A guide for a day trip to Tinos – an anti-tourist-trap list, based on June ’23.
If you ask any of the locals, they’ll say that Tinos has the most beautiful villages and hidden beaches in the Cycladic island group. While this little island is definitely worth exploring, this guide serves those looking to visit for a day/weekend and to stay in the main town.
To explain: Tinos homes a beautiful church called Panayia Tis Tinos. Famed for the many miracles and ‘answered’ prayers, it has become a popular pilgrimage destination for many Greek Orthodox believers. In the last few years, I’ve gone to Tinos for its church 3 times – each visit with its own reasoning and purpose. With that in mind, for those visiting the town of Tinos: I hope this guide adds some more beautiful moments to your journey.
Logistics
GETTING THERE:
We took the ferry from Pireaus – it’s hard to give an accurate trip duration and cost because there are a few routes and prices, but it is one of the closer Cycladic islands (relative to Athens) and also neighbours other popular destinations like Mykonos and Naxos, making it a great place to visit will island hopping.
GETTING AROUND:
If you are planning on staying in the maintown, everything is very walkable. But for those wanting to explore the further towns, we were recommended to rent a car instead of getting the “slow and infrequent “ buses – but to each their own!
WHERE TO STAY:
As mentioned, our short visit meant the best location would be the main port town: Tinos. But this is dependent on the purpose of your stay.
Attractions
Mikro
This little cafe (the literal translation of ‘Mikro’) is a great spot to grab a coffee or brunch. We stopped here a few times and found it quite reasonable. I will say that their takeaway menu (ie. a coffee to go) is far cheaper than the sit down menu. As an example: the flat white coffee was half the price takeaway vs. sit down.
Souvlakia Tis Renas
Of the entire 4 weeks I was in Greece, this tiny spot had the best gyro. Nestled in one of the cobbled stone streets of the main town, their indiscriminate spot provided the perfect refuel, and at a reasonable price too. As a general rule of thumb: I would recommend ordering and sharing a xoriatiki (village) salad, merida (portion/plate) of pork gyro, chips and tzatziki.
Amigthalota
Amigthalota are a kind of marzipan/almond treat – the Cycladic region is known for them, especially Tinos. While visiting, you will walk past many stores selling these sweets, all (in my experience) are quite nice! But one that we’ve supported a few times is a pretty pink brand called ‘Glikisma‘ (literally translating to ‘sweet treat’).
Nikolas Ker
A bit random but the daughter who ran this shop (a mother-daughter duo) was such a sweet and helpful lady – she was able to recommend some of the events and spots to visit. If you want to get the up-to-date happenings, and maybe some presents for people back home, give her a visit.
Panagia Tis Tin (church)
As mentioned: the main ‘attraction’ of this town is its church. Starting from the sea, to the top of the hill, is a steep cobblestone road leading towards it. Many Orthodox believers will make the pilgrimage, crawling on their knees, all the way, praying to Mary for her healing or help. The church itself is open for anyone to visit, with services occurring multiple times a day. Be sure to dress ‘respectfully’, covering knees and shoulders, and removing any caps or hats.
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