Where to Stay in Sifnos, Greece for First Timers
As I planned my 5-day visit for last October, I was torn between two key areas when it came to where to stay in Sifnos, Greece. My plans didn’t include renting a car, so it was important for me to be in walkable areas.
Both the beach life and small village life called to me equally. So, my decision for where to stay took careful consideration! In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations based on my own experience there.
Where to Stay in Sifnos
While there are plenty of interesting areas to stay in all across Sifnos, as I learned, during my own research two areas stood out to me the most.
Apollonia and Kamares offer two different experiences on the island of Sifnos. With my 5 days on the island, ultimately I decided I wanted to spend some time in each of these areas.
What is the main town in Sifnos?
The main town in Sifnos is called Apollonia, and it is the island’s capital. Here you’ll find the whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches typical of cycladic architecture.
The charming narrow streets open up to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well.
Where to stay in Apollonia Sifnos
Initially, I planned to spend my entire time on Sifnos in Apollonia. I figured it would give me the best jumping off point for seeing all I hoped to see while visiting.
In the end, I spent my first several days at the Guesthouse Flora Geronti. Technically, this property is located in the small town of Ano Petali, but to me it may as well be synonymous with Apollonia given its proximity.
In fact, the guesthouse is located right between two main towns: Apollonia in one direction and Artemonas in the other. Both are easily accessible on foot (although there are some hilly steps to and from each).
Staying here, you’ll also be close to a few hiking trailheads (something Sifnos is well known for) as well as bus stops.
I arrived at Sifnos via ferry Why choose Guesthouse Flora Geronti?
Now that you know what area to search in, you’ll find a number of places to stay around there. I’m sure they are wonderful, but I can only speak for the one I chose. I loved my stay at Guesthouse Flora Geronti. It was clean, comfortable, hospitable and offered awe-inspiring views. The place is run by a kind couple. Flora checked in on me, offered advice and directions as needed. Although breakfast isn’t provided, Flora randomly surprised me with homemade treats which was a pleasant surprise. When I left, she also sent me off with some thoughtful parting gifts. These personable touches helped me feel welcome and at home, especially as a solo female traveler visiting Greece for the first time! The stage was really set for magic as soon as I arrived, as Flora’s niece was getting married at the church set on a hill just behind the guesthouse. Flora stepped away from this occasion to greet me on arrival, and I relaxed to the melodic wedding chants in the background as I settled in. I typically book my stays via booking.com. However, in this case you’re likely to get the best rate if you book directly with Flora through the guesthouse website. You can make your booking to secure your room, and pay in person. You’ll receive the best price if you pay in cash, so prepare accordingly While the views from Ano Petali truly are breathtaking, I also wanted the chance to see some sunset views from Sifnos. Plus, I definitely wanted some time to swim in the sea – a real possibility even in October when I was there. This led me to booking a couple nights’ stay near the ferry port in the beach town of Kamares. Luckily for me, there was a new hotel that had recently opened there. I didn’t hesitate to book my stay at Arcos Suites Sifnos and neither should you. The room was fresh and pristine. The patio area, with pool and breakfast seating area, offered perfect views of the sunset. The beach was only a 2-minute walk away, and shops and restaurants were about 10 minutes away. There is a clear and easy path to both the beach, and the strip with all the restaurants and shops. The hotel breakfast is incredible, and you place your order for each morning the night before from their extensive menu. On my final morning, I was able to easily walk to the port to catch the ferry to my next destination. This hotel is run by a charming young couple who are very friendly as well. I also appreciated being able to have my laundry done here. My only issue was, I believe, an outlier. There was some unidentifiable noise with unidentifiable origin in my room one night that kept me from sleeping well. I raised the issue with the owners and I trust they’ve looked into it by now. While that part was unfortunate, it won’t deter me from staying at this beautiful hotel again in the future. 👉 Click here to view prices & availability at Arcos Suites Sifnos
How to book your stay
Where to stay in Kamares, Sifnos
Final thoughts on where to stay in Sifnos
