Sheltered by the impressive mountains of Fokida and located at the heart of mainland Greece, Galaxidi has been declared a historic preservation district
since 1978. This coastal town is a three-hour drive from Athens and a place that still holds the glory of its rich heritage and the charm of a non-commercialized town. Once one of the busiest and wealthiest ports and shipyards of Greece, Galaxidi’s cobbled alleyways, imposing churches, neoclassical houses and picturesque landscapes call the visitors for a relaxing stroll while its museums bear witness to the town’s history, making it a living tribute to Greek seamanship.
Throughout the year, Galaxidi is a favourite destination among explorers of archaeological and cultural treasures due to its proximity to one of the greatest enigmas of the ancient universe and what ancient Greeks considered as the center of the world: Delphi. Galaxidi is also renowned among Greeks for the unique custom of ‘Alevropolemo’ (flour battle) or ‘Alevromoutzouromata’, as once a year, locals divide into teams and play with pigmented flour. Whether you wish to take a weekend break or looking for a longer stay, this “island of the mainland” provides an authentic experience of romantic nostalgia and a link between modern day and the Greece of another era; an enchanted setting for your dream holidays.
Galaxidi is the home of a variety of buildings with historical and ecclesiastical significance. Discover the church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas), built in 1902 and its impressively fine carved-wood iconostasis, the church of Agia Paraskevi, famous for its solar calendar with the zodiac circle, as well as the monastery of Metamorphosis tou Sotiros, a Byzantine building at an altitude of 300m dating from 1250 AD.
Galaxidi’s rich maritime history and heritage can be observed at the Nautical and Historical Museum and the Folklore Museum. Travel back in time by exploring archaeological artefacts, nautical items, sailing paintings, traditional costumes, etc. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the ruins of ancient Oianthi and the “Tomb of the King Lokros”, one of the most important ancient monuments of Galaxidi, which was used as catacomb in the early Christian times.
You may need to add in your vacation schedule a visit to the cave in the heart of Galaxidi. Located at the square Mama, a natural, domed, small cave in the rock in the center of a city is certainly a rare sight.
Cool off in the emerald waters of the organized beaches of Kalafatis and Galaxidi’s Yachting Club as well as the beautiful bays of Agioi Pantes(Vidavi), Anemokambi, Ammouda, Profitis Ilias, Kentri and Agios Vasileios. You can also visit nearby villages or rent a boat and take a trip to Trizonia or Apsifia.
If you wish to mix adrenaline with refreshment and watersports is your thing, then Galaxidi is the place to be, combining serene vacations with surfing, SUP, water skiing, diving, kayak or sailing.