This Is One Of The Most Underrated Island Getaways In The Mediterranean To Visit In 2026

Conjure up an image of the Mediterranean and gentle seas dappled with the reflection of cobalt-blue and whitewashed villages spring to mind. Not forgetting a wealth of ancient ruins and mouth-watering cuisine that's as delicious as it is healthy. On Sifnos, an island known for its culinary excellence and fine pottery, that's exactly what you'll find.

Over 20 countries border the Mediterranean Sea, including Greece and the thousands of islands within its realm. Choosing which Greek island to visit depends very much on what type of experience you're after. While some are struggling with the effects of overtourism, there are still a few overlooked spots that provide a heavenly sun, sea, and sand escape without the crowds. Sifnos is one of those places. Part of the Cyclades, the group of Greek islands that lie south-east of the mainland, Sifnos sits in the Aegean Sea. Having no airport, the island is only reachable by boat, making it slightly further out of reach, allowing it to retain much of its original character and charm. This is good news for those seeking a quieter escape as most travelers head to the more convenient islands of Santorini or Mykonos. Travel during the low season, and you'll have even fewer crowds — one of many essential travel tips when visiting Greece.

If you don't mind a little extra planning to get there, you'll be rewarded with warm hospitality and a peaceful atmosphere. Most visitors take the ferry from Athens, which takes anywhere from two-and-a-half to five hours, with several departures per day during the summer. Otherwise, if you're island hopping, ferries also run from nearby islands, including Milos, Paros, and Serifos.

Sifnos may be one of the quieter Greek Islands, but in ancient times, it was one of the richest in the Aegean Sea thanks to its gold and silver mines. When the mines declined, interest turned to pottery, for which it is famous today. For those interested in history, the island is covered with the ruins of ancient watch towers, known as viglies, built around the 6th century to protect the islanders and their treasures against pirate invasions. To get up close, or at least enjoy a decent view of the watchtowers, as well as ancient monasteries, churches, and chapels, the trails are the best way to explore. More than 100 miles of trails wind across the 28 square miles of Sifnos, many of which follow old mule paths.

The 7-mile Platis Gialos-Fikiada Loop takes you on a moderately challenging route through forested slopes and olive groves on the south side of the island. Stunning panoramic views along the coastline stop you in your tracks before reaching a small chapel. The 3.4-mile Kastro-Monastery of Chrissopigi Trail leads you from the pretty hilltop village of Kastro over the rocky hillsides on the east side of Sifnos. At the end of a pleasant stroll, you'll find the monastery near Faros, an important pilgrimage site. From here, head to nearby Faros Beach for a welcome and refreshing dip.

In fact, you'll find beautiful beaches around the whole coastline. Platis Gialos Beach sits within a sheltered bay, making it ideal for families, with plenty of tavernas close by. On the quieter northern side, Cherronisos Beach makes the perfect hideaway for those seeking a more peaceful experience. Best reached by car, the twisty road takes you over the weathered landscape before dropping down to the sleepy fishing village.

Sifnos is famous for its pottery and cuisine. After the decline of the mines, interest turned to pottery, which is one of the island's main crafts. Thanks to an abundance of clay, Sifnos has become synonymous with both functional and decorative ceramics, vibrant with color. You'll find several pottery workshops, many of which still use traditional techniques. Make sure you leave room in your suitcase to take home a mastelo, tsikali, or kouroupou, or sign up for a workshop and create one yourself. At Narlis Farm near Kato Petali, you can spend a couple of hours learning the creative process before making a treasured souvenir to decorate your own kitchen.

Much of the vibrant pottery is put to good use in the restaurants in Sifnos, as many of the dishes are slow-cooked in clay pots. If you're a foodie, you're in for a treat. Classic dishes such as revithia (chickpea stew) and melopita (honey pie) have been made popular worldwide by celebrity chef Nikolaos Tselementes, who was born here. 

To sample some authentic Sifnos cuisine, head to Kafeneio Drakakis in the island capital of Apollonia. Simple yet delicious, the rich flavors are brought to life with locally produced olive oil and cooked to perfection in the clay pot dishes, making this restaurant popular with both locals and visitors alike. To Limanaki in Faros places you right at the water's edge, where fresh seafood is served up as you watch boats arrive in the harbor with the catch of the day. If this sounds like your idea of heaven, check out some of these other underrated Mediterranean destinations.