Sifnos Island: Our 8 highlights and travel tips

Among the islands of the Western Cyclades, Sifnos has long had a good reputation among Greek holidaymakers. We were also thrilled from the first minute. A Greek island full of interesting faces, memorable places and living traditions.

“Sifnos is idiosyncratic and graceful, traditional and modern at the same time. An unmistakable island where you already think of coming back when you say goodbye.”

Sifnos offers everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires: picturesque villages and heavenly churches, beautiful beaches and a high level of Greek hospitality. Connoisseurs know the Island of Potters have been appreciated for a long time. It remains to be seen how long Sifnos will be able to resist the commercial trend of other Cycladic islands such as Mykonos, Paros or Milos.

In this article, we will tell you why you should definitely visit the island, introduce you to the most beautiful sights of Sifnos and give you our personal insider tips along the way:

#1 Agios Andreas: Sifnos from above

With an area of about 74 km², Sifnos is one of the smaller Greek islands. The profile of the island is highly rugged with steep slopes to the west and gentle valleys to the east. For a Cycladic island, Sifnos is surprisingly green, which makes it the most scenic island in the Western Cyclades world, along with Milos.

Before you start exploring the island, you can take advantage of the archaeological site of Agios Andreas on a hill. A Mycenaean settlement was built here from 1,200 BC, the remains of which can be visited. Today, the white church of Agios Andreas (1701) stands on the highest point, which gives the place its name.

A free car park is located about 100 m below the complex. From the entrance, a path leads to the highest point of the former fortification. Worth seeing is the small Museum of Agios Andreas, in which finds are exhibited and which provides detailed information about the historical site.

From the church forecourt with the restored fountain you can enjoy a wonderful view of the main towns of Apollonia and Artemonas as well as the surrounding villages. In good visibility, the view also extends to the neighboring islands of Antiparos and Paros to the east, Sikinos and Folegandros to the south and Syros to the north.

• Opening hours Agios Andreas Sifnos: Wed-Mon 8:30 am-3:30 pm, 3 €

#2 In the alleys of Apollonia and Artemonas

Although Apollo and Artemis, the twin children of Zeus (father of the gods) were born on Delos (65 km away) according to Greek mythology, the two largest towns of Sifnos today bear their names. Apollonia and Artemonas seem like a big village as they have grown together over the years.

In both places, which present themselves in typical Cycladic style with narrow streets, snow-white churches and houses with colourful doors and shutters, it is worth taking a long walk. The large manor houses from the 19th century with their gardens, which look like green oases in the middle of the sea of houses, are striking.

In Apollonia tourism has already gained a foothold, Artemonas, on the other hand, is much quieter and seems much more dreamy than its southern twin. In both villages, most restaurants open in the evening, and only a few cafes and taverns are open during the day. You can find our recommendations here: Sifnos Restaurants

Journey through Artemonas

If you want to visit Artemonas, you can park your rental car in the free car park above the bus stop. Past the venerable church of Agiou Konstantinou & Elenis, you enter the car-free pedestrian zone. By the way, in Artemonas you will find the best pastry shops on the island.

In the family-run Bakery Benioúwe were served very friendly and there is everything from bread to biscuits to popsicles and delicious Greek yeast braids (tsoureki). From the bakery, follow the alley on the right to the north, past the elementary school and shortly afterwards you turn left and reach the main street, which leads to the upper village.

Around the main church Panagia Konchi are numerous cafés (tip: Cafe mosaic) and taverns (tip: Ampati), and also art galleries as well as jewelry shops and other shops, including the ceramics shop Mpairames. On the site of today’s church, a temple of the goddess Artemis is said to have stood in ancient times.

💡 Car rental in Sifnos: The best way to explore Sifnos is by renting a car. A small car in the shape of a Fiat Panda is sufficient, most roads are paved. Sifnos is very hilly and from the mountain villages to the beaches there are many curves. You can find out what you need to consider about traffic and car rental on the Greek islands in our separate article: Car rental in Greece

 

Detour to the church of Panagia Poulati

After a walk through Artemonas, it is worth taking a detour to the Marian Church of Panagia Poulati on the east coast of Sifnos. It is the ultimate goal of the Sifnos Trails Hiking trail no. 1 (see box) and can be reached via a donkey path or a bumpy gravel road.

The picturesque church was built in 1875 and is bright white with an imposing bell tower and sky-blue dome, typical of Sifnos. Unfortunately, the Panagia Poulati mostly closed, but together with the wild coast makes a great photo opportunity. From the church you can also see the old island capital Kastro (see #3).

Apollonia: capital of Sifnos

Apollonia, built amphitheatrically on a ridge with three hills, has been the main town of Sifnos. Today, about 800 inhabitants live in the village, which is located directly on the main road and is cut through by it. The road is narrow and in the morning there is traffic chaos. It is best to park your rental car in the free parking lot at the eastern entrance to the village.

Similar to Artemonas, most of the shops and restaurants are concentrated along a main alley, called Steno. Especially in the evenings in the summer months, the Steno-Gasse is a place to be. Numerous bars (tip: Mantalou Bar) do not open their doors until 8 p.m., then a whiff of Mykonos blows through the air.

But even during the day it is fun to stroll through the cobblestone alleys of Apollonia, there are great photo motifs everywhere. Unfortunately, Apollonia seemed to us to be a bit too absorbed by tourism, but at least we found our way into the Ouzeri Tselementes a quaint place for lunch.

Hike to the highest mountain of Sifnos

In countless serpentines, an old donkey path leads up to the highest peak of the island. The hike (Sifnos Trail 6b) to the 682-meter-high Mount Profitis Ilias, which is crowned by a former monastery in honor of the prophet Elijah, is one of the most challenging excursions in Sifnos. Sufficient water and provisions should not be missing in your hiking luggage.

After the approximately two-hour hike from Firogia at the exit of Apollonia, you will be rewarded with a fantastic panorama over the island and the Aegean Sea with the surrounding islands. The fortress-like monastery dates back to the 12th century and was inhabited until 1890. By the way, the valley below the mountain is home to the so-called Cycladic viper, which likes to sunbathe on the asphalt.

#3 Kastro: Sifnos’ medieval capital

The old island capital is enthroned almost unreal Kastro with their white cube houses on a steep rocky outcrop above the sea. The picturesque village is only 5 minutes by car from Apollonia. Already on the winding approach there are beautiful views of Kastro, which is surrounded by white churches, pigeon towers and windmills.

Below the windmills of Kastro there is a (small) free parking lot. Past the Restaurant Stiadi you make your way through the medieval maze of alleys. In the low season, Kastro is very quiet, during the siesta you meet only a few people. Typical Greek photo motifs, on the other hand, can be found on every corner.

In summer, you can turn night into day in trendy bars along the alleys. Although the area has been inhabited since the Stone Age, Kastro was only founded in the 14th century. In its heyday, up to 5,000 people lived here, and its castle-like, oval complex offered protection from pirate attacks.

Kastro has remained a place for locals, more of a housing estate than a tourist mile, even if there are now a few souvenir shops. History buffs visit the Kastro Mountains in the maze of alleys of the Archaeological Museum of Sifnos (8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Sun + Tue + Thu closed) with artifacts of all eras.

Church of the Seven Martyrs

Anyone who thinks that the pretty white alleys are the only highlight of Kastro is mistaken. Behind it is probably the most beautiful chapel in the entire Western Cyclades, Epta Martyres, the Church of the Seven Martyrs. If you have chosen Sifnos as your travel destination, you will certainly have seen the photogenic church in Cycladic style in a photo before.

Believe us, in reality it is 1,000 times more beautiful and the wild scenery is breathtaking and you have to see it with your own eyes as a Greece fan. The shortest way to get to the church of Epta Martyres is from the bus stop in the south-east of Kastro on the Kavos Sunrise Bar and then follow the signs.

From the first view of the church, which was only built in 1920, a well-developed pilgrimage path leads down 187 steps. Especially at noon it is beautifully illuminated, the sky-blue dome and the turquoise blue sea sparkle in competition. On windy days (keyword Meltemi) it blows mercilessly here, caution is advised.

In the summer months, the church often serves as a wedding venue for the Greeks, and those who are lucky can attend the spectacle, sometimes even dressed in violin and laouto. South of the church, a natural stone staircase leads down to the rocky shore, where you can swim in the crystal clear water when the sea is calm. For lunch in Seralia, the port of Kastro, we recommend the fish tavern Captain George.

#4 Chrysopigi Monastery and coastal town of Faros

With the Chrysopigi Monastery another important sight of Sifnos awaits you, about 8 km from Apollonia, on the southeastern tip of the island. Situated on a rocky outcrop directly by the sea, the small, now uninhabited, but lovingly maintained by the locals, monastery complex is a true postcard motif.

As soon as you arrive, you will be enchanted by the magnificent view of the monastery. Chrysopigi (also spelled Chrisopigi) was founded in the 16th century, but was not given its current name until 1677 by the monk Parthenios, who came from the monastery of Chrissopigi near Chania on Crete moved to Sifnos.

In the late Middle Ages, it served as a nunnery, but it was subject to constant pirate attacks. The last remaining nun turned to the icon of the Virgin Mary in her distress and asked for help. A miracle happened, the monastery rock parted at the exact moment when the pirates approached, and they fell into the sea. Since then, the rock has been cut through by the sea and a bridge leads to the complex.

The icon with Mary and Jesus at the source of life is considered the patron saint of Sifnos because of its miraculous work. On Orthodox Ascension Day (40 days after Easter), one of the largest Sifnos parish festivals where everyone is welcome and three days of exuberant celebrations with wine and singing.

The visit to the monastery is entertaining, but Chrisopigi is still a wonderful place of silence with a magnificent view of the sea. A whitewashed staircase leads down to the shore, where you can take a dip in the crystal clear waters. Alternatively, the neighboring Apokofto Beach for bathing.

• Opening hours Chrysopigi Monastery Sifnos: daily 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., free admission – donation desired

Visiting Faros

Faros, the former fishing village surrounded by two flat sandy beaches, has become a popular holiday resort in recent years. Faros means lighthouse in Greek, and it’s probably the view of the island’s most important religious site, Chrisopigi, that makes it so interesting for investors.

On the slopes above Faros, numerous villas have been built and traditional taverns have been replaced by trendy bars. Unfortunately, that seemed a bit artificial to us. It’s a pity, at least in the low season at the beginning of May, the place still had a bit of an idyll. On the two beaches, Paralia Faros and Vlicho Beach, it is good to bathe.

If you want, you can even walk from Faros on a picturesque coastal hiking trail (1.5 km, approx. 20 min) to Chrysopigi. Directly on the old fishing port of Faros it is worthwhile to Captain George for a coffee or drink. Georgios and his sister Sofia have retained the old charm of Faros in their café-Pantopoleio right by the sea.

Heavenly silence at Vryssiani Monastery

On the way back from Faros, you can visit the largest monastery of Sifnos. The monastery of Vrysi (also called Vrissi or Panagia Vryssiani) is located just outside the village of Exampela, about 2 km south of Apollonia. Whitewashed and surrounded by thick walls, it rises like a fortress above the main street. In fact, it was built in the 17th century to protect against possible pirate attacks.

The monastery is dedicated to the birth of Mary, in whose honour a church consecration festival takes place on the grounds on 8 September. Panagia Vryssiani is open throughout the summer, but the Katholikon with its wooden iconostasis is closed during the siesta. A walk through the compact complex is worthwhile because of the loving design, it is green everywhere, all windows and doors are painted blue.

#5 Platis Gialos and the South

“Long sandy beach” is the name of the place, and in fact it is the longest on the island and for us also the most beautiful beach on Sifnos. Platis Gialos can be easily combined with a visit to the Chrisopigi Monastery, which is only 3 km away. In mid-May, we were greeted by a relaxed atmosphere, although there was still a lot of work going on here and there for the season, some gastronomic establishments were already open.

So we enjoyed in the beach bars (tip: Lost Bay) still the calm before the storm, because in summer it is very busy here. Platis Gialos with its white row of houses nestled close to the beach, is the most popular holiday resort for mainland Greeks along with Kamares. The holiday villas extend far into the green Hintertal.

There are a good dozen cafés and restaurants directly by the sea, in between holiday homes and shops, and even three pottery workshops are still located in Platis Gialos today. If it gets too hectic on the beach in summer, you can take a hike (4 km) to the lonely Paralia Fikiada on the southern tip of Sifnos.

You can enjoy the most beautiful view of Platis Gialos and the south of Sifnos from the bright white church of Panagia tou Vounou above the village. An inconspicuous turn-off from the main road leads to the church of the “Virgin Mary of the Mountain” from the 19th century, which is well worth seeing.

Although the church is currently inaccessible due to renovations, the churchyard offers a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea and the islands of Polyegos (uninhabited), Folegandros and Sikinos. From here you can also access the Aspros Pirgos, an ancient watchtower perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the marina of Platis Gialos.

💡 Towers of Sifnos: There are said to have been almost 80 Hellenistic defensive towers on Sifnos. Spread over the entire landscape, they served as signal transmitters in case of danger. None of them are still standing in the original, but remains of walls have been preserved in many places, including the Aspros Pirgos (White Tower) near Platis Gialos and the Mavros Pirgos (Black Tower) near Exampela. Other highly visible towers are located on the road from Apollonia to Vathi, the Tower of Kade, and above the road from Kamares to Apollonia, the Tower of Kambanario.

 

Time travel in Vathi

Vathi – every time we hear the name of this small coastal village, we go into raptures. It was our first evening on Sifnos and we arrived in the late afternoon as the sun bathed the horizon in golden light. No car noise disturbs the idyll, tavern chairs stand comfortably by the sea, children play exuberantly in the shallow, clear water.

When the friendly landlady Anastasia greeted us warmly and asked about our day on Sifnos, we felt immediately at home. This is how we imagine the original island life – peaceful, warm, undisguised and praised by the beauty of nature. Anyone who wants to stay in the 75-soul village Sifnos holidays will remember it for a long time.

When you have passed the mountain peak after the winding approach from Apollonia, you are welcomed by the pretty bay. The wide, circular natural harbour has offered ships a wind-protected anchorage for centuries and Vathi is still popular with sailors today. On a clear day, you will discover the neighboring island on the horizon Kimolos.

Vathi is traffic-calmed, you park your rental vehicle at the entrance to the village under olive trees and explore the village on foot, always along the beach to the venerable Archangel Church (17th century) and the small marina. Time has stood still here in a pleasant way, among other things, the suitcases of the holidaymakers are transported to the accommodation by wheelbarrow.

No tourist shops far and wide, only a mini market for basic supplies, plus a handful of quaint taverns (Our recommendation: Okeanida), which serve tasty island cuisine at reasonable prices. Only the Bola Bar sets a modern accent.

Luxury resorts have already sprung up in the area around Vathi, but in the village itself they have not yet gotten involved. Although there is more going on in summer, you feel like you are light years away from the hustle and bustle of other Cycladic islands such as Milos, Paros or Mykonos. Here a touch of southern Crete blows with the flair of the Cyclades.

#6 Kamares: Port of Sifnos

At the end of a long, fertile valley by the sea lies the village of 300 inhabitants Kamares. In the main port of Sifnos, every visitor sets his first foot on land. In summer, Kamares is the holiday destination of many mainland Greeks. In the low season, it presents itself as a relaxed destination with its long waterfront promenade, along which taverns, cafés and small shops are lined up.

The wide beach of Kamares with the dunes behind it invites you to sunbathe, but because of the busy ferry traffic we were not in the mood to go into the sea.

We found it very good that in contrast to other port towns (including Livadi on Serifos) the main road for cars may only be used for the arrival and departure to the ferry. So you can stroll through the village in peace.

If you are looking for an original island souvenir, you will find it in the shops Peristeriοna (ceramics) and Sifanto (Delikatessen) not far from the free parking lot at the entrance to the village. Adventure seekers can enjoy the Mavri Spilia via a hiking trail (Sifnos Trail 6a) above the village, ore was mined here in the past.

💡 Camping in the Cyclades: In fact, camping is very popular with the Greeks, especially young Hellenes are drawn to the islands in summer for (wild) camping, including Sifnos, Serifos and Kimolos. Although wild camping is officially prohibited, it is still tolerated on some smaller islands. The official point of contact for camping enthusiasts is the very good campsite Makis Camping directly behind the beach. More on this topic in our separate article: Camping in Greece

 

Far-reaching view from the church of Agios Symeon

Everywhere in the countryside of Sifnos you can find small white churches. Especially from the many summit chapels of the island you can enjoy fantastic views of the surroundings, quite a few have to be climbed laboriously, others even have roads leading up. For example, the church of Agios Symeon, which is perched on a steep mountain above Kamares.

At any time of the day and especially at sunset, it is worth taking a detour there. You can reach the church in 15 minutes if you drive up the paved but very winding road from the Agia Marina district opposite the port.

Like many other chapels on Sifnos, it is usually open, light a candle and enjoy the phenomenal view over large parts of Sifnos and the neighboring Cycladic islands. An orientation table on the highest point was erected by the Pottery MastorasDonated. The church of the Prophet Elijah of Troulaki by the way, can only be reached on foot.

#7 Cheronissos: Loneliness in the north

The north of Sifnos above Kamares is rough, sparsely populated and much less vegetation than the rest of the island. In addition to the fishing village of Cheronissos there are no villages at the northern tip and the farming settlement of Troulaki, and beaches are also rare. Hiking enthusiasts still get their money’s worth, hiking trails 9 and 8 (see box) run here.

For everyone else, a trip to Cheronissos for lunch or sunset is worthwhile. This is one of the most beautiful on the island. 12 km separate Artemonas from Cheronissos, which is located at the end of a fjord-like, wind-protected bay. The few whitewashed houses nestle picturesquely around the Cheronissos Beach. Colourful fishing boats bob in the bay, seagulls circle above them and wait for the fishermen.

Even in the high season it is quiet here, only on weekends the two local taverns fill up (tip: I Ammoudia) right on the beach with locals and tourists alike. Although some holiday accommodations have been built in recent years, Cheronissos has been able to maintain a certain tranquillity. A mini-market ensures the basic supply.

With Keramika Depastas here you will find one of the oldest potteries of Sifnos. The over 80-year-old master potter Kostas sits in his rustic hut and creates his ceramics with dedication. Those who speak Greek will learn interesting anecdotes from him. You can get the best view of the village from the gravel road to Agios Georgios church in the North Cape.

💡 Mines of Sifnos: Halfway between Troulaki and Artemonas, the 2 km long scenic hike to the old mines of Agios Sostis begins. As on other islands of the Western Cyclades, ores were mined here in ancient times. There is also said to have been gold on Sifnos, which was brought to the Oracle of Delphi as an offering. In places, you hike on centuries-old paths to the eponymous church of Agios Sostis. Exploring the ancient minefield below, which was used until the 20th century, is at your own risk.

 

#8 Pottery in Sifnos

Since ancient times, it has been the most important craft on the island, and for centuries Sifnos was considered the center of the island’s pottery in Greece. At peak times, there were up to 100 potteries. Since the island’s profile is very mountainous, all workshops used to be located directly by the sea. In particular, the large clay vessels (Tsoukalia) were laboriously loaded onto wooden ships and distributed throughout the Mediterranean.

The clay of Sifnos is characterized by its resistant properties, among other things it is very heat-resistant, which is why the large clay pots were ideal for cooking. The old clay kilns required high temperatures and a lot of fuel, especially small shrubs heated strongly, while trees only moderately. One reason why Sifnos seems so green compared to other Cyclades.

Even today, pottery is the soul of Sifnos and is considered one of the most traditional crafts in the country. After all, there are still 14 ceramic workshops in Sifnos, whose masters produce everyday and decorative objects with their own hands. Today, ceramics are fired in gas kilns, the old clay kilns (kamini) with their domed shape can still be seen sporadically near the coast.

Although some motifs and products are similar, each pottery has developed its own style. From the lantern to the cereal bowl to the large casserole, there is everything, from very creatively painted to simple clay colors. Typical for Sifnos are also the fireplace tops made of clay.

In many potteries, we were even able to be there live when the potters worked the clay on the turntable. The prices for handmade Ceramics of Sifnos are quite cheap and so we stocked up plenty. Here is a selection of ceramic workshops that we visited on our trip to Sifnos:

Atsonios Ceramics, Vathi

The oldest still active pottery on Sifnos is located on Tsopos Beach, opposite Vathi. The company has been owned by the Atsonios family (1870) for several generations and is now run by Antonis and his son Giannis (speaks some English), who are characterized by an attractive design of the goods with subtle colors and precise shapes.

Giannis and his father also make larger quantities to order. A lead time of at least 3-4 weeks should be planned. Workshops are also offered within the historic walls. Behind the pottery is the old clay kiln, which is still functional. More information at: ceramicart-atsonios

Keramika Apostolidi Pottery, Kamares

Above the road, about 2 km from the entrance to the village, is this modern pottery with a demonstration workshop. In addition to typical pottery, owner Gianni and his colleague Konstantinos also produce extravagant decorative pieces and even toys. Orders are possible (approx. 3 weeks in advance) and workshops are also offered. More information at: Apostolidis-Ceramics

Lemonis Pottery, Platis Gialos

Directly on the beach of Platis Gialos are two pottery workshops of the Lemonis family next to each other, Handmade Ceramics Alexandros Lemonis as well as Frantzeskos Lemonis Pottery Workshop. Both also have a demonstration workshop in their sales room, and you can watch the two gentlemen making pottery almost every day.

From cooking pots to coffee cups to souvenirs such as the island’s typical Sifnos lanterns. The designs are similar, for us personally the products from Frantzeskos were a bit more appealing, but the goods from Alexandros are cheaper. A visit to the potteries can be easily combined with a walk on the beach at Platis Gialos Beach.

Mpairames, Artemonas

Shop of the Pottery Mpairames on the promenade of Artemonas, the workshop is located between Troulaki and Cheronissos. High-quality ceramics with an attractive design, including the floral motifs with pomegranate fruits typical of Sifnos.

Peristeriοna, Kamares

Shop of another pottery of the Atsonios family at the entrance to Kamares with very original products, painted with classic Sifnos motifs. If you are looking for an extraordinary island souvenir, you can buy the pretty pigeon houses for tea lights. A bit more expensive, as there is no workshop sale and located directly on the pedestrian zone.

More Sifnos travel tips

Beautiful beaches on Sifnos

Sifnos was not necessarily a beach paradise for us personally, but we personally liked the few beaches that the island had to offer and seemed mostly quite clean and well-maintained:

Apokofto Beach – Golden sandy beach north of the monastery of Chrisopigi. Ideal for families with children because of the shallow shore area. Disorganized and with shady trees. Two tavernas right on the beach.

Cheronissos Beach – Small bathing bay in the north of the island. Quiet and natural in the low season. The brown sandy beach slopes very gently into the turquoise blue sea. Further south is the pebble beach of Vroulidia, which offers a romantic atmosphere, especially in the evenings.

Platis Gialos Beach – The longest and perhaps most beautiful beach on the island. Golden sandy beach that slopes relatively gently into the crystal clear sea. Tamarisks provide sufficient shade. Free parking is plentiful. Very crowded during the holiday season, if you like it quieter, hike to the lonely beach of Fikiada.

Vathi Beach – Golden sandy beach in the bay of Vathi with a very shallow shore area. A paradise for families with small children. Lots of shady tamarisk trees and no car traffic. Taverns and cafés cater for bathers. Especially nice in the evening!

Vlicho (also Glyfo Beach) – Beautiful bathing bay west of the coastal town of Faros. Shallow sandy beach, wonderful water colors. Natural with some tamarisk trees. Large car park behind Faros Beach. Relatively expensive restaurants nearby.

Accommodation on the island of Sifnos

Sifnos is mainly known among Greek tourists and is considered by international visitors to be Greek Islands Insider Tip. There are no large hotel complexes, they strive for sustainable tourism. The accommodation offer is limited and the price level is high, good hotels are booked up quickly. In every village there are tasteful holiday apartments for individualists, among others bookable via Airbnb.

→ on Booking.com* you can compare all available accommodations on a map and check prices:

➲ To the accommodations on Booking.com*

Here we stayed on Sifnos

Sunset Coast House, Vathi

That Sunset Coast House in Vathi is definitely one of the nicest accommodations we have stayed in so far in Greece overnight. The sunset every evening alone is a highlight in itself! And every morning we were greeted by the bright blue bay of Vathi.

Perfectly equipped and thought out down to the smallest detail, the holiday home of the sympathetic hostess Tereza offers space for up to four people, a fantastic sea view, a large terrace with sun loungers, a kitchen and a washing machine.

Despite the quiet location, it is only a few minutes’ walk to the nearest sandy beach directly below the house and in just five minutes by car you can reach the tranquil coastal town of Vathi with its long beach and a good gastronomic offer.

On Booking.com* you can take a look at our fantastic accommodation and book directly if necessary:

➲ To book the Sunset Coast House*

More hotel tips for Sifnos

Here you will find our recommendations for good hotels in Sifnos. Click on the Booking.com* links to check prices and availability:

• Niriedes Hotel*
• Nival Boutique Hotel*
• Gerofinikas Boutique Hotel*

Restaurants in Sifnos: Our recommendations

It is not without reason that one of the most famous chefs in Greece, Nikolaos Tselementes, was born in Sifnos. The cuisine of Sifnos enjoys a very good reputation and has some culinary delights in store.

On Sifnos, you should definitely try the Revithokeftedes (chickpea balls) and the Revithada Sifnou, a hearty chickpea soup with delicious spices that stews overnight in a wood-fired oven.

We also found the caper salad very tasty, which is more of a dip, fresh and spicy! If you like it particularly hearty, try mastelo, lamb that is slowly cooked in a clay pot. Here is an overview of restaurants and cafes on Sifnos, which we have tested and found to be good:

Ampati, Artemonas – Modern mezedopoleio in the heart of Artemonas. Delicious Greek tapas (meze) at still fair prices. Friendly service, but only open in the evening.

Cafe mosaic, Artemonas – Café, cocktail and meze bar in one, right next to the main church of Panagia Konchi. Great ambience with colourful chairs and atmospheric lighting in the evening. Open from 6 p.m.!

Gerontopoulos, Apollonia – Cozy café with a beautiful courtyard, friendly service, as well as an adjoining patisserie with traditional pastries from Sifnos.

Tselementes, Apollonia – Vassilis and his son Angelos serve good Greek cuisine in their green garden oasis next to the church of Agios Spyridon. As usual in Apollonia, the prices are a bit higher despite the family character.

Passione Italiana, Kamares – Italian cuisine with delicious pizzas and homemade pasta, few seats directly on the harbour bay.

Okeanida, Vathi – quaint tavern right by the sea. The very friendly owner family around landlady Anastasia serves homemade dishes typical of the island, be sure to try caper salad and revithokeftedes.

Symposio, Vathi – Family tavern at the end of the seafront, delicious Revithada and good mastelo. Probably the cheapest prices on the whole island.

Lost Bay, Platis Gialos – Café-bar and restaurant right on the beach, chilled atmosphere, very tasty salads and creative finger food at higher prices. Sun loungers are provided.

Way Cup Roaster, Chrisopigi – cozy café of Konstantinos and Isabella behind Apokofto Beach, self-roasted coffee and fair prices for snacks.

Car hire for Sifnos

With an area of 74 km², Sifnos is very compact. The paved road network is limited to the connections from Vathi and Platis Gialos in the south via Apollonia, Artemonas and Kastro in the centre to the north to the ferry port of Kamares and the fishing village of Cheronissos.

With a rental vehicle you can explore Sifnos in a short time, alternatively a scooter is sufficient. Here are our local recommendations for renting a car on Sifnos:

• Sifnos Rent Car – Sifnos Drive
• Loukataris car & moto rental
• Aperent Car rental

You will also find plenty of rental companies for cars and scooters on site in Kamares. We recommend, for example:Suntrail car and moto rental.

Getting around by taxi and bus

The municipality of Sifnos has a good bus network that connects all major towns. They are used by the inhabitants for daily errands and by the students for transport from the villages to the capital. The tickets are cheap and the departure times are in the morning and afternoon. The buses do not run on public holidays.

→ The current bus routes from Sifnos You can view it here: Bus timetable

Driving by taxi in Sifnos is like on many small Greek Islands purely a matter of negotiation, there is no taximeter. Taxis are waiting at the port of Sifnos, as well as in Apollonia. The prices are okay, so the 15-minute ride from Kamares in the west to Kastro in the east costs between 10 and 15 €. However, for pick-up from the port, it is recommended to contact the host beforehand.

How to get to Sifnos

Sifnos is only accessible by ferry, there is no airport. Your journey begins with a flight to Athens and the ferry crossing from the port of Piraeus. Beside Patmos and Tinos Sifnos is part of a pilot project by Hellenic Seaplanes which connects Seaplanes from Athens to Sifnos. It is still unclear when the first flights will be offered.

→ Cheap Flights to Athens can be found at our partner Skyscanner*:

➲ To the flight search on Skyscanner*

Ferry connections to Sifnos

With the Ferry from Athens you can reach Sifnos all year round, the crossing takes between 2.5 and 5.5 hours. In summer, ferries run daily to Sifnos, out of season every 2-3 days. As the direct neighboring island of Milos and Serifos, the island can also be easily integrated into a Greece Island Hopping integrate. From time to time, there are also connections to Syros and the port of Lavrio (Athens).

→ Following ferry companies serve Sifnos from Piraeus (Athens):

• SeaJets (from 2.5 h)
• Aegean Sea Lines (approx. 5.5 h)
• Zante Ferries (approx. 5 h)
• Hellenic Seaways (7 h from Athens Lavrio)

→ About our partner Ferryhopper* you can search for ferry times and book your ferry ticket to Sifnos conveniently online:

➲ To the ferry search on Ferryhopper*

→ More travel reports and tips for the Cyclades can be found on our overview page: Cyclades Islands

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