Serifos is one of the most dramatic islands in the Cyclades — a rugged, rocky island with a spectacular hilltop Chora that looks like something from a fairy tale, wild landscapes that reward exploration and beaches that are among the finest in the island group. It is also one of the least visited, which makes it all the more rewarding.

The Island

Serifos is medium-sized — around 75 square kilometres — with a permanent population of around 1,500 people. The landscape is stark and beautiful: bare, rocky hills, terraced fields, ancient stone walls and a coastline of dramatic cliffs and sandy coves. The main settlement is Chora (also called Serifos Town), a spectacular whitewashed village perched on a rocky hill above the port of Livadi.

Sights and Attractions

Chora is the island's great attraction — one of the most dramatic Cycladic capitals, its whitewashed houses and windmills cascading down a steep rocky hill, with a ruined Venetian castle at the top. The views from the castle over the island and sea are extraordinary. The climb from Livadi takes around 45 minutes on foot — the old cobbled path is the best route.

The Monastery of Taxiarchis in the north of the island is a beautiful Byzantine foundation, still inhabited by monks, with a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts and icons.

The island has a significant mining history — iron ore was extracted here from antiquity until the 20th century, and the remains of the old mining infrastructure can be seen in several places.

Beaches

Serifos has excellent beaches. Livadi near the port is the most accessible — a long, sandy bay with clear water and good facilities. Psili Ammos on the south coast is one of the finest beaches in the Cyclades — a long stretch of fine sand with turquoise water. Agios Ioannis and Platis Gialos are quieter alternatives.

Hiking

Serifos has a network of old cobbled paths connecting the villages and beaches — some of the finest hiking in the Cyclades. The path from Chora to the Monastery of Taxiarchis takes around two hours and passes through beautiful, wild landscape.

Eating and Drinking

The tavernas in Livadi and Chora serve excellent local food. Takis in Livadi is the local favourite for fresh fish; Stou Stratou in Chora serves traditional mezedes in a beautiful setting. The local revithada (chickpea soup) is a Serifos speciality.

How to Get There

Serifos is served by ferry from Piraeus (around 2.5–3 hours) and connects to Kythnos, Sifnos and other western Cyclades.

Best For

Serifos suits travellers who want a dramatic, beautiful Cycladic island without the crowds — those who enjoy hiking, swimming in wild beaches and exploring a landscape that feels genuinely undiscovered.

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Thinking about Serifos? Talk to us — we can combine it with Sifnos, Milos and Kythnos for a western Cyclades itinerary.