Chrissy Sifnos is an enchanting island in the Cyclades (island group in the Aegean Sea) that offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, paradisiac beaches, and rich history. Whether you are a foodie, history enthusiast, beach lover, or adventurer, you will know what to do in Sifnos after reading this guide.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Sifnos, including the top things to do, how to get to the island, the best way to get around, and more.
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What To Do In Sifnos
Shall we go ahead and escape to this Greek Island? This is the only ‘what to do in Sifnos Island’ guide you need to plan your dream trip!
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Explore Kastro
Kastro is the ancient capital of Sifnos located on a cliff, perfect for admiring the Aegean Sea from a privileged point. The small village features narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and picturesque churches, ideal for taking pictures and going for a long walk and getting lost in it’s beauty.
You must add exploring Kastro to your Sifnos, Greece itinerary, especially visiting the Church of the Seven Martyrs, which is perched on a rock surrounded by the sea. The Archaeological Museum is another recommendation if you’re looking to learn more about the island’s rich history.
Indulge In The Greek Cuisine
Stifnos is known for its amazing cuisine, and one of the best spots is Meropi in Kamares. It is a local restaurant famous for its mouth-watering dishes, which reflect the island’s rich gastronomic heritage. If you’re looking for a tasty Sifnos activity, stopping by Meropi is highly recommended.
You must try the revithada (chickpea stew), mastelo (lamb cooked in a clay pot), and the traditional cheese pie. The best part? Pairing your meal with a glass of local wine or raki to enjoy the complete Sifnos experience.
I found the best restaurants to be in Kamares during my visit to Sifnos. They may be a little more expensive compared to dining in Apollonia and Kastro. However, the view of the beach makes the dining exprience quiet pleasurable.
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Get Lost In Apollonia
Apollonia is Sifnos’ capital and a vibrant town that comes alive at night. I highly recommend you dedicate time to your itinerary to walk through this town’s charming streets. There are plenty!
Here you’ll find boutique shops, cafes, and bars, and numerous places offering live music and traditional Greek dancing. Don’t forget to visit the Folklore Museum to learn about Sifnos’ cultural heritage and the 360 beautiful churches on the island. Sifnos has the most churches than any of the other islands in the Cyclades.
Visit The Beaches
One of the most searched questions about this place is what to do on Sifnos island, and in case it wasn’t obvious, visit the beaches!
Sifnos has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cyclades. Platis Gialos is a perfect option for swimming and sunbathing and is considered one of the longest beaches on the island. If you’re looking for a more peaceful Sifnos beach, then Vathi is an excellent choice. It is a tranquil bay with golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
My last beach recommendation is Kamares Beach, located near the port, where you can enjoy a mix of sand and pebbles with plenty of tavernas nearby for grabbing a quick bite. There are a few places along Kamares Beach that offer sunbeds that begin at 30-euros.
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Watch A Sunset At Kamares
Kamares is the go-to place for enjoying the best sunset views on the island. There are plenty of tavernas nearby to get cozy and watch the sun dip below the horizon, and what better way to make this moment better than with a refreshing drink? Certainly, a perfect way to end your day with one of the top things to do in Sifnos.
Wander Through Artemonas
Artemonas is a picturesque village known for its neoclassical mansions, beautiful gardens, and narrow alleys. It is the perfect place to go for a walk and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. I recommend you visit the Church of Panagia Kochi, which offers stunning views of the island, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the traditional tavernas.
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Educate Yourself On The Pottery
Sifnos has a long-standing tradition of pottery that dates back to ancient times. If you’re looking for what to do in Sifnos, Greece, then visiting the pottery workshops in Vathi or Kamares is a perfect plan.
See local artisans at work and their entire process, from shaping the clay to firing the pots in traditional kilns. Don’t forget to pick up a unique handmade souvenir to take home!
Is Sifnos Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Sifnos offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic Greek culture worth visiting. Whether you’re looking to relax on the stunning beaches, explore ancient villages, or indulge in delicious cuisine, Sifnos has something for every traveler!
Sifnos, along with other islands nearby, is perfect for those who’re looking to get the “Santorini experience” that won’t empty your pockets. You’ll still enjoy the wonderful beaches, characteristic architecture, and vibrant nightlife, but with more money in your bank account!
Where Is Sifnos Located?
Sifnos is part of the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, located between Serifos and Milos. It’s about 80 miles (130 kilometers) southeast of Athens, making it easily accessible from the Greek mainland.
All of the islands in the Aegean Sea are known for their stunning natural beauty, whitewashed architecture, and rich history. So no matter which one you visit, you’re guaranteed a memorable time.
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How To Get To Sifnos
Buckle up because you’re in for a ride! The most common way to get to Sifnos is by ferry from Athens, with ferries regularly departing from the port of Piraeus. Depending on the type of ferry you choose, the journey can take between 2.5 to 5 hours. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of ferries so you can easily determine which one’s perfect for your trip:
- High-speed ferries. High-speed ferries like Seajets and Golden Star Ferries make the journey in approximately 2.5 hours. These ferries are a good choice if you’re looking to minimize travel time and maximize your time on the island.
A crucial point I highly recommend you think about is your proneness to seasickness. Seas can be rougher on these smaller, faster boats so if you tend to get seasick, you might want to choose another option or take all the necessary precautions (medication, meditation techniques, etc.
Finally, high-speed ferries are more expensive than traditional ones, so make sure to add this to your budget!
- Conventional Ferries. Conventional ferries, operated by companies such as Blue Star Ferries, take about 4 to 5 hours to reach Sifnos. These ferries are larger and more stable, offering a smoother ride. They also provide more amenities, such as restaurants, lounges, and open decks where you can enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views.
Take all of this into consideration when thinking about getting to Sifnos to avoid any inconveniences and sudden expenses. Further, it is highly recommended that you book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the high season (July and August) when ferries can fill up quickly. You can book tickets easily online at Ferryhopper, they even have an app that makes it super easy as well. Additionally, you can locate your tickets on the app and track your ferry!
Other Ways To Get To Sifnos
If you’re island-hopping and planning to stop by Sifnos, you can take a ferry connection from other Cycladic islands like Milos, Paros, Naxos, and Santorini.
While Sifnos doesn’t have an airport, the nearest airports are located on the neighboring islands of Milos, Sifnos, and Paros, where you can land from Athens and later take a short ferry to the island. This option can be faster and more convenient, especially during the peak season when ferry schedules are frequent.
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How To Get Around Sifnos
There are multiple ways to get around Sifnos, including taking the bus, renting a car or scooter, and taking a taxi.
Sifnos has a well-connected network of buses that run frequently between the main villages and beaches and is also the cheapest way to get around. The bus schedule is posted at the bus stops. Just take note that Apollonia has 3 bus stops and double check you are at the correct one.
Renting a car or scooter is great if you want to explore the island on your own and at your pace, and is not as expensive as you might think.
Taxis are available to get around Sifnos as well. But, on the other hand, can be quite pricey and are very limited on the island.
When To Visit Sifnos
The best time to visit Sifnos is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). The weather is pleasant, the island is less crowded, and accommodation prices are more reasonable. July and August are the peak tourist months, with hot weather and you can expect beaches to be crowded as well.
Timing your visit with local festivities is a great way to discover the place. The Festival of Sifnos, for example, is held in September and celebrates the island’s rich culinary heritage. It features cooking demonstrations, tastings, and traditional music and dance.
How Many Days Do You Need In Sifnos?
To fully experience the beauty of Sifnos, I recommend you stay for 3 to 4 days at least to have enough time to explore the main attractions, relax on the beach, and soak in the true atmosphere of the island. There are plenty of accommodations available for all kinds of budgets.
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Final Words For What To Do In Sifnos
Sifnos is a wonderful destination filled with relaxation, adventure, and a rich heritage. Whether you’re planning a short visit or a long trip, I guarantee you’ll find plenty of things to do and you’ll quickly fall in love with this beautiful Greek island.
I hope you found this ‘what to do in Sifnos’ travel guide useful, especially the sections about how to get to Sifnos and the recommended trip length for a unique experience!
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