This time, for our family vacation, we chose the beautiful island of Serifos. The island is part of the Cyclades and is located near Kythnos, Syros, and Sifnos. It’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to avoid mass tourism.
Serifos boasts numerous beaches with crystal-clear waters that will satisfy every visitor, with over 70 to choose from. In Livadi, where the port is located, and in the island’s Chora, you’ll find most of the shops, restaurants, and bars. Below, we’ll delve into everything we saw, experienced, and learned about the island, so you’ll have all the information you need before visiting for the first time.
General Information
- Serifos, as previously mentioned, is part of the Cyclades and is renowned for its natural beauty and traditional charm.
- According to mythology, Serifos was the homeland of Perseus and the place where he defeated Medusa.
- The island’s capital, Chora, is built on a hill that offers stunning views. Other major settlements include Livadi and Koutalas. The highest peak on the island is Mount Troulos, which reaches an altitude of 580 meters.
- Serifos has a history closely tied to mining, with some of the old tunnels and facilities still standing today.
How to Get to Serifos
The only way to reach Serifos is by ferry from Piraeus, as the island does not have an airport. The journey takes about 2.5 hours by high-speed ferry and around 4.5 hours by conventional ferry. Ferries run frequently, especially during the summer months, providing several options throughout the day. For available schedules and prices, you can check here.
Transportation on Serifos
Car/Motorbike Rental: Due to the high cost of ferry transportation, many people choose to rent a vehicle on the island. You can opt for a scooter for convenience or a car for comfort and longer distances. During our stay in Serifos, we decided to rent the new electric Microlino, which is a “big hit” on the island. It offers long battery autonomy, charges quickly, and its small size is ideal for parking and navigating narrow streets.
Bus: Bus routes are frequent during the summer tourist season, but they don’t cover all destinations, and the schedules can be limiting. The current timetable can be found in Livadi and Chora. You can purchase bus tickets directly from the driver.
Taxi: Taxis are available in Livadi and Chora, and you can also call one to pick you up from a specific location. They are a good option for shorter trips or if you prefer not to rent a car.
Boat: Renting a boat is well worth it, as with any island, to visit beaches that are not accessible by vehicle. You can choose a group tour or rent a boat individually, and with some companies, no special license is required.
Best Beaches in Serifos
Ganema
This beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles on its two sides, with crystal-clear waters. If you arrive early, you’ll have the chance to find shade under the tamarisk trees on one side of the beach (plus easier parking). On the opposite side, where there are also a few trees, you’ll find a restaurant where you can grab coffee and snacks as well.
Vagia
Vagia is a beautiful sandy beach located just a few minutes before Ganema, which we described above. The disadvantage of this beach is the lack of natural shade, so you’ll need to bring your own equipment. The sand is mixed with small pebbles, and the waters are exceptionally clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
Psili Ammos
One of the most famous beaches in Serifos, has shallow waters and golden sand, making it an ideal spot for families. The tamarisk trees provide natural shade, but parking can be challenging during midday, so it’s best to arrive early. There are no umbrellas or sunbeds available, but there are taverns nearby where you can enjoy a meal after your swim. You can also visit the nearby Agios Ioannis beach, which is usually less crowded.
Kalo Ambeli
Kalo Ambeli is perfect for those seeking tranquility. The beach features crystal-clear waters, fine pebbles, and rocky surroundings. There is no shade or shops, so be sure to bring your equipment, water, and snacks. Access to the beach is via a footpath (about 20 minutes from the small church of Sotiras), or you can reach it by boat.
Lia Beach
Lia Beach is a small, pebbly beach known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Located on the road to Agios Sostis, you turn slightly earlier at the sign for the beach and then walk down. The beach is unorganized and lacks natural shade, but the clean waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling if you bring your own gear.
Agios Sostis
Agios Sostis is another well-known and beautiful beach in Serifos, named after the small church found there. The beach features soft sand and shallow waters, making it ideal for couples and families. Essentially, it’s two beaches separated by a narrow strip of sand.
One side has tamarisk trees for shade and sand, while the other is pebbly. There is parking available, but it can get crowded during midday. Be cautious on the dirt road, especially with smaller cars, as it can be tricky. It’s recommended to park higher up and walk down. When we visited, we saw several people having difficulty climbing back up the dirt road.
Platis Gialos
Located on the northeastern side of Serifos, between the Monastery of the Archangels and Panagia Skopiani, Platis Gialos is situated within its namesake bay. The bay actually hosts three beaches: Mesianos, Vorinos, and Platis Gialos. After the main road, you’ll need to follow a dirt road for about 2km, and the final stretch is steep, so extra caution is required. Access is easy to all three beaches, although reaching Vorinos requires a bit more walking. The waters are clear and blue, with tamarisk trees providing shade and a shop in Mesianos for supplies.
Sykamia
Sykamia is located in its namesake settlement, where several hiking trails end, and is one of the largest beaches on the island. It’s ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, as it typically has fewer visitors. The beach features fine sand mixed with small pebbles, clean waters, and tamarisk trees for shade. The only concern is the wind, as the beach is located on the northern side of the island. It’s advisable to check the weather before heading there. The distance from Chora is about 10km.
Livadakia
Livadakia is one of the most popular beaches in Serifos, known for its golden sand and turquoise waters. Surrounded by tamarisk trees that provide natural shade, it’s ideal for both young people and families. The beach is easily accessible, close to the port, and in the namesake settlement, you’ll find cafes and restaurants.
What to Do in Serifos
Visit Chora (Serifos Town)
Chora, the main town of Serifos, is perched on a hill and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The town is characterized by its traditional Cycladic architecture, featuring whitewashed houses, blue rooftops, and narrow, cobblestone streets.
You’ll find the most activity in Chora, as well as in Livadi, where most of the shops, restaurants, and nightlife spots are located. In the morning, the town is peaceful, with many people still asleep or at the beach, making it a perfect time to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy your coffee in the central square.
Explore the Serifos Mines
Serifos has a rich mining history that dates back to ancient times. However, working conditions in the mines were extremely harsh, and according to historians of the time, thousands of workers lost their lives in the mine tunnels. The conditions were brutal, and there was a significant lack of safety measures.
You can visit the old mines at Megalo Livadi, where you can see the remnants of the mining facilities and learn about the island’s industrial past. The museum provides detailed information and exhibits, including photographs and tools used by the miners
Hike the Trails
Serifos is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts. The island is crisscrossed by numerous trails that offer breathtaking views of the sea and rugged landscape. The highest point on the island is the peak of Troulos, which reaches 587 meters. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of Serifos and the surrounding islands. Below are some suggested trails with their respective distances:
- Agia Marina – Ormos Koutala: 2.2 km
- Gyftika – Panagia: 4 km
- Livadi – Chora Castle – Plateia Mylon: 2.6 km
- Pyrgos – Galani – Sikamia: 3.7 km
- Mining Tunnel: 920 m
Another well-known route, starting from Chora, is the Psaropyrgos & Cyclops Cave trail, covering a distance of 11.8 km. The Psaropyrgos is made up of large stones, measuring 8 meters in length and 4 meters in width. Nearby is the cave of the famous Cyclops Polyphemus, known from Greek mythology, although it is no longer accessible.
Visit the Monastery of Taxiarches
The Monastery of Taxiarches, located in the village of Galani, is one of the most significant religious sites on the island. Founded in the 16th century, the monastery is dedicated to the archangels Michael and Gabriel. The interior of the church is adorned with impressive frescoes and icons, and the monastery houses a collection of religious artifacts.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Discover the underwater beauty of Serifos through diving and snorkeling in the island’s crystal-clear waters. You can find a diving center in the settlement of Livadi.
Attend Festivals and Cultural Events
Serifos hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. During the summer, local festivals, or “panigiria,” take center stage. One of the most significant celebrations is the Feast of the Assumption on August 15th. Additionally, there are other festivals honoring the island’s saints, featuring food, wine, and dancing.
For sports enthusiasts, the Serifos Sunset Race is a notable event. This unique running race takes place at sunset along the island’s picturesque routes. Other local traditions include the “Kapetania,” related to the Carnival, and the “Kounies,” celebrated on Easter Sunday.
In summer, you’ll also have the chance to experience the Serifos Festival, which invites visitors to the theater in Kato Chora. Every year, well-known artists participate, and various artistic events are held.
Food and Beverage in Serifos
Serifos, a beautiful island in the Cyclades, offers a delightful array of dining and drinking options. Here are some recommended places:
Seriani Restobar
In the central square of Chora, you’ll find Seriani Restobar, a place offering an unforgettable culinary experience in Serifos. Chef Dimitris Aivaliotis combines traditional flavors with high-quality products from local producers, elevating the gastronomic experience.
During our visit, we started with beloved dishes such as tzatziki, spicy feta cream with carob and cherry tomato jam, Serifos salad with local mizithra cheese, and cheese croquettes with tomato jam.
For main courses, we chose the tender rooster with handmade pasta and Serifos mizithra cheese, as well as moussaka baked in a clay dish with roasted vegetables and beef mince. For dessert, we were recommended a delicious combination of galaktoboureko cream, crispy kataifi, and ice cream.
Stou Stratou
Located in the central square of Chora, offers a refreshing take on the traditional Greek café with a youthful twist. The staff is friendly and efficient, managing to serve quickly despite the busy workload. You can enjoy your coffee or a small snack here at reasonable prices. The café is adjacent to other small shops in the central square, and the area is lively in the afternoon.
Veranda
At Veranda, you can savor the best souvlaki on Serifos while enjoying the most stunning views. The staff is courteous, prices are reasonable, and taste is paramount. Just be mindful of the wind conditions before you go, as strong winds can be bothersome.
Lepi Lepi
Lepi Lepi is the best tavern for a delightful dining experience by the sea with great views. The menu focuses on fresh fish and seafood, aiming to present a modern yet familiar take on seafood cuisine.
We visited Lepi Lepi after our swim and started our meal with Santorini fava and the restaurant’s salad featuring small shrimp, rocket leaves, avocado, peach, ginger, and hazelnuts. We continued with a fantastic tsirosalad (mackerel fish) on a baked potato, and for the main courses, we had spaghetti with crab meat and fresh, perfectly cooked sea bass fillet. The staff was very polite, and the service was swift.
Gaidaros
One of the most popular nightlife spots on the island, Gaidaros offers a vibrant atmosphere nestled in the charming alleys of Chora. Located in the heart of Serifos, it’s a hotspot where locals and visitors gather until the early hours for dancing and drinks.
Vatrachos
Another great place to spend your evenings in Serifos is Vatrachos. Situated just before you climb the steps to Chora’s central square, the interior can be a bit crowded at night. However, this is of little consequence compared to the perfection of their cocktails!
Chill & Co.
Located in Livadi near the port and next to the KTEL bus stop, Chill & Co. is an excellent choice for a morning brunch. The place has a fantastic ambiance with stylish decor, and the staff is very friendly. During our visit, a DJ was playing music, adding to the lively atmosphere. We enjoyed scrambled eggs and pancakes, both of which were delicious.
Accommodation in Serifos
The same company that we mentioned earlier for renting the Microlino, also offers accommodation options in Serifos. At Camaraki, you’ll find various traditional houses that allow you to experience the true Cycladic hospitality.
During our stay, we chose the Yellow House (as you can see from the image below!). It is literally just a minute away from the central square of Chora, and there is also a public parking lot nearby in case you have rented a vehicle.
The rooms were clean, and both the interior and exterior of the house evoked a sense of traditional charm that we really enjoyed. Inside the house, you’ll find amenities such as a kettle, toaster, refrigerator, dishes and glasses, tea supplies, and a hairdryer. The host, Marios, is exceptionally kind and friendly, and he will provide you with all the necessary information about the island, as well as the rooms and cars.
Useful Sites & apps
In the last few years we have been travelling we have singled out some applications, which we use before every trip or during it. We have chosen them over others for their validity, ease of use, and variety in the options they have to offer. We describe below in detail what these are together with their characteristics.
Hotels.com
Hotels.com is a leading provider of hotel accommodation worldwide, offering booking services through its own network of localised websites. Once you reach 10 nights, you’ll have a free night which you can apply at checkout. You can earn multiple free nights by continuing to book with Hotels.com, though. The platform gives travellers one of the widest selections of accommodation on the net, including both independent and major chain hotels as well as self-catering in over hundreds of thousands properties worldwide. The company offers a one-stop shopping source for hotel pricing, amenities and availability. Find the best deals here.
Booking.com
Booking.com is a popular online booking platform for accommodations worldwide. With a vast selection of hotels, apartments, villas, and more, Booking.com offers travellers the convenience of finding and booking their ideal stay in just a few clicks. The site’s user-friendly interface and extensive filtering options make it easy to narrow down search results based on specific preferences such as price, location, amenities, and more. As a result, Booking.com has become a go-to destination for travellers looking for hassle-free booking options. With competitive pricing and a loyalty program that rewards repeat bookings, Booking.com is a top choice for travellers seeking great deals and a seamless booking experience. Check available rooms and prices here.
Ferryscanner
For ferry tickets to all of Greece as well as destinations like Italy and Turkey. Immediate service and cooperation with the largest services in Greece.
Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a leading global travel search engine, helping millions of travellers find the best flights, hotels and car rentals. With a user-friendly interface and powerful search technology, Skyscanner makes it easy to compare prices and options across hundreds of travel providers, giving you the best deals for your trip. From budget to luxury, domestic to international, Skyscanner has everything you need to plan your next adventure. So whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, start your journey with Skyscanner and discover the world like never before. Available flights and prices can be found here.
TripAdvisor
Tripadvisor helps hundreds of millions of people each month become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby. Find available offers and booking your accommodation here.
Discover Cars
DiscoverCars.com offers a hassle-free car rental booking experience, with a wide range of rental car options available worldwide. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates, 24/7 customer support, and flexible cancellation policies. With no hidden fees and a user-friendly interface, booking your rental car has never been easier. Choose from a variety of car rental options, including economy, luxury, and family-friendly vehicles, and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your next adventure. Book with DiscoverCars.com today and start exploring the world on your own terms!
