Artemonas, a quiet village and the gem of Sifnos with unique Venetian and neoclassical architecture, owes its name to the worship of the goddess Artemis. The beautiful small settlement displays some elegant traditional old mansions of Sifnos with verdant gardens.
Apollonia, the capital of Sifnos since 1836, is located in the heart of the island and is dedicated to the worship of the God Apollo. The beautiful village is built amphitheatrically around three hills, consisting of narrow stone paved streets (The Steno), Cycladic style houses decorated with bright coloured flowers and whitewashed arches.
The clifftop village of Kastro is best example of Venetian architecture on Sifnos, with coats of arms on the houses. It was the first capital of Sifnos and has an ancient citadel that was enhanced by Venetian walls. Worth visiting are the Archaeological Museum of Sifnos and the Church of the Seven Martyrs, built on a protruding rock with breathtaking views over the sea.
The fishing harbour of Vathi, with its assortment of beaches, shops, churches and other delights. From tavernas on a sandy beach, under the generous shade of tamarisk trees, to plenty of alleyways to explore. You’ll find traditional pottery workshops, where you can admire the detail of Sifniot vases and chimneypots.
A traditional village on the eastern coast of Sifnos, Faros combines excellent seafood with quaint Cycladic architecture. It has beautiful beaches, such as Fasolou and Glyfos, right by the village. Make sure you complete the walk to Panagia Chrisopigi.
Exambela, with 10 or so windmills standing just outside the village, has a strong agricultural heritage. Its gastronomic identity, is forever linked with Nikolaos Tselementes, a renowned chef who was born here at the end of the 20th century and whose cookbook became a culinary bible all around Greece. Worth visiting is the 15th century Monastery of Panagia Vryssiani (or Vryssis).
Cheronissos beach, at the northern tip of Sifnos, is one of the most beautiful spots, famous for its unspoilt and wild beauty. The golden beach is covered in trees and the crystal bay offers a unique swimming and diving experience. It is the ideal Cycladic spot for peaceful holidays and total relaxation.
The golden beach of Platis Gialos is the most popular beach of Sifnos, surrounded by a long tuft of trees, which provide enough shade, and crystalline waters. With numerous sunbeds and umbrellas, restaurants, bars, and watersports, it is ideal for families.
The rocks around Panagia Chrisopigi are a favourite jumping off point for many swimmers. East of the monastery there is the Apokofto beach with crystal-clear waters. From there, begins a cobbled pathway leading to the beach of Glyfo in Faros.
Vathi beach, lying on the south-western side of Sifnos, is a golden beach and one of the most beautiful areas of Sifnos. Crystalline shallow waters and trees for cool shade form an idyllic beach, with an amazing surrounding of high cliffs. Along the beach you will find various facilities.
Kamares lies at the western side of Sifnos, close to the island's port. One of the longest beaches with shallow waters and lovely surroundings, offering facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas, With numerous sunbeds and umbrellas, restaurants, bars, and watersports. Ideal for watching the sunset.
SIFNEAN CULINARY SPECIALITIES
Mastelo: Lamb slow-cooked in a clay pot with wine and dill
Revithada: Chickpea stew with onion, garlic and bay leaves
Manoura: Cheese from wild goats' milk matured in wine lees
Melopita: Honey pie with honey and cheese (usually mizithra or ricotta)
Loli: Pumpkin cake with raisins, honey, orange and sesame
Amigdalota: Almond macarons/biscuits
Sifnos has long been one of the culinary highlights in the Cyclades, serving up traditional dishes which draw inspiration from what grows on the island. Wood fire-baked chickpea soup, a casserole of succulent goat with local wine and dill, a dish of oregano-scented rabbit, and an assortment of pies with handmade phyllo pastry, Sifnos has the reputation of a foodie island.
Below you may find our recommendations:
Platys Gialos Area
Apollonia Area
Cayenne Restaurant Art Gallery
Vathi Area
Poulati Area
Kastro Area
Faros Area