12 BEST Things to Do in Serifos (Greece)

Far away from the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini is a beautiful Greek island that few travel to. On the streets of Serifos you’ll find repeat Greek travelers as it’s not on many first timers hit list.

Though venture here and you’ll be well rewarded as Serifos is known for its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet and tranquil getaway, away from the hustle and bustle of more touristy islands. There are plenty of things to do in Serifos from stunning beaches to hilltop towns, it’s easy to have a memorable time here. An authentic Greek experience lies here!

Where is Serifos?

Serifos is a Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades, a group of islands in the southern part of the Aegean. Specifically, Serifos is situated in the western part of the Cyclades, between the islands of Kythnos and Sifnos.

How to Get to Serifos?

Serifos is a small island and lacks an airport. This means the only way to access Serifos is via boat. It’s best to fly into Athens International Airport (ATH), and then proceed by ferry (approximately 3 hours) to reach Serifos.

Serifos is well connected to other Cycladic islands via the ferries. It’s best to check schedules on Ferry Hopper as ferries do not run to Serifos every day, depending on which island you are coming from.

We traveled to Serifos from Syros via ferry, after Serifos we ventured onto Sifnos on our grand tour of the Cyclades.

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Best Things to do in Serifos

1. Visit Chrysoloras Winery

When in Serifos, you just can’t leave without trying some of the local wine and the place to do that is at Chrysoloras Winery. Wine tastings are offered every evening and you can also enjoy a tour of the facility and learn about how the organic wine is made. Did I mention the views that you’ll enjoy with your delicious wine are fabulous too?

2. Spend your Days at the Beach

There are more than 70 Greek beaches on the island of Serifos and each one is different but they’re all beautiful. If you prefer one that has facilities, Livaldi Beach and Livadakia Beach are your best bets.

Psilli Ammos is great for swimming with its clear, shallow water and soft sand, and Avlomonas and Lividakia are crowded with a livelier atmosphere. If you’re seeking seclusion, head to Malliadiko, Avessalos, or Platis Gialos. 

3. Check out the White Tower

The White Tower is old. Having been built around 300 BC, it’s incredibly old! While you won’t be able to go inside the tower, you can admire its marble two-meter walls from the outside and while you’re there, take in those spectacular views that surround this hilltop location. 

4. Explore the Main Town of Chora  

One of the best things to do in Greece is explore the hilltop town of Chora on Serifos. Whitewashed homes perched along a mountainside bordering a scenic harbor, remnants of stone walls from a time when pirate attacks were a constant threat, cobblestone walkways, narrow lanes and a variety of bakeries and shops are just some of the sights you’ll see as you walk around Chora.

The town is lively too with locals dining outside and children playing.  You can’t really get lost here, but it’s certainly fun to try! Be sure to check both the lower and upper parts of town and you never know what you’ll find!

The best time to head up this hilltop town is around sunset, though you certainly won’t be alone as the goes down. Head up here with a drink and a camera and enjoy the stunning views over Serifos.

5. Watch the Sun Set in Megalo Livadi

It’s been said many times that the best place in Serifos to watch the sun go down is in the south coast town of Megalo Livadi, but the only way you’ll know for sure is if you check it out for yourself!

There are many peaceful, scenic places to sit and wait for that magical moment when the sun reaches the turquoise sea and disappears beneath the horizon, leaving behind a sky filled with vibrant colors. 

6. Make your own Pottery

The Play with Clay courses at Kerameio are offered during the summer and provide a fun way to get creative and learn about how traditional Greek Pottery is made. The best part is the hands-on experience that allows you to create your own!

7. Go Hiking Along the Mining Trail

One of the best things to do in Serifos is go hiking! Mining was once a top industry in Serifos, but all that remains of those workings are some abandoned buildings and equipment. Today, visitors can explore the mining history of the island with a hike along the Mining Trail near the bay in Megalo Livadi.

The contrast between nature and industrial remnants is something to see.  As you explore the area, you’ll even see some of the old mining caves.   

8. Admire the Views from Grias Castle

The walk to Grias Castle is a steep one from Koutalas but it’s worth the effort! This castle has stood at this location since the 1400s and today is a popular spot to enjoy views of the Aegean Sea and distant islands of Sifnos, Paros, Milos, Mykonos and several other Cycladic islands.

The best time to visit is just before sunset as the walk will be easier later in the day when the temperatures aren’t as hot. You’ll be able to see that spectacular view as the sun goes down and everything takes on that golden hue. 

9. Visit the Many Churches

Would you believe that there are over 100 churches on just this small little island? Many of them are situated in scenic areas and have fascinating histories behind them so visitors make it a mission to take a day or two to just explore these sites.

One of the most famous churches is The Virgin Mary Church of Skopani which combines a picturesque setting with incredible architecture.  Agios Konstantinos is another must-see. 

10. Visit the Monastery of Taxiarches

In northern Serifos, you’ll find the Monastery of Taxiarches, constructed in the 16th century. This castle-like structure with its high walls features a stunning interior and an equally stunning location surrounded by beautiful scenery. 

11. Check out the Local Nightlife 

Even in a small place like Serifos, the nightlife heats up in the summer! Whether you’re seeking a wild and crazy night of dancing at Batraxos or the Yacht Club or you prefer a low-key evening sipping wine and cocktails on a rooftop bar or while taking in some soothing jazz at a local lounge, the bar scene goes on into the wee hours of the night between June and early September.

If you’re an early bird, grab a meal and a few drinks at one of the taverns before checking out the evening scene at Pano Piatsa or taking a stroll around Chora.

All that being said Serifos is not Santorini, Crete, or Corfu, and if you visit outside of the high season you’ll find most places shut up shop until summer rolls around again. We visited Serifos in late September and were shocked by how quiet it was already!

12. Feast on Delicious Cuisine at Aloni 

For a small island, there are many places to enjoy a great meal on Serifos but Aloni is a favorite with both locals and visitors. This amazing restaurant specializes in traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.

It’s also known for its reasonable prices and exquisite service and atmosphere. Enjoy your meal outside on the scenic terrace that looks out over the harbor and follow with a delicious, homemade dessert and local wine. 

how Many Days Do You Need on Serifos?

We spent three days on Serifos and could have used a bit more time on the island. It gave us enough time to hit a few beaches and relax, but not enough time to go hiking or enjoy all that the island has to offer.

At the bare minimum I would suggest staying on Serifos at least three days before moving on. An ideal time would be 5 days.

An Ideal Cyclades Itinerary

Serifos is connected other islands in the Cylades via the ferry. We would recommend combining Serifos with at least two other Greek Islands on your trip? We personally have been to many islands in the Cyclades and spend the month of September every year traveling Greece. On this past trip to Serifos our itinerary went something like this:

Paros: 10 Days (as we got married on the island)

Naxos: 4 Days

Tinos: 4 Days

Syros: 3 Days

Serifos: 3 Days

Sifnos: 3 Days

Milos: 3 Days

When is the Best Time to Visit Serifos?

While we often suggest traveling in the off season, doing this on Serifos would be a mistake. The island is prime between June and late September. However, by October the island starts getting very quiet and many tourist oriented establishments shut for the season. Sure, this means a quiet more local time however the atmosphere will be completely changed with less things to do in Serifos.

Hotels close, restaurants close, and even the ferry schedules become more limited. It’s best to travel to Serifos between June and September – don’t worry – this island is nothing like Santorini and Mykonos and sees far fewer crowds.

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I hope you enjoyed this guide on what to do on Serifos! Hopefully you found it useful. Here are a few relevant articles for more travel around Greece!