About Serifos

A small island in the western part of the Cyclades, Serifos is just a couple of hours from Athens by boat. That said, this tranquil spot feels wonderfully remote, and it’s all too easy to forget the world beyond the sparkling Aegean waters, undulating hills and whitewashed villages which stud the island. Popular with holidaymakers from Athens as well as further afield, the best places to stay in Serifos are intimate and tranquil, reflecting the character of the island itself.

According to Greek mythology, Serifos was the island upon which Perseus and his mother Danae washed ashore after Acrisius, King of Argos, cast them adrift in a wooden chest. Delve into these legends as you explore the island, spotting heritage sites aplenty, taking guided walking tours or visiting local landmarks including the Hellenistic marble watchtower which dates back to 300BC. More recent additions include the 1572-built fortified Taxiarches Monastery, and the Chapel of Panagia Skopiani, which hosts the island’s largest annual festival in mid-August.

Much of the action in Serifos centres around Hora, the island’s main town. Stroll along narrow lanes to pretty squares like the Pano Piazza, or walk up to Kastro for marvellous views of neighbouring islands, including Sifnos and Milos. There are ceramic boutiques to discover, as well as a lovely walking path up from Livadi. Keen ramblers will find ancient paths across the island, and to the old mines of Mega Livadi, once central to the island’s economy. Drift down to the beaches of the south coast for relaxed afternoons of sunbathing, swimming and sailing. Kalo Ambeli, Ganema and Maliadiko are fabulous, as is Vagia, where one of the best places to stay in Serifos is situated.

The Best Places to Stay in Serifos

For a Rural Escape

  • Rizes Hotel is an attractive hillside hideaway, with contemporary suites each boasting their own swimming pool, kitchen and sitting room. Gather at the bar and restaurant for great Greek fare after days of hiking in the interior, sailing the coast or strolling along the beach.

For a Beach Break

  • Coco-mat Eco Residences offers a collection of restored 1910-built miners' houses, carefully transformed into pared-back suites with chic, understated interiors. Spaces are self-catering, but there's also an excellent Greek restaurant. Overlooking lovely Vagia beach, this is an eco-minded spot for a tranquil beach break with plenty of character.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens' Piraeus Port to Serifos.
  • There's plenty to see if you're keen to explore Serifos independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

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The best hotels in Serifos

Nostos Boutique Hotel

Serifos (Cyclades)

An unspoiled gem in the Cyclades, offering boutique charm without the 5-star price. With earthy tones and minimalist decor, the ambience is both calming and inviting. Facilities boast chic rooms, sea-view terraces, and sustainable touches like solar panels. Cycladic beauty with eco-conscious luxury.

  • Local exploring - Explore Serifos's hidden gems from a cosy base, blending simplicity with local vibrance for an authentic cultural journey
  • Back to Nature - Wander through Serifos’s landscapes, a photographer’s paradise of wildflowers and whitewashed wonders
  • Great walks - Capture the sunset from Agios Konstantinos, where the horizon meets the heavens in a blaze of glory
  • Sights nearby - Drift in the calm waters of Livadakia Beach, where tamarisk trees offer a perfect naptime canopy
from £56 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Rizes Hotel

Serifos (Serifos)

Private villa resort in the hills. Each contemporary apartment has rustic brick walls, white furnishings, stone floors and modern kitchens. Suites have private pools and terraces. Outdoor pool and sun decks. Superb fresh Greek cuisine, relaxed bar. Friendly, private and idyllic.

  • Hideaway - An unspoilt Greek island, with dozens of empty beaches or just the privacy of your villa and pool
  • Great walks - Abundance of marked trails of varying difficulty; hotel can advise
  • Sailing - Serifos Yachts can provide boats and staff for day trips
  • Seaside
from £83 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Coco-Mat Residences

Serifos (Serifos)

A boutique hotel set into the hill overlooking a private beach. Secluded designer apartments feature charmingly uneven white-washed walls and exposed beamed ceilings and are sparingly filled with contemporary furniture. Modern greek cuisine is enjoyed with sea-views. Very chic.

  • Hideaway - A private beach, gorgeous sea-views, secluded apartments and remote location. Completely tranquil.
  • Great walks - Miles of walking trails through rugged terrain with stunning sea-views.
  • Diving - The hotel will help organise scuba-diving expeditions.
  • Views
from £179 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia