Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
Ben Prater, Pexels
Sifnos, a captivating Cycladic island, offers a harmonious blend of pristine sandy beaches, rich culinary traditions, and a vast network of hiking trails. It provides an authentic Greek island experience with a relaxed pace, attracting visitors seeking tranquility alongside cultural immersion.
For those looking to socialize, Apollonia, the island's capital, is the vibrant heart, particularly its 'Steno' (narrow alley) which features bars and restaurants with lively music that stay open late. Artemonas offers a quieter, more traditional atmosphere with charming courtyards and also hosts an annual street party. Along the coast, beach bars in areas like Kamares, Platis Gialos, Vathi, and Faros provide relaxed settings for evening drinks by the sea.
Top 6 Things to do in Sifnos
Sifnos offers a diverse range of activities focusing on its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and renowned culinary scene, providing a tranquil and authentic Greek island experience.
1. Hike the Sifnos Trails
Explore Sifnos' extensive network of well-marked hiking trails, which connect charming villages, ancient sites, and secluded beaches. These paths offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the island's terraced landscapes. Choose trails of varying difficulty, such as the path from Apollonia to Kamares, or ascend to Profitis Ilias, the island's highest peak, for panoramic vistas. Remember to carry water, wear appropriate footwear, and hike during cooler parts of the day.
Cost: Free (self-guided). Guided tours may incur a fee, though specific costs were not found within the last 3 years.
Transport: Trails connect most major villages and can often be accessed by public bus to their starting points (fares are low, varying by destination) or by taxi (pre-booking recommended in summer, costs can be higher but distances are short).
2. Participate in a Traditional Pottery Workshop
Engage with Sifnos' deep-rooted pottery tradition, which dates back centuries. Many workshops across the island offer hands-on experiences where you can learn about the local clay, traditional techniques, and even create your own ceramic piece, from molding to glazing and firing. This offers a unique cultural immersion and a tangible souvenir.
Cost: A private lesson for 1-2 persons can cost around 295 Euros, typically lasting 2-2.5 hours. Costs for group sessions or multi-meeting workshops are not consistently published but may vary.
Transport: Some private workshops may offer hotel transfers. Otherwise, workshops are found in various villages accessible by public bus (low fares) or taxi.
3. Explore the Medieval Village of Kastro
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of Kastro, Sifnos' former capital. This traditional settlement is perched on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, featuring medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and stunning sea views. It provides a sense of stepping back in time.
Cost: Free to explore. Specific tours may have associated costs.
Transport: Kastro is connected by the municipal bus network from Apollonia and other villages (low fares). Taxis are also an option.
4. Visit Panagia Chrissopigi Monastery
Discover the iconic Monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi, the island's patron saint, situated on a dramatic rocky promontory jutting into the sea. This 17th-century monastery offers a serene atmosphere and spectacular panoramic views. It is a significant religious landmark and a popular spot for its natural beauty. Modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is required for entry to monasteries.
Cost: Free (donations welcome).
Transport: Located about 8 km from Apollonia, near Faros. Accessible by public bus to nearby areas like Faros or Apokoftos Beach, followed by a short walk. Taxis are also available.
5. Enjoy Beach Life and Water Activities
Relax on Sifnos' diverse beaches, ranging from long sandy stretches like Platis Gialos, which offers watersports like windsurfing and kayaking, to tranquil bays such as Vathy. Kamares, the port beach, is family-friendly with tavernas. Faros provides calm, shallow waters ideal for families. Many beaches offer clear blue waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Cost: Beach access is free. Watersport rentals (e.g., paddleboards, canoes) and boat rentals have varying costs. Small boats without a license can be rented from Platis Gialos, starting from around €190-€340 per day. Private full-day boat cruises can range from approximately 150 to 800 Euros or more, depending on factors like boat type, size, and inclusions like skipper and fuel.
Transport: Most popular beaches are connected by the municipal bus network. Taxis and rental cars provide more flexibility.
6. Indulge in Sifnian Gastronomy
Sifnos is renowned for its culinary traditions, considered among the best in Greece. Experience authentic Sifnian dishes like 'revithada' (slow-cooked chickpea stew, often served on Sundays) and 'mastello' (lamb cooked in a clay pot with wine and dill). Explore traditional tavernas, especially in Apollonia and Kamares, to savor meals made with fresh local ingredients.
Cost: Costs vary by restaurant and dish; a typical meal at a traditional taverna would be a moderate expense.
Transport: Restaurants and tavernas are widely distributed across the island's villages, accessible by walking within villages, or by public bus and taxi between settlements.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
