Sifnos is a small, often overlooked gem in the Cyclades, overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Paros and Milos. I had honestly never heard of it before. But after chatting with some people from Greece, they told me that Sifnos is one of their favorite islands. I was intrigued and decided to plan my family trip!
This Greek island, home to around 2,500 residents, remains sparsely populated due to it’s dramatic mountainous terrain. I spent 4 days exploring Sifnos and fell in love with it’s stunning, under-the-radar charm. In this Sifnos Travel Guide, I’m excited to share some of my favorite discoveries, including the best villages to visit, where to stay, the top beaches to visit and things to do and see on this beautiful island.
And if you ask me if Sifnos worth going to? I will only say that our family vacation to Sifnos was an unforgettable experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The island is adorned with charming towns, tranquil landscapes, and stunning beaches. We will be definitely back!
What is Sifnos famous for?
Sifnos, nestled in the Cyclades, is renowned for several reasons that contribute to it’s allure. One of its most celebrated aspects is it’s cuisine. The island boasts a rich culinary heritage, with dishes like chickpea soup (revithada) and mastelo, a succulent lamb dish slow-cooked in a clay pot, captivating visitors. Moreover, Sifnos holds significance in Greek gastronomy as the birthplace of Nikos Tselementes, one of Greece’s most famous chefs. Notably, Sifnos has also captured the attention of prominent figures like Barack Obama and Tom Hanks, who have been spotted dining on the island, adding to it’s allure as a destination favoured by discerning travellers.
Beyond its culinary delights, Sifnos is also renowned for its pottery. Sifnos’ clay is renowned for it’s unique qualities, particularly it’s fireproof nature, which plays a pivotal role in the creation of the island’s exquisite pottery. This exceptional clay ensures that the crafted ceramics are not only durable but also resistant to high temperatures, making them ideal for a variety of uses. Local artisans harness the remarkable properties of Sifnos’ clay to create masterpieces, reflecting the island’s rich pottery tradition. Definitely explore workshops and galleries to witness the skill and creativity of these master craftsmen.
Important to mention, Sifnos’ coastline is dotted with picturesque beaches, offering idyllic settings for relaxation and recreation. From secluded coves with crystal-clear waters to vibrant shores buzzing with activity, the island caters to all preferences.
How many days should you spend in Sifnos?
During our visit to Sifnos, we stayed for 4 nights, and truthfully, it didn’t feel enough to truly soak in the island’s charm. There are so many treasures waiting to be discovered, from beautiful churches to quaint villages, each offering it’s own unique allure. Reflecting on our experience, I would highly recommend spending at least 5 nights on the island to immerse deeper into it’s wonders. However, if time permits, extending your stay even longer would allow for a more leisurely exploration.
How to get from Athens to Sifnos?
To get to Sifnos you should first fly to Athens. To travel from Athens to Sifnos, the most common and convenient option is to take the Athens to Sifnos ferry. Ferries to Sifnos typically depart from the port of Piraeus, which is easily accessible from central Athens by taxi, bus, or the metro. The ferry Piraeus to Sifnos route is serviced by several companies offering multiple departures daily, especially during the high season. Seajets is one of the prominent ferry operators on this route, known for its high-speed vessels that can make the trip in around two and a half hours. Booking your ferry from Athens to Sifnos in advance is recommended, especially during the summer months when demand is high.
When I traveled from Athens to Sifnos, I opted for Seajets and chose seats on the Champion Jet 1 and Superjet. The experience from Athens to Sifnos was smooth and efficient, with the Superjet providing a fast and comfortable ride. It took us around 2,5 hours to get to the island. On the way back, we took the big ferry Champion Jet 1, which was very pleasant and offered stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Booking through the FerriesinGreece.com website was straightforward, and I appreciated the ease of comparing schedules and prices. The ferries were punctual, and the journey itself was a great start of my trip, setting a perfect tone for my stay on the beautiful island of Sifnos.
Best place to stay in Sifnos
Verina Terra, a perfect hotel for those who want to escape the chaos and dive into tranquility. And, yes, I know that words like tranquility and kids is hard to put together but at Verina Terra it’s possible. The vibe and atmosphere of this place is just unbeatable. Let me explain why.
First of all the location: Situated in Platys Gialos, Verina Terra occupies a prime spot overlooking the island’s largest and most cosmopolitan beach. Just a stone’s throw away across the road lies the fantastic beach with turquoise water, lined with various superb restaurants. One of them is Omega3 which is became very popular thank to Tom Hanks. Moreover, close to the hotel, you’ll discover a playground, perfect for keeping the little ones entertained during your stay.
Verina Terra presents an array of accommodations, including two and three-bedroom setups ideal for families or group travelers. With its intimate size of just 11 rooms, the property exudes boutique charm. We booked a classy Plakero Apartment and it was complete with king-sized bed, two single sofa bed and a cozy sitting area adjacent to the bedroom, lovely bathroom with the shower and all necessary care products. It’s situated on the ground floor with lovely terrace. We traveled with my partner and our two kids and we all had plenty of space!
I truly liked the elegant, relaxing, minimalistic design of the whole hotel. Kids fell in love with the swimming pool area and no wonder, it’s just gorgeous!
Breakfast at Verina Terra Hotel in Sifnos is a special experience for several reasons. Firstly, it showcases the island’s rich culinary heritage, featuring a delectable array of traditional Greek delicacies alongside international favorites. From freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread to locally sourced fruits and cheeses, each item is thoughtfully selected to provide a taste of Sifnos’ gastronomic delights. Additionally, the attentive and friendly staff at Verina Terra go above and beyond to ensure that guests feel welcomed and pampered during our whole stay! It truly felt like visiting your family. In a good way. 🙂
I liked the sustainable approach of the hotel: Letting guests choose breakfast from the menu so people don’t overeat and the food is not going to waste. There was a small buffet with granola, vegetables, cookies and honey. All in one food was delicious and it was a great start of the day!
Best things to do in Sifnos
There are countless fascinating attractions to discover on the island of Sifnos. If you prefer not to drive yourself or seek a more immersive experience with a knowledgeable local guide, then I can definitely recommend to book a tour with the wonderful Christina. She picked us up from the hotel and showed amazing view points and walked us through the town, Castro. She was also the one who showed us the restaurant where Barack Obama was dining with Tom Hanks. The name of the restaurant is Cantina.
- Kastro
- Walk from Artemonas to Apollonia
- Beach of Chrissopigi
- Beach of Vathi
- Heronissos
- Kamares
- Sifnos ceramics Apostolidis
- The best lookouts of Sifnos
Kastro
Kastro, the old capital of Sifnos, is a truly special place that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. Built on a rock, this medieval settlement features narrow streets, small courtyards, and arched gates that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. You can easily explore this town by foot like we did. Kastro is home to numerous picturesque churches, including the iconic Church of the Seven Martyrs, perched atop a cliff with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. The village also boasts an impressive archaeological museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric to Roman times. Visitors can wander through the whitewashed alleys, admiring the well-preserved architecture and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Kastro’s strategic location and defensive structures, such as the ancient watchtowers, highlight its importance as a fortified town in the past.
This is where you can also find the restaurant Cantina where B. Obama & Tom Hanks were dining.
Walk from Artemonas to Apollonia
The walk from Artemonas to Apollonia is a fantastic way to enjoy the views of Sifnos. Following well-marked footpaths, hikers are treated to stunning views of the island’s rolling hills, picturesque villages, and the sparkling Aegean Sea. This hike takes like 10-15 minutes, easy to navigate and it is a perfect way to explore the island at a leisurely pace, immersing yourself in the serene atmosphere and natural wonders that make Sifnos. When you reach Appolonia
Beach of Chrissopigi
One of the most iconic sites in Sifnos is Chrissopigi, a monastery located on a small peninsula jutting out from the mainland between Faros and Apokofto Beach. The striking whitewashed building offers a stunning contrast against the deep blue of the Aegean Sea. While the church itself can get quite crowded, especially on hot days, many visitors prefer to enjoy the area’s natural beauty instead of venturing inside.
Chrissopigi also boasts a lovely beach, ideal for a refreshing swim. Shaded by trees, the beach provides a cool and peaceful spot to relax away from the intense sun. This combination of serene swimming spots and picturesque views makes Chrissopigi a favorite among those exploring Sifnos.
Beach of Vathi
Vathi is a charming beach village on the western coast of Sifnos, known for the most beautiful bay in Sifnos. The journey to Vathi can be an adventure in itself, with winding paths that offer glimpses of the stunning coastline. In general we preferred to the taxis instead of renting the car. Though the trail might not always be clearly marked, the anticipation of reaching this secluded haven adds to the experience. Once there, the sight of the horseshoe-shaped bay, with its calm, crystal-clear waters and sandy beach, is a reward in itself.
Vathi is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea. The beach is lined with tamarisk trees, providing ample shade for those seeking respite from the sun. The village is also home to a few traditional tavernas where visitors can savor delicious local cuisine while taking in the tranquil surroundings. With its blend of natural beauty and laid-back charm, Vathi is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sifnos.
Heronissos
Heronissos is a quaint fishing village tucked away on the northern tip of Sifnos, offering a picturesque escape from the busier parts of the island. Not many tourists visit this place because it’s up in the north but you should definitely do it!
The village itself is a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to unwind and experience authentic island life. The beach is small but inviting, with calm, clear waters ideal for swimming. Fishermen’s boats bob gently in the harbor, adding to the idyllic scene. A few charming tavernas dot the waterfront, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and other local delicacies while gazing out over the serene bay. Heronissos, with its simple beauty and tranquil ambiance, showcases a different side of Sifnos.
Kamares
Kamares, is the main port of Sifnos, and you will definitely have a glimpse of it when you arrive. It is also a lively and welcoming village nestled in a picturesque bay on the island’s western coast. The approach to Kamares is marked by dramatic mountain landscapes that give way to a wide, sandy beach and the vibrant waterfront. The village is a hub of activity, especially during the summer months, as ferries arrive and depart, bringing a steady stream of visitors and locals.
Many tourists decide to stay at the beach side of Kamares instead going further. And don’t get me wrong it is beautiful indeed but I wouldn’t recommend to stay in a crowded touristy area where you see big ferries constantly bringing new people. Sifnos is all about slow life and tranquility. So while Kamares offers a convenient gateway to the island, the real magic of Sifnos awaits those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Sifnos ceramics Apostolidis
During my visit to Sifnos, I had the delightful opportunity to explore the Apostolidis ceramics workshop, museum, and shop. As soon as I stepped into the workshop, I was immersed in a world of creativity and tradition. The museum provided fascinating insights into the centuries-old craft of pottery making, showcasing the traditional techniques passed down through generations of the Apostolidis family. I had the pleasure of meeting a master craftsman himself, Giannis Apostolidis. He’s incredibly kind and humorous person!
One of the highlights of the museum was the chance to learn firsthand how ceramics are made in a traditional way. From shaping the clay to firing the kiln, each step in the process was explained in detail, offering a deeper appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship involved. It was truly inspiring to see the dedication and passion that goes into creating each piece of Apostolidis pottery. And of course, after exploring the museum, I couldn’t resist browsing through the shop and selecting a special piece to take home as a memento of my time on Sifnos. The whole experience is very memorable! So definitely go and visit his workshop! Or maybe you will even find his creations in your hotel like we did.
The best lookouts of Sifnos
Agios Simeon viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscapes of Sifnos. Perched atop a rugged cliff, it provides a serene and picturesque spot to watch the sunset or simply admire the beauty of the island’s coastline and traditional whitewashed villages below. It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset.
Panagia tou Vounou is another hidden treasure. This church was built in 1813 and was dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary. But this place is famous for the most breath taking views of the island. No wonder that the most marriages of locals take place here.
