Serifos, Greece: Your Ultimate Cyclades Travel Guide

Last Updated on 7 August 2025 by Johan

Serifos is located in the Cyclades island group of Greece in the Aegean Sea, just south of Kythnos. Legend has it that Acrisius, warned he’d be killed by his grandson Perseus, set Danae and the infant adrift; their vessel landed on Serifos, and local rock formations seem to echo the myth as if turned to stone.

Geography and Climate

Serifos spans roughly 74 km², with rugged hills covered in olive groves and juniper scrub. Its highest peak, Profitis Ilias, rises to 585 m, offering panoramic views over azure bays. Summers (June–September) are hot and sunny, while winters (December–February) bring mild temperatures and occasional showers. Shoulder seasons in May–June and September–October are ideal for exploring without crowds.

Getting There and Getting Around

  • Ferry services connect Serifos to Piraeus, Milos, Sifnos, and other Cyclades islands.
  • Seasonal flights land at Sifnos–Serifos Heliport from Athens.
  • Renting an ATV, scooter, or car offers flexibility; local KTEL buses link Livadi, Hora, and beaches.
  • Taxis operate on demand from Livadi port and Hora, and boat taxis shuttle between isolated coves.

Serifos Town (Hora)

The island’s capital, Hora, perches atop a rocky hill crowned by a 13th-century Venetian castle. Cube-shaped whitewashed houses spill down narrow lanes, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Key highlights:

  • Panagia Church terrace for 360° island panoramas
  • Archaeological Museum showcasing Cycladic and Roman artefacts
  • Clifftop ruins of the medieval fortress

Livadi and Myrtidia Beaches

  • Livadi: A horseshoe-shaped bay with pebbly sand, waterfront tavernas, and family-friendly waters.
  • Myrtidia: A tranquil cove fringed by tamarisk trees, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
  • Psili Ammos: A remote stretch of fine sand, accessible via hiking trail or boat taxi.

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking trails lead to Profitis Ilias summit and hidden chapels like Agios Ioannis Detis.
  • Mountain biking routes traverse abandoned mines and olive terraces.
  • Sea kayaking and paddleboarding reveal secluded beaches along the west coast.

Accommodation and Dining

Stay options range from boutique cave-style rooms in Hora to beachfront studios in Livadi. Local cuisine highlights:

  • Revithokeftedes (chickpea fritters)
  • Stifado (cyclopedic onion stew)
  • Fresh grilled octopus paired with local white wines

Practical Tips

  • Carry cash (EUR) in smaller villages; ATMs are available in Livadi and Hora.
  • Wear sturdy shoes for cobbled lanes and hiking paths.
  • Respect cultural sites by avoiding drone flights and staying on marked routes.
  • Summer ferries can fill quickly—book tickets in advance during July–August.

Official Sources