Sikinos, Greek island in Cyclades, Greece
Sikinos is a Cycladic island between Ios and Folegandros with two main settlements: the port of Allopronia and the mountain village of Chora. The place has narrow paved streets, whitewashed houses, and sea views from higher points.
The island was known in ancient times as Oinoe and submitted to Persian king Xerxes I during the Greco-Persian Wars. Archaeological remains reveal an ancient city with temples that date back to this early period.
The Church of Episkopi stands as a former Roman tomb repurposed with Byzantine decoration and religious objects that visitors can explore today. The site shows how different cultures and faiths left their mark on the island over time.
The island is easiest to reach by ferry from Piraeus or Lavrio ports in Athens or from neighboring Cycladic islands such as Santorini. Visitors should know that there are only a few paved roads and good walking shoes matter if you want to explore the many footpaths.
The island was historically shaped by terraced fields where farmers grew vegetables, herbs, and small crops that defined its landscape. Today many of these paths remain walkable and offer insight into how the land was once farmed.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.