Sifnos fell onto my radar when I was reading a Conde Nast article about Greek food. I had visited Greece several times, but never heard of it. However this article claimed it to be the gastronomic center of Greece. As a food lover, I quickly added it to my summer Greece trip itinerary. So, is Sifnos worth a visit? The answer is a big fat YES.
After my visit I am convinced this is one of the best islands in Greece. I loved it so much I extended my stay. Here is your guide to visiting and falling in love with Sifnos.
Introduction
Sifnos is one of the Cyclades Islands, not far from the ultra-popular Mykonos, but it could be a world away. Unlike Mykonos you won’t find hoards of party goers here, and hardly any foreigners for that matter. This island is a quiet and untouched gem, mostly only known by Greek people.
There are no nightclubs to be found here. Instead, it offers unspoiled villages, rolling hills of endless hiking trails, secluded beaches, and amazing food!
What to do There
Visit Apollonia
This is the capital of the island, and a good place to base yourself. For the capital, it’s not busy at all, especially compared to the other islands. Here you’ll have lots of bars, cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Visit Artemonas
A cute village just a short walk up from Apollonia. This place is extremely photogenic, so have your camera out and ready because you’ll want to snap a photo with every turn.
Panagia Poulati
There are many churches all over Sifnos, but some are located just on the water’s edge, making for an extremely beautiful sight. This was my favorite one.
Church of the Seven Martyrs
Another beautiful seaside church, set right on a rock at the edge of the island. You can do a short hike from Panagia Poulati to get here.
Head to the Beach
There are amazing and quiet beaches here, perfect for chilling out and relaxing. 2 of my favorites are Vathi Beach and Apokofto Beach.
Kastro
Another village to visit is Kastro, which has a medieval history. The alleyways here are a good place to get lost and it also has it’s own castle!
Go Hiking
I met some visitors who came to Sifnos to hike for several weeks. Weeks! There are so many trails along the hills and mountains, taking you through farmland, past churches and with views of the sea on the way. Unlike Mykonos, Sifnos is pretty green, which makes a beautiful landscape to hike through. Definitely spend at least one of your days hiking here.
Where to Eat
They say this is the food capital of Greece, so make sure you come hungry and ready to EAT. These were my favorite food spots:
Margarita – located in Artemonas, for Greek cuisine and coffee. Get the stuffed eggplant and grilled octopus.
Astro – Located in Kastro. I had my favorite greek dish here, moussaka, and it was to die for.
Drakakis Cafe – Located in Apollonia. My Greek friend and I went here for dinner every night during our stay. It was really that good. They serve small plates, so its easy to try many dishes from their menu.
Mpotzi Bar – A nice place for drinks, located in Apollonia. They do nice cocktails here.
Cheronissos Fish Tavern – A simple seaside tavern offering fresh seafood, with a view.
Where to Stay
Apollonia is a good area to stay in because it’s the capital and centrally located.
If you have a car, and want a homestay feel, I recommend Smaragda Studios just a few minutes away. The host here is just amazing, they brought me fresh fruit from the garden and baked goods almost everyday.
And there you have it! Your complete guide to visiting Sifnos. This island is pure, authentic and relaxed. It’s not for party animals, but it has everything that’s good for the soul. That’s what makes Sifnos worth a visit.
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