This Greek Island Is a Foodie’s Laidback Paradise

If you’re visiting Sifnos, you must appreciate a few things: food, dramatic scenery, and charming Greek villages.

While renting a car is not totally necessary, if you do, you can squeeze everything out of what this island has to offer. Driving here is not for the faint of heart, as most roads are windy and narrow (compared to the US). However, main roads are in good condition and there are also walls or guardrails when driving near cliffs. I recommend getting the smallest car available, and request an automatic if you are not totally comfortable with a manual transmission as there will be many hills. (Suntrail is recommended. Straightforward and staff was easy to work with). Driving from one side of the island to another takes only about 30 minutes, so most of your time will not be in the car.

Kamares Port is where the ferry will drop you off. Many ports are areas you want to immediately get out of, but this is a cute area to explore. There are some good restaurants and a beach. Spend a little time here, at least before you leave.

Hike to the Chrysopigi Monastery. It only takes about 40 minutes to get there from the NOS hotel.

Rent a bike to explore and enjoy the outdoors. With a nice view from every angle, whether it be the sea, charming white villages, or craggy cliffs, immerse yourself and take it all in.

You’re not stuck on a tiny island. Take a private boat excursion! You can rent a boat yourself, or hire one with a skipper for a sunset cruise, or even for a full-day excursion to visit nearby islands like Polyegos (an uninhabited island with many goats), Milos, Paros, Antiparos, and more.

Pick a beach and hang out. Take a swim in the healing sea water. Remember, this island is not Mykonos. Don’t expect beach clubs with sun loungers and umbrellas everywhere, while you spend a pretty penny on them and wear designer swimwear. This island has many unspoiled beaches that aren’t totally packed with people. Some are sandier and some rockier. You can enjoy the rugged, natural beauty of the beaches here. Platis Gialos may be the most popular, as there are many shops and restaurants nearby, and great for families. If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path, go to Apokofto Beach, Kamares Beach, Vroulidia Beach, or Glyfo Beach, lined with the natural shade of trees.

There are over 230 churches and monasteries on this tiny island! Many are considered historic monuments and they pretty much all have amazing views. Even if you don’t consider yourself a spiritual person, you’ll find that some are worth a visit. These white-washed buildings, mostly with blue domes, and some on rocky cliffs overlooking clear sea water, are quite a sight to see.

Visit Kastro. I was told this was where I could find the best views of the island. I did, but there’s also something about being in a village that has been inhabited for over 3,000 years. Check out the museum, ruins of the acropolis, The Chapel of Seven Martyrs, or just walk around the village labyrinth. There are some maps around so you can’t get too lost.

NOS Restaurant — My top restaurant choice! NOS Restaurant features local flavors in the most perfect way. Dining for breakfast (if staying at the hotel), lunch, or dinner, will not be a disappointment. The staff is absolutely dedicated to giving the best experience and the food is all expertly done. Don’t skip staying a little longer to indulge in the desert.

Omega3 — What looks like an unassuming shack on the beach is what could be the best seafood on the island. Tapas-style with small plates that are perfect for sharing and tasting many dishes: the crudo that melts in your mouth, beautifully cooked octopus, or the unusual and addicting calamari cacio e pepe. After your first bite, you’ll want to taste everything. Be sure to make reservations.

Cantina — Sustainable gastronomy at its finest in the tiny and stunning bay of Kastro. Which is better: the food or the view? You’ll have to decide.

Pelicanos — Another restaurant where you can have the sand in your toes (if you wish). This is a more modern take on local ingredients, and is a sister restaurant to Cantina.

Loggia Wine Bar — The best place to go at sunset for wine and snacks, and to really take in the beauty Sifnos has to offer.

Alyelo — A more modern offering of Sifnos food. This restaurant actually used to be an old pottery workshop. Have lunch or dinner with a view on Faros Beach.

Fasolou Tavern — An outdoor restaurant right on Fasolou Beach. This is an easy, unfussy, inexpensive spot for a lunch with traditional food.