Plizio Visual Lab
Sikinos Town
ℹ️Practical info — Sikinos Town
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Bring enough cash with you, as there is only one ATM in town and it often runs out of money.
- Visit the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi in the late afternoon for the best sunset views on the island.
- Take the local bus from Alopronia port; the ride only takes about 10 minutes.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as Chora consists of steep alleys and many stone steps.
- Explore the Kastro quarter, the fortified and most traditional part of the town.
🍽 Food
Try this famous honey in the small grocery stores (pantopoleia) of Kastro.
Sample local varieties at Manalis Winery, located just outside town with an impressive sea view.
A traditional sesame and honey bar, first-rate as a local sweet snack.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Look for small workshops in the alleys of Kastro selling traditional embroidery.
Find handmade pottery with Cycladic motifs in the small artisanal shops.
Buy dried oregano and pickled capers directly from the local producers in town.
While Kastro is more active, the opposite Chorio area provides absolute peace and empty alleys.
A serene spot on the path to the monastery, dedicated to the poet Odysseus Elytis.
Located at the highest point of Kastro, a quiet spot to sit and look out over the Aegean.
Water temperature…
Sikinos Town, also referred to as Chora, comprises two facing settlements: Kastro and Chorio. Kastro is a fortified 15th-century settlement where the houses formed a defensive perimeter against pirates. The architecture is strictly Cycladic, featuring narrow alleys, steep stairways, and small, hidden squares. At the highest point of Kastro stands the Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, which formerly served as a sanctuary and gives panoramic views across the Aegean. A significant historical monument nearby is the Episkopi Church, a former Roman mausoleum from the 3rd century AD that was converted into a Christian church. Sikinos is one of the least developed islands in the Cyclades, granting Chora an unmatched tranquility and authenticity. The economy is traditionally based on viticulture, leading the island to be called 'Oinoe' (Wine Island) in antiquity. Culturally, the town is renowned for its religious festivals and the warm hospitality of its residents.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Dialiskari · Aghios Georgios · Malta
- Nearby: Ios Town (15 km)
- Population: ~590 (2021)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 24 | 21 | 18 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 97 | 83 | 49 | 26 | 18 | 6 | 2 | 3 | 19 | 49 | 68 | 93 |
Geography
Facts
- Consists of two settlements: Kastro and Chorio.
- Zoodochos Pigi Monastery served as a pirate fortress.
- Panagia Pantanassa Church features wood carvings.
- The island was called 'Oinoe' in ancient times.
- Episkopi Church was originally a mausoleum.
- Sikinos has fewer than 300 permanent inhabitants.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Begin your day in the heart of Sikinos by exploring the central Panagia Pantanassa before heading up to the striking Chrysopigi Monastery. Wander towards the coast to discover the ancient Tower of Alopronoia, taking in sweeping sea views before heading to the serene Dialiskari cove. Enjoy a long, peaceful walk across the rugged landscape towards the remote Aghios Panteleimonas, soaking in the untouched island flora. Conclude your trek immersed in nature as the sun begins to lower over the Aegean, offering a spectacular and peaceful end to an active walking day.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Explore the churches in waterproof shoes this morning. At noon, step carefully on the cobblestones around the ruins, as they get very slippery. In the afternoon, seek shelter from sudden showers and strong wind. Warm up in a cozy, dry place in town this evening.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Enjoy the crisp, cool air at the churches this morning. At noon, take advantage of the sunnier hours to explore the ruins. Dress in layers this afternoon against the cold coastal wind. Return to the center early due to the early 17:00 sunset.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Cycle through the quiet streets to visit Panagia Pantanassa and pedal up the winding path to the fortified Chrysopigi Monastery for panoramic views. Ride towards the historic Tower of Alopronoia, then cool off with a midday break at the secluded, crystal-clear waters of Dialiskari cove. Challenge yourself with a scenic ride across the island to the tranquil Aghios Panteleimonas, enjoying the quiet and charming countryside roads. Finish your cycling adventure at the charming coastal spot of Santorineika, rewarding yourself with a breathtaking view over the wide Aegean horizon.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Ride carefully on slippery roads to the monastery this morning. At noon, watch out for muddy slopes near the ruins. A good raincoat is essential in the afternoon down by the coast. Ride slowly back this evening as visibility drops significantly in the rain.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Start your morning ride warmly dressed towards the monastery. At noon, the physical effort will keep you warm near the ruins. Protect your face from the biting coastal wind this afternoon. Head back before the early sunset around 17:00 this evening.
Panagia Pantanassa
Chrysopigi Monastery
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Start your driving tour with a visit to the historic Chrysopigi Monastery and the spiritual center of Panagia Pantanassa, enjoying the island's heritage. Drive out to the ancient Tower of Alopronoia, then hop between the beautiful northern beaches of Dialiskari, Aghios Georgios, and remote Malta. Cruise through the scenic interior towards Aghios Panteleimonas, an ideal spot to relax in the peaceful countryside setting as the afternoon cools. Park at Santorineika just in time to watch the stunning Aegean sunset, wrapping up a comprehensive road trip around the rugged beauty of Sikinos.
Chrysopigi Monastery
Panagia Pantanassa
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Georgios
Malta
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Reach the monastery safely on wet roads this morning. At noon, be careful with muddy shoes at the viewpoints. Drive slowly towards the remote coastal spots this afternoon. Return safely to town this evening as the rain makes dirt tracks difficult.
Chrysopigi Monastery
Panagia Pantanassa
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Georgios
Malta
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Enjoy the scenery from your heated car comfortably this morning. At noon, leave on time for distant spots due to short daylight. The deserted beaches offer a unique stark beauty this afternoon. Drive carefully in the early dark after 17:00 this evening.
Chrysopigi Monastery
Panagia Pantanassa
Tower of Alopronoia
Dialiskari
Aghios Georgios
Malta
Aghios Panteleimonas
Santorineika
Sights in the town Sikinos Town (7)
Frequently asked questions
How quiet is Sikinos Town?
What is the main attraction?
Can you taste wine in Sikinos?
How far is the port from Chora?
Are there ATMs?
Sikinos Town: where is it located?
Sikinos Town: what is there to see?
Sikinos Town: when is the best time to visit?
Sikinos Town: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
