Sivota, also written as Syvota, has been described as a jewel on the Greek Amalfi Coast, unspoilt by tourism and with some of the most stunning beaches in Greece. We would certainly agree! There’s nowhere quite like Sivota. Whilst some Mediterranean holiday hotspots can seemingly appear overrun with Instagrammers and beachgoers in the summer months, Sivota is by contrast very idyllic.
If you’ve never considered a holiday to Sivota, this travel guide is for you. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions so you can plan the perfect holiday, from the best ways to get there, to inside tips on the finest restaurants to dine at.
Sivota is a small coastal fishing village on the Greek mainland, just across the water from the southern end of the island of Corfu. At the closest point, it’s just seven miles between the two, which explains why you can often find day excursions from the Port of Lefkimmi, near Kavos, which entice tourists to explore the blissful beaches and Blue Lagoon of Sivota.
Sivota pertains to the municipality of Igoumenitsa, in the region of Epirus, and the gentle waves of the Ionian Sea lap the shore. It’s on the 39th parallel north, the same latitude as Lesbos, Majorca, Valencia and Sardinia, which gives Sivota a satisfying summer climate and almost 15 hours of daylight on the summer solstice.
Picturesque and charming, with a quaint harbour, promenade and three uninhabited islets just off the coast ripe for exploring. Sivota is home to many stunning beaches, some long and sandy, others made of pebbles and shingle, several boasting bars, water sports and other facilities, whilst others quieter and more secluded. Surrounded by green forests, rugged coastline and history dating back many centuries, Sivota has been blessed by nature and antiquity.
On the most direct route, you can drive the 17 miles from Parga to Sivota in around 35 to 40 minutes, depending of course on traffic. Most of the route is single carriageway, the road winding through the hills and passing the inland villages of Anthousa, Agia and Perdika. The latter affording panoramic views to the coast and the islands beyond, making it a great place for a photo stop.
There are no direct buses between the two places, but if you don’t have a car, or simply don’t want to drive, then it is possible to take a bus from Sivota to Parga, changing in Igoumenitsa. At the time of writing, this is only possible on weekdays and there are just 2 buses per day in each direction, so a taxi may be more appealing.
Many visitors to Sivota will fly to Preveza airport and then drive the 56 miles to Sivota. The journey is about an hour and half via the E55 national road which stays close to the coast initially before deviating inland. The journey takes you via the Aktio - Preveza Underwater Tunnel for which there is a small toll charge of around three euros.
Olympic Holidays customers have the choice of flying into Corfu airport as well Preveza airport when booking a package holiday. Corfu has the advantage of being closer to Sivota and, some would argue, it’s a more relaxing way to arrive since the journey involves a 90-minute ferry from Corfu harbour to Igoumenitsas, followed by a shorter road trip by taxi of around 30 minutes (13 miles). Overall, the journey time is slightly longer, but the taxis and ferries are included in the package price, making it all the more convenient.
Regardless of your budget, you’ll find a warm welcome in Sivota. Olympic Holidays’ local experts have shortlisted a number of hotels, from budget friendly two-star B&Bs to exquisite five-star hotels. Our first recommendation is the 3-star Hotel Albatros, currently the number one rated B&B in Sivota on TripAdvisor, with guests loving the friendly service and location. It’s a 12-minute walk to the harbour and just 500 metres to Zavia beach, and as the hotel has its own pool, you’re never far from a refreshing dip. Each room comes with a private balcony or terrace and payable air-conditioning.
If you like your swimming pools to be of Olympic proportions, take a look at the Hotel Sivota which takes the prize for one of the largest in the area. Home also to two flood-lit tennis courts and an enviable location on the edge of Sivota make this a popular choice.
A new and first-rate addition to the area is the MarBella Elix. Part of the MarBella Collection, this five-star hotel opened its doors in summer 2021 and has already racked up almost 100 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. Atop a pine forested hill, 15 min drive from Sivota at the sandy Karavostasi Beach, the spa hotel has enviable panoramic views out to Paxos, Antipaxos and Corfu.
Traditional taverna, bright beach bar or fabulous fine dining? Whatever your preference, you won’t be disappointed with the culinary offerings in and around Sivota. For classic Greek cuisine in a relaxed al-fresco setting, try Taverna Tessalia. Take your seat by the lemon trees and vines, enjoy a refreshing aperitif while the wood oven is fired up and enjoy the warm hospitality and authentic food.
Stavedo Beach Bar at Zeri Beach is one of our favourite lunchtime spots in Sivota. With private parking, chilled music, showers, sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, we think it’s more of a beach club than a simple bar.
If you’re staying at the MarBella Elix, don’t miss Pearl Restaurant. It’s a heavenly mix of creative menus, an exciting wine list, impeccable service and a spectacular sea-front setting.