Sifnos

Sifnos, an ancient island in the Aegean, owes its name either to Sifnos, the son of Sunius, or to the adjective "sifnos," meaning "hollow" or "empty," due to the many galleries and tunnels resulting from mining activities. The island's history indicates habitation by Pelasgians, Carians, Leleges, and Phoenicians. In ancient times, it emerged as a cultural center, and the arrival of the Ionians marked the creation of the city of Kastro.

The wealth of Sifnos derived from gold and silver mines and ceramics. It participated in the Persian Wars and the Athenian League. Despite its prosperity, it suffered from pirate attacks and the loss of wealth, while during the Byzantine era, it produced intellectual figures and revived during the Greek War of Independence in 1821. Sifnos went through various conquests and had periods of prosperity and decline, but it always produced significant individuals and contributed to Greece's history.

Sifnos, with its diverse coastline and impressive geography, offers beaches for every taste. On the island, one can discover secluded sandy shores, rocky coasts, pebble beaches, and organized beaches, two of which have the distinction of the Blue Flag.

• The coastal settlement of Kamari: It serves as Sifnos' port and offers a wide range of tourist services, including accommodations, restaurants, shops, and numerous attractions. Moreover, hiking trails to various points on the island, such as the Sanctuary of the Nymphs, the Black Cave, and the NATURA area, start from here.
• Platis Gialos: It is one of Sifnos' most beloved sandy beaches, with a spectacular natural environment. In this area, the ancient tower-fortress of Aspro Pyrgos is also in very good condition. Additionally, the Chrysopigi Gorge is an impressive area with the Monastery of Panagia Chrysopigi, dating back to 1523, and an annual festival that attracts many pilgrims.
• Vathi Beach: It is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the island, with protected flowers that bloom in the summer. Also, many hiking trails to nature and surrounding villages start from here. Vathi's small harbor, with its cultural space, is an atmospheric port and fishing village, while Glyfo Beach offers pleasant relaxation moments.
• Cherronisos: It is a picturesque fishing village with a small sandy beach and a traditional feel. In the area, there are also ancient landmarks, such as the Church of Saint George and the remains of an ancient tower.

Finally, the beaches of Vroulidia and Fykadia are areas with small sandy shores and clear waters, offering additional options for swimming and relaxation on Sifnos.

• The Castle: From the ruins of the ancient acropolis that dominated the hilltop in the 6th century BC, to the ancient structures with their ancient columns and Roman sarcophagi that you encounter in the narrow streets, to the six "lodges" (arcades through which you enter the settlement) and the churches of the 16th and 17th centuries with their decorated floors. At its center is the Latin cathedral church and the column with the inscription of Giannoulis Da Coronia from the 14th century.
• The Acropolis of Saint Andrew: It is an organized archaeological site that extends over a large area on the plateau of Mount Saint Andrew. There, you can see the impressive Mycenaean wall as well as the dense urban fabric with various buildings. There is also a museum on-site.
• The Ancient Tomb "Soroudi": It is a large construction, possibly a Mycenaean vaulted tomb, dominating the area of Pounta with a view of the sea and is visible from many points in the region, with direct visual contact with the Mycenaean acropolis of Saint Andrew.
• The Archaeological Museum of the Castle: It houses findings from various excavations on the island: sculptures from the Archaic to the Roman period, coins, and pottery from the Geometric to the Hellenistic period.
• The Folklore Museum of Apollonia: Belonging to the Association of Sifnians, it is located in the central square and includes exhibits from the island's traditional life, such as clothing, swords, beekeeping and pottery objects, and more.
• Aspros Pyrgos (White Tower): It is one of the best-preserved ancient tower-fortresses of the island and is located near Platis Gialos Beach.

• Water Sports: For those who view exercise on vacation as a way to relax, Platis Gialos Beach and Vathi are the perfect destinations. There, you can enjoy canoeing and discover the area's exceptional natural beauty, while also having the option to choose from various water activities. As a result, sunny days will be filled with the sea breeze, the sound of laughter, and fun!
• Nature Exploration: For those who love nature and want to explore Sifnos from a different perspective, there is a variety of hiking trails with a total of 19 routes, covering about 200 kilometers in total. If you enjoy exploration and walking, then a walk on the island is the ideal choice for you. This way, you can discover Sifnos' hidden beauties, following various paths from the mines to the island's surroundings. Additionally, these routes can also be done by bicycle or even on horseback, offering a unique experience for both young and old.
• Nightlife: Fun in Sifnos is discovered at sunset. The bars, restaurants, and tavernas light up and transform into picturesque gems all over the island. Experience unforgettable moments during evening walks on the traditional cobblestone streets, savor delicious meals, and relax with your loved ones every night in unique Sifnos.

Ferry Tickets and Schedules for Sifnos

During the summer season, Sifnos is connected to Piraeus and the islands of the Milos line via ferry transportation. Daily, there are both high-speed and conventional vehicle-carrying ships available for these connections. The duration of the journey with conventional vehicle-carrying ships is approximately five hours, while with high-speed ferries, it ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 hours approximately. Additionally, during the remaining months of the year, ferry schedules are adjusted according to the season and demand. The ferry companies that operate these routes are Seajets, Aegean Speed Lines, and Zante Ferries.

There are two routes from Athens to Sifnos:

• Ferry Routes Piraeus - Sifnos: There are 2-4 daily ferry routes from Piraeus to Sifnos. These routes are operated by the ferry companies Seajets and Aegean Sea Lines, with passenger ticket prices ranging from €43 to €65.7. The duration of the journey from Piraeus to Sifnos varies from approximately 2.5 to 5 hours, depending on the vessel.
• Ferry Routes Rafina - Sifnos : The route from Rafina to Sifnos is operated daily during the summer. The average duration of the journey by ferry is approximately 5 hours.

Some ferry routes to and from other ports include:

• Sifnos to Sikinos Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Folegandros Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Ios Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Santorini Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Kimolos Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Milos Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Serifos Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Kythnos Ferry Routes
• Sifnos to Piraeus Ferry Routes

On the booktickets platform, you will find all ferry routes, departure times, and ferry companies. Compare prices and easily book affordable ferry tickets with all discounts for passengers and vehicles.