A Complete Travel Guide to Serifos, Greece

Exploring the Greek Island of Serifos is an experience you won’t soon forget. Summon the thought, and you can already feel yourself among the Cyclades, letting the traditional Greek architecture and landscapes, the beach, the wind and all the natural beauty sweep you away. Take a step back from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and let yourself relax, unwind and enjoy the timeless island paradise. Whether you’re looking for a slow island life, picturesque scenery, or delicious local seafood, Serifos has something to offer everyone. This travel guide to Serifos, Greece will show you how to make the most out of your time on this idyllic Greek island. We will explore the best beaches to visit, the culture and history to discover, sites, and attractions to see, dining options, and accommodation choices for visitors touring Serifos. Get ready for a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Serifos, Greece!

How to get to Serifos, Greece

This beautiful island is known for its traditional Greek character and easy ferry access from Piraeus and other Cyclades islands. The most efficient means of traveling to Serifos is by ferry from Athens. Ferries depart from Piraeus port in Athens daily during the summer months and take approximately 2-4 hours (depending on the ferry) to reach this remote Cycladic Island. The best way to secure your spot on the ferry is to book ahead of time as the boats tend to get very crowded during peak season. For booking ferry tickets online, Ferryscanner is a great platform to search for and buy your tickets.

Getting Around Serifos

The best way to explore Serifos is by renting a car or scooter to get around easily. Some rental companies include Coralli Rentals, Kartsonakis Rentals and Blue Bird Rentals. Alternatively, there is a public bus that departs from the parking station near Chora every 20-30 minutes and offers connections throughout the island.

Where to Stay in Serifos, Greece

When it comes down to choosing where to stay during your holiday in Serifos, you’ll have plenty of options. Chora and Kato Chora offer an authentic experience, where you can stay in traditional Cycladic houses, giving you a glimpse of the island’s rich local culture. However, if you’re looking for a more modern accommodation option, you’ll also find a range of luxurious hotels and villas near the port or the beaches. No matter what your needs are, you won’t be short of options for your stay in Serifos.

Accommodations in Serifos

Homesphere Greece: Homesphere consists of three traditional homes found in Kato Chora: Serifos Olive, Serifos White and Serifos Lemon. Each one has been carefully curated with hand-picked pieces and traditional furnishings to maintain Serifos’ authentic charm.

Chill & Co: Set along the port of Serifos, Chill & Co is a modern boutique hotel that caters to travelers looking for sublime comfort, warm hospitality and stunning views of the harbor. The hotel’s cozy restaurant offers brunch and a wide selection of drinks and delicious dishes.

Pénde Serifos: Pénde consists of Pénde Suites, Pénde Villas and Pénde Natura Pesidences. Each one offers something unique to its guests, with great location and impeccable design being consistent among all three options.

Coco-Mat Eco Residences: Found right above an unspoiled beach, Coco-Mat Eco Residences was designed for those that want to escape without compromising on luxury and modern amenities.

Kir Mimis Awarded Cycladic Villa: The tranquil Cycladic Villa known as Kir Mimis is constructed with love and is surrounded by beautiful views. Looking at the architecture, you can observe the unique craftsman style, skill and talent that went into building this magnificent villa. The villa has spacious quarters consisting of two bedrooms, living spaces and outdoor terraces that provide for an unforgettable experience.

Galazio Suites: Found just a minute from Livadakia Beach, Galazio offers many different-sized rooms, especially ideal for families or couples.

NŌSTOS: Recently opened boutique hotel, NŌSTOS caters to the modern traveler. Each room offers a minimalistic and eco-friendly approach to creating a true, authentic hospitality experience.

Ammoa Beach Houses: Ammoa consists of boutique houses found right along Vagia Beach. The spacious houses boast spectacular interiors and exteriors that offer a tantalizing peek of the stunning view that awaits you outside.

Kalami Suites: A boutique hotel found in Livadi, a quiet and quaint settlement of Serifos. Adorned in natural materials and Cycladic lines, Kalami Suite offers a peaceful retreat to travelers. 

Homa Serifos: Homa was constructed with passion and an eye for detail to bring out the unique beauty of its delicate but strong architecture. One with nature, Homa is the place to retreat from the outside world.

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Things To Do in Serifos, Greece

Begin your journey by discovering some of Serifos’ beautiful beaches, from sandy stretches to idyllic coves offering sheltered swimming spots perfect for snorkeling or diving. Enjoy spectacular sunset views at vantage points throughout the island or indulge in some mouth-watering local cuisine made with fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farmers. Shop for unique souvenirs at one of Serifos’ many shops or stroll around its picturesque harbors and Chora while soaking up some sun. Don’t miss out on all that awaits you when you visit Serifos, this hidden gem tucked away in Greece’s Cyclades islands!

Church of Agios Konstantinos

The picturesque chapel of Agios Konstantinos in Serifos, named after the patron saint of the island, is located at the top of Kastro, the highest spot of Chora (251m). From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the mesmerizing sea and the neighboring islands. Its size is relatively small and its construction is predominantly white. The chapel has been renovated in 1928 to keep up with the current times, while still preserving its original form and feel. For those willing to wake up early, watching the sunrise from the Church of Agios Konstantinos is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Piazza Square

Pano Piazza Square, also known as Agios Athanasios Square, sits in the heart of Serifos’ capital town, Chora, which is perched on the side of a mountain overlooking the harbor. This charming square which also means Upper Square boasts a cozy atmosphere with quaint ouzeries and tavernas providing plenty of seating. Notably, the square is also home to the 17th-century metropolitan church of Agios Athanasios. From here visitors can also follow directions to the Kastro Quarters.

Church of Panagia Skopiani

Steeped in history, Panagia Skopiani is known for its all-white walls and bright blue, eye-catching dome. It’s located in the picturesque Northeastern region of Serifos, at a spot overlooking the sea. This stunning church is not only renowned for its impressive architecture but also for its scenic surroundings that have been expertly cared for to preserve the beauty of the area. It’s accessible to tourists and locals alike and the views from Panagia Skopiani make a stop here totally worth it.

Throne of Cyclops

In antiquity, the Cape of the Cyclops was built for a supernatural purpose. On the remains of an ancient oblong slates tower, the site’s name is derived from the legend of the Cyclopes, supposedly living on the island. Nowadays, despite its previous name, there are no traces of the existence of these mythical creatures but Psaropyrgos Tower still stands – as a monument that reminds us of this old legend. The scenery from the tower is breathtaking, offering panoramic views of the western side of Serifos, with its sharp rocky slopes, many small beaches and caves, as well as its famous bays of Livadi and Kountoura.

Livadi

The bustling fishing village is situated in a sun-soaked landscape along the port of Serifos. This quaint one-street village is alive with many tavernas, shops, cafes and bars to keep visitors busy for hours. Of course, it also has essential amenities such as a gas station, souvenir shops, a mini-market and a bakery. The beach located at the port is one of the largest beaches on the entire island, providing plenty of areas for beach-goers to soak up the sun, and find a quiet spot for an afternoon of relaxation.

Megalo Livadi & Mining Facilities

Explore the captivating history of Megalo Livadi and witness a unique outdoor museum of industrial archaeology at the ruins of the old mining works outside the coastal settlement. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the wharf, the decaying rails and wagons, and partially-destroyed bridges or venture through the mine tunnels. The neoclassical local office dating back to 1890, is a protected structure that adds to the allure. As you depart, don’t miss the opportunity to pay respects to the four miners who lost their lives during the 1916 strike for better working conditions, commemorated by a simple marble monument.

Chrysoloras Winery

Chrysoloras Winery is located in an idyllic setting on the northern side of the island, surrounded by lush vineyards and breathtaking views of the mountains. The intimate winery offers a warm welcome to visitors, who can explore the available local varieties and learn more about them from knowledgeable winemakers. During your tasting experience, you may catch a stunning sunset which adds to the magical atmosphere of the winery. Afterward, you are sure to want to take a couple of bottles of their delicious wine to your home!

Chora & Kato Chora

One of the main attractions on Serifos is Chora, also known as Hora – the capital of the island. Here, a picturesque Medieval Castle provides stunning views over all of Serifos’ beauty. Stroll through its cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses, charming cafes and restaurants serving up delicious local dishes in Pano Piazza Square. From Chora, you can also make your way down to Kato Chora, a quieter neighborhood that is equally as charming. In Kato Chora, you may visit the Folklore Museum or attend cultural events at the island’s open theater.

Monastery of Taxiarches

The Agioi Taxiarches Monastery, situated near Galani village on the northern part of Serifos Island, is a men’s monastery constructed in 1572 as a religious, educational, and economic hub of Serifos. To safeguard itself from plunderers, the monastery’s architecture features a tall, sturdy wall resembling a fortress, a marble and wooden carved chancel screen with a gilded throne, and beautiful murals depicting the Archangel fighting the Dragon of the Revelation, painted by Emmanuel Skordilis. The monastery’s paved marble floor has a relief work in the form of the double-headed eagle, symbolizing the Byzantine Empire, at the entrance.

A library was established in 1909 to secure the monastery’s numerous manuscripts, Sacred Codes of 1754, and precious rare books. The Church of Agioi Taxiarches (1746) with its unique Venetian temple is a standout feature in the central square of the monastery. A path starting behind the church offers a beautiful view of the mountain down to the sea, passing by traditional homes. The Agioi Taxiarches Monastery, open to visitors, is a beautiful testament to Serifos’s religious and architectural heritage.

Archaeological Museum of Serifos

The Archaeological Museum of Serifos was originally founded in 1976 and is located in the Town Hall, in Piazza Square in Chora. The museum represents a great display of artifacts and findings by visitors, archaeologists, and other excavators who worked to search the Greek island of Serifos. The display consists of archaeological antiquities from different eras including the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods. Among some of the most notable artifacts that are featured in the museum, include funerary stelae, marble statuettes, ancient vessels and ceramics, pieces depicting parts of arbors, and a vast collection of inscriptions and other ancient objects covering the island’s history. Visitors can take a historic journey and explore the remnants of the different civilizations that inhabited the island hundreds of years ago.

Folklore Museum

Located in the charming town of Kato Chora, just across from the Agios Antonios church, is the Folklore Museum of Serifos. This exquisite mansion is home to countless household items and everyday objects, as well as antique furniture, farmers’ tools, traditional costumes, and an impressive photo collection. The museum, which has been in operation for two decades, was followed by the construction of the Serifos Theater with a seating capacity of 300. All year round, an array of cultural events takes place here, including the much-anticipated summer festival of Serifos.

Spathi Lighthouse

Dating back to 1901, the Spathi Lighthouse stands 60 meters above the sea on the southern edge of Serifos. The lighthouse belongs to the Greek Navy and thus houses a naval officer as a lighthouse keeper every 2 weeks. If you would like to admire the lighthouse and the views from this beautiful stone lighthouse, you may follow the dirt road (quite rough in some parts). Otherwise, you may leave your car on the main road and walk about 30 minutes down to the lighthouse.

White Tower

Perched atop a rugged hill on the western coast of Serifos, the White Tower of Serifos is an impressive reminder of the island’s rich historical past. Stretching 5 meters high and constructed of large white marble boulders, the 4th century BC-era Tower overlooks the stunning Aegean Sea – its clear turquoise waters visible for miles around. The Tower remains to this day one of the most fascinating archaeological sites found on the island, and the magnificent panoramic perspectives it offers make it an ideal spot for observational purposes. It is thought that it was used as a lookout point: likely in the past to protect the nearby ancient mines.

Windmills of Serifos

Although the windmills of Mykonos are probably the most well-known in Greece, the island of Serifos is home to its own iconic windmills which are perched on a hill, offering stunning views of the island. The small town of Chora serves as the perfect backdrop for a visit to the windmills, which are a popular photo opportunity. Even though they are no longer used to grind wheat, they remain a symbol of the beauty of rural Greece and will continue to enchant visitors with their breathtaking views and timeless charm.

Beaches in Serifos

There are over 70 beaches in Serifos, each one offering a unique experience. From swimming at Livadakia Beach to relaxing at Ganema Beach, there’s something for everyone. Most beaches on the island are not organized, meaning that there are no sun beds or coffee shops, therefore it’s best to come prepared with refreshments and equipment, especially if you’re traveling with children.

Koutalas

Pleasant pebbly beach with plenty of parking that doesn’t attract large masses during the peak season. There is a tavern with tables on the beach under the trees featuring traditional Greek dishes. Come prepared with water and equipment as this beach is not organized.

Ganema

Family-friendly beach, offering a long sandy shore and protection from most winds, especially winds coming from the north. There is a beach bar, Saan found in the middle of the beach with umbrellas to rent (although quite expensive), otherwise, the whole beach is available to place your own umbrella and beach towels. There are also trees found on this beach that offer natural shade.

Vagia

Located right below Coco-Mat Eco Residences, Vagia Beach is a small and quiet beach featuring pristine blue water, sun beds for rent and easy access with free parking. There is also a food truck with refreshments and snacks.

Kalo Abeli

Kalo Abeli is a small, yet perhaps the most stunning beach on the island with turquoise waters and soft sand. The beach is accessed up to a point by car and then about a 15-20 minute descent by foot. There are no sun beds or natural shade so bringing your own snacks, water and umbrellas is a must.

Paralia Livadi

Livadi Beach is right along the waterfront adjacent to the port, making it one of the easiest beaches to access. Many cafes, bars and eateries are at arm’s reach. Likewise, the fine sand and shallow water make this beach a top destination for families with kids.

Livadakia

Just on the other side of the port, Livadakia Beach is a quiet and organized beach with trees along the shore offering shade. Plenty of places to have a drink or snack. Livadakia Beach is within walking distance from the port and many nearby accommodations.

Agios Sostis

Agios Sostis is one of the most popular beaches on the island so it’s important to arrive there early to find shade under the few trees that provide shade. Crystal-clear waters and soft sand make this beach a must. There is a small chapel found along the shoreline worth visiting as well. It’s best to leave your car up the hill and descent down to the beach by foot (about a 10-15 minute walk).

Psili Ammos

A family-friendly beach with an easy-to-access road, clear, shallow waters and natural shade provided by trees. There are a couple of taverns found near the beach, perfect for an after-swim meal. Make sure to grab refreshments or water before you arrive.

Agios Ioannis

A quiet and unorganized beach that receives fewer crowds than the neighboring Psili Ammos and Agios Sostis beaches. Half of the beach features stone while the other half consists of sand.

Best Sunset Spots in Serifos

Throne of Cyclops: Perched on a hilltop, the Throne of Cyclops offers an unbeatable view of the sunset.
Vagia Beach: If you day dream of watching the sunset from a Greek beach during the winter, than Vagia Beach will not disappoint.
Megalo Livadi: Where once mining dominated Megalo Livadi, now features a stunning vista of the sunset.
Chrysoloras Winery: Stunning sunset views and excellent wine, doesn’t get much better than that.
Church of Agios Konstantinos: Although the sunset cannot be seen from the Church of Agios Konstantinos, right after the sun sets behind the mountains, the sky turns into a magical pink/rose color and can be best viewed here.

Other Useful Information

For Food:

Stratos: Found on Piazza Square, Stratos offers breakfast options by day and mezedes (small tapas) and raki by night.
Plakes: The best spot to enjoy traditional Greek cuisine while admiring stunning views of Chora.
Aloni: Delicious Greek cuisine with beautiful views of the port. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming.
Mpakakaki: Quaint Greek restaurant where their specialties are mainly meat dishes such as traditional sausage and steak.
Kalis Seafood Restaurant: This is the place to have delicious seafood such as squid, tuna, octopus and other fish.
Axinos Serifos: Right on the beach, Axinos offers Mediterranean dishes in a beautiful setting.
Chill & Co Resto-Bar: From morning to dinner to cocktails, Chill & Co’s resto-bar fuses Serifian flavors with South American recipes to create a unique and alluring menu.
Lazy Monkey: Right along Livadi Beach, Lazy Monkey comes with comfortable sunbeds for when you’d like to sip your coffee on the beach as well as brunch options such as pancakes, omelets and salads. 
Robinson: This Mediterranean spot offers everything from brunch to dinner and cocktails. The atmosphere is warm and inviting and the friendly staff is always there to make your visit enjoyable.
Blue Bamboo: If you’re looking for a break from Greek cuisine, you’ll find mouthwatering and delicious Thai food at Blue Bamboo.
Porto Vecchio: Another international option, Porto Vecchio serves fresh authentic Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta using fresh ingredients.
Stefanakos Tavern: Found above Psili Ammos Beach, Stefanakos Tavern offers simplicity at its best: views of the beach, traditional Greek dishes and friendly service.
Grandma’s Cafe Resto Bar: A family-owned restaurant situated on Paralia Ganema. Everything prepared at Grandma’s is homemade and made with love.
Fragkosyko: Brunch and cocktail bar near the port. Great location and vibrant atmosphere makes this an all-day popular spot.

For Dessert:

Frygana & Thrympi: Charming little Cycladic creperie in Chora.
Halida Bakery: Small bakery dates back 7 generations. Here, you’ll find fresh croissants as well as other baked sweets.
Gran’s: This is the spot for sweet pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.

For Drinks:

Gaidaros: Popular cocktail bar nestled within the streets of Chora. Cocktails here are some of the best you’ll ever have.
Barbarossa: Found in the main square in Chora, Barbarossa turns into a lively spot for drinks by nightfall.
Fragkosyko: Brunch spot by day, cocktail bar by evening. The atmosphere and diverse menu make this a top choice for visitors.
Thidira Tap concept Bar: Great music, atmosphere and drinks in Piazza Square in Chora.
Bátrachos: Low-key and chill vibes coupled by great service and drinks.
To Balconi: Enjoy a drink (or two) at Balconi while enjoying the beautiful view of Serifos’ harbor.