I’ve been visiting Sifnos for a long time; it’s one of those islands that you gravitate to because of the people. In fact, the wonderful locals of Sifnos were the inspiration for my Meet the Locals series.
One of the island’s true characters is Dimitris. He’s quintessentially Greek, devilishly charming, and one of the few taxi drivers on the island. Seeing his smiling face when you step off the ferry always feels like the warmest welcome. My husband and I adore him. But for all the years I’ve been coming here, it was only a few years ago that I finally met Christina, his beautiful and enchanting wife. I still can’t believe it took me so long! Christina is the heart behind the Sifnos Experience, the person everyone turns to for anything special on the island.
She doesn’t just offer experiences - she creates moments that are deeply rooted in local knowledge and rich with meaning. But it’s more than that. Christina has this calm, grounding presence and an innate connection to Sifnos that draws you in completely. She makes you feel like you’ve discovered something secret, something sacred.
I can’t wait to return, and if I’m lucky, to join her on one of Sifnos’s hidden paths.
Where were you born?
Athens, Greece
Where do you live?
Sifnos, Cyclades
What inspires you about Sifnos?
History, architecture, natural beauty
Describe yourself in 3 words:
Passionate, bookworm, lazy
Describe Sifnos in 3 words:
Peaceful, traditional, and stunning. A gleaming white dot into the deep blue of the Aegean Sea
Tell us about your business:
Our transfer and tour company, sifnosexperience, provides transportation services to individuals and groups, ensuring safe, comfortable, and timely travel between various locations through a fleet of luxury minivans and minibuses.
I, personally, am devoted to guided tours providing an authentic experience by giving travellers not just a visit but an unforgettable connection with my island. My aim is to transform ordinary sightseeing into unforgettable memories…traditional villages, ancient ruins, hidden gems, and a lot of history! Every tour is designed to leave a lasting impression, from the breathtaking sights to the knowledge of the unique history of Sifnos.
What does a normal day look like for you in Sifnos?
My life is divided into two periods: six months of work and six months of not working. During the work period, May until October, I am so busy; I am on the go from sun up to sun down. A good breakfast... take-out food for lunch... a yoghurt for dinner. Meeting a lot of people, walking sights of sublime beauty, and talking about Sifnos. At the end of the day, I schedule the next day’s appointments. Of course, I have good assistants; my husband Dimitris takes over the transfers of our clients around the island and my daughter Agapi gives mini tours in the guests of private boats who want to see the best sights in 2-3 hours
What does a perfect day on Sifnos look like for you?
In summer, meeting interesting people who enjoy their tour and send me thank-you messages. In winter, I wake up late, go hiking once a week, and end my day next to the fireplace, reading a book.
Favourite places in Sifnos and the world for:
Coffee: I drink only one Greek coffee every morning, in a cozy nook in my living room with a spectacular view of the sea
A long lunch with friends: In a classy restaurant, trying fancy foods and commenting its haute cuisine…
Dinner: In Heronissos, the quiet fishing village in north Sifnos, sitting in a fish taverna, just a few meters from the shoreline, enjoying local flavors with a crisp white wine
Dancing: I avoid places where there is dancing
A sunset drink: In Vathi beach
Farmers market: ‘To Stavri’ in Apollonia
Art: Byzantine iconography in the old churches of Sifnos, ceramics in sifnian workshops, both traditional and modern
Culture: Talking to old people, I discover their wise spirit, gained through life experiences, which leads to a calm, reflective approach to life. I like hearing what is important or meaningful in life and their ideas about religion, morality, universe…all these have shaped our culture
Music: Byzantine, Greek folk music, especially from the region of Epirus, Mikis Theodorakis, Blues and Soul
Nature: The trails of Sifnos
Favourite getaway: Visit a good friend and talk about everything
Secret spot on Sifnos: A small neighborhood hidden into the ancient alleys of Kastro
What are your 3 favourite restaurants on the island, and why? Every restaurant has its own gastronomic treasures
What is inspiring you right now?
What inspires me all my life is diving into a good book and discovering something that can expand my knowledge and understanding
Top tip for travellers to Sifnos?
A tour with a local
An interesting fact about Christina Kagianni:
I am shy; I like spending time alone. I also feel lucky that my house is a little isolated
Your motto to live by:
Keep calm and trust God!
