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A small fishing town on the Gulf of Corinth, Galaxidi has the atmosphere of a Greek island but sits on the mainland not far from Delphi and within easy reach of Athens.
Its distinct character stems largely from the fact that Galaxidi was only accessible by boat until 1963. It developed in relative isolation, with a firm focus on the sea.
For many years, the town was home to Greece’s most important shipping families, and their grand neoclassical mansions still line the waterfront.
Today, you can stroll along the promenade, feast on fresh seafood from a choice of the many restaurants and just soak up the village atmosphere in this low-key resort.
With its two deep, natural ports and seaward-facing position, it’s no surprise that Galaxidi has a rich nautical heritage.
In the 18th century, maritime trade brought wealth to the region. But, the town’s heyday was in the late 19th century, when the local merchant fleet expanded and rich sea captains built elaborate homes here.
Many of the ‘captains’ mansions’ remain, most neoclassical in style with wrought-iron balconies, stone figureheads, pebbled courtyards and brightly painted shutters.
Beyond the waterfront, narrow cobblestone streets wind inland and lead through five traditional squares to the highest point in the town. Here, the Agios Nikolaos church sits surveying the gulf below. Two bell towers and an imposing dome assert its authority, while, inside, you’ll find a carved wooden altar screen.
The town’s other obvious landmark is the church of Agia Paraskevi, whose marble floor is inscribed with an unusual zodiac cycle and solar calendar. A hole in the roof allows a ray of sunshine to enter the church at noon each day and illuminate the date.
Also worth a visit is the Nautical Historical Museum, which tells the tale of the town and its role in the Greek War of Independence through a series of engaging exhibits.
The greatest joy of a visit to Galaxidi, though, is merely strolling the little streets, wandering along the restaurant-lined promenade and lingering over a seafood lunch or evening drink as the sun sets.
From the second port, you can continue walking out east from the town to the forested headland known as Pera Panta. Here, you’ll find little sandy coves for swimming and sunbathing and, at its tip, a statue of ‘Galaxidi Woman’. Her arm is wrapped around her children as she waves her handkerchief at unseen mariners heading out to sea.
If you happen to be visiting in the spring, look out for the town’s renowned celebration on Clean Monday, the start of Greek Orthodox Lent. The custom of alevromoutzouromata (flour wars) sees locals divide into teams and pelt each other with pigmented flour across the port.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Galaxidi
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Galaxidi, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Galaxidi
- Delphi 16 kilometers away
- Arachova 21 kilometers away
- Nafplio 98 kilometers away
- Olympia 106 kilometers away
- The Peloponnese 106 kilometers away
- Athens 126 kilometers away
- Hydra 151 kilometers away
- Meteora 164 kilometers away
- Cape Sounion 165 kilometers away
- Costa Navarino 167 kilometers away
- Monemvasia 198 kilometers away
- The Greek Islands 230 kilometers away
- Syros 248 kilometers away
- Thessaloniki 255 kilometers away
- Milos 256 kilometers away
- Sifnos 259 kilometers away
- Tinos 262 kilometers away
- Corfu 263 kilometers away
- Mykonos 279 kilometers away
- Paros 288 kilometers away
- Folegandros 297 kilometers away
- Naxos 300 kilometers away
- Santorini 350 kilometers away
Photos of Galaxidi
Accommodation choices for Galaxidi
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Galaxidi. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Hotel Ganimede
Galaxidi
Ideas for experiencing Galaxidi
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Galaxidi, and which use the best local guides.
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The seaside town of Galaxidi & beekeeping experience The seaside town of Galaxidi & beekeeping experience
The seaside town of Galaxidi & beekeeping experience
Explore low-key Galaxidi, an atmospheric old town of cobbled streets and grand Neoclassical mansions set on the Gulf of Corinth on this private, full-day tour. There’s also the opportunity to visit a local beekeeper and taste traditionally produced honey.
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