Galaxidi, the seaside jewel of Phocis, is a destination for every season. In autumn it is even more enchanting and ideal for weekend getaways.
Combining sea and mountain in perfect harmony, stately Galaxidi offers a unique island-like feel and a distinctive setting that enchants visitors in every season. Built on the western shores of the Gulf of Itea, about 200 km. from Athens, the renowned seafaring town of Phocis is even more beautiful during autumn.
Galaxidi experienced particular prosperity in the last decades of the 18th and especially the 19th century, when it was a bustling commercial port with significant shipbuilding activity in the Mediterranean. Today, the charming seaside town is a favorite destination for short and long getaways that can be combined with brief excursions to mountain and sea.
Autumn strolls in Galaxidi
Stone-paved alleys, neoclassical mansions of sea captains, lush courtyards and picturesque balconies bear witness to the glorious maritime past of the area and the love of the locals for their place. The traditional settlement of Galaxidi, designated in 1978, is the first stop for a unique stroll. In fact, many of the mansions of Galaxidi have been designated as listed historical monuments. The first mansions were built in 1850, while the European influence is evident, as they have ceilings designed by Italian painters. Many of these traditional buildings have been converted into atmospheric guesthouses.
Notable buildings include the Tsalangyra mansion, the former Town Hall of Galaxidi, as well as the Angeli mansion that houses the Folklore Museum with a collection of objects and clothes from earlier times. Do not miss the old school and the Girls School, which have been declared preserved due to their historical and architectural significance.
The churches of Galaxidi stand out among the buildings of the settlement. At the highest point of the town towers the Church of Saint Nicholas with its wooden iconostasis, the two bell towers and the imposing dome, while in the Church of Saint Paraskevi it is worth seeing the zodiac circle-calendar carved into the floor and the sundial in the courtyard.
Get to know the entire history of the place with a visit to the Maritime and Historical Museum, which is the first of its kind in Greece. It opened its doors in 1928 and hosts, among other things, nautical instruments, ship paintings, ship registers, photographs, maps, figureheads, a vast collection of stamps from every corner of the world, as well as the famous «Chronicle of Galaxidi» which recounts the history of the city for eight centuries.
Sit down to rest at central Mama Square near the sea, where you will see the busts of the benefactor of the city Nikolaos Mamas and the revolutionary leader Giannis Mitropoulos. Continue the stroll toward the second harbor of the seafaring town, the Hirolakas, with the houses that seem dipped in the water and the Monument of the Unknown Sailor beside the sea. Walk along the seafront road and make a stop for food at the little tavernas you will encounter. Opposite lies Pera Panta, a pine forest ideal for walks in nature, and for admiring the wonderful view over all of Galaxidi.
Nearby excursions and beaches
If you feel like exploring the surrounding areas, you can visit Delphi, which is at a distance of 30 km. from Galaxidi. Nearby are also the Amfissa, the capital of the prefecture of Phocis, as well as the seaside Itea and the Kirra. Heading up toward Parnassos you will also encounter Arachova.
For those who prefer outings to the beaches, next to the settlement you will find many different options for autumn dips. Relax next to the settlement at Skoules beach, as well as the nearby Monia, Kentri, Giannakis and Voidakas. On the other side you will find Vistrithra and the organized Kalafati.
