Guide to Sifnos

Sifnos is a small Cycladic island located in the heart of the Aegean Sea in Greece. It’s famous for its white Cycladic architecture, sandy beaches and narrow stone paths leading down to the sea… A picture postcard! Here are a few must-sees on Sifnos during your trip to Greece.

Visit Sifnos

You must arrive at this Cycladic island by ferry at Kamares, the island’s port. The capital, Apollonia, is inland. Once on the island, there’s plenty to see and do.

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Start by discovering the 2 main specialties of Sifnos. Culinary arts and handicrafts are part of the richness and reputation of the island. In fact, the island has preserved its traditions, including ceramics. Today there are about fifteen pottery workshops on the island. Visiting a pottery workshop is the perfect way to talk to the local craftsmen and learn more about their culture and passion.

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The island is also known for its delicious cuisine and local specialties (the famous révithada, kaparosalata and revithokeftedes, to name a few). For the record, Chef Nikolaos Tselementes (an early 20th century Greek chef) was born on the island, in the village of Exampela. He is best known as the father of modern Greek cuisine. Numerous high quality restaurants have sprung up all over the island. To learn more about the Greek culinary culture, we’ve put together a travel itinerary with 100% Greek flavor.

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Sifnos also offers some very beautiful beaches, whether wild and intimate or lined with restaurants and sun loungers. There are also many charming little villages, each with its own special character! Last but not least, there are numerous hiking trails to discover every corner of the island. Take the opportunity to discover beautiful panoramic views of the Aegean Sea along the way.

Between land and sea, Sifnos is the ideal destination for travelers who wish to combine pleasure and discovery during their trip to the Cyclades.

The beaches of Sifnos

Sifnos is a small paradise for beach lovers. The island is surrounded by many beautiful beaches, including Vathy, Plati Galos, the three beaches of Faros and Cheronissos. Some are quiet, others lively with bars and tavernas, so there’s a beach to suit every traveler! See also our article on the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

• Vathy Beach: Located on the south coast of Sifnos, Vathy is one of the most famous beaches on the island. Its mythical white houses with blue roofs, its turquoise waters and the typical boats of the local fishermen are all part of its Cycladic charm that never fails to impress visitors.

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• Plati Gialos: The beach at Plati Galos is said to be the largest on the island, in fact one of the largest in the Cyclades! Let yourself be tempted by one of the many restaurants where you can taste the famous Greek salad… with your feet in the soft white sand… overlooking the crystal clear water!
• The three beaches of Faros: There are 3 beautiful beaches hidden away in the village of Faros, each with its own distinctive character. The central beach of the village offers the best view of the Monastery of Chrissopigi. Glipho beach is the perfect choice for those who love the coastal paths. The last beach, Fassolou, is like a postcard, with the sea, a small tavern and a monastery as the only backdrop.

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• Cheronissos: Located in the hollow of a rock, Cheronissos was originally an ancient pottery village. Today it’s a pretty, intimate fishing village. Its charm lies in the panoramic view from the edge of the beach… if you like a less frequented place, don’t hesitate to visit it, as few visitors venture here.

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Not to be missed

• Apollonia: The capital of the island exudes a picturesque charm with its cobbled streets, white churches and traditional houses… a must see during your stay in Sifnos! Take a stroll through the pretty little pottery shops, Sifnos’ specialty, and wander through the charming alleys. In the evening, head to Steno Street and sample the island’s typical gastronomy. You’ll be spoilt for choice, with a host of trendy bars and tavernas to liven up Sifnos’ nightlife.

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• Sifnos Monasteries: The first must-see is the Monastery of Chrisopigi. Located on a rocky island in the southwest of Sifnos, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Built in 1650, it is said to be a place of refuge for sailors. In fact, it is said that the Virgin Mary appeared to sailors who escaped a violent storm near the island. The second is the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, which is situated at an altitude of 682 meters and offers a panoramic view of the whole island. The monastery is famous for its large collection of icons, as well as its library of rare manuscripts and ancient books.

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• Artemonas: This village north of Appolinas is certainly one of the most beautiful on Sifnos. Its Venetian style houses and narrow cobbled streets will charm you. It’s also the starting point for a number of hiking trails, a paradise for the more athletic!
• Hiking in Sifnos: If you’re an avid sportsman and love beautiful hiking trails, the island offers you a lot of possibilities. For example, we recommend the path that connects Apollonia to Prophitis Ilias: an exceptional panorama awaits you! Another beautiful walk starts from Artemonas and takes you to Kastro, passing by the monastery of Poulati, overlooking the sea… For hiking enthusiasts, read our article on our favorite hikes in Greece.

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Whether you love beaches, picturesque towns, gastronomy or hiking. Sifnos is the ideal destination for your next trip to the Cyclades!