Serifos: the Perfect Quiet Greek Island

whitneykamerzel
May 13
8 min read

Serifos: the Perfect Quiet Greek Island

Your guide to the best travel tips, beaches, and hotels

There are islands that dazzle with their fame, and then there’s Serifos — quiet, underrated, and full of secrets. Tucked into the Aegean like a forgotten dream, this Cycladic island whispers mythology through its hills and fortress-like villages. It’s the kind of place that rewards stillness. That demands noticing.

Serifos has been many things: a mythic backdrop, a place of exile, a pirate-plagued outpost, and a mining hub. Yet it has somehow remained untouched — its beaches raw and golden, its villages whitewashed and weathered.

I look for places that have the views, the food, and the soul—without the crowds that usually make it hard to experience any of those things. This lesser-known Cycladic island is the perfect destination for travelers seeking peace, authentic Greek culture, and a touch of adventure.

A Short History

Serifos has a rich history which spans all the way back to prehistoric times. The first signs of inhabitation are traced to the 7th century BC. It is also alluded to in Greek mythology as the site of Odyssean adventures as well as the popular story of Persues and Medusa. It was a flourishing island during antiquity until eventually it fell under Roman rule, who used it as a place of exile. Serifos also suffered from numerous bouts of piracy which influenced the architecture. This will be readily apparent in all of the remaining structures on the island such as the Monastery of Taxiarches and Chora Castle that were designed with fortress-like features to ensure protection from looters.

How to Get to Serifos

Serifos doesn’t have an airport, which helps preserve its untouched charm. To get there, take a ferry from Athens' port of Piraeus. High-speed ferries can reach the island in about two hours, while conventional ferries take around four. During summer, multiple daily departures make Serifos really accessible. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season.

Alternative Routes: Island Hopping

Serifos is well-connected to other Cycladic islands such as Milos and Sifnos that you can visit before or after with short ferry rides.

Important: The ferries in Greece can be cancelled on short notice due to weather conditions. This is rare, but I always recommend having at least one last buffer day in Athens. Don’t book ferries on the same day you fly.

Driving in Serifos: While Serifos isn’t a large island, having a rental car is essential for fully exploring its winding roads, remote beaches, and easily getting up to the Chora without an extended hike. I’m just coming back from a weekend of driving all over the island. The roads are in very good condition (and I've driven through much of Greece), though some beach access points involve unpaved paths. Parking is easy, even in peak season. A compact car is ideal and surprisingly fun to drive!

Getting to my hotel, Petrino Serifos, involved driving a few minutes on winding roads, but it’s something you get used to very quickly in Greece and will be necessary if you choose a hotel with a spectacular view. By the second day, you’ll find the driving here is actually fun!!

Lastly, if you are wanting to hire a car on Serifos island, make sure you pre-book, especially in the summer season. While Serifos is a pretty quiet island in Greece, there are a limited number of rental cars on the island, especially if you prefer an automatic. You can rent your car in advance through Discover Cars.

Things to Do in Serifos

Explore the Hilltop Town of Chora

Chora is known as one of the most picturesque white-washed villages in the Cyclades. The medieval settlement winds uphill, amphitheatrically arranged as if the homes themselves wanted a view of the Aegean. It was built to defend against pirates, which is why the architecture feels more fortress than village.

How to get there:

Hike the scenic trail from Livadi, called 1A, winding past chapels and panoramic viewpoints. Before the main road was paved, these “skala” steps used to be the only way for villagers to travel back and forth from the Chora. The hike is about an hour.
I’m an adventurous gal, but those steps looked intimidating in the heat. Instead, I drove up and explored on foot through cobbled lanes, Cycladic houses, and charming squares. There are lots of safe places to park on the way!

Places you must visit in the Chora:

Castle and church – At the summit, find Agios Konstantinos, the tiny white chapel at the highest point — perfect for catching sunset with one of the most iconic views of Serifos as the light melts into the sea. This is also where the castle ruins are.
The main square – It comes out of nowhere right when you’re completely lost in small narrow alleys. Visit Stou Stratou for coffee and Gaidaros Bar for a cocktail, local rose, or a warm rakomelo. There’s also some small boutiques with reasonable prices you won’t find on some of the busier islands ;)

Keramio Pottery – handmade pieces that feel like the island’s earth in your hands.
Balkoni Café – small, charming, and attached to the pottery studio — the kind of place where you sip slowly and let time dissolve.
Restaurants: Food with a view at Aloni or catch the last glow from Oi Plakes.

Explore the Most Beautiful Beaches and Coves

Psili Ammos Beach

Serifos is a beach lover’s paradise, boasting more than 70 beaches and hidden coves:

Psili Ammos – Sometimes called the best beach in Greece (a huge statement, but I agree!), you can expect powdery golden sand, shallow turquoise waters, and pine trees to rest under for shade.
- Pair this with lunch at Stefanakos Tavern and you won’t regret it. Because of the outdoor facilities in the taverna, this beach is family friendly. Here's the view from lunch:

Agios Sostis – Twin beaches separated by a narrow strip, one wild, one still. A tiny whitewashed chapel watches over both. Park wherever you can and walk — the quiet is worth it.
Vagia – Serene, pebbled, and protected—a great place to unwind or visit with a happy hour beverage close to sunset. Easy parking. Of course I spent my evening looking for seaglass:

Ganema & Koutalas – Remote and peaceful, ideal for sunset seekers.
Livadakia – Family-friendly in the main beach town and close to tavernas and amenities.

Wander through Livadi, the Main Harbor

Livadi, Serifos’ charming port town where the ferry drops you off, feels like a quaint little beach town, with its laid-back marina lined with tavernas, shops, and local markets. Here, you can watch the boats gently sail in and out while enjoying dinner at a seaside table just a few feet from the water. Don't forget:

Coffee at the Yacht Club, an iconic hangout
Lunch or dinner at Axinos or Takis right on the water
Shopping for some traditional products:
- Glikoaromata Serifou – for traditional sweets made by hand.
- Glikisma – grab a box of amigdalota, delicate almond delights.
- Mitata – for Serifos graviera, cheeses, and cured local meats. Serifos’ bees produce a unique honey, owing to the heavy concentration of thyme and wild lavender on the island.

Savor Serifos' Culinary Delights

Serifos may be small, but its food scene is exceptional:

Enjoy local revithada (slow-baked chickpeas), marathopita (fennel pie), and fresh seafood.
Try a glass of rakomelo or serifiotiko wine at a beach taverna or village kafeneio.
Favorite spots include To Bakakaki in Livadi for grilled meats and Stou Stratou in Chora for sunset dinners and island specialties.

Visit the Monastery and a Local Winery

Taxiarches Monastery - Drive inland to the Monastery of Taxiarches, dedicated to the archangels Michael and Gabriel — the protectors of the island. Over 500 years old, it’s home to some incredible frescoes that the priest will tell you all about. Its fortress-like design makes sense as it was the main frontier against pirates.
Chrysoloras Winery is right next door. On your way back, stop here for a tasting with a view. Their vines grow in wild, herbal soil — thyme and lavender infuse even the honey here. You can check their website and send them an email to schedule a tasting here. There are tours twice a day in Greek in English, but because it’s a quiet place they will likely give you a tour anyway. Prepare to chill out, take in the gorgeous view, and don’t forget to try (and take a bottle home) of the unique dessert wine.

Discover Megalo Livadi and Serifos’ Mining Past

Megalo Livadi is a quiet coastal village with a fascinating industrial history. Once the center of Serifos’ mining activity, its rusted equipment and crumbling buildings tell the story of a bygone era, including the famous miners' strike in 1916.

Today, it's a peaceful place to visit, especially at sunset—arguably the best on the island—when the sky glows gold over the bay and abandoned ruins. It’s a hauntingly beautiful spot that captures Serifos’ unique blend of history and natural charm.

Where to Stay in Serifos

For a balanced experience, stay near Livadi, the island’s port town, where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and easy beach access. The Chora, while stunning to visit on a daytrip, is quieter and doesn’t have enough restaurants to sustain you for more than a night or two. To truly soak in the island’s magic, stay at an accommodation close to Livadi and ideally located up high so you can get a spectacular view and an amazing sunset right from home.

Petrino Serifos is one of my favorite accommodations ever, it offers panoramic views of the island and Aegean Sea. It’s a 20 minute walk to Livadi’s restaurants and shops, but I recommend renting a car so you don’t have to walk and you can use this as your base for exploring the island. It’s so great that I also recommend saving a whole night to cook at the villa to soak up the sunset and the view.

Serifos: A Place to Breathe Again

In a world where popular destinations can often feel overwhelming, Serifos remains a sanctuary of serenity and one of the quieter islands in Greece. Its unspoiled beauty and warm hospitality create the perfect holiday destination for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Whether you’re lounging on a sun-kissed beach, wandering through timeless villages, or savoring the island’s culinary delights, Serifos invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and embrace the simple pleasures of life.

Serifos is more than just a destination; it’s a journey to the heart of the Cyclades, keeping its authenticity and offering everything that is so wonderful about Greece.

FAQs: Serifos Travel Guide

When is the best time to visit?

May through early October. In early May everything will be quieter but not too quiet and the weather will be perfect. July and August are the busy season, which is still much less busy than the nearby islands. June, September, and October have perfect weather without the crowds.

What are the must-see attractions?

The main Chora (whitewashed city) and its hilltop castle
Psili Ammos Beach
Taxiarches Monastery & Chrysoloras Winery
Livadi marina

What are the best beaches?

Psili Ammos
Agios Sostis
Vagia
Ganema
Livadakia

What local dishes should I try?

Revithada (baked chickpeas)
Marathopita (fennel pie)
Local cheeses
Fresh octopus and seafood
Rakomelo or serifiotiko wine

Are there any festivals in Serifos?

Yes! Traditional panigiria (village festivals) take place in the summer, especially around religious holidays like August 15th, with music, dancing, and local food.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Serifos?

Hiking scenic trails to beaches or Chora
Swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters
Sunset sailing or renting a boat from the main harbor, Livadi
Wine tasting

How can I get around Serifos?

The best way is by rental car. There is a local bus in summer, but it’s limited.

Is Serifos family friendly?

Absolutely! The calm beaches, safe atmosphere, and laid-back vibe make it a great choice for families with children.

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