17 Photographs That Prove the Greek Island of Sifnos Is the Next Santorini

Stephanie Bassos

Greece has long been a favorite European destination for travelers, and its many islands have been regularly featured in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. But there's so much more to the country than the popular islands of Santorini, Páros, and Crete.

In fact, photographer Stephanie Bassos' favorite island, Sifnos, is a lesser known destination with Greece's quintessential sandy beaches, traditional architecture, pottery shops, more than 200 churches, and classic Mediterranean cuisine.

Just a short journey from Athens, travelers can reach Sifnos in three hours by high-speed catamaran or five hours by ferry, which makes it the perfect addition to any island-hopping tour of the Cyclades. While visiting the Cyclades, visitors should also check out the island of Tinos for more hidden beaches, scenic views, and no less than 700 churches.

In 2006, Bassos spent the summer on beautiful Sifnos, and its siren call has driven her to return over the years. Her stunning photographs prove precisely why Sifnos should be at the top of your travel to-do list.

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The Port of Sifnos

Stephanie Bassos

A ferry arrives at the beach town of Kamares, the port of Sifnos.

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Chrisopigi Monastery

Stephanie Bassos

After a swim, a couple relaxes on the rocks outside of Chrisopigi Monastery.

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Platys Gialos

Stephanie Bassos

Chrisopigi is one of the most popular churches on the island, and is a great place to visit on the way to the village of Platys Gialos.

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Peristeriōna

Stephanie Bassos

Potter George Atsonios sits outside his pottery shop, Peristeriōna, in Kamares.

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Motorcycle Rides

Stephanie Bassos

Traveling by motorbike is a popular mode of transportation on the island.

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Kamares

Stephanie Bassos

A flight of stairs leads up to a beautiful home in Kamares.

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Maiolica

Stephanie Bassos

Andrea Miano stands outside of his restaurant, Maiolica in Platys Gialos. Travelers will have plenty of opportunities to enjoy traditional Mediterranean cuisine.

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A Mediterranean Table

Stephanie Bassos

At Maiolica, the focus is on local ingredients. The tabbouleh salad, goat cheese tortellini, and marinated sardines are just a few of the menu highlights.

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Old Captain

Stephanie Bassos

Just a stone’s throw from the Kamares beach is Old Captain: a lively bar known for good music and strong drinks.

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Kamares

Stephanie Bassos

In the early morning light, shops begin to open along the main strip in Kamares.

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A Pottery Shop

Stephanie Bassos

A collection of unique pottery by Antonis Kalogirou.

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Kamares Beach

Stephanie Bassos

A boy runs across the beach in Kamares.

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The Church of the Seven Martyrs

Stephanie Bassos

Explore the east side of the island with a visit to The Church of the Seven Martyrs in Kastro.

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Camaron Restaurant

Stephanie Bassos

Panos and Rania, of the restaurant Camaron, carefully prepare a dish for one of their customers.

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People Watching

Stephanie Bassos

Camaron, best known for its delicious pizza, is an ideal spot for lunch or dinner while watching visitors return from the nearby port.

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Vathi

Stephanie Bassos

A small boat paddles along the beach at Vathi.

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Sunset on Sifnos

Stephanie Bassos

The sun sets and night settles in on Sifnos.

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17 Photographs That Prove the Greek Island of Sifnos Is the Next Santorini