Why Sifnos is Worth Visiting: 7 Reasons for 2024

View of Kamares bay on Sifnos. Boats float in the amazingly bright blue water with mountains in the distance.

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Wondering why Sifnos is worth visiting? Well, you’re in the right place!

I’m just going to say it… we LOVED Sifnos! There are so many reasons to visit this picture-perfect island!

Sifnos has an abundance of small, authentic Greek towns, quiet romantic landscapes, and beautiful sandy beaches. Plus, the people are friendly, the food is amazing, and there are barely any tourists!

We had time to visit two Cyclades islands. With the unique island of Milos already chosen, we wanted the second island to be vastly different.

We decided to steer clear of the popular, pricey, and crowded islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Our hearts were calling us to a more traditional and authentic experience.

Thankfully, we stumbled upon Sifnos, with its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. When we discovered it was the foodie island in the Cyclades… our choice was made.

During our 4-day visit, Sifnos stole our hearts again and again, making it my new favorite Greek island!

So, if you are pondering which island to visit in the Cyclades… look no further! Here are 7 reasons we think Sifnos is worth visiting!

The beautiful landscape of Sifnos. Beautiful white towns are sprinkled among the tiered farm land.

1. Sifnos is Relaxing

Despite visiting in July, when crowds flock to Greek islands in search of sand and sea, Sifnos was surprisingly quiet.

Being one of the less touristy islands in the Cyclades, it is the perfect destination for visitors looking for peace and tranquility away from the crowds.

Whether you enjoy wandering quiet village streets, hiking secluded trails, or sipping coffee overlooking the many gorgeous bays, Sifnos will exceed all your expectations.

Robyn with her arms raised in an alley through white buildings leading to the blue sea.

A picture of the shore and beach in the town of Platys Gialos.

We loved the slower pace here and embraced it immediately. Every morning, we enjoyed quiet breakfasts just steps from the sea. And it wasn’t uncommon for us to be one the only couple in the restaurant.

Each day we found time to relax on comfortable sun loungers on the sandy beach of Platys Gialos.

And although many sun loungers were occupied, it was never rowdy or annoying. We could peacefully read our books, listening to the water lap the shore.

The cherry on top was that the beach was across the street from our cute, little hotel. Actually, in this town, nearly every hotel was just steps from the beach!

The golden green tiered landscape of Sifnos.

Even the island’s larger towns were peaceful and relaxing. We were never inundated with hordes of tour buses, and the winding roads were never packed with cars.

Overall, our 4 days on the island were more relaxing than any other destination we visited in Greece. There is just something magical about Sifnos!

Robyn and Gavin posing beside a traditional white house with no tourists around... a perfect reason to visit Sifnos.

Gavin standing on a patio overlooking a traditional white town and the surrounding hilly landscape.

2. Sifnos is Authentic

Sifnos offers visitors a one-of-a-kind glimpse into authentic Greek island life.

Touring the island, we saw men creating pottery in their studios, or women sweeping the sidewalk in front of their shops. Old men in hats gathered for morning coffee under the shade of a tree, and workers walking in vast fields of olive groves.

It is always so fascinating to see how people in other countries live.

Part of the allure of travel is learning about a culture and being able to observe people in their everyday routines. And the locals here were polite, friendly, and willing to converse with us.

A delicious breakfast crepe we enjoyed at Votsalo Creperie in Platys Gialos.

A pancake and egg breakfast from Votsalo Creperie in Platys Gialos.

Many of the restaurants or shops we visited were also part of the owner’s home. Our favorite breakfast spot in Platys Gialos, Votsalo Creperie – Pizzeria, was connected right to the family’s house.

As we sipped our Freddoccinos, we found ourselves daydreaming of what it must be like to own a restaurant perched on the sandy edge of the sea.

Not only was the food DELICIOUS, but we were able to chat with the owners and learn more about life on the island.

The hospitality Frank and Ellie showed us was heartfelt and sincere. It is one of the best memories we have of Sifnos!

We ate there several times for breakfast and dinner and were able to indulge in their homemade desserts too. We can’t recommend this place enough!

Robyn hanging from a lamp post in the highest town of Artemonas.

Robyn pointing to the sign of Pano Petali just outside of Artemonas on Sifnos.

3. Sifnos is Easily Walkable

Another reason to visit Sifnos is that it is easily accessible and mobility friendly.

We didn’t want to rely on a car to get around, since we already planned to rent a car on Milos, and for our road trip through the Peloponnese.

Not only is Sifnos an easy ferry ride from Athens and nearby islands, but it has excellent and efficient transportation options on the island.

The bus system is easy to use, frequent, cheap, and very comfortable. Of course, taxis are available too. But honestly, the buses are economical and conveniently take you to every town.

Gavin walking down a flat, incredibly narrow alley between traditional white houses with blue doors.

Robyn walking in a small alley on Sifnos. We found the island to be very walkable.

For those with chronic pain or mobility issues, I found it easy to walk around each town we visited.

For our sightseeing day, we considered the easiest walking route possible.

Since this old lady body of mine struggles to walk uphill or upstairs, the smartest choice was to begin at the highest point on the island and make our way down.

We took the bus from our hotel in Platys Gialos to the highest point in Artemonas. With water and camera in hand, we slowly meandered the quiet streets down to Apollonia.

The walk was peaceful, incredibly gorgeous, and very easy. If you are in a wheelchair, it is possible to go from one town to the other along the side of the road. There were not too many cars, and the views were amazing!

We took breaks to cool down and rest in the shade, but I was able to walk this route with ease. And do some shopping along the way!

One of the amazing beaches on Sifnos. The golden sand on the shore of an empty beach. The turquoise water is a perfect shade of blue.

4. Sifnos has Incredible Beaches

One of the main reasons to visit any Greek island is for the beaches, and Sifnos did not disappoint.

There are many gorgeous beaches to choose from, all with unspoiled beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere. Some have sand, and others are a little rocky.

Here’s our quick guide to Sifnos’ beaches:

Chrissopigi Beach

Located on the south end of the island, it is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches on Sifnos. It has soft sand, gorgeous turquoise waters, and wonderful taverns.

Plus, you can visit the famous Chrissopigi Monastery, one of the most important churches in the Cyclades!

Vathi Beach

10 km southwest of Apollonia, this golden beach is located on a picturesque bay surrounded by towering cliffs. The beach has soft sand, shallow waters, and many facilities including restaurants and bars just steps from the water.

The incredibly shallow beach in Kamares. Definitely a must visit on any trip to Sifnos.

Kamares Beach

Although set close to the port, the waters of Kamares beach are clean and crystal clear! It is one of the longest beaches on Sifnos, along with neighboring Agia Marina.

Sunbathers can relax in privacy on the soft, sandy shore. You can rent sun loungers, and umbrellas, or enjoy various watersport activities. There are many restaurants and taverns nearby.

Heronissos Beach

Looking for unspoiled beauty and Greek charm? Then head to this quaint fishing village in the north.

Excellent for escaping the crowds, this beach has crystal waters surrounded by lush green trees that provide shade from the sun. There are taverns and pottery shops close by too.

The beach in Platys Gialos. The town is small but surprisingly quiet and relaxing.

Platys Gialos Beach

This was our favorite beach! The soft sand and gorgeous sea stretch the entire length of this sleepy town.

There are sun loungers and umbrellas for rent at a reasonable price, and various watersport activities to try. Despite the popularity, it was surprisingly peaceful and relaxing!

The beach at Platys Gialos felt like our little paradise… and it was literally across the street from our adorable hotel.

There were plenty of shops and restaurants sprinkled along the shoreline, but it was never crowded. Again… we were there in mid-July!

Just another reason why Sifnos is worth visiting!

A close up of fried mozzarella and eggplant rolls. The food on Sifnos is amazing!

5. Sifnos has Incredible Food

Locals from Athens raved about the unbelievable food on Sifnos. They weren’t wrong!

Sifnos is the birthplace of Nikolaos Tselementes, the famous Greek chef who seamlessly married traditional Greek flavors with modern cuisine. His influence on the Greek food we enjoy today is undeniable!

He achieved the perfect combination of Eastern spices and flavors with Western tastes. He set the bar high when it came to the type and quality of ingredients used in his mouth-watering recipes!

The people of Sifnos have been honoring this delicious tradition ever since!

A Belgian waffle drizzled with chocolate and covered with bananas.

A close up of an ashtray with Votsalo written on it. It is sitting on a wooden table that stretches to the blue sea.

A Belgian waffle with a giant pile of fresh fruit on top.

Every dish we ordered was fresh, full of flavor, and tasted authentically Greek! Honestly, there was not one dish that did not exceed our expectations!

Each time our meal was served, Gavin and I would battle it out for who got the first bite!

The most delicious breakfasts we had were at Votsalo Creperie – Pizzeria. Frank served excellent cappuccinos, with scrumptious and creative food! We ate dishes we had not seen anywhere else and loved every one of them! Try the desserts too!

In Apollonia, we enjoyed a fantastic lunch of baked eggplant and roasted baby lamb at Okyalos Restaurant.

Our eggplant tomato appetizer from Omega-3 restaurant in Platys Gialos.

A close up of our fish dinner from Omega-3 Restaurant.

One of the most memorable dinners we had on Platys Gialos beach was at Omega 3. They step outside of the box with their tasty seafood creations. Make sure to reserve a table in the sand, only steps from the sea!

A shot of both our wine glasses clinking together. There are empty tables on the sand and the vibrant blue ocean in the background.

If you are a foodie, then head to Sifnos in September. Every year the town of Artemonas holds a 3-day Festival of Cycladic Gastronomy. Each Cyclades Island sets up a booth showcasing recipes from their island of origin.

Festive music is played, traditional dances are performed, and the entire festival is free! And yes… you are welcome to taste each and every tasty dish!!

Believe me… if we weren’t teaching in September, this is where you would find us!

A panoramic view of the town of Apollonia with white washed buildings against a mountain backdrop.

6. Sifnos has Cute Towns

Every town on this island is adorable! Traditional whitewashed buildings with colorful shutters line the streets of nearly every town in Sifnos.

With limited time on the island, it can be difficult to choose which to explore.

We thoroughly enjoyed Artemonas, Apollonia, Platys Gialos, and Kamares. Unfortunately, we missed Kastro, but hope to see it on our next visit.

Artemonas

Perched high up on a hill, this town offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and idyllic countryside.

Unlike the whitewashed buildings on the rest of the island, much of the architecture in this town was derived from Venetian and neoclassical designs.

Stroll through this enchanting village, home to elegant mansions and beautiful gardens. In addition to the impressive churches and monasteries, Artemonas is home to the oldest bakeries on the island!

Apollonia

In the heart of the island, this UNESCO Heritage Site is full of little shops, boutique hotels, and restaurants, and has some of the best bars if you crave nightlife!

There is also a Folklore Art Museum that showcases the traditions and customs of the island.

We wandered tiny alleyways, mesmerized by the simplicity of traditional Greek buildings, all decorated with brightly colored accents. Cute cafes were hidden by hanging green plants and pink flowers.

After indulging at lunch, we climbed the stairs to the rooftop. The views were spectacular… you could almost see the entire island!

It was a beautiful, relaxing day and we couldn’t believe we only saw a handful of tourists!

The view of the bright, blue ocean through a narrow alley with white buildings and blue doors.

Platys Gialos

We absolutely adored the small town of Platys Gialos. Situated on an amazing sandy beach, it is the perfect laid-back Greek town.

The main street is littered with pink flowers scattered among characteristic white buildings. Natural beauty surrounds the town with towering hills and fields of olive groves.

Although the town is quiet, it has all the amenities you would need for a 4-day visit to Sifnos!

The town has friendly people, a beach with sun loungers for rent, pottery shops, and an abundance of delicious restaurants.

Kamares

Although you will inevitably see Kamares as you disembark your ferry, it deserves more time to be properly explored.

Located on a beautiful bay with crystal waters, it has one of the best beaches on the island.

Kamares has everything you need to keep you entertained, with plenty of cafes, taverns, and accommodation options available.

There are pastry shops with exquisite desserts and pottery studios selling traditional ceramics. Plus, some of the oldest churches on the island are located here, sprinkled among the classic Cycladic houses.

Kastro

The Greek word for castle, Kastro is the oldest settlement on Sifnos with evidence of a fortified medieval town. Don’t make the same mistake we did and miss out on this little gem!

There are walking trails around this hilltop town that offer amazing views of the Venetian fortress ruins and countryside.

Characterized by small alleys, courtyards, and archways, many buildings still feature the Venetian coat of arms.

Follow the circular pathways inside the town and make your way to the Seven Martyrs Church. We have been told the views at sunrise are breathtaking!

A giant tan colored ceramic vase with the lettering: Welcome to Sifnos.

a display case full of colorful ceramics and pottery.

Two white unique vases on a ledge with a blue framed door.

Sifnos has Pottery & Ceramics

Sifnos is synonymous with traditional pottery and beautiful ceramics. There are numerous shops and studios scattered throughout the island where you can see artists working and shopping to your heart’s content!

Creating functional and artistic pottery and ceramics has long been a tradition here. If you choose to purchase from a local shop, you directly support the artist and help to continue this cultural art form.

Some of the best pottery shops can be found in Herronissos, Apollonia, and Platys Gialos. You will find everything from plates, cups, jugs, and cookware to beautifully crafted pieces of art.

The most famous ceramic shop of Antonis and Tzannis Kalogirou is in the main harbor town of Kamares.

The speed ferry as it leaves the port in Kamares.

Robyn smiling and standing at the back of the slow ferry as it approaches Sifnos. You can see the island close by.

How to Get to Sifnos

Sifnos does not have an airport, so the only way to get to the island is by ferry.

Ferries connect Piraeus Port in Athens to Kamares Port in Sifnos. You can choose between a high-speed or standard ferry. If you suffer from motion sickness as I do, then I highly recommend sticking to the slow ferries.

I would also suggest using some Motion Sickness Wristbands. They are a game changer!

A slow ferry also lets you appreciate the gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea outside in the salty air. You’re on holiday in Greece… there is no need to rush the experience!

If you are visiting Sifnos as part of an island-hopping itinerary… don’t worry, there are many direct ferries to nearby islands, like Serifos, Kythnos, Kimolos, or magical Milos.

A street with cars parked along the side in Platos Gialos. Renting a car on the island is a great option.

Gavin wearing a face mask sitting on a seat on the bus. We found the bus very efficient and easy to use.

How to Get Around Sifnos

As we mentioned, Sifnos has excellent public transportation. The bus system is reliable, cost–effective, convenient, and comfortable.

If you are traveling in the low season, make sure to check their website for an updated schedule.

From the port in Kamares, you can take a taxi or public bus to the main towns of Apollonia and Artemonas. From there, you can continue onto the smaller villages of Kastro, Vathi, Cheronissos, and Platys Gialos.

If you prefer to drive or want to venture off the beaten path, we recommend renting a scooter or a car.

During high season, you will need to book in advance, as there is a limited number on the island. If you visit during the low season, check with local companies when you arrive at the port.

For more information, check out our post on how to rent a car in Greece!

Beautiful, white villas in front of the ocean in Platys Gialos. The white fabric hanging from the pergola is swaying in the ocean breeze.

A view of the simple, comfortable Hotel Karma, where we stayed on Sifnos.

Where to Stay on Sifnos

Sifnos has a variety of accommodations for every taste and budget.

You can stay in the main town of Apollonia, the port town of Kamares, or the picturesque village of Kastro.

For our 4-day visit to Sifnos, we stayed in Platys Gialos and we loved it! We wanted to stay away from the port, in a town with a variety of restaurants and most importantly, with an amazing sandy beach.

Hotel Karma: This is where we stayed, and although our room was small, it was perfect, being only steps away from the beach. We loved the white Cycladic design and blue shutters! Our room was clean and quiet, with AC and a private balcony. The hosts are friendly and parking is free. Check availability on Trivago.

Verina Astra: This luxurious, one-of-a-kind hotel will leave you breathless! Located high up on a hill, near Artemonas, it features an infinity pool, delicious breakfast, spacious, elegant suites, and expansive views of the Aegean Sea. Check availability on Trivago.

Gavin leaning over the railing on the ferry from Sifnos to Milos.

Travel Insurance

Travel can be unpredictable, so it’s important to make sure you are always protected. Trust me, I have needed a hospital on several trips… Italy, Costa Rica, Hungary, China, Malaysia, and Greece!

We never leave home without travel insurance. Ever.

World Nomads is great for adventure travel, and short trips from home. Their website is easy to use and helpful. They provide up-to-date safety information and travel alerts for every country in the world.

SafetyWing is great for international coverage, long-term travel, and digital nomads, and they cover COVID-19. The process is simple, and you can purchase/renew your policy from wherever in the world.

FAQ’s: Is Sifnos Worth Visiting in 2024?

Why should I visit Sifnos?

For a great experience! Great food, culture, water, and beaches… and less tourists!

What is Sifnos Greece known for?

The island is famous for its pottery, local delicacies, and well-preserved villages.

What is the nicest Greek island to visit?

Many say Santorini, but Sifnos comes very close! Different experiences obviously.

Is Sifnos a party island?

No, Sifnos is not considered a party island. It is known for its relaxed and peaceful atmosphere… probably why we liked it!

How many days do you need on Sifnos?

3-5 days in our opinion. Hit the towns and beaches while you still can!

Is Sifnos or Milos better?

Of course, depends on what you are looking for. The scenery in Milos was amazing, but the island was bigger. The quaintness of Sifnos makes that our number 1 in this case.

Final Thoughts: Is Sifnos Worth Visiting in 2024?

In case you missed it… YES, Sifnos is definitely worth visiting!

If you are looking for a quiet, less-visited island in the Cyclades with a more authentic feel, then Sifnos is for you!

The island of Sifnos is sprinkled with adorable towns, serene landscapes, and amazing beaches. Plus, it is easy to get around, so you can discover all that Sifnos has to offer!

Hopefully, our list of the 7 best reasons to visit Sifnos has inspired your next adventure! Just writing this post makes us want to return… now.

Let us know if you have any questions… otherwise, enjoy your journey!