Pyrgos Tinos
Pyrgos Tinos can definitely lay claim to the ‘most attractive village on the island of Tinos’ and (consequently) it is one of the most popular for tourists to visit. Pyrgos Tinos is located towards the north of this magnificent island, about a 40 minute drive from Tinos Port.
The drive will take you past Kardiani and Isternia (two more villages worth checking out) and into the marble quarry hinterland of Tinos. Pyrgos is also confusingly labelled Panormos on maps, with the beach area of Panormos another 3kms to the northeast.
Pyrgos Tinos is perhaps the most ‘developed’ village on the island with the various businesses very aware that they are catering to the tourist trade and the unlikely presence of large tour buses meandering along the narrow roads clearly indicate its popularity as an outing destination from Tinos Town
Best things to do in Pyrgos Tinos
Visit the Pyrgos Village square
This is the main attraction for visitors to Pyrgos Tinos – the main square is dominated by the famous plane tree and is crammed with cafes and restaurants offering the full range of refreshments from breakfast through to dinner and drinks.
Try some Pyrgos Tinos Galatkoboureko
This custard/pastry dessert has many fans (including us) and Pyrgos is a great location to sample it. O Megalos Kafenes is a popular location to try it under the shade of the plane tree, particularly if you like more custard/less pastry and no other flavours (like orange). But many of the cafes will have their own variation – why not try them all?
Do some people watching from Athmar
Athmar Pyrgos Tinos has a great location up the steps from the main square meaning that you can position yourself to watch all the visitors meander through the square. Athmar has a great range of interesting food prepared from fresh ingredients and drinks to help you while away the time and the staff are very friendly – if you’re from Australia, ask Vangelis about his time in Sydney. And if you’re really lucky, the ‘Bougatsa Bowl’ might be available.
Wander along the streets
The streets of Pyrgos are as attractive as any on Tinos. The villagers clearly take pride in their village with plenty of trees and flowers amongst the houses. Enjoy checking out the doors of the houses showing the traditional occupations of the owners.
Pick up some local goodies
There are several shops where you can pick up some local goods in Pyrgos Tinos. Margartia’s Handmade is one of those with an enticing display of jams. sweets, scents, liquers and everything else you can think of.
Visit the Museum of Tinian artists
This museum will give you an overview of the marble history of the area and you can marvel at some of the marble creations, with a good guiding service also on offer.
Other places to eat and drink
Dough & Shaker is on the main street if you fancy some Italian as a break from Greek food and nearby is the Diporto cafe/bar in a relaxed setting. A little further away is the Doukas Bakery with all the usual Greek treats to take away.
Things to do near Pyrgos Tinos
Visit Ormos Panormos
The seaside settlement is just as attractive as the inland village with a nice waterfront lined with several cafes/tavernas. Maistros, To Limanaki, Maru and Marina For more casual requirements, Thalassa and Apangeio provide a nice outlook on to the bay.
Visit Isternia
Isternia is a smaller village but is also good to walk around and offers several cafes/bars with a great view from the hillside onto Isternia Beach. Mayou All-Day is recommended for evening drinks as the sun sets (and also fro a good breakfast). Other choices are Exomeria and Abada, both on the road from Kardiani.