Sivota, Greece: The ultimate travel guide to holidays in Sivota

Sivota in Greece is one of the best-kept secrets of the Ionian coast. A seaside village full of lush greenery and exotic beaches that rival anything in the Mediterranean. In the summer, this once picturesque fishing village buzzes with visitors arriving from across Europe, drawn by its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the famous Blue Lagoon (Pisina) beach, and the unique Ionian Sea atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing Sivota, Greece holiday or an adventure-filled boat trip through hidden coves, this guide covers everything you need to know.

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General information

• They are located in the prefecture of Thesprotia, just 24 km from Igoumenitsa.

• Sivota is built in a bay, protected from the winds, in which are scattered the small uninhabited islands of Mourtemeno, Agios Nikolaos, and Mavro Oros.

• During the Turkish occupation, Sivota was called Volia, in 1927 they changed their name to Mourtos, and this remained until 1940.

• The seat of the municipality is Plataria, and the population of the municipality is about 3,000 inhabitants and 875 permanent residents.

How to get το Sivota

Getting to Sivota is primarily done by road. From Athens, via the Athens-Corinthos route, follow the Olympia Road to Patras, and after crossing the bridge of Rio – Antirio, via the Ionian Road, you reach your destination. From Thessaloniki, take the road to Veroia – Ioannina and via the Egnatia road, take the exit to Sivota.

You can also take the bus to get to Sivota. If you are coming from Athens, take the Kifissos bus to Plataria. From Plataria, you will have arranged to go to Sivota by taxi in advance. For those in Northern Greece, from the Thessaloniki KTEL, you can buy a ticket to Igoumenitsa and from there take a KTEL to Sivota or take a taxi from the station.

Transportation

Car: The roads are well-maintained, and the distances to the beaches and surrounding sights are short.

Taxi: Mainly in the summer and during the peak tourist season, you will find several taxis that serve tourists and locals alike for their travel. We suggest asking for the driver’s mobile phone for some transportation from a place where there might not be enough traffic.

Boat: For the beaches that are not accessible by car and for the coastline that holds many surprises (which we will discuss below), we suggest renting a boat with a capacity of 4-5 people, or taking an organized tour.

With the boat, you will have more autonomy in where to go, but you will also be able to tailor your tour as you wish. You will find several places in the harbour that will inform you about the rental costs and duration. In most of them, the boat can be rented for a full day from 10:00 to 18:00 or for half a day from 10:00 to 14:00 or 14:00 to 18:00. On average, the cost is 40€ for half a day and 60€ for the whole day, with an extra charge for petrol. (Prices may change every summer)

At the port, you will also find several spots for day trips to the beaches and surrounding islands. The capacity of these boats is about 15 people, and they depart every hour, or in peak season, every half hour. There is a captain on each boat who gives you details of the places you are visiting, and with whom you can arrange where you would like to swim. The cost is usually 10€ per person.

Bike: Also, the routes are surrounded by greenery, and your bike ride will be quite pleasant.

Best beaches in Sivota

Bella Vraka

The beach you must visit while you are in Sivota. It is reminiscent of an exotic island destination, and many describe it as a paradise on earth. The beach is located on the island of Mourtemeno, and to visit it, you have to cross the sea on foot, where the water reaches up to your knees.

From the centre, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk and a 2-minute drive. If you choose to drive, we suggest you go early in the morning before 10, or late in the afternoon to find parking, as parking spaces are limited for cars.

Upon arrival, you will find a stone path that will take you to the bottom of the hill. From there, walk across the water to the island where the beaches are located. There are no organised beaches there nor is there a canteen or beach bar for food or coffee. So we suggest you stock up on the essentials. But you will have the opportunity to do various water sports such as pedal boats, canoeing, or SUP.

Also, what impressed us was the special colour of the sand, which in several places looked pink. We learned later that this is because of the rich red soil of the area that mixes with the white sand and brings out this striking effect.

Agia Paraskevi

Just a 12-minute drive from the centre of Sivota, you will find Agia Paraskevi beach, named after the homonymous chapel at the beginning of the beach. The beach has mainly pebbles and coarse sand in many places and is set amidst a lush green landscape.

It has several sunbeds in the larger part of the beach, from the shops and hotels above. You can, however, lay your towel at the end of the beach, where there is natural shade from the rocks above in the morning hours. There is plenty of parking space, but it is full and not sufficient during peak hours.

The most special thing about this beach is the overgrown uninhabited island directly opposite. It is 150 meters from the shore, and for those who are physically fit, you can visit it by swimming. You can rent a pedal boat or canoe and ride around the islet.

Zeri

Zeri beach is formed by two beaches interrupted in the middle by a few meters of rocky shore. Above this rocky area, between the 2 beaches, is the Torre a Mare hotel complex, with swimming pools, waterslides, restaurants, and bars. There is also an organised beach bar with sunbeds and umbrellas for coffee and food.

A dock for small boats starts vertically on this stretch, but it is also used for diving. There you will also find boats that you can rent and ride around the islets. You will also find pedal boats, canoes, and sup that you can rent. Zeri beach is preferred by families with children because of its shallow, warm waters and sandy shore. There is a parking space, but you can also walk there as it is only 10 minutes from the centre.

Blue Lagoon Sivota — Pisina Beach

Pisina beach, known among international visitors as the Blue Lagoon of Sivota, is perhaps the most spectacular spot in the entire area. Its name in Greek means ‘swimming pool’, and when you see it, you’ll immediately understand why. The waters are so impossibly clear and blue that the boats anchored there appear to float above the seabed. This is Sivota’s most Instagrammed and sought-after destination, and it absolutely lives up to the hype.

Pisina/Blue Lagoon is located on the uninhabited island of Mourtos and is accessible only by sea. You can rent a boat or join one of the organised day trips from Sivota harbour. During peak season, it gets crowded by midday, so visit early morning or late afternoon for the best experience. No facilities there, so you have to bring everything you need.

Megali Ammos

Megali Ammos beach is the largest beach in Sivota, from where it takes its name. It is one of the most famous beaches since it has been visited by holidaymakers since the 70s.

Since 2017, it has been awarded the Blue Flag every year, not only for its crystal clear waters but also for its facilities. It is ideal for hot days as it has several cold currents in the water that can, in some places, run under your feet and in others cover you completely. It is organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, and you will find beach bars and fish restaurants, as well as parking spaces.

Mikri Ammos

After Megali Ammos, you will find the beach of Mikri Ammos as you move away from Sivota. Its name may mean small, but it is a fairly long beach, about 80 meters long.

There is organised parking with a valet pointing out the available spaces, and it is free of charge. This beach attracts mostly young people as the shops play loud music and parties are organized very often. There are sunbeds and umbrellas, and there is a manicured lawn with mats to enjoy the beach there too. In the shops that exist in Mikri Ammos, you can order your coffee, refreshments, and food. We recommend that you book sunbeds beforehand so that you can make sure you find a couple awaiting your arrival.

As for the beach, the waters are crystal clear and blue, reminiscent of the Ionian Sea. Mikro Ammos is located in a small and secluded creek, which makes it sheltered and clean. It is surrounded by large trees that create an idyllic landscape.

Diapori

Like Pisina beach, Diapori is accessible only by sea. With a rented boat or with the daily excursions, you can reach the beach and enjoy this beautiful view and swim in its crystal clear waters.

Diapori is located in the narrow passage between the islands of Mourtos and Agios Nikolaos, creating a heavenly landscape. However, this beach is famous for its special morphology as it forms a snail.

This phenomenon shapes the temperature of its waters accordingly. In particular, on the outside of the snail, the water is cold as currents pass through the channel, while on the inside, it is warm as it remains stable. You can choose the temperature you want the water you swim in to be.

What to do in Sivota

Stroll around the harbour

The picturesque harbour in Sivota is ideal for your afternoon stroll. It has a paved waterfront, perfect for romantic promenades, in what we heard from a local, the western corner of Epirus. Of course, there are also traditional taverns, cafes, and bars, where in the afternoon hours you can enjoy the sunset against the waters of the harbour.

Day trips

As mentioned above in the boat trips, there are several places in the port where you can find information about the cost, duration, and itinerary of the day trips. We suggest you do not miss visiting the beaches and the surrounding areas of Sivota, which are only accessible by sea and which are truly heavenly.

But apart from the beaches of Pisina and Diapori and the uninhabited islands, day trips are organized to the surrounding islands such as Paxos and Antipaxos, Lefkada (Porto Katsiki), Kefalonia (Fiskardo), Ithaca (Kioni), Meganisi, and Skorpios. You can visit these places, by arrangement with each respective tourist office, adding another destination to your holidays.

For more on the nearby islands, read our guides to Kefalonia and Ithaca.

Find ferry tickets and routes for Paxos, Lefkada, Kefalonia, and other nearby islands on Ferryscanner.

Other destinations that are within 1 and a half to 2 hours by car are the city of Ioannina, the springs of the Acheron River, Preveza, and Zagorochoria.

Hiking

Beyond the exotic beaches and crystal clear waters, Sivota offers the perfect experience for hiking enthusiasts. The trail starts from Sivota and passes by the traditional settlement of Vrachona.

What is special about this settlement is that it is abandoned and consists of 50 stone half-derelict houses. They are located along the ridge of Mount Vrachona, creating a breathtaking setting that has been declared a historical monument.

The hiking route ends at the acropolis of Polyneri. In the village, you will have the opportunity to see the castle surrounded by the impressive polygonal wall. But what will reward you is the amazing view of Sivota, where you can see the coastline, the islets, and Corfu.

Boat Rental Sivota

Renting a boat in Sivota allows you to discover beautiful places inaccessible by foot or car. You can explore this unique island complex with its unique sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and magical coves. Discover this magical coastline from a completely different perspective by renting a boat and embarking on your own adventure. Marvel at the natural beauty of the area and drop anchor to swim in secluded coves or simply relax and enjoy the sun on your boat.

Boat rental in Sivota allows you to avoid crowded tourist areas and explore all the remote spots. Enjoy the tranquility of these beaches and discover the true essence of Sivota. Plan your own route and create unforgettable memories in a personal paradise with your family or friends. Boat rental offers you unique flexibility as you can plan your itinerary according to your preferences. Your trip can last from just a few hours to full-day excursions, depending on your preferences and the type of boat you choose. You will have a truly personalized experience as you can decide where to go, how much time to spend at each spot, and what activities you want to do.

Tips for renting a dinghy or boat in Sivota

First of all, it should be mentioned that the best time to rent a boat in Sivota is from May to September, when the weather is warm, and there are usually not many strong winds. As the beaches on these islands are not organized, it’s a good idea to be equipped with water, food, and all the necessary items you may need. So, feel free to bring all your favorite foods, snacks, and drinks on board.

You can take advantage of the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea to connect with nature and snorkel or dive, discovering the unique hidden caves and the exciting underwater world of the area. In addition, renting a boat in Sivota is a unique opportunity for fishing enthusiasts, as you can enjoy the rich fishing grounds. Boat rental is also an excellent choice for celebrating special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

To rent a boat in Sivota with up to 30 horsepower, you must be at least 18 years old, and you will need your passport or ID, a valid driver’s license, and a credit card for payment. These documents are essential for a smooth rental process. If you want to rent a larger boat, you will need a speedboat license, or you can simply have an experienced skipper with you, who can drive sailboats or motorboats up to 24 meters.

Finally, safety should be your priority, so make sure the boat has enough life jackets for all passengers and that the boat is in excellent condition.

For boat rentals in Sivota, don’t hesitate to contact Great Rentals – Rent a boat Sivota.

Food and Drink

Georgeo’s Family: The first place for dinner that we were recommended was Georgeo’s Family. A restaurant overlooking the harbour, and although it is together with the other tourist shops and restaurant taverns, it stands out by far. Its seafood was some of the freshest we tried, the Epirotiki pie was a must that we had been asking for since the beginning of our trip, and everything we tried was delicious. We were won over by the prompt and pleasant service and how cheerful they were, despite the workload in the middle of August.

Ostria: The food is very thoughtful, catering for every taste, even for the most discerning customer, from seafood, various meats, and even a vegetarian menu. We suggest you book a table before you go and ask for the “Ancient Greece” menu.

Melenio: For those of us who are ice cream lovers, this shop may have been one of the reasons why we chose to visit Sivota. It is located in the center, among the tourist shops, in a very central location. You will immediately know it is the one by the queues of customers that form from morning till night. It is mainly famous for the most delicious machine-made ice cream, the dozens of fresh ice cream flavours, and also for the various other desserts you can combine. Also, its location is perfect for sitting at its tables and enjoying your coffee.

Mediterraneo: A beautiful and stylish place with an Italian flavour. It is a well-known restaurant on the main street with shops, where there is usually a queue, but it is worth the wait. The portions are satisfying in size, and the wood-fired oven makes all the difference in baking the pizza. The pasta was delicious, and the dough on the pizza was thin, making it a perfect Italian restaurant.

Greek Steak House: Despite being a tourist spot, it offers quality at a reasonable price. The dishes are traditional Greek with a gourmet touch. 

Stavedo: It is the shop that manages the beach loungers, but also provides many breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. In addition to your meals, of course, you can choose from coffee, drinks, and cocktails. The prices are affordable, and the place is very well kept, with a lawn, parking, and quiet, despite a large number of visitors and boats.

Accommodation in Sivota

For our accommodation in Sivota, we chose Sivotahomes, which is right in the centre of the area. From the first moment, we were delighted with how close it was to all the places of interest we had seen and wanted to visit. Despite how centrally located it is, we didn’t experience any daytime hustle and bustle, and it was very important to us, as we were with our son, who was 1 year old.

The walk to the harbour is about 7 minutes, passing tourist shops, supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants. Another great advantage is that there is organised parking next to the rooms. In this area, free parking spaces are provided for those staying in the rooms, which are in the shade all day long due to the large and dense trees at the entrance of the rooms.

We were welcomed by Mrs. Nana, and from the first moment we felt the hospitality. We entered a stylish room which was decorated very aesthetically and beautifully. The room was quite spacious, which we needed since we had our luggage and the baby’s things. We were able to move around very comfortably and were not restricted at all.

But the most important thing for us, as parents with a baby, was cleanliness. Especially because he was a toddler and wanted to crawl all over the place, we cared a bit more. Luckily, the room was very clean, and we didn’t encounter any issues. There was great consistency in the cleanliness part, and in changing bedding daily.

So on the amenities side, there was an equipped kitchen with all the necessary utensils and kitchenware, and it made it very easy for us to prepare the baby’s meals, as well as our morning coffee and snacks. The Wi-Fi was free and fast in all areas of the room. The air conditioning system, essential for the high temperatures in August, was fully functional and centrally regulated for all rooms.

Outside the accommodation, there was a BBQ that could be used by guests, as well as a mini playground for families with children.

We didn’t miss anything from our room at Sivotahomes, and we were 100% satisfied. It was the best choice we could have made for our stay in Sivota, and for anyone planning to visit, we highly recommend it!

For more accommodation options in Sivota, ranging from budget studios to luxury villas, browse all available properties on Booking.com. We recommend booking well in advance for July and August as Sivota fills up quickly during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions