Key Takeaways
- Syros is a cosmopolitan island in the Cyclades with a unique atmosphere, characterized by its picturesque streets, impressive architecture, and cultural attractions.
- The main town, Ermoupolis, is known for its neoclassical buildings, archaeological museum, and ornate Apollo theater, reflecting its rich history and cultural heritage.
- Syros offers diverse experiences, including exploring the beautiful neighborhood of Vaporia, the old town of Ano Syros, the wealthy region of Delagratsia, and the industrial sites of Ermoupolis.
- Visitors to Syros can enjoy stunning beaches, taste the local cuisine, hike through impressive trails, explore ancient archaeological sites, and choose from a wide range of accommodation and entertainment options.
The manorial capital of the Cycladic islands, the cosmopolitan Syros island, with its unique atmosphere, invites you to discover every corner and have unforgettable moments.
Its beauties are many, so here, we will provide you with a guide to Syros and all the information you need to explore the charming Syros like a local.
A Bit About Syros
Syros is a destination in the Cyclades, about 4 hours away from Piraeus. Its capital is Ermoupolis, which is also the capital of the Cyclades islands and the seat of the South Aegean Region.
The name 'Syros' comes from the first inhabitants of the island, the Phoenicians. Its main towns, impressive neoclassical buildings, and renaissance cathedral make it a product of lust for all European architects.
Reasons to Visit Syros
1. To walk the scenic streets of Ermoupolis, the main town. The cosmopolitan, sophisticated, yet bohemian atmosphere of Ermoupolis doesn’t leave anyone untouched.
The city combines the trademark Cycladic architecture with 19th-century mansions and luxurious neoclassical buildings that used to host the shipowners of Syros.
Ermoupolis’ most impressive key points are the archaeological museum and the ornate Apollo theater, so make sure you don’t miss those during your stay.
2. To marvel at the beautiful neighborhood of Vaporia. This is where the richest merchants of the last century built their beautiful captain's houses in front of the sea so that the wave would hit them and they would look like steamers ready to set sail.
Don’t leave the area without a stop at the St George Cathedral and the church of Agios Nikolaos, the basilica with the blue dome of the Syros' patron saint, as well as the Corinthian columns.
3. To admire the most beautiful old town on the Greek islands. Perched on one of the two hills that rise behind the port, Ano Syros requires a lot of walking but compensates the visitor with its picturesqueness and the old-time charm one cannot miss.
4. To witness the wealthy region of Delagratsia. The aristocrats of Syros built ornate villas with towers and beautiful gardens in the resort of Poseidonia, which the locals call by its old name, Delagratsia. It is located near some of the most compelling Syros beaches.
5. To get to know the industrial power of Syros. The commercial flourishing of Syros in the 19th century made it the largest commercial center of liberated Greece and, for many years, the second-largest city after Athens, surpassing all mainland destinations.
After all, it is no coincidence that Ermoupolis was named after the god of trade, Hermes. Traces of this flourishing can be found in the impressive industrial buildings of Ermoupolis, three of which house the Industrial Museum.
It is also worth exploring the shipyard with the old cranes and the old factories on the south side of the port.
6. To swim in some of the most stunning beaches in Greece and take in the breathtaking view. The most popular and organized beaches are located in the south, while the most beautiful and quiet are hidden in the northwest.
Some of our favorites include those of Agios Nikolaos, Delagratsia, Galissas, and Megas Gialos. But we’ll talk about those and many more below.
7. To taste the delectable local cuisine. Much like most parts of Greece, Syros has local flavors and dishes that are a treat to the senses.
Before leaving, you must try the Syrian loukoumia (Turkish Delight), San Michalis cheese, halva pies, as well as louza, which is the traditional Cycladic sausage from sirloin marinated in red wine with pepper, allspice, cloves, and cinnamon.
8. To hike its impressive trails. The size of Syros, as well as its geology, make it perfect for hiking.
There are multiple routes, most of which are marked, you can follow in order to appreciate the Greek land. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry, as the routes vary in size and difficulty.
9. To reveal its ancient secret. Chalandriani, less than 10 km away from Ermoupolis, is the most important archaeological site in Syros, where at the end of the 19th century, a prehistoric acropolis of over 5 thousand years was discovered.
At the site of Kastri, which is connected to Halandriani by a large path and has a unique character, the excavations brought to light a prehistoric settlement of almost 5 acres from the end of the Early Cycladic period, which includes an ancient cemetery and finds of pottery, stonework, and metalwork.
10. To take advantage of Syros' diversity. Due to its size and its tourist infrastructure, Syros has so many accommodation and entertainment options that you can find at various prices, either in coastal settlements such as Galissas or in Ermoupolis.
How to Get There
There are two ways to access Syros: either by boat or by airplane.
If you are a fan of fast travel, and your budget allows you to, you can reach Syros by airplane from Athens Airport.
Syros’ airport is about 3 km from Ermoupolis. However, it only serves domestic flights. Dimitrios Vikelas State Airport of Syros is connected daily with Athens, with the frequency of the flights increasing during the summer months.
The most common and cheapest way to access it, however, is by boat. The port is located in Ermoupolis and receives the main volume of visitors.
The journey from Piraeus port to Syros by conventional ferry takes 3.5 hours, while by speedboat access is possible in just two hours (of course, with more costly ferry tickets).
During the summer, there are routes to Syros from Rafina port, in Attica, with the duration of the trip being about four hours.
The Greek island is also connected by ferry with most of the other islands of the complex, but also the Dodecanese and popular North Aegean islands.
The Best Towns and Villages to Explore
Ermoupolis
Ermoupolis is the capital of Syros and the whole of the Cyclades. It is a city that has played a leading role in the economic history of Greece for almost a century.
It was built during the Greek Revolution by refugees from Chios, Psariani, and Ayvali after the destruction of Chios. Ermoupolis means 'the city of Hermes,' which was the ancient god of trade and letters.
Within a few years, Ermoupolis became the first port in the country with intense artistic and cultural movement.
For many decades it was the center of trade for all of Greece and the coasts of Central Asia. At the same time, there was intense industrial development.
The first Greek iron ship was built in Ermoupolis, and the first branch of the National Bank was opened.
All this economic prosperity led to the creation of the cosmopolitan ambiance the town carries to this day.
Local and international architects, craftsmen, muralists, and painters contributed to the city becoming an architectural treasure.
The Ermoupolis Town Hall, the Agios Nikolaos church, the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the Apollo Theater, and the mansions in the Vaporia district are some of the brightest examples of the city’s architectural allure.
The Ermoupolis Town Hall was designed by Ernst Ziller. In fact, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ernst Ziller designed a number of public buildings in Athens, Patras, and other cities in Greece.
From the end of the 19th century, when the Isthmus of Corinth was constructed, Ermoupolis lost its old glamor and power.
Nevertheless, the city continues to be one of the most important administrative and commercial centers of southern Aegean.
Ano Syros
Built amphitheatrically by the Venetians on the hill of Saint George, which is the northwestern continuation of Ermoupolis, Ano Syros retains all of its medieval charms and becoming atmosphere.
Countless stairs climb to the top, between narrow streets with whitewashed houses with colorful doors composing another state.
In the medieval settlement, there are no vehicles, since the alleys are very small and only allow the passage of pedestrians.
The distance from the port to the main entrance of the city is 3500 meters, and the road leading there is paved. The hill is dominated by the catholic church of Saint George, built in the Medieval Age.
From there, the magnificent view of the sea is unique, giving the visitor the opportunity to see the neighboring islands of Tinos, Delos, Paros, and Naxos. No trip to Syros island is complete without a visit to Ano Syros!
Ano Meria
In the northern part of Syros lies Ano Meria, an area of exceptional natural beauty and only a few inhabitants that resembles one of the small Greek villages you can find in northern Greece and no other islands. Small scattered settlements charm the visitor.
From high on the steep cliffs, the northern beaches magnetize the eye. They can only be accessed by boat from the bay of Kini during the summer month, resulting in them maintaining their pureness.
The settlements of Varvarousa, Aetos, Leia, Marmari, Grammata, and Kleisoura are worth exploring.
Especially in Grammata, the inscriptions on the rocks of the coast testify to the thanks of the sailors to the savior God who showed them the way to the bay to protect themselves from the raging sea.
The area also has chapels scattered all over the area, which during the summer, hold fun festivals.
The plateau of Halandriani and its neighboring hill of Kastri are places of legends and traditions. The Greek ruins that still survive there belong to a cemetery and two settlements of the Early Bronze Age.
The excavations brought to light countless findings of the Cycladic civilization of the 3rd millennium BC. Fortresses of the same period, pottery, weapons, and figurines were excavated in Kastri, most of which depict pregnant women.
In the settlement of Agios (Saint) Michalis, there was an ancient city called 'Elliniko,' with an ancient well that survives to this day.
Finally, behind the settlement of Richopos, one can witness the cave of the ancient Greek philosopher Ferekidis, a teacher of Pythagoras.
Vari
At the southeastern end of Syros, in Ormos, lies Vari with the trademark tower that creates an imposing image.
In Fabrica and Azolimnos, visitors can find picturesque cafes, taverns, and hotels. The seal holes with Aspronisi opposite gather in addition to the seals, cormorants, gulls, and black peregrines.
The plain with the reeds, the crops, the manganese wells, the farmhouses, and the cisterns, reveals the rural life that is particularly developed in the area and demands your attention.
Galissas
Just 7 km from Ermoupolis, on the west side, lies the beautiful village of Galissas. A former rural village that, in recent years, has grown rapidly and emerged as the most tourist area of Syros.
The organized hotels, the rooms and apartments for rent, the campsites, the taverns, and the bars promise unforgettable moments of comfort and fun to every visitor.
The wonderful beach with the fine sand and the natural shade from the tamarisk trees, the famous hill of Agia Pako with the picturesque church, the port with the boats, and the wonderful stone pier and the palm trees are of unique beauty.
There, Syros' visitors can enjoy a romantic walk and catch the striking sunset. What’s more, in this area of Agia Pako, traces of an ancient citadel have been discovered.
The imposing cave of Agios Stefanos with the white chapel and the running water, Armeos, Glarontas, and Agios Mamas, compose a magnificent landscape. Legend has it that the chapel was built by a fisherman who escaped from a giant octopus.
Particularly intense is the cultural movement in Galissa, where two cultural associations are located, as well as the Gail Nautical Club.
Danakos
Leaving Galissas, you will stumble upon the quiet and hospitable village of Danakos where the oldest church, Agios Kyrikos, and the church of Agia Theresia are located. Make a stop and walk around to get close to nature.
Kini
On the west side of Syros, just 9 km from Ermoupolis, lies the gorgeous Kini. It is a picturesque seaside fishing village that is one of the most popular and cosmopolitan areas.
In Agathopes, sea lilies bloom in abundance, a fact that testifies to its rich ecosystem.
Finikas
Finikas is a seaside village located in the southwestern part of Syros. It includes the settlement of Vissa, with 733 inhabitants.
In recent years, tourism has developed significantly there due to the wonderful natural location and the incredible tourist infrastructure.
It is noteworthy that the port Finikas is one of the two natural ports of Syros, the other one being that of Ermoupolis.
This picturesque port serves as a shelter, refueling station, and mooring for small yachts.
The beautiful beach of Finikas, with its golden sand, water sports, and other sports facilities, offers special moments of rest, relaxation, and entertainment. walks on its picturesque beach.
Chroussa
The settlement of Chroussa consists of lush vegetation, modern houses that maintain a traditional character, and old mansions that betray a past grandeur.
At the top of a hill, you can find the Church of Panagia Faneromeni, which was built around 1890, as well as an old chapel that dates back to the 14th century.
The Best Beaches in Syros
Megas Gialos Beach
Megas Gialos is one of the largest beaches on the island. It is located south of Ermoupolis, in front of the homonymous settlement.
In essence, Megas Gialos consists of two sandy beaches and scattered coves. It is an organized beach with umbrellas and sunbeds.
However, there is still enough free space for visitors to lay their towels, sheltered from the sun by the natural shade created by the tamarisk trees that reach almost to the edge of the sea.
Azolimnos beach
Crystal-clear waters and soft golden sand compose the image of Azolimnos beach.
The beach offers umbrellas and sunbeds for free, but the dozens of tamarisk trees along the beach also provide visitors with natural shade.
The three piers, two on the beach and the third at the edge, are ideal for diving, while cafes and taverns are located on the road just behind the beach.
Vari Beach
One of the most popular beaches of the island is located in the south and just one kilometer from the homonymous settlement that boasts about 1,200 inhabitants.
The small closed bay and the shallow waters of Vari beach are ideal for young children, but due to the beach's morphology, it is also suitable for long scenic walks.
Vari beach is fully organized and offers a variety of water sports.
Galissas beach
Galissas Beach has a sandy shore, deep blue waters, and tamarisk trees that offer protection from the sun.
It is fully organized and suitable for those who wish to engage in water sports. Food and accommodation are provided to visitors by the homonymous settlement, just above the beach.
At the top of the hill above the beach of Galissas, there is the white catholic chapel of Agia Pakous, which has been built on the ruins of an ancient temple.
It is worth climbing the -many- stairs; the stunning sea views and magical sunset you can admire from there are more than rewarding!
Kini Beach
The beach of Kini is located on the west coast of the island.
It is fully organized, with umbrellas and sunbeds, and it is located within walking distance from the taverns of the settlement of the same name.
In the center of the beach, a fountain catches the eye of the visitor as it depicts a mermaid holding it in her hands and rescuing a shipwrecked man.
Boats depart from Kini to the northern beaches of the island, to which there is no road access.
Finikas Beach
Finikas is one of the most popular beaches on the island that stretches along an endless sandy coast in a bay that is protected from the north winds.
There, you will find umbrellas and sun lounges that almost reach the shore while watersports keep the adventure-seekers on their toes.
The beach of Finikas is an excellent fishing spot, while on it, you will find several taverns serving local delicacies.
Komito beach
Komito is a beautiful beach in the southwest of the island on the road to Poseidonia that travelers choose for its golden sand, amazing waters, and trendy beach bar.
Just 1 km from Poseidonia -or Delagracia- and 15 km from Ermoupolis, Komito beach is a favorite destination for those looking for an oasis of relaxation and tranquility.
The privileged location of the beach gives visitors the opportunity to swim in the turquoise waters or to enjoy their coffee overlooking the rocky islet of Stroggilos.
Agathopes Beach
The beach of Agathopes is one of the busiest beaches of Syros, just 14 km from Ermoupolis. Its shallow water offer comforts, and easy accessibility, making it an incredible destination to visit if you're traveling to Greece with kids.
Guests can swim in the clear blue waters and enjoy their coffee or food in the cafes and taverns along the beach. Just 1 km from the beaches of Poseidonia and Finikas, Agathopes is a reference point for travelers.
The rocky islet of Strongylo, Schinonisi, and the impressive lighthouse at Cape Viglostasi, add to the already enchanting scenery.
Agios Nikolaos Beach
Agios Nikolaos is one of the three most beautiful beaches of Ermoupolis, ideal for those who don’t want to trouble themselves with transportation in order to enjoy a refreshing dive.
It may not be a cosmopolitan beach, but the picturesque landscape and clear blue waters are enough to attract travelers for a swim.
The cafe located nearby offers visitors snacks, drinks, and relaxation, along with some sun loungers.
Varvarousa beach
Varvarousa beach is located in Ormos Aetou, north of Delfini beach and just 12 km from Ermoupolis.
It is a beautiful, yet rather deserted, beach ideal for eclectic travelers seeking absolute tranquility for their sea excursions.
The beach is accessible by boat from Kini or through a path that starts from Delfini beach, which is ideal for hiking in Greece enthusiasts.
Achladi beach
Achladi beach is located 8 km from Ermoupolis and is an ideal choice for families with young children and those who want to relax on a beach that offers comfort, convenience, and watersports.
Between Vari and Mega Gialos, there is the picturesque settlement of Achladi, which took its name from the shape created by the houses of the settlement, as achladi means ‘pear’ in Greek.
Swimmers can relax under the umbrellas, enjoy delicious dishes in the seaside tavern and visit the cape of Ai Giorgis.
Fabrica Beach
Fabrica is one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Syros. The old ceramics factory operated there during the industrial prosperity of Syros island and gave its name to the whole region.
In Fabrica, you will find only a few umbrellas, as the beach is considered one of the quietest of Syros, with golden sand and pebbles.
If you are up for an adventure, try swimming to the small island of Ampelos, which is directly opposite.
Kokkina beach
If you are in Finikas and you want to avoid the loud central beach, then a little further north, at a distance of about 1.5 km, is the secluded beach of Kokkina.
It is an unorganized, narrow beach with both sand and pebbles.
In order to enjoy it to the fullest, don’t forget to take the essentials with you, but do not worry about shade, as the tamarisk trees that reach up to the shore offer it abundantly.
Opposite the beach, you can see Psathonisi, one of the uninhabited islands of Syros.
Lotos Beach
Lotos is a quiet beach in western Syros with clear blue waters and tamarisk trees. The small tavern in the area provides snacks and refreshments to swimmers.
However, if you want more than a snack, you’ll be glad to know that the village of Kini is located nearby.
Getting Around the Island
Like in most Greek islands, you can get around the island either by renting a vehicle or by public transport.
In order to decide which of the options is best for you, you have two take into consideration two main factors: whether you’re traveling with children and how many days you will stay on the island.
If you don’t have children with you and don’t plan on staying for too long, you can get away with using KTEL buses and taxis for your transportation.
Especially if you choose your accommodation to be in Ermoupolis, then you’ll make your life a lot easier.
Fortunately, the island has very good and consistent public transport. The bus station is located on the far left as you descend to the port and see Ermoupolis, the network is very frequent to all the famous beaches of the island, the buses are modern and air-conditioned, and at each stop, there is a detailed schedule.
Not to mention that the tickets are dirt cheap at around 1.80 euros for a full, one-way ticket.
At the same time, for travel in the neighborhoods of Ermoupolis, there is a very dense network of Mini Buses and a train that operates until late at night to guide you to the settlements and the sights of the city.
If, however, you are traveling to the Greece with kids and are happy to spend the extra money, bringing your car or renting a vehicle is the way to go.
It goes without saying that there is a wide network of rental vehicles of all kinds, in most cases, your hotelier can help you rent them.
In that case, you can choose accommodation in one of Syros’ seaside villages and not Ermoupoli, without having to worry about the distances.
Things to Do in Syros
1. Visit the neoclassical-style villas in Delagratsia -or Poseidonia- with tower mansions and large lush gardens and the Poseidonia Town Hall. They will impress you more than the whitewashed houses, and that is quite a feat!
2. Go for an afternoon walk in Pigi. It is a place behind Ano Syros where a stream runs (a rare thing for the Cyclades) and has a small church in Agios Athanasios. It is a very beautiful walk.
4. Visit the museum of Vamvakaris, one of the most famous rebetiko musicians in Greece. It is located in the alleys of Ano Syros and is open in the afternoon so that you can combine it with a relaxed drink and a mesmerizing view.
5. Book horse-riding lessons in the Equestrian Club of Cyclades, which is located in Syros.
6. Attend a festival. Two very nice festivals are organized in Syros. The Cinema festival takes place every July, and the Animation Festival every September.
It would be nice to arrange your vacation on those days because both are full of excellent activities. Of course, the events in Syros never stop.
You are always sure to catch some kind of event at the Apollo Theater, which annually hosts the International Classical Music Festival, 0r the Pallas Cinema.
7. If you are in Syros, you should definitely eat the Syrian cheese 'San Michalis,' one of the most expensive cheeses in the country, which is made with pasteurized cow's milk.
Kopanisti and skordoloukanika are also a must, and of course, for dessert, the Turkish delights in dozens of varieties and the halva pies of Syros, which are enough to wrap the delicious tradition of years in a single bite.
What to Eat and Drink
The trademark of the island is the halva pies and the Turkish delights. But if you take a closer look, you will find that cheese and aromatic honey are equally important local products, along with the wild herbs and the dry crops of the summer orchards.
The cuisine of Syros includes several local dishes. The most popular include aetopita, a dish made with fish, garlic, fennel, and tomato, cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and raisins, and sausage.
Karavoli, which is snail stew. Loutza sausage, which is a meze common in all the Cyclades. In Syros, it is made from the pork fillet, which is marinated in red wine with pepper, cloves, allspice, and cinnamon.
It is placed in a natural intestine and hung in the air to dry and mature for 40 days. Fennel pie, Meletinia, which are the classic small cheese pies of the Cyclades, and ‘Pastellaria, which are sun-dried salted figs with sesame and cinnamon, are also excellent.
The best restaurants and fish taverns to taste the local flavors are ‘Aeriko’ and ‘To Oneiro’ in Ermoupolis, ‘Vaporia’ located in the homonymous district, and the taverns at the central square of Ano Syros.
It is rather impossible to find anything less than delicious food no matter where you choose to eat, so don’t worry too much about it. Ask the locals and go with your gut!
Our Trips to the Greek Island of Syros
The incredible Syros has a world of beauty that is waiting to be discovered through tours and activities. If you want to do it properly and thoroughly, your best bet is to leave your trip to the hands of experts.
Especially if you want to explore the Cyclades as a whole and consider Syros as one of your stops in your Greek island-hopping adventure, our 14-Day trip to the Cyclades: Athens, Syros, Tinos & Naxos is the ideal trip for you.
Final Thoughts on Syros Island
As you have probably gathered by this guide to Syros, the island manages to catch the eyes of those who want to put an atmospheric twist to their vacation, combining the qualities of a city, an island, and an exciting Greek summer.
It belongs to the 'unknown paradise' or 'gems that are hidden' categories. It is no coincidence, after all, that it is often promoted by the Greek National Tourism Organisation.
From the walks in the beautiful administrative capital, Ermoupolis, with the large town hall, to the imposing neoclassical architecture and narrow alleys, but also the wonderful beaches, Syros is a place you will fall in love with at first sight year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the island of Syros known for?
Is Syros a party island?
How do you get to Syros, Greece?
How long is the ferry from Athens to Syros?
