A picturesque, undiscovered island in Europe has been named the best place in the world to visit in 2024. The charming island is located in Greece with the Vogue team calling it the best place to explore in the coming year.
Situated in the western region of the Cyclades, Sifnos distinguishes itself with its traditional architecture, captivating culinary offerings, and stunning beaches. The island is known for its tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for families and couples alike.
The island is a visual delight, showcasing the quintessential architecture with an abundance of cubic whitewashed houses, over 300 charming churches, dovecotes, and small earthenware shops. Its ambiance exudes a fairytale charm, transporting visitors to a world seemingly distant from the mainland.
However, what truly sets Sifnos apart is its culinary prowess. Home to the renowned Greek chef Nikolaos Tselementes, the island boasts an extraordinary gastronomic scene.
Local delicacies such as caper salad, chickpea soup, and mastelo can be savored at its exceptional restaurants and taverns.
Exploring the island’s quaint villages is a must for those seeking to immerse themselves in its essence. Kastro, Artemonas, and the capital town of Apollonia are absolute highlights.
Wander through the narrow alleys of Kastro, indulge in the finest local pastries in Artemonas, and experience the cosmopolitan side of the island in Apollonia – each village offers a unique charm.
Sifnos’ beaches add to its allure with their surreal beauty. Whether taking a refreshing dip at Chrisopigi beach beneath the whitewashed church, enjoying the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Platis Gialos, relaxing on the sandy shores of Vathi beach followed by a delectable seafood meal, or exploring Kamares beach near the island’s port, the options are as diverse as they are breathtaking.
Catering to both families and couples, Sifnos in Greece stands out as an idyllic holiday destination, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and charm.
The island has been called “heaven” by several travellers who have been to this breathtaking beauty. One user wrote on TripAdvisor: “I have just returned to Ireland after a week in Sifnos! Oh my God, I don’t know how to describe Sifnos in words! It’s beautiful. I had been looking for a traditional Greek island, off the beaten track and that’s what I found. Sifnos is stunningly beautiful, with beautiful secluded beaches all around the island.
“Kamares, the main port, is where I stayed. It shouldn’t be called a port, because that gives the wrong impression of a dirty, busy town – not so with Kamares. It has a beautiful stretch of beach, with clear aquamarine water. The town itself consists of mainly one main street, containing a few waterside tavernas, 2 supermarkets, pottery shops, a bakery and church and a tourist office. That’s about it. I stayed over the far side of the harbour in Aglaia Studios in Agia Marina and I honestly had the best view in the whole of Kamares. It’s quieter over that side, perfect if you don’t want to be in the town centre itself. The people are friendly, the town has a relaxed atmosphere about it. It just has a hint of tourism, but is still unspoilt. Night time is quiet in Kamares, if you want all-night parties, dancing on bar-tops etc., it’s not the island for you, though Appollonia, the capital might interest you as there are a few late night disco bars there. All in all, I fell in love with Sifnos the moment I arrived and I have just booked another week there in September! Cannot wait to go back. My week there crawled by and felt more like a month! Also, the local potter in Kamares, Antonis Kalogirou, is the town character and you will be sure to bump into him as he meets and greets every tourist! A funny, kind-hearted guy, larger than life – he will make your holiday even more enjoyable, with his boat trips around the island! Basically, if you’re looking for a Greek island that is the other end of the scale from Crete, Mykonos or Ios, please try Sifnos. I know you won’t be disappointed! It’s a little piece of heaven on earth and you’ll be sad to leave!”
Another one said: “We have just returned from a wonderful week on the island of Sifnos. We stayed in the port town of Kamares, which was lovely. We had accomodation in Hotel Boulis. The location of the hotel could not be more perfect. Right on the beach and in a quiet part of the little town. The rooms were lovely and nice and clean. Our room had a fantasic view. The town of Kamares is very small so if you are looking for night life, this is not the island for you. We enjoyed it as there are quite a few nice restaurants to choose from (the best of these is an Italian restaurant called Da Claudia)
“We hired a car for a day and drove to Apollonia and the resort town of Vathi. I feel that we were staying in the best spot on the Island. The one downfall , I feel , is that the shopping is poor. I expected to be able to get leather sandals and traditional greek clothing etc, but apart from one or two convience stores and stores selling costumes & jewellery (which I can get at home) there was nothing. I would definitely go back here.”
