Syros Island: 10 highlights of the unknown Cycladic island

It was only by chance that we came across Syros Island. We had never heard of this island of the Cyclades before. Before our first trip to Syros, we had no idea how much the island would captivate us. So much so that we have now visited the island several times.

“With its two eye-catching places Ermoupoli and Ano Syros, the island is architecturally unique. Syros has something mysterious about it and is very different from other islands. No one is a stranger here, and everyone is welcome.”

We even spent two winters on Syros. “Wintering on a Greek island, there’s nothing going on there?” The myth persists that the islands of Greece are extinct in winter. This is indeed the case on many Greek islands, but not on Syros, at least not in the city of Ermoupoli.

Syros with its capital Ermoupoli is the administrative centre of the Cyclades and is very lively in all seasons. Tourism has not played a major role for the island so far. In midsummer, you will mainly meet mainland Greeks and only a small international audience.

We were immediately warmly welcomed by the locals and felt comfortable from the first moment. It is this lightness and joy of people that warms your heart and makes you feel at home.

Take a few days to explore this Cycladic island. We have spent two winters on this idyllic island and enclose our Syros highlights on the way.

#1 Ermoupoli: Capital of Syros

When the ferry from Piraeus enters the port of Ermoupoli (also known as Hermoupolis), you will immediately be greeted by the two prominent city hills with their churches.

The majestic capital from Syros looks enchanting from afar and stands in complete contrast to the barren mountain landscape. Their tightly lined houses shine in soft pastel shades and the marble streets look elegant as if from another era.

There is a lot of hustle and bustle along the harbour promenade. Countless cafés and restaurants invite you to linger, cats doze in the afternoon sun. Although in the city of Hermes, god of trade and namesake, with 14,000 inhabitants Ermoupoli has been able to retain its village character.

In the city centre, the Miaouli Square the magnificent town hall, built by the German Ernst Ziller. The neoclassical building is unique to the Greek islands and gives Ermoupoli a cosmopolitan feel.

Stroll through the Vaporia district

When the sun makes its way through the marble alleys everything shines in a bright light. You almost feel like a nobleman when strolling. The special architecture gives the city a noble charm.

Syros is particularly beautiful in the rich Vaporia district. Once the seat of wealthy merchants and businessmen in the 19th century, chic villas and mansions still bear witness to this time.

Many of the magnificent buildings have now been extensively restored. Its rooftop terraces offer magnificent views of the Aegean Sea. Right next door is another Ermoupoli attraction. The Apollon Theatre of Syros was modelled on the Milanese scale and still organises regular performances today.

Cultural Capital of the Cyclades

Syros is the secret cultural jewel of the Aegean Sea! The island surprises with an exceptionally diverse cultural program that magically attracts international visitors and culture fans.

The historic Apollon Theater serves as the centerpiece for an impressive array of events, from world-class festivals such as the renowned Rebetiko Festival international dance festivals to opera galas.

The mix of classical music, traditional Greek dances, modern theatre and jazz makes Syros a unique cultural experience.

Ermoupoli, the elegant capital with its neoclassical charm, offers the perfect backdrop for this cultural diversity, which goes far beyond what one would expect from a small Cycladic island.

In summer, it’s worth taking a detour to the city beach of Vaporia. This is where the Ciel Beach Bar with a great view of Ermoupoli and the magnificent church of Agios Nikolaos. You can refresh yourself in the cool water on the rugged coast via boarding ladders.

The importance of the church in Syros

Speaking of the church, Syros is the region in Greece with the largest Catholic community. On the hill of the old town of Ano Syros sits the Catholic church of Agios Georgios. On the other city hill, the Orthodox religious community has settled with the magnificent church “Anastasis ti Christi”.

The Catholic Venetians settled on Syros with the first Crusades. Since then, both religions have lived peacefully together for centuries. One of the special Syro’s highlight is Easter time, if the date of the Catholic and Orthodox churches falls on the same period.

#2 The enchanting Ano Syros

Like a small Cycladic village the colorful houses of the medieval town of Ano Syros are lined up along the hill of Agios Georgios. From Ermoupoli, many steps lead up to another world. The labyrinth of picturesque alleys looks like it comes from times long past. The unique scenery is one of the most beautiful Syros highlights ever.

Even today, donkeys bring building materials to Ano Syros, because you can only explore the small streets on foot. This is the place where people settled on Syros in the Middle Ages. The hill offered good protection against pirate attacks.

Most of the houses in the medieval capital are classic residential buildings, so it is still quiet today. There is a photo motif on every corner. Colorful bougainvillea stretch along the rooftops of the houses and the cats of Ano Syros doze in the midday sun.

The village of Ano Syros is a refuge for those seeking peace and quiet outside the high season. Because without a lot of knick-knacks, souvenir shops and food miles, you can still find a piece up here on the hill original Greece and peaceful seclusion.

In the meantime, you can take a walk through the alley labyrinth of Ano Syros and discover some taverns and bars. Small boutiques and handicraft shops offer pretty materials and souvenirs from the island of Syros and get by without kitsch.

Bar Mile of Ano Syros

Behind the Vamvakaris Museum begins the bar and pub mile of Ano Syros. In midsummer, it is usually impossible to get through here, as all the seats in the outdoor area are occupied and the party-loving masses push their way through the main street in caravans. But outside of the Greek holiday season, you can enjoy beautiful evenings here with a cool drink.

Trendy bars like the Theosis Bar place small tables directly in the alleys, you can enjoy your cocktail on seat cushions and philosophize about God and the world. There’s a magical atmosphere in the air. Other bars like this Tsagkaradiko offer a breathtaking view of Ermoupoli illuminated in the evening from their roof terraces.

In the side streets, you will find traditional taverns with delicious Greek mezedes (tip: Apanochoritissa) as well as modern fusion cuisine that will make gourmets’ hearts beat faster (e.g. Hygge Ano Syros).

Markos Vamvakaris and the Rembetiko

At the entrance of the main alley is the Museum of Markos Vamvakaris. The famous bouzouki player and guru of rembetiko was born in Ano Syros. Admission to the museum costs about two euros. A film about the life and work of the Rebetiko artist will be shown in Greek with English subtitles.

For friends of Greek music, the museum is definitely a recommendation. Markos probably most famous song “Frangosyriani” is well known to Greece fans. The melody is a real catchy tune. In the song, Vamvakaris sings about a childhood love for a Catholic girl from Syros.

At the top of the hill of Ano Syros sits the Catholic church of Agios Georgios. From here you have a magnificent view of Ermoupoli and the Orthodox church opposite on the other hill. Behind the city mountain is a restored windmill. From here you can also enjoy a great panorama of the city.

#3 Vari and the beaches in the south

We leave the capital and drive to the south of the island. Between rugged cliffs, one small beach bay follows the other. The closer it is to Ermoupoli, the more holidaymakers cavort here in the summer months. The beaches of Vari and Megas Gialos offer a nice place to relax.

Both bays have a beautiful sandy beach and clear sea water. Parasols and sunbeds can be rented on site. In addition, tamarisks provide the necessary shade. Taverns provide bathers with snacks and cool drinks.

#4 Posidonia and Agathopes Beach

In the southwest of the island you will reach Posidonia or also called “Della Grazia”. In the 19th century, the beautiful coastal town was a popular holiday home for wealthy merchants from Ermoupoli. They built their magnificent mansions and gardens here. The green village is worth a visit for its pretty church of Agios Ioannis and some kafenias and taverns a short stopover.

One of the most beautiful beaches on the island is Agathopes behind the military station of Posidonia. The picturesque bay has a great sandy beach and crystal clear water. There are parasols and sunbeds for rent, taverns provide for the physical well-being. Especially in July, it can get very crowded here and there is plenty of partying into the night.

#5 Finikas and Kokkina Bay

If you continue along the west coast, you will pass the bay of Finikas. In the second largest port of the island, fishing boats sail in the pier and in summer sailors moor here. In the tranquil coastal town, it is touristy during the high season. Then the small beach section is very well visited.

If you like it quieter, just a few kilometers outside of Finikas there is the Kokkini Bay. The narrow bay is known for its red rocks. The stand consists largely of gravel and stones.

In the area around Finikas there are many holiday homes, hotels and restaurants. The town is located about 12 kilometers from Ermoupoli and can be reached by rental car as well as by bus.

#6 Galissas: The West of Syros

The beach of Galissas in the southwest of Syros is the largest on the island and we liked it right away. The dreamlike bay shimmers in the most beautiful shades of turquoise. The sandy beach slopes very gently into the sea, so you can walk several meters into it. For this reason, the Galissas Beach especially popular with families with children.

There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on site. Beach bars provide bathers with cool drinks and snacks. The coastal town is busy in the summer months and offers numerous accommodations, restaurants, shops and car rental companies. From Galissas there is also a bus to Ermoupoli, eight kilometers away.

On the left side of the bay, high up on the hill, sits the small chapel of Agia Pakou. From here you have a magnificent view of Galissas and the Aegean Sea. Behind the hill on the other side is Ancient Galissas.

The ancient settlement site offered protection from pirates due to its hidden location. At the foot of the ruins you will find the small Bay of Armeos. It sparkles in the most beautiful shades of blue and is popular with nudists and same-sex couples.

From Galissas, a beautiful hiking trail leads to the chapel of Agios Stefanos. Alternatively, there are also boat tours from the village of Kini to this attraction. The white church is nestled in a cave right by the sea. Especially at sunset, it offers a breathtaking backdrop with the bell tower.

#7 The beautiful fishing village of Kini

If you drive from Ermoupoli over the mountains to the west side of the island, the popular holiday resort Kini. The cute fishing village is nestled in a pretty bay. In the harbour pier, quays and excursion boats sail. Right on the beach are traditional Greek taverns serving freshly caught fish.

Some palm trees have been planted on the narrow stretch of beach, and reed umbrellas provide the necessary shade. You can reach the place by bus as well as by rental car. In the evening, when the sun shines between the neighboring islands of Kea and Kythnos sinking into the Aegean Sea, Kini is the perfect place to enjoy the play of colors.

If you are traveling with a rental car, you also have the option of using the two secluded beaches Lotos, south of Kini and Delfini north of the village. In season, excursion boats depart regularly from the port of Kini to the lonely beaches in the north of Syros and to the small cave chapel of Agios Stefanos near Galissas.

The likeable Nikos from Kini offers with his boat Perla 1 tours to the chapel and the beaches along the northwest coast. More information can be found at syrosadventures.gr

On the way back to Ermoupoli, it is worth taking a detour to the mountain village of Alithini. From here you have a fantastic view of the capital and Ano Syros. In the small village there are two taverns where you can eat delicious Greek food on the panoramic terraces. It may be worth making a reservation in advance. The places are very popular with locals and tourists.

#8 Ano Meria: The Lonely Highlands

The north of Syros is still largely untouched and ideal for extensive hikes. The wild nature of Ano Meria is largely barren in the summer months, except for a few olive trees and vines.

In spring, on the other hand, it is green and blooming magnificently here. If you roam the expanses of the highlands, the scent of thyme comes into the nose. The finest island herbs grow everywhere and you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this deserted spot.

The little hamlet of San Michalis seems extinct. But among the numerous ruins, there are still two quaint taverns that cater to the explorers of the north of Syros. The taverns are open on weekends during the summer months. From up here, the sunset is magnificent and a perfect end to a long hike. A real Syros highlight that you should not miss.

From San Michalis it goes into the last Kampos village. Only a few houses are scattered in the landscape. It is mainly farmers and farmers who still live here. Among other things, they produce the tasty island cheese San Michalis. At some point, the asphalt road ends and a wooden sign shows you the way to the northern tip. There you will find the pristine beaches at the very end of the island of Syros.

#9 Hiking on Syros Island

Hike to the beaches in the north

From Kampos, the northernmost village of the island, we start our hike into the lonely mountain landscape of Syros. It introduces a goat trail from the end of the asphalt road over a ridge. At the passage of the stone wall, two paths branch off. One leads to the northernmost tip of Syros. The other path winds downhill to the secluded beaches of Lia, Marmari, Americanou and Grammata.

The hike leads past an ancient marble quarry and some ruined houses. We are accompanied by a magnificent panorama of the Aegean Sea and the neighboring islands. After a while, evergreen conifers appear in the distance in the otherwise barren landscape.

In the valley of the Americanou Beach Since 1965, the American John Pierson and his son have planted about 18,000 trees, of which 5,000 remain. At the foot of the pine forest there is a small hut. From here it goes through the forest to an idyllic beach.

In summer, you will almost only meet Greeks and free spirits here. There is no taverna, sanitary facilities or rubbish bins. Everyone should clean up their leftovers and take their garbage with them. Due to the forest fire danger open fires are strictly forbidden here.

Hike to the ancient site of Grammata

From Americanou Beach, an inconspicuous trail leads directly along the coast to the bay of Grammata (= letters). Even from afar you can see the bright marble slabs shining on the coast. People have already settled here in Roman and Byzantine times immortalized in the stone. It was mainly pilgrims and sailors who sought refuge in the bay and engraved messages on the stone.

Unfortunately, many of the very old inscriptions have disappeared over the years. Today you discover almost only “modern immortalizations”. The Bay of Grammata sparkles in the most beautiful shades of turquoise and is wonderful for refreshment.

From here we will make our way back, which can be taken either along the mountainside or along the coast. The pure hiking time is two hours to the inscriptions of Grammata and back.

#10 Culinary highlights on Syros

In the 19th century, Ermoupoli grew into a important commercial center in Greece. Even today, the large Neorion shipyard in the capital’s harbor basin bears witness to this time. Syros took in many Greek refugees during the War of Independence, including many businessmen.

The wealthy merchants ensured wealth on the island and had a significant influence on the unique architecture. In addition, the refugees from Asia Minor and the East Aegean brought their own culinary specialties and recipes to the island of Syros.

To this day, Syros is farmed and some foods such as San Michalis cheese, Louza ham and the Fennel sausage are traditionally produced on the island. In the market alley of Ermoupoli you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, baked goods and delicatessen from the island.

A particularly large selection of Greek delicacies is offered, for example, by the Delicatessen Prekas. The friendly owner Kostas has traveled a lot in Greece and the world.

He sells countless specialties in his shop, such as the Fennel Cheese Marathotiraki, various island spices, organic thyme honey and the famous fennel paste from Syros. Spirits are also available. In addition to ouzo and tsipouro from Syros, there is also wine from the local producer Fambrica for purchase.

Of course, the sweet specialties Chalvadopites and Loukoumia are not to be missed, which are often brought to the mainland as island souvenirs. Loukoumi is a relic of the Greeks from Asia Minor. The sugar-sweet dish is available in different flavors such as rose blossom, vanilla or orange.

More Syros Travel Tips & Info

Restaurant recommendations on Syros

To Tsipouradiko Tis Mirsinis, Ermoupoli

In Ermoupoli there are countless good restaurants and taverns to stop at. We particularly liked the restaurant “Tsipouradiko Mirsini” right on the harbour. The selection of appetizers is generous and every dish we tried was just fantastic.

The mushrooms with manouri cheese, the salad with bulgur and the fava dip are particularly delicious. Even the typical tzatziki experiences a new culinary renaissance. The prices are absolutely fine for the location. The staff was attentive and very friendly. Very nice vintage ambience, well visited every day.

Stin Ithaki tou Ai, Ermoupoli

In a hidden alley behind the harbour lies the small tavern “Ithaki tou Ai”. The landlord is very friendly and supports the selection of the delicious dishes. Everything is freshly prepared and tastes delicious.

For vegetarians, the zucchini balls are recommended. Meat lovers taste the fried fennel sausage from Syros. The ambience is very cozy, in summer you sit directly in the alleys under a canopy of leaves.

Accommodation on Syros Island

There are a few accommodations on Syros to choose from via Booking and Airbnb. Larger hotels are located directly at the port of Ermoupoli. It’s a bit busier here and you should expect noise from the shipyard. Inside the city in the alleys it is a bit quieter.

→ About Booking.com* you will find many accommodation in Syros and you can check prices here:

Our hotel tips for Syros

In the summer months, you can also choose from numerous holiday rentals in the seaside resorts of Finikas, Galissas and Kini. You can find suitable accommodation on Syros via Booking.com* and check prices if necessary:

➲ To beautiful accommodations on the island*

Enclosed we have put together a personal selection of beautiful hotels and apartments with good guest reviews on the island of Syros:

Wind Tales, Ano Syros

Tasteful apartment hotel on a hillside with sea views in the old town of Ano Syros. Good breakfast and chic Cycladic style rooms.

➲ To book Wind Tales*

Naves Suites, Ermoupoli

Compact aparthotel above the waterfront. Elegant rooms with beautiful views from the balcony. Only two minutes to the city center.

➲ To book Naves Suites*

Remvi, Galissas

Modern 2-star hotel with pool right near the beach. Relaxed atmosphere, friendly hosts and good breakfast.

➲ To book from Remvi Hotel*

Oro Suites, Kini

Modern rooms and suites right on Kini Beach. Exclusive suites with terrace and jacuzzi. Fantastic sunset!

➲ Book Oro Suites*

Syros Atlantis, Vari

3-star hotel near the beach with simple, clean rooms. Rich breakfast and friendly hosts.

➲ To book Syros Atlantis*

Here we spent the night on Syros

Aiolia Apartments Syros, Ermoupoli

We have found a cozy little apartment in the Pefkakia district and were very happy with it. Accommodation prices outside the high season are quite reasonable. We had with Lisa and Kostas very lovely landlords and on our next stay in Syros we will visit them again. You can view their accommodation via Booking.com* and book directly if necessary:

➲ Book Aeolia Apartments*

Getting Around & Car Rental in Syros

You can easily discover Syros with a rental car. Most of the roads are in good condition and traffic is limited on the small island. Except for the turbulent main street of Ermoupoli, where there can be a small traffic jam at rush hour. Depending on the season, you can get a small car from 25 euros per day. Along the harbour promenade of Ermoupoli there are numerous car rental companies.

You can also arrive with a wheeled vehicle remote places on Syros. Having your own vehicle is also essential if you want to go hiking in the north of Syros. There are hardly any buses to the highlands. There are also rental companies of small cars, scooters and quads on site in the larger holiday resorts. Click on the link of Discover Cars* to see prices and availability:

➲ To the rental car booking*

A few Syros buses reliably connect the villages in the south and west of the island with the capital. Rides in the city of Ermoupoli are free of charge. For all other destinations, you can buy a ticket from the bus driver or at the kiosk.

→ Further information on timetables and co. can be found at: KTEL Syros

Getting to Syros

The island of Syros has a small airport, as well as a port for large ferries. There are no direct flights from Germany to the island. Thus, the path almost always leads over Athens to Syros. Direct flights from Germany to Athens are available year-round from many German airports. You can check prices and book directly via the Skyscanner* portal:

➲ To cheap Athens flights*

Alternatively, you can fly to the island from Athens on a small plane from Olympic Air. More about the Capital Athens and how to get there you can find here: Athens Highlights

By ferry to Syros

From the Port of Piraeus you can reach the island in about 3.5 hours. The ferry companies Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways serve Syros daily. From Syros you can also visit the other islands of the Cyclades such as Mykonos or Naxos scout. Take a look at our article: Island hopping Greece

With our partner Ferryhopper* you can search for current ferry connections and book directly if needed:

➲ To the ferry booking with Ferryhopper*

Learn Greek on Syros

Ermoupoli is also home to a number of language schools for those who have lost their heart to Greece and want to learn the local language. We had chosen the Vardakeios Language Institute. The concept of the school is perfectly tailored to the needs of the language students. We particularly liked the personal support and family atmosphere and made learning easier.

In a total of 10 teaching units, we learned the basic elements of the Greek language and learned a variety of vocabulary. The prices per lesson are very fair.

We felt so comfortable with our lovely language teacher Evgenia that we ended up leaving the island of Syros as friends. If you are interested and for more information, just take a look at the website of the institute: Vardakeios Language School

→ More travel tips and inspiration for the beautiful neighboring islands of Syros can be found here: Cyclades Islands

Syros Youtube Video

Impressions of the island can be found in the video by Robert Polasek ©:

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