Explore Syros: Your Ultimate Greek Island Guide & Must-Visit Destination

Syros Greece, the capital of the Cyclades islands.

Syros is a captivating island that seamlessly combines tradition with modernity. The island's rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant culture make it a perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic Greek experience. 

Syros is not only known for its beautiful landscapes but also for its lively festivals, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality.

If you are after a calm atmosphere and seeking a destination less busy than the neighbouring islands of Santorini, Mykonos or Paros then Syros is for you!

How to get to Syrons island

By Plane:

As Syros has an airport you are able to fly directly from Athens to Syros. The flight is very short at 35 minutes. Once landing you are only a short distance (2km) from the capital Ermoupolis. The flights from Athens are all year round, while flights from Thessaloniki are seasonal.

By Ferry:

Ferries leave the port of Piraeus daily and increase the amount of routes during summer. The trip takes 2 hours for Seajet ferries and 3 hours and 40 minutes for Blue Star Ferries. So travelling from Athens to the port of Syros is very fast and easy!

Syros is also accessible from islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos and Paros

Getting around Syros Island

Public buses

Ermoupoli the main village of the island is where you are able to catch the bus. The bus is cheap and can take you to most places around the island. It is used by the locals and tourists.

Car Hire

The best way to get around the island to is hire a car. This allows you to see the island at your own pace.

There are car hire places on the island, but a word of warning, during the summer season book your car rental ahead of time!

If you are coming from other islands via ferry, you are able to take you car on the ferry so you can explore Syros island!

Taxis and Private Transfers

This is amore expensive option to see the island, but there are plenty of taxis and private transfer services on the island. If this is what you are after, the best solution is to ask your Hotel for their services.

Best beaches on the island of Syros

Galissas Beach

Located 9 km south west of Ermoupolis the beach is partly organised sandy bay. 

The beach has been awarded the EU Blue Flag award, so the waters here are crystal clear! There are traditional taverns, cafes and beach bars close by so eating and drinking are not a problem.

Kini Beach

Located 9 km west of Ermoupolis, this beach is sandy with part of the beach having sun beds and umbrellas for rent. 

If a seafood lunch or dinner is what you are after then the local tavernas around the beach are known for fresh seafood! This beach is also the best place to watch the sunset.

Armeos beach

Located west of the main village, this secluded beach is a must visit. It is no organised and is a short walk from Galissas beach.

As the beach is not organised, you will need to take all of the necessary supplies for a day at this beach.

This beach is nudist friendly.

Fetouri beach

Located 15 km south west from Ermoupoli. It is locatred very close to the resort in Poseidonia. The beach is well organised so you can sit and relax on the beach with your sun bed and umbrella and local tavernas close by.

The beach is perfect for families as the waters are very shallow. It is one of the best beaches in Syros.

Things to do in Syros

Archaeological site of Halandriani

Located in the town of Halandriani

Unveiled by Christos Tsountas in 1895, the Chaladriani archaeological site primarily comprises an Early Cycladic cemetery. Its proximity to the Kastri site adds to its allure.

This remarkable site showcases uniquely constructed corbelled tombs, adorned with opulent treasures. Among them, intriguing vessels resembling frying pans, embellished with intricate ship depictions. These remarkable artefacts are now showcased at the Syros museum, inviting awe and admiration.

With over 500 graves and an assortment of artefacts, this archaeological site sheds light on the life and customs during the Early Cycladic era, spanning from 2700 to 2000 B.C. Interestingly, nearby Platy Vouni is believed to house a cave where the esteemed philosopher and historian, Pherekides, once resided. It is said that he was also the mentor of the renowned Pythagoras.

Visiting Ano Syros - A Journey Back in Time

Traveling uphill from Ermoupoli, you'll find Ano Syros, a picturesque medieval settlement that will transport you back in time. This enchanting neighbourhood is characterised by its narrow alleys, stone houses, and stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

As you meander through the labyrinthine streets, you'll encounter traditional tavernas, local artisans, and cozy cafes where you can savour authentic Greek delicacies.

Church of Agios Nikolaos

Situated in close proximity to Miaoulis Square, the church of Agios Nikolaos stands as an awe-inspiring architectural marvel on the island of Syros. This splendid structure, erected in 1870, was skilfully designed by the renowned architect G. Metaxas. Notably, King Otto himself displayed a personal interest in its revival, and esteemed sponsors like Queen Olga generously contributed to its realisation.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this Orthodox temple showcases a magnificent fusion of marbles sourced from Penteli and Italy. The grandeur of its appearance is further enhanced by its cruciform basilica design and two imposing bell towers. Ascending an elegant four-meter staircase, visitors enter a realm of awe-inspiring beauty. Inside, a myriad of artefacts and exquisite ecclesiastical items awaits. The presence of Corinthian-style marble columns, archaic decorative motifs, a renowned marble temple and throne sculpted by the talented artist G. Vitalis in 1899, as well as intricately painted icons by renowned hagiographers of the era, all contribute to the interior's mesmerising charm.

In 2006, meticulous restoration efforts were undertaken, accentuating the splendour of this iconic landmark that graces the island of Syros.

Syros Town Hall

Nestled in the picturesque Miaouli Square, the Town Hall of Ermoupolis seamlessly blends the essence of classical ancient Greece with the romantic allure of Western Romanticism.

Its architectural style exudes the elegance of neoclassical building design, clearly influenced by the creative genius of German and Italian architects.

Construction of the Town Hall commenced in 1876 and reached completion in 1898, under the mayoral leadership of D. Vafiadakis. The visionary behind its design was Ernst Ziller, a renowned Bavarian architect who skilfully captured the spirit of 19th-century architecture.

The central section boasts a splendid display of marble craftsmanship, while an exquisite marble staircase adorns the interior, gracefully ascending to the first floor. Within the hallowed meeting room, where local government convenes, magnificent oil paintings pay homage to King George I and Queen Olga. In addition to its administrative functions, the Town Hall proudly houses the Archaeological Museum of Syros, the Court of Law, the Land Registry, the Public Archives, and other essential public services.

The Town Hall of Ermoupolis stands as a testament to architectural grandeur and is widely regarded as one of Greece's most stunning Town Halls.

Where to Eat & Drink on the Greek island of Syros

Allou Giallou

Located in the main town centre with the restaurant right on the sea serving traditional Greek food including meat and seafood dishes.

Aristide Wine Bar

Located in Ermoupolis at the  rooftop of the Aristide hotel. The wine bar has a fabulous view of the Aegean sea. The restaurant serves some of the best seafood on the island.

Laoutari

Also located in Ermoupolis, this restaurant is like stepping back in time. Its a traditional cafe serving raki and meze. The restaurant is great for the authentic Greek experience and has live music.

Don't miss a visit to this restaurant!

Porte Cafe

This bar is located in Ermoupolis serving some great cocktails throughout the night. Not only do they serve cocktails bit they have a great range of wine and beers