The Ursuline Convent and Museum on Tinos is one of those places that takes you completely by surprise. Hidden away in the quiet village of Loutra, it tells the story of an island that was once an unlikely hub of female education and craftsmanship.

Founded by the Ursuline Sisters, this sprawling complex became one of the most respected girls’ schools in Greece and the wider Cyclades, operating for more than a century and shaping generations of women long before gender equality was even a conversation.

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The museum today preserves that legacy with great care.

You can visit classrooms frozen in time, with rows of iron beds in tidy dormitories and display cases filled with embroidery, musical instruments, costumes, and the personal belongings of the students who lived and studied here. 

This isn’t a typical tourist stop; it’s a rare glimpse into the daily rhythms of education and faith on Tinos, and how women here helped build the island’s social fabric one lesson at a time.

Where is it?

You’ll find the Ursuline Convent in Loutra, a small, leafy village in the island’s interior about 10 kilometres north of Tinos Town. Loutra is one of the island’s Catholic enclaves and home to both the Ursuline and Jesuit complexes, which sit within walking distance of each other. This in itself makes Tinos quite unique and unlike the other Cycladic islands, except Syros, which has a large Catholic population and rich history.

The convent itself is easy to spot once you reach the village, with its pale stone walls and imposing gates that hint at its former scale.

It’s best visited by car, as buses to Loutra are infrequent and taxis can be hard to come by outside the main towns. There’s limited parking near the entrance, but the drive is scenic, winding through the green heart of Tinos.

The history

The Ursuline Sisters arrived on Tinos from France in the early 18th century, establishing their convent and later founding the School of Loutra in 1862.

The convent was founded by Mother Marie-Anne Le Roux, a French nun whose father had once been a priest. She led a small group of sisters from France to Tinos to establish a school for girls, combining academic study with practical skills. Her vision shaped the convent’s reputation as one of Greece’s leading centres for women’s education. It quickly became one of the most forward-thinking educational institutions in Greece.

This was a time when women’s education was limited; the sisters offered a full curriculum: languages, sciences, art, and practical trades like weaving and embroidery.

Students came from all over Greece and even abroad. Many boarded here for years, creating a tight-knit community that balanced academic rigour with religious discipline. The complex wasn’t just a convent, it was a self-sufficient village—complete with dormitories, classrooms, workshops, gardens, and even a small hospital.

By the early 20th century, the school had earned a national reputation. Its weaving and carpet workshops became famous, and graduates often went on to teach or run their own businesses. Over time, as the Greek education system modernised and transport links improved, enrolments declined, and by the late 20th century, the school closed.

The sisters chose not to let their memory fade. Instead, they transformed parts of the convent into a museum, preserving its history for future generations.

Today, you can walk through the same corridors that those students once hurried down. The museum displays everything from class photos and handwritten ledgers to handwoven fabrics and delicate embroideries. There’s an old infirmary, a music room with polished instruments, and teachers’ quarters that look as if the nuns have just stepped out for a moment.

One of the convent’s most charming stories involves Hannah Lynch, an Irish writer who stayed here in 1885. She later wrote about Greece with warmth and familiarity—rare for a foreign woman of her time. In 2021, her photograph was projected on the convent façade during a cultural event, a poetic nod to how far its influence reached.

Today, the Ursuline Convent stands as one of the most important pieces of living history on Tinos. It’s a quiet testament to education, empowerment, and endurance—a side of Greek island life that rarely makes the postcards.

Opening hours and price

The museum usually opens seasonally, from mid-July to late August. Hours tend to be from around 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, but they can vary.

It’s a good idea to call ahead on +30 22830 51490, though this may change.

Admission is free or by a small donation, depending on the season and any special exhibitions taking place. Tours are often available at set times, in different languages, for a small fee.

There’s no café or shop on-site, but you’ll find small tavernas and a kafeneio in Loutra village itself. The beautiful cafe Serviam adjoins the property and is a beautiful garden setting to enjoy a break.

Things to see nearby

Loutra might look like a sleepy hillside village, but it’s full of character once you start exploring. Just down the road is the Jesuit Monastery and Museum, the male counterpart to the Ursuline Convent, with its own impressive collection of religious artefacts and historical documents. The two sites together paint a fascinating picture of Catholic life on Tinos over the past three centuries.

After your visit, wander through Loutra itself. The narrow lanes, stone arches and trickling fountains give it an old-world feel that’s hard to find elsewhere on the island. You can grab a coffee or light lunch at the tiny kafeneio near the village square, often shaded by vines and filled with locals who’ll happily chat if you speak a few words of Greek.

If you have a car, it’s an easy drive to the lunar-like village of Volax, famous for its massive granite boulders and long tradition of basket weaving, or to Kardiani, one of the island’s prettiest mountain villages with sweeping sea views. A little further north is Pyrgos, known for its marble-carving workshops and the Museum of Marble Crafts, one of the best small museums in the Cyclades.

Further reading: A Complete Guide to Tinos

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PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

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And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travelers!

Where is Meganisi?

Meganisi is located between Lefkada and the mainland of Greece in the Ionian Sea.

It’s just a short ferry ride from the eastern port town of Nidri on Lefkada, which takes around 20 minutes.

Although an island, Lefkada has a bridge to the mainland and a growing tourist profile, due to its stunning beaches and proximity to the international airport at Preveza. Yet few people get over to its gorgeous small neighbour. 

Meganisi retains a more tranquil, village-like charm. Despite its name (meaning “big island” in Greek), it’s tiny – just 20 square kilometres in area – but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in soul.

How to Get There

Lefkada is located 45 minutes drive from Preveza Airport and is south of Corfu and North of Kefalonia, which are both connected to it by ferry. It is a 4 hour drive from Athens.

From Nidri in Lefkada, ferries to Meganisi run several times a day and dock at the ports of Vathy and Spartochori. During summer, some sea taxis also operate private transfers. If you’re arriving with a rental car, check which ferries allow vehicles onboard.

For island-hoppers, Meganisi is also accessible by boat from Kefalonia and Ithaca, especially in the high season, though these connections can be more limited and less reliable.

There are also daily cruises to Meganisi from Lefkada with several companies, both large groups, small and private. The Pirate Ship from Nidri is especially popular.

Odyssey daily cruise from Nidri

When to visit Meganisi

Late May to early October is prime time, with June and September striking the best balance between warm weather and fewer crowds. July and August can get busy in the ports due to yachting traffic, but even then, the beaches remain blissfully quiet. Spring is especially lovely for walking and wildflowers.

Avoid visiting in winter unless you’re seeking total solitude – many businesses shut down, and ferries are infrequent.

Vathy Harbourfront

Where to stay in Meganisi

Vathy

The island’s main port town and the heart of Meganisi’s yachtie scene, Vathy is still a humble fishing village at heart. Sailboats bob in the water alongside caiques, and the quay is lined with laid-back tavernas, boutique-style accommodations, and sleepy bars. It’s the perfect base for exploring, and in high summer, its lively but never overwhelming energy makes for ideal people-watching.

Spartochori

Draped over a hillside above the sea, Spartochori is postcard-pretty. Think whitewashed houses with turquoise shutters, narrow cobbled streets, and sweeping views down to the marina below. It’s a little more local than Vathy, with family-run kafeneia and chickens roaming the back alleys. Sunset from the top of the village is a must.

Katomeri

This is where most of the island’s permanent residents live, giving it a more grounded, authentic feel. You’ll find traditional butchers and bakeries here, a few small tavernas, and even a folklore museum. While it lacks a port or beach, its central location makes it a great place to experience the rhythms of daily life on Meganisi.

There’s no high-rise hotel here – think boutique villas, guesthouses, and family-run B&Bs. You’ll find more options in and around Vathy, but Spartochori also has some lovely hillside properties.

Affordable Options

Luxury Hotels Meganisi

There are only a couple of luxury hotels on Meganisi, all quite new. They are small and intimate but stunning in terms of design, and in great locations.

• Ampitheatro Hotel – just 6 suites and a pool, with sweeping views on the hill above Vathy
• Keromoussi Boutique Hotel – located on 5 acres on a peninsula east of Vathy the 280 degree views here are very special.
• Azure Retreat – perched proudly on the hill west of Vathy harbour, this resort includes a spa, high-end restaurant and luxury boho accommodation.

Villas and Private Stays

Amphithetro Hotel 

The Teachers House

@Keromoussi Boutique Hotel

Spatochori

Things to Do in Meganisi

Rent a Boat

The best way to see Meganisi’s stunning coastline is from the water. Hire a small boat (no licence needed) and set off to discover secret beaches, sea caves, and hidden swimming spots. Many rentals come with coolers and maps, and staff will give you a safety briefing. Popular stops include the caves near Papanikolis and the beaches on the uninhabited islets of Thilia and Kythros.

Visit the Papanikolis Cave

This sea cave on the southern coast was rumoured to have hidden a Greek submarine during WWII – hence the name. You can visit on a private boat or join a small group tour. It’s an impressive sight, with aquamarine light filtering through the cave mouth, making it feel otherworldly.

Explore on Foot or Scooter

There are some excellent walking trails around the island, linking villages to coves and chapels. The terrain is hilly but manageable, and the views are spectacular. For a bit more speed, rent a scooter or small car – the island is compact, so it’s hard to get lost.

Feast on Local Cuisine

The Ionian diet leans heavily on fresh seafood, garden produce, and hearty village recipes. Must-try dishes include:

• Bourdetto – Spicy fish stew
• Savoro – Fried fish marinated in vinegar and rosemary
• Ladenia – Like a Greek pizza topped with tomatoes and olives
• Amygdalota – Local almond sweets, perfect with coffee

Try the taverna “Errikos” in Vathy for a long lunch by the water and possible celebrity spotting, or “O Vezalis” in Spartochori for sunset views and meze.

Papanikolas Cave

Thilia Beach Bar Ammoglossa

Vathy Harbour

Errikos Fish Fricasse

Meganisi Beaches

You won’t find beach bars pumping dance music or international DJs here, but there are a couple of organised beaches where you can rent an umbrella and sunbeds cheaply.

Most beaches are small, pebbly coves with crystal clear water and not much else. Perfect for a picnic and incredible tranquillity.

Fanari Beach

Arguably the island’s best-known beach, Fanari is a wide arc of white pebbles with electric blue water and views across to Kalamos. There’s a small canteen during the summer months, but otherwise, it’s all about simplicity.

Agios Ioannis Beach

This beach feels remote and untouched. It’s best accessed by boat or 4WD. The shallow waters and sandy patches are ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There’s a a charming small chapel here too as well as a large inland lake behind the beach.

Atherinos Bay

Just below Spartochori, Atherinos is a gorgeous, boat-accessible cove with a tiny jetty and water so clear it looks digitally enhanced. There are often a few yachts moored offshore, but it never feels crowded. The nearby tavernas serve some of the best grilled fish on the island.

Limonari Beach

Minas Taverna Abelaki Bay

Agios Ioannis Lake beach

Finari Beach Bar

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Ikaria is one of the world’s five official “Blue Zones” — where people live to 90 or more regularly. Studies have determined this is due to their diet, the thermal baths, and several other factors, in particular, a lot of incidental exercise and an active lifestyle. It’s a big island and it can be challenging to get around, so why not hire a local guide to help you discover the many Ikaria activities, events and attractions that the island has become known for all over the world.

Further Reading: A Complete Guide to Ikaria

Popular Activities and Attractions

Voula can organise any of the following activities for you, and possibly more!

• Beaches
• Thermal Springs – Indoors and Outdoors
• Hiking
• Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
• Surfing and Body Boarding
• Wineries
• Cooking Classes
• 5 day Detox
• Sand Training & Aqua Fitness
• Pottery & Ceramics
• Stretching, Yoga & Massage
• Day Trips to neighbouring islands

About Voula

Voula was born and raised in Ikaria, where she works and lives today. She is a qualified Personal Trainer and Kinesiotherapist by trade, and her enthusiasm and knowledge of the island are unmatched.

She runs her own travel agency that has a lot of activities that will help you get the most out of this amazing island.

Voula can organise your transfer, accommodation and activities, in this
alternative Greek destination, as well as multi-day retreats, day trips and much more. Do not hesitate to get in touch with her.

How to book her:

Email her at info@ikaria-activities.com and don’t forget to mention Sandy or this page for a 10% discount!

You can also call her on +30 698 581 1642

Outdoor spring in Therma

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Ikaria – the place where people forget to die. Tucked away in the northeast Aegean, Ikaria is one of the most unique islands in Greece with windswept cliffs, healing springs, and a lifestyle that is the envy of the world. One of only 5 ‘Blue Zones’ across the globe Ikaria is a place we can not only learn from, but is a must for any visitor to Greece.

It’s a big island and even if you wanted to rush, you can’t. It’s the sort of place where you stay for a week, maybe several, and slowly explore the many things it has to offer –  from the beaches and villages to the wine-soaked festivals and mountain trails.

Further Reading: A Complete Guide to Ikaria

Whether you’ve been before or it’s your first time it can be hard to process all the information out there. Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

If you are feeling really overwhelmed you might like a Trip Consultation perhaps!?

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

Evdilos

The Towns and Villages of Ikaria

Therma

This laid-back town has a history that dates back to Roman times, when emperors came here to soak their ailments away. The natural hot springs still bubble today, and many are open-air and free to access. The town itself is dotted with humble rooms to rent, traditional cafés, and an atmosphere that says, “take your time.” 

People soak in the natural sea springs, or in old spa buildings like Apollon and Asclepius Baths. Some springs are so close to the sea that you can cool off with a salty dip between sessions.

Evenings in Therma have a gentle rhythm — locals playing cards, travellers drinking by the sea, the occasional guitar strum echoing off the stone walls. It’s a unique town centred around the restorative powers of the baths, but its got plenty of charm and authenticity to which makes a destination on its own.

Agios Kirykos

The capital of Ikaria, Agios Kirykos strikes a balance between sleepy island life and elegant seaside charm. With its neoclassical mansions, cobbled alleys, and old-school kafenia, it feels like a town with stories to tell.

The waterfront promenade bustles gently with locals and ferry passengers, especially in the golden hour when fishing boats return and the tavernas come alive with clinking glasses and grilled aromas. It’s a great spot to catch the sunrise, enjoy a morning frappe by the harbour, or wander up into the backstreets for panoramic views of the Aegean.

While still wrapped in the island’s relaxed pace, Agios Kirykos is also where you’ll find a few more practical comforts — banks, bakeries, pharmacies — making it a convenient base without sacrificing character.

Christos Raches 

Perhaps the island’s most infamous village, Christos Raches, is affectionately dubbed “the village where time stands still”. This mountain village is located about 500 meters above sea level in the lush, forested heart of Ikaria, just five kilometres inland from Armenistis.

Shops and bakeries serve delicious home-made cakes, pies and more, and the Women’s co-operative in particular has desserts to die for. This village is the beating heart of Ikarian independence and oozes charm, authenticity and local culture.

Armenistis

A more traditional beach town with golden sand, relaxed tavernas, and sunbeds for those who like their paradise with a side of iced coffee. Once a sleepy fishing village, it has quietly blossomed into a low-key hub for travellers seeking a mix of comfort and authenticity. Its main beach is a long, golden stretch of sand lined with tamarisk trees, and the small beach in the villages is quiet and often calm.

Cafés spill out onto the waterfront, offering fresh seafood, cold coffees, and unbeatable sunset views — all served at an Ikarian pace, of course. From here, it’s a short stroll to Messakti Beach and a great base for exploring nearby trails or booking a boat trip.

Evdilos

This is a picturesque village that’s perched amphitheatrically on Ikaria’s northern coast.

Established after 1830, following the suppression of piracy in the region, Evdilos briefly served as the island’s capital from 1834 to 1912. Today, it functions as Ikaria’s second port and a central hub for the northern, central, and western parts of the island.

The village is characterised by narrow cobblestone streets, traditional two-story mansions with red-tiled roofs, and blooming courtyards that exude a timeless elegance. The harbour area is particularly enchanting, lined with colourful fishing boats and offering a selection of tavernas and cafés where visitors can savour fresh seafood and local delicacies.

Magganitis

A tiny fishing village nestled among dramatic cliffs, home to warm-hearted locals, a handful of stone houses, and some truly off-grid charm.

It has a small fishing harbour and a couple of good tavernas and is a popular spot for visitors to the southern beaches.

Therma

Raches

Magganitis Boat Harbour

Ikaria Agios Kirykos harbourfront cafes

Armenitsa

Ikaria’s Beaches

• Seychelles Beach: The island’s most famous stretch of sand, and rightly so. Named for its otherworldly resemblance to the actual Seychelles, it’s a shimmering cove of white pebbles, turquoise water, and dramatic rock formations. You’ll have to hike down a rocky path or boat in — but that’s part of the magic.
• Nas Beach: A sacred spot where the Chalares River meets the sea and the ruins of the Artemis temple still linger. Sunbathe, swim in the river lagoon, or hike up the gorge. Sunset here feels like a scene stolen from Greek mythology.
• Armenistis: A more traditional beach town with golden sand, relaxed tavernas, and sunbeds for those who like their paradise with a side of iced coffee.
• Messakti Beach: This is one of the few beaches in Greece that actually gets decent surf. Located right next to Armenistis it can be very crowded in summer when visitors come for surf lessons, volleyball tournaments or to relax at one of the few beach bars on the island.
• Faros and Livadi Beaches: Over near the airport and perfect for families. Calm waters, tavernas serving grilled octopus, and a generally relaxed vibe.

Seychelles Beach

Faros Beach

Therma Beach

Mesakti Beach

Hiking in Ikaria

Ikaria is a hiker’s dream. The trails here are ancient well worn and you’ll undoubtedly come across old donkey paths, stone bridges, waterfalls, ruins, and huge oak trees.

• Hike from Nas to Raches through the Chalares Gorge for one of the most rewarding walks on the island.
• Explore the Halari Gorge, a paradise of running water, dragonflies, and whispering trees.
• Venture up to the Monastery of Theoktistis, nestled in a forest with a chapel hidden beneath a giant boulder.
• For panoramic views, tackle Mount Atheras. It’s not Everest, but it gives you a taste of the island’s wild heart.

Diving, Snorkelling and Sea Adventures

• Ikaria’s coastline isn’t just for sunbathing — it’s a marine playground.
• Join a local dive group (mostly operating out of Armenistis or Agios Kirykos) and explore underwater caves, reefs, and even some wrecks.
• Snorkelling is sublime around Seychelles and Nas, where the clarity of the water can make you forget you’re not in the Maldives.
• For the less daring, hop aboard a boat tour — sunset sails, fishing trips, or just a lazy cruise along the coast.

Nas Lagoon & Beach

Ikaria Wineries

Ikaria’s wine is wild, in all the best ways. Here, winemaking dates back 8,000 years, and they are again using ancient wine making techniques to create very unique and sought after vintages.

Visit Afianes Wines near Raches:

Established in 1997 by Pharmacist Nikos and Maria Afianes, this is a family-run winery dedicated to reviving the island’s ancient winemaking traditions. Afianes Wines has gained international recognition for its commitment to quality and tradition.

The winery focuses on indigenous grape varieties such as Fokiano and Begleri, producing natural, unfiltered wines with minimal intervention.

Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and explore the on-site Wine History & Folklore Museum, which showcases traditional Ikarian winemaking tools and artifacts.

Karimalis Winery in the village of Pagi is also worth visiting. They blend sustainable farming with traditional techniques and offer cooking workshops too.

Afianes Winery

Food and Cooking

Food in Ikaria is not just nourishment; it’s a ritual. Meals are long, often homemade, and shared with stories, song, and the kind of laughter that makes the wine go down easier. One of the best ways to tap into this soulful culinary culture is through a cooking class, and there are a couple of excellent ones on the island, including the retreat held with American TV Chef & Author Diane Kochilas.

Some of the island’s best meals are found at traditional tavernas in remote places – most do no advertise nor have websites. Ask a local where their favourite places are!

The 4 pillars of the Ikarian Diet are:

• Simple, seasonal, plant-heavy: Lots of wild greens, legumes (especially chickpeas and lentils), fresh vegetables, vine-ripened tomatoes and herbs like oregano, mint, sage, and rosemary.

• Olive oil flows like wine, and the wine flows freely too. Homemade, naturally fermented red is the norm.

• Meat is not common, and usually reserved for special events and festivals. When it’s eaten, it’s often free-range goat or pork.

• No rush: Meals are slow, social, and often shared outdoors with family and neighbours.

Top Ikarian Dishes

• Soufico: A sort of Ikarian ratatouille – layered eggplant, zucchini, potato, and tomato, baked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

• Koukia: Broad beans stewed with herbs and olive oil – peasant food that tastes like comfort.

• Revithada: Chickpea stew, slow-cooked in a clay pot overnight.

• Ikarian pies: Thin, crispy pies filled with wild greens, fennel, or local cheeses.

• Louza: Salted, air-dried pork loin – Ikaria’s answer to prosciutto. 

Ikaria wellness: Thermal Springs & Blue Zones

Ikaria is one of the world’s five official “Blue Zones” — places where people regularly live to 90 or beyond. Studies have determined this is due to their diet, the thermal baths, a strong sense of faith and community and a lot of incidental exercise – most elderly people do not own cars and walk long and steep distances often.

Therma Hot Springs are said to relieve everything from arthritis to heartbreak. There are a few formal spa facilities, but many locals just sit in the hot pools that bubble up along the shore.

Therma: This sleepy town has a history that dates back to Roman times, when emperors came here to soak their ailments away. The natural hot springs still bubble today, and many are open-air and free to access.

The town itself has a number of cheap and cheerful rooms and hotels, traditional cafés and tavernas, and several activities such as diving and massage. The springs here are the real deal, and people come from all over the world to enjoy them. They’re mineral-rich marvels gushing up through coastal rock pools and also in old spa houses.

Water temperatures range from 34°C to 58°C, and locals swear by their healing powers. You’ll find people soaking in the sea beneath the cliffs, or in old spa buildings like Apollon and Asclepius Baths.

Some springs are so close to the sea that you can cool off with a salty dip between sessions, although timing is regulated for health reasons.

Outdoor spring in Therma ( left)

Therma Taverna

Indoor Baths in Therma

Holidays and Events

Ikaria Dance Festival

(usually late July/early August) – A week of classes, parties, and performances celebrating traditional Greek dance with a modern twist.

Paniyiri – August 15 The Dormition of the Virgin Mary

This is one of the biggest celebrations of the year across Greece, and the Paniyiri (festival) on Ikaria is perhaps the most famous of them all.

There are multiple events held across the island, most starting early in the evening.

The most photographed and Instagrammed occurs in the abandoned village of Lagkada, which is about 20 minutes south of Raches in the far west. Access is by dirt road, parking is a problem, and there is no electricity, but people come from far and wide to celebrate here until the sun comes up.

Other Paniyiris can be enjoyed in Gialiskari, Akamatra, Karavostamo, Kossikia,Evdilos region, Chrysostomos, Perdiki and Kampa.

Other Paniyiri:

• July 17: Agia Marina Festival in Faros.

• August 6: Transfiguration of the Savior in Christos Raches.

• August 15: Dormition of the Virgin Mary in Lagkada.

• September 8: Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Kerame.

• September 20: St. Eustathius in Arethousa

The Icarus Festival

Established in 2006, the Icarus Festival is an annual event that celebrates cultural diversity through music, dance, theater, and visual arts. Held in various locations across Ikaria, including Agios Kirykos, Evdilos, and Raches, the festival brings together artists from around the world to perform and engage in cultural exchange.

Ikaria Wine Festival

Wine enthusiasts should not miss the Ikaria Wine Festival, typically held in late July. This event showcases the island’s winemaking traditions, offering tastings of local varieties such as Fokiano and Begleri. Visitors can enjoy live music, traditional dances, and local cuisine, all while learning about the island’s viticultural heritage.

 Olive Oil Festival

In October, the Ikaria Olive Oil Festival celebrates one of the island’s most important agricultural products. The festival provides insights into the olive oil production process, from harvesting to pressing. Attendees can participate in cooking demonstrations, taste various olive oils, and learn about the health benefits associated with this staple of the Mediterranean diet.

Ikaros Chess Festival

For those with a strategic mind, the Ikaros Chess Festival is an international tournament held every July in Agios Kirykos. The event attracts players from around the world and offers a unique blend of competitive play and cultural immersion, set against the backdrop of Ikaria’s scenic beauty.

Paniyiri in Gialiskari

Other Activities on Ikaria

• Farm visits and beekeeping – Ikaria’s honey is medicinal, and several farms will let you taste it right from the source.
• Herbal walks – Local herbalists often lead foraging walks to teach you about the island’s mountain teas and healing plants.
• Remote monasteries and chapels – They’re everywhere. Even if you’re not religious, there’s something spiritual about stumbling across one in the middle of a pine forest.
• Yoga, Sand Training, Massage and more

Want to book a local Guide?

About Voula

Voula was born and bred in Ikaria, where she works and lives today. She has qualifications in Massage, Exercise and Wellness, and her enthusiasm and knowledge of the island are unmatched.

She runs her own travel agency that has a lot of activities that will help you get the most out of this amazing island.

Voula can organise your transfer, accommodation and activities, in this
alternative Greek destination, as well as multi-day retreats, day trips and much more. Do not hesitate to get in touch with her.

How to book her:

Email her at info@ikaria-activities.com and don’t forget to mention Sandy or this page for a 10% discount!

You can also call her on +30 698 581 1642

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When you arrive in Mykonos after a long flight or ferry ride, be greeted by a friendly Mykonian with a sign with your name on it! Our trusted partners at Mykonos Concierge can not only organise your transfer to your accommodation, but Antonis, Sophie and the team also offer fantastic full and half-day tours of the island, boat and car rentals and even a full concierge service.

There is nothing better when you arrive in a new place than to have your bags taken and be whisked off a nice, late-model, air-conditioned van or car.

Mykonos is known for its beaches and beach clubs, but there are also many narrow roads, often congested with tour buses and wayward tourists, so having someone help you navigate direct access to your hotel or villa means you aren’t left to try and work it all out yourself. Many places are not directly accessible by road and may be hard to find, especially at night.

The team has a diverse fleet of late-model vehicles, speaks perfect English and charges a flat fee that you can book online. If your flight or ferry is delayed, they will wait as long as it takes to meet you, and they won’t leave you at your accommodation until they are sure you have access.

They are already well priced (for Mykonos), but if you use this button to book, you will receive 10% off!

Private Tours in Mykonos

Our recommended drivers have new luxury cars, vans, and professional, English-speaking drivers.

They can take you on a half or full day tour of Mykonos and can pick up from your hotel, the airport, port, or cruise ship.

Itineraries include:

Full Day Cadillac Luxury Tour

• • A chauffeur-driven Cadillac will pick you up at your accommodation, fully equipped with drinks and amenities
  • Tour along the scenic coastline and the sparkling Aegean Sea, exploring the rugged landscapes of the island
  • Head to Agios Ioannis, Agrari and Kalo Livadi Beaches
  • Explore the traditional village of Ano Mer, known for its architecture, monastery and its authentic charm. Spend some time at Panagia Tourliani Monastery
  • Various other stops, including swimming, beach clubs, shopping or whatever your heart desires!

Unique Sunset Tour

Mykonos is famous for its magical sunsets and these drivers know the best places to view them!

The tour takes you to popular spots like Little Venice, the Windmills of Mykonos and Agios Ioannis Beach. But you won’t have to deal with traffic, car parking ( or lack of) or long walks to see them.

Sunset Tours are often combined with Private Escape or Romantic Tours, and may even involve a special occassion like an anniverary, or marriage proposal. They can help you with all that too!

Custom-made tours to your liking

Perhaps you have some unique needs? Don’t be afraid to reach out an ask – email info@mykonosexclusivetours and mention ‘SANDYPROMO’ or use this button to book and you will receive a further 10% off!

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