of the beach remains natural, while the greenery in the background provides a pleasant setting for relaxing in the shade.
There are plenty of accommodation facilities in the area, and two beach-bars on the beach itself for those who prefer comfort.
The coastal tour continues from the main town of Chora towards the west and around the island.
Kioni beach
Kioni is a long sandy beach located on the western side of Tinos, about 3 km northeast of Chora.
The beach is adorned with sand of a characteristic green-yellow color and greenish transparent sea, giving it a distinctive visual identity.
Surrounded by lush greenery, the beach features bars and tavernas both on the sand and in the background, perfect for refreshing drinks and tasting local cuisine.
Platia Ammos beach
After Kioni beach, the coastal path passes a few solid small coves, and after about 1 km you reach the idyllic Platia Ammos beach.
Pristine sandy beach with fine sand and lovely clear shallow blue water that beckons to relax.
A perfect spot for peace, solitude and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Unnamed Beach near Zoodochos Pigi church
An easy footpath continues along the beautiful coastal scenery, soon revealing a hidden corner.
A quiet, secluded small cove next to the Zoodochos Pigi church on the Zefiros peninsula.
Ideal for tranquility, complete seclusion and relaxation in an untouched natural setting, far from the crowds.
Vourni beach
A popular sandy beach located in a sheltered cove with crystal-clear waters and a dominant beach-bar that creates a lively atmosphere.
Panousa beach
A rustic pebble beach with a natural ambience, for a quiet stay, a short break and swimming.
Agios Romanos beach
A wonderful sandy beach located in a spacious picturesque bay surrounded by rocky slopes, about 8 km from Chora.
One of the more popular and well-organized beaches, with beach-bars and tavernas along the shore.
The long beach with soft golden-yellow sand and shallow turquoise crystal-clear waters is ideal for carefree swimming and relaxation.
A special charm is given by the enchanting surroundings with lush greenery providing natural shade and a pleasant setting for a longer stay and relaxation by the sea.
Next are three beaches located below the scenic mountain village of Kardiani.
Kalivia beach
One of the most beautiful beaches on Tinos, with an impressive landscape and an enchanting view, located below the village of Kardiani, about 16 km northwest of Chora.
An idyllic beach with incredible shades of turquoise-blue sea, an open horizon and a strong sense of freedom that makes it special at first sight.
One section of the beach features a beach-bar with a cool vibe, while the larger part remains peaceful and untouched, partly surrounded by tamarisk trees.
An ideal choice for lovers of swimming, enjoyment and complete relaxation in a mesmerizing setting, with a stunning view of the scenic surroundings and the island of Syros in the distance.
Agios Petros beach
A great hiking trail leads along the sea through an exceptional landscape to this secluded beach.
The sandy-pebble beach is divided into two parts by a large rock, atop which sits the beautiful white church of Agios Petros, after which the beach is named.
Rarely visited and secluded, it feels like a true private corner of the island.
Giannaki beach
The third beach, also known as Kardiani bay, is located in a quiet bay below the village of Kardiani.
A narrow sandy-pebble shore with shallow turquoise sea, suitable for swimming and enjoying the water.
There is a beach-bar on the beach for those seeking comfort, while most of it is natural and untouched.
Isternia beach
A beautiful sandy beach with lovely crystal-clear turquoise waters, located in a quiet bay below the charming village of Isternia, about 22 km northwest of Chora.
The picturesque beach consists of two parts, separated by a large rock, while the second part is more beautiful and untouched, perfect for relaxation and swimming.
The first section features tavernas and bars, while both sections have a few trees in the background providing natural shade.
The beach offers peace and relaxation amid a stunning landscape, with an enchanting view of the island of Syros in the distance.
Panormos
A small, charming fishing village located in a bay below the scenic village of Pirgos, about 25 km northwest of Chora.
The village’s charm is enhanced by numerous traditional tavernas and cafés along the promenade, perfect for a break, a seaside lunch and enjoying the relaxed pace of life.
Panormos features a nice sandy beach with plenty of trees, providing natural ambiance and plenty of shade.
Rochari beach
A beautiful sandy beach with azure sea, located in a small bay surrounded by rocks, about 1 km from the village of Panormos.
The beach is exposed to the influence of northern winds and often has waves, making it a favorite spot for surfers and water sports enthusiasts.
On the beach there is an interesting beach-bar with a relaxed vibe, while the lush trees and striking views of Planitis island add extra charm to the setting.
Agia Thalassa beach
An unpaved road and an excellent footpath lead to this beautiful secluded sandy beach, nestled in a quiet cove about 1.5 km from the village of Panormos
Surrounded by rocks and protected from the winds, the beach offers a tranquil, untouched setting enhanced by trees and a small nice church on the left side, after which it bears its name.
An ideal location for relaxing in peace and tranquility in an isolated natural environment, far from the crowds.
Kavalourko beach
A remote and isolated sandy beach, perfect for lovers of solitude and pristine natural surroundings.
The landscape is picturesque with a fascinating view of the island of Planitis, located directly in front of the beach.
Kolimpithra beach
The most famous beach on the northern coast of Tinos, set in a wide bay about 16 km from Chora.
It has two parts, and the smaller one is organized with a beach-bar and a taverna, where visitors can refresh and try delicious local dishes.
A gorgeous sandy beach with mesmerizing shades of turquoise blue and an open horizon that takes your breath away.
It is exposed to northern winds and often has big waves, so it is a popular spot for surfers and water sports lovers.
