Serifos, Greece, is a Greek Island located in the Aegean Sea on the western side of the Cyclades. By ferry, traveling from Athens to Serifos is only two hours away! In this complete island guide to Serifos, Greece, you will learn how to make the most of your time on this island.
Serifos Island is one of the most authentic Greek Islands I have visited.
I can’t say it is entirely untouched by mass tourism, but there is a noticeable difference from other busy islands not too far away.
Serifos is absolutely breathtaking, with its rugged hills, breathtaking coves, and the traditional architecture of those sugar-cubed houses just capturing the essence of beauty here.
The locals are incredibly welcoming, adding to the laid-back vibe that permeates the air.
Serifos is like a little Greek Island secret perfect for any solo traveler or couple looking to relax.
It’s the pristine beaches and the fewer tourists that keep me coming back to Serifos year after year!
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Complete Island Guide To Serifos, Greece
What you can expect from this guide is a snapshot of the best attractions this island has to offer!
I stayed on the Greek Island of Serifos for three nights before returning to Athens.
Three nights was the perfect amount of time for me to explore and relax fully.
I highly recommend this island from a solo female traveler’s perspective regarding safety. I felt very comfortable on my own on the island of Serifos. Never did I encounter anything awkward or unsafe.
⛴️ Looking for a Private Cruise in Serifos, Greece? Swim stops, snacks, and drinks are included!
How To Get To Serifos
There are no flights to Serifos as the island does not have an airport; the closest international airport is in Athens.
Travel to Serifos from Athens is only by ferry via the Aegean Sea.
The number of daily ferries to Serifos will depend on the season you are traveling.
The high travel season is summer with most ferries typically between May and September. I visited in September, just as the summer season was about to end.
From Piraeus port in Athens, ferries run to Serifos, Sifnos, Milos, and Kythnos most frequently.
Serifos is really close to Athens making it a spectacular location for a day trip.
Other Nearby Islands in the Aegean Sea
I don’t recommend visiting Serifos in the off-season, since the island mainly shuts down from October to May.
If you do plan to make a visit, research more to find out what establishments will be open.
Check with the hotel specifically as they know more than what Google Maps has to say about opening times.
In high season I would advise you to get ferry tickets in advance as they could sell out.
If island hopping is your plan, Serifos should fit into this itinerary very well.
And with the beaches on the island being the top attractions, all you need is good weather!
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Greek Mythology & Serifos
In Greek Mythology, Serifos is known as the “iron island” said to be first inhabited by the Cyclops. The throne of Cyclops located in Megalo Livadi is a large formation of stone that resembles an armchair.
Said to be the place where Cyclops would sit and look out at the Aegean Sea. Learning the legends and history can be a lot of fun!
To get to the Cyclops Throne, you will need to rent a car.
🗺️ Starting from the Port of Livadi you will be in the main seaside area of Livadi, where the ferry docks are located.
Head North and begin your journey by taking the main road out of Livadi.
You will be heading towards the island’s capital, Chora, which is perched on the hills above.
Before reaching the hilltop Chora, take the road that veers to the right (east) towards the beach of Psili Ammos.
The signage might indicate Psili Ammos or point towards beaches on the eastern side of the island.
Follow the Road to Psili Ammos and continue on this road as it winds through the island’s natural landscapes.
As you approach Psili Ammos, you will need to look for local signs or ask for directions to the “Throne of the Cyclops.”
The exact path may vary, and local advice is invaluable as signage might be minimal.
Depending on the most recent conditions and any changes to access paths, you may need to complete the final part of your journey on foot.
Complete Island Guide of Things to Do in Serifos, Greece
Explore Livadi
When you arrive in the port of Serifos, you arrive in the main town of Livadi!
This little port town has many great shops and restaurants to check out! Just get off the ferry, and you are about a minute’s walk to the main village.
Why not drop your bag at the hotel and head to a restaurant in Livadi for some sea views and delicious sardines?
All of my favorite restaurants in Serifos are listed below in this post!
Afternoon Yoga by the Trees
Yoga is a wonderful way to center and breathe into your vacation! Join this outdoor yoga class and meet some new people.
Private sessions are available by request! Check Rates & Availability, note there will be no available times in the off season. Return to this site closer to your arrival date.
Chill at the Beaches on the Island
The last leg of my trip was planned on Serifos so that I could sink into the sand on a comfy chair on the beach.
There a many beaches to check out here on the island.
Later in the travel guide, I will give you a complete list in more detail.
If you arrive in Serifos just ready to hit the sand, the most popular beach to hit is Livadi.
Here you will find a lovely beach within a minute’s walk of the main harbor!
Check Out The Panoramic View Atop The Town of Chora
From the port of Livadi, you can see the town of Hora in the distance. These white sugar-cubed houses are clustered together high upon the hill.
Lucky for you, there is a convenient bus that runs every 30 mins to take you to the top. It is a wonderful spot to explore and gaze out at the Aegean Sea.
For the official bus schedule, check here. The off-season will not run as frequently as it does in the summer months.
Chora should not be missed! You can spend an entire afternoon or evening exploring this village.
Here you will find some iconic Greek Windmills, idyllic churches, whitewashed houses, and the best panoramic view of all of Serifos!
The best shop in Hora is 100% Greek located in the main square.
Visit Ceramic Studio
The Kerameio studio in Serifos has the most beautiful handcrafted ceramics. Located in Hora, it will be the perfect addition to your visit to the area.
The studio hosts workshops each summer. Go to the contact page for more information.
Sunset Wine Tasting at Chrysoloras Winery
If you have the time and transportation, you must do a wine tasting at Chyrsoloras Winery.
The winery is only reachable by car and is at the end of a long dirt road. Taxis are not ideal for visiting the winery.
There are a limited number of taxis on the island, and the driver would need to wait there the whole time you are at the winery for you to ensure your ride back.
Renting a car in Serifos will be necessary to reach many of the beaches I will also recommend.
The tasting is from 6 pm to 9 pm, and you must make a reservation in advance.
The information for the winery can be found here.
Make a Visit to the Folklore Museum
A fun way to spend some time in Serifos is by checking out the folklore museum. Here you will find a collection of items from the past such as embroideries, antique furniture, traditional costumes, etc.
The admission is FREE and the hours are daily from 18:00 to 21:00, opening on Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 to 12:00 as well.
Rent a Boat For The Day
What better way to spend a day in Serifos than on a boat?! Lucky for you, some vendors rent boats by the day at the Livadi Marina.
Renting a boat can be a little expensive, but a once in a lifetime experience.
⛴️ Rent a Boat: Spend your day aboard a boat in the Aegean Sea! Check rates & availability!
Hiking Around on the Mining Trails
Serifos has a rich history of mining. The mining industry was in operation from 1880 to 1962.
They closed for business due to the decline in metal prices around the world.
Today you can visit the areas with the most amount of remnants in the villages between Megalo Livadi and Koutalas.
The best way to go hiking and reach the mining trails is to park your car off Megalo Livadi and walk towards the “Bridge to Nowhere.” From there, go walking and explore all around and enjoy the lush scenery.
This is a wonderful spot to go mountain biking! Discover all the beauty and nature on Serifos!
Since there are far fewer tourists, you will likely have the hilltop all to yourself!
Take a Day Trip to the Greek Island Sifnos
Looking to do a little island hopping? With the Greek Island of Sifnos 15 minutes away by ferry, make time for a day trip!
Sifnos has an incredible food scene and one of the best panoramic views at the top of Kastro.
I highly encourage you to discover the other islands close to Serifos!
One of the beaches on the island is Platis Gialos. You need to get a taxi or rent a car from the port.
Platis Gialos has some of the island’s best restaurants and shops. For everything Sifnos-related, read Best Guide to Sifnos Greece.
For ferries to Serifos and Sifnos, get ferry tickets here. If you decide to Greek Island Hop, don’t miss nearby islands like Milos!
Visit the Churches of Serifos
Serifos has as many as 120 churches on the island! One of the main churches on the island is the Church of Agios Konstantinos!
Located at the top of Kastro, you will find this is the highest point of Chora. Hiking to the top can be quite the workout, so bring water, sunscreen, and wear a hat!
Other notable churches on the island are:
Check Out the Castle of the Old Woman
The Castle of the Old Woman (Kastro tis Grias) is a historical site located on a conical rocky hill above Koutalas Bay, between Ganema and Koutalas beaches.
It was a fortified settlement with remains of an ancient wall and a few fortified positions still visible.
Getting to the top requires a bit of climbing and following a specific path.
Starting from Agia Marina, take the old path towards Reiki along the ridge, then branch off towards Koutalas or Ganema before the hill with the castle. Choose the path towards Ganema.
After about 500 meters, with the castle on your left, you’ll start climbing a steep, rocky slope.
The climb to the top (250 meters high) takes around 40 minutes, but you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Koutalas Bay and its two beautiful beaches.
Eat Traditional Food
I’ll be honest with you, I would rather go to a restaurant than a museum. So that should tell you a little bit about how much I love finding great food!
In Serifos, there is a lot of traditional food you must try! I recommend trying the fava and the Marthotiganites (fried fennel balls) and Revithada which is a delicious chickpea stew.
Best Beaches in Serifos
Beaches on the island of Serifos are some of the most beautiful of the Cyclades. Here is a complete guide to the beaches in Serifos, Greece.
Beaches Close to the Port
Livadakia Beach
This beach is close to the Livadi Port and is good on windy days. I enjoyed the comfortable chairs and close-by taverns serving up drinks and snacks.
Livadi (Serifos) Beach
Livadi Beach is a nice beach near the harbor. There are many umbrellas on this beach, usually associated with a restaurant that provides service for food and drinks!
Beaches in the South of Serifos
Kalo Ampeli
The beach is at the end of a dirt road that you will need to walk along a path to get there. To reach the beaches of the south, it is best to rent a car.
Kalo Ambeli is a perfect beach to watch the sunset. There is no shade, phone service, or restaurants at this beach. Also an incredible spot at night to gaze up at the starry sky!
Vagia Beach
This beach has deep water, great for swimming. You will find it is the closest beach to the Coco Mat Eco Residences.
The Lounge Bar is an excellent restaurant serving up the most delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Koutalás Beach
A small pebbled beach that is very private. You will get protection here on windy days. This beach does have a small tavern and snack bar.
Ganema Beach
A lovely long sandy beach with a great beach bar! It ok on windy days, only toward one end of the beach.
Malliádiko Beach
This would be considered the hippie beach in Serifos. You will find many people camping and may not be wearing clothes. The dirt road is not suitable for cars or scooters. It is better to reach this beach on foot.
Mega Livadi
This is not one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, but it has the most history. Close to the small mining town, it has a lot of charm. You will find there are three taverns here. Mega Livadi is a great beach to watch the sunset.
Beaches in the East of Serifos
Lia Beach
This is a nudist beach with no shade or taverns. If nude beaches are your thing, then check it out.
Agios Sostis Beach
One of the more beautiful beaches on the island. There are no taverns here but an incredible church up on the hill.
Psili Ammos
This amazing beach has fine white sand and shallow crystal blue waters. Psili Ammos Beach is straight out of a postcard. There are two taverns at this beach. Of the two, the more recommended tavern is Manolis.
Beaches of the North of Serifos
Platis Gialos
The gulf has three small beaches with a tavern on the top! Highly recommend checking out this area.
An incredible winery open from 6 pm to 9 pm is not too far from the beaches. It is called Chrysoloras Winery. This is a beautiful place to watch the sunset.
Sikamiá Beach
The only way to reach this beach is by boat trip. Very small and secluded with a nice cove.
Serifos Beach Essentials
☀️ Pack this sunscreen that doesn’t need to go in the liquids bag.
👒 Easily fit this hat into any bag without destroying it!
🎒 Don’t forget a bag that is sand-proof and waterproof!
🌎 Eco-Friendly Compostable wipes to remove saltwater!
The Best Restaurants in Serifos
Most of the restaurants I frequented on this trip were a minute’s walk from the Livadi port. They were all situated on the water with lovely sea views.
Serifos is not a fancy or pretentious place. You can leave the heels and fancy clothes for another island. Come as you are here in Serifos.
Lepi Lepi – Port Livadia $$
Lepi Lepi was my favorite restaurant in Serifos! The service was friendly and fast. You can’t beat the spectacular views during dinner. Go just before sunset to ensure you will get a table.
I tried the traditional dish Revithada and got sardines every time! I also recommend the zucchini balls!
Porto Vecchio – Port Livadia $$
Italian food in Greece? Serifos was my last leg of the trip, and after eating Greek food for two weeks, I was craving something else.
Porto Vecchio was the perfect spot to stray from my sardines and other Greek Island favorites.
I enjoyed an Aperol Spritz and some spicy penne arrabbiata! The restaurant also offers dining with sea views. Get there a little before sunset to snag a table on the beach!
Chill & Co. – Port Livadia $$
Chill & Co is the place you want to be for brunch! Delicious food with vegan options! They make a great iced latte if you want a caffeine fix.
Stylish and welcoming interiors I also found it a comfortable place to hang out while I waited for my ferry.
Chill & Co. is also a hotel, so keep that in mind when booking accommodations.
Stou Stratou – Chora $
Stou Stratou is your most traditional Greek cuisine. Cozy and idyllic ambiance.
Serving up all the favorites such as Greek Coffee, mixed plates of cheeses, potato salad, and seafood. You can also find Raki imported from Crete.
Thidira – Chora $$
Thidira is an excellent spot for tapas in the town hall of Chora. Also features some craft beers and creative cocktails.
There are a lot of local specialties to try on the Greek Island of Serifos.
The best traditional foods that Serifos are known for are the Fava, Marathotiganites (fried fennel balls), and chickpea stew (Revithada). Try the local fish as well, the best are squid, mullet, and swordfish.
Where to Stay in Serifos
Looking for the best hotels in Serifos? The options are limited if you are looking for boutique-style hotels. I like to stay close to the action, so I chose to stay near the port.
Most hotels here are very small, which isn’t a bad thing. It is just something to point out as star ratings are based on whether hotels offer room service. These small hotels don’t.
Pende Suites
($$)
I can’t recommend this place enough. When I return to Serifos, I will stay here again. Pende Suites was boutique hotel-like and affordable!
The room was so comfortable, conveniently close to everything, and stylish as hell.
The breakfast delivery basket was a unique little perk I wasn’t expecting. It is something I wish more places would do. I thought this was a really thoughtful touch! Check Rates & Availability
Chill & Co. Serifos | The Hotel
($$)
Chill & Co Serifos has the same owner as the Pende Suites, which I so highly recommend.
If you are looking for sea views close to the port, check it out!
Kalami Suites
($$$)
Kalami Suites is tucked back just a little bit from the main road off Livadakia Beach.
This Mediterranean-style hotel is lush with Serifian vibes. There are a few different styles of suites to choose from.
Coco-Mat Eco Residences
($$$)
For a truly luxurious stay on the island of Serifos, consider staying at Coco-Mat Eco Residences. You will find yourself ON THE BEACH in the most romantic setting.
The sunsets here will take your breath away. Staying at Coco-Mat, you will want to rent a car so that you can quickly get around the island. Check Rates & Availability
Customs & Etiquette Guide for Serifos
Tipping
In Greece, tipping is most appreciated. It is customary to tip 10%-15% of the bill. Tipping with cash or coin is preferred whenever possible.
Greetings
- “Kalimara” is good morning in Greek. (kah-lee-MER-ah) It is by far the phrase I hear most often.
- “Yassou” is Hello in Greek. (Yah-Su)
- “Efcharisto” is Thank You in Greek (Ef-caree-STO)
- “Parakalo” is Please & You’re Welcome in Greek (Par-aka-LOH)
Public Transit in Serifos
The public transit in Serifos is very limited. There is a bus that goes daily from the main square of Livadi to Chora.
The bus schedule is posted at the stop itself, and you can find the stop HERE.
Tickets are purchased on the bus.
Otherwise, you will need to get a taxi, also limited on the island. Renting a car is recommended on islands of this size.
Best Time to Visit Serifos
Most Greek Islands are too busy in the peak season of July and August, but Serifos is still like a hidden gem.
I would recommend visiting anywhere from July to Late September for the best weather!
Just be advised that Serifos is one of the smaller Greek islands that is not worth visiting in the winter and off-season.
Final Thoughts on Visiting the Greek Island of Serifos
Now that I have been living in Athens, I frequent the islands as much as possible. Visiting Serifos is something I highly recommend you do sooner rather than later!
Since the Greek Islands are gaining popularity year after year, you want to visit Serifos before it gets too crowded!
Serifos FAQ’s
A ferry to Serifos from Athens is the most efficient way to reach the island. The journey is approximately 2 hours, depending on the ferry.
No. Serifos does not have an airport. The best way to reach Serifos is by ferry.
If you are planning to island hop, plan for a minimum of 2 nights in Serifos. With 2 full days, you will see most of what Serifos has to offer.
If you are only visiting Serifos for a few days, and won’t have a car, stay in Livadia Port or Chora. These areas are close to one another and are surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
There is a lot to do in Serifos if you are traveling solo! I recommend renting a car and discovering the island’s many beaches and viewpoints. It is a really safe island for solo female travelers to explore!
Yes! Serifos is one of the 16 islands in the group of Greek Islands known as the Cyclades.
Sifnos and Serfios are two completely different islands but very close in proximity.
If you are looking for more upscale dining options I would choose Sifnos. If you are looking for the most incredible and secluded beaches, I would choose Serifos.
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Serifos looks stunning and would be a great addition to my itinerary when I go to Greece. Thanks for the inspiration!
I think one of those beach chairs has my name on it! What a beautiful place.
Serifos looks like a wonderful part of Greece – a country I’d love to visit one day! I enjoy finding out day trips and lookouts when I’m travelling so I’m glad you included them!
O wow! Another Greek island just added to the list that I still have to explore. Such a lovely guide and I love the restaurant suggestions!
Absolutely love your website and this detailed guide! I adore the maps you put together of the islands and can’t wait to put them to use for my trip.
Hi Melissa! What a lovely guide of Serifos! Thank you so much for mentioning my shop ‘100% Greek limited art editions’. For all your readers passing by I will provide a handrawn free map of Serifos and a Chora map.