Syros Island is one of the most unique Greek islands, and it has a very special place in my heart. As a Greek living in Athens, I always enjoy visiting Syros for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, lively festivals, and charming beaches.
Unlike many other Cycladic islands, Syros has a fascinating mix of Greek Orthodox and Catholic traditions, which you can see in its churches, villages, and everyday life.
When you explore the island, you will notice two very different sides.
In the north, Apano Meria offers a peaceful escape with rugged landscapes, traditional villages, hiking paths, and amazing sea views.
The south is more developed, with easier roads, most of the island’s beaches, and plenty of places to stay and eat.
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The Best Things to Do on Syros Island
How long should you stay in Syros? If you’re short on time or just want a quick taste of the island, 1-2 days can be enough to explore the main highlights of Ermoupolis, the capital, and perhaps visit a nearby beach.
3-5 days: This is a good amount of time to get a more comprehensive experience of Syros. You can explore Ermoupolis and Ano Syros, visit several beaches, and participate in some activities like hiking or water sports.
1. Explore Elegant Ermoupolis
Ermoupolis is a town full of historical and impressive buildings, a unique Chora in the whole of the Cyclades.
Stroll the main square of Ermoupolis, Miaouli sq., with the imposing City Hall built in 1863 by the famous architect Schiller, a popular meeting place for both tourists and locals.
Inside the City Hall, you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Syros, Greece, with Cycladic and Byzantine exhibits (open 9-4, closed on Tuesdays & Thursdays).
Ermoupolis has a great vibe, and the food is top-notch; there is so much choice for every taste, and relatively inexpensive compared to other islands.
Stroll by the Apollo Theatre, built in 1864, which reminds me of La Scala in Milan in sublime Venetian decoration.
If you are visiting Syros in August, don’t miss the International Cycladic Classical Music Festival with a series of five unique concerts at the iconic Apollo Theatre.
Go to Vaporia, the coastal side and the poshest area of Ermoupolis, famous for its unique high-ceilinged mansions with impressive murals, wood-carved doors, marble balconies, and wooden floors.
Nearby is Asteria, a nice beach, and the church of Agios Nikolaos that dominates the Vaporia area with the towering bell towers. And if you feel like gambling, there is a Casino in the Ermoupolis port!
2. Walk up to Ano Syros and the Capuchin Monastery
Ano Syros (the upper part of Ermoupolis) was founded in 1200 AD by the Venetians to protect the inhabitants from the pirates.
To make things even more difficult for the pirates, they made narrow cobblestone streets with countless steps that pass by charming whitewashed houses and arches to get to the top.
When you finally reach the top – well done, you are in good physical condition! – Visit the impressive Monastery of Capuchin in Ano Syros, founded in 1653 by King Louis XIII of France. In its basement, some crypts were used as shelters during pirate raids. There are no monks there today.
3. Visit the 12th-century Catholic Church of Saint George
The Catholic Church of Saint George in Ano Syros, a three-aisled Basilica with marble columns, is built on the highest point of the hill in 1200 CE.
It is a large complex of buildings, such as the Bell Tower, the historical archive building, and the Episcopal Palace.
4. Photograph the Syros, Greece Cats
Like most Greek islands, Syros also has its share of stray cats being well looked after by the cat NGOs on the island and the vets supporting neutering programs.
There is a Syros Cat Garden, where neutered cats hang out or get fed by the local volunteers.
5. Dive into Galissas Beach and Hike to the Hidden Chapel in a Cave
Galissas is a beautiful sandy bay between two low hills on the southwestern part of Syros with a couple of great restaurants by the beach.
The beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas but also has trees if you prefer the more natural shade.
On the left side of Galissas Beach sits the tiny Catholic chapel of Saint Pakou, offering beautiful sea views.
Hike from Galisas (or go there by boat) for about 2 km north and find the little Catholic chapel of Agios Stefanos built inside a cave overlooking the bay.
Follow the signs to get to the unique chapel and take some of the best photos on Syros Island.
6. Drive to Megas Gialos Beach
Megas Gialos is one of the best beaches in Syros, Greece. It is a large sandy beach with shallow, warm waters and plenty of sunbeds and shade, ideal for families. That means it is a popular beach with taverns and cafes nearby.
It is 12 km from Ermoupolis towards the south and to get there, you pass by some villages and beaches that you can explore on your way to Megas Gialos.
If you would like a more secluded beach, walk to the nearby Chapel of Agios Antonios, and right behind it, a trail leads to the quiet beach of Ampela.
7. Watch the Best Syros Sunset in Kini
Kini village is 10 km east of Ermoupolis and offers the best sunset on Syros Island. The sandy beach is mostly organized with sunbeds and umbrellas but there are also free areas with trees if you prefer quiet time on the beach.
I discovered one of the best accommodations, Anemos and Almyra, a beautiful traditional settlement in Kini Village.
Kini Beach also has an interesting aquarium, with live fish and tools in a display used traditionally by the local fishermen.
8. Take a Cooking Class on traditional Syros, Greece Cuisine
My favorite way to explore a new place is to taste their local goodies, and what is better than experiencing the essence of Greece with an exclusive Private Cooking Class on Syros?
Immerse yourself in the authentic Greek dining culture and learn how to craft a full Greek meal from scratch.
Then, feast in a charming courtyard, surrounded by the flavors and warmth of Greece. Join this amazing cooking class for an unforgettable culinary journey!
9. Hike Apano (Ano) Meria
Syros has low mountains and low vegetation in general, with its highest peak being Pyrgos, at 442 meters. From the hillsides of Ano Syros, the neighboring islands of Tinos, Mykonos, and Delos can be seen.
Syros features 10 signposted trails marked by the local authorities as ’Paths of high cultural interest’.
There are several more unmarked and equally beautiful to explore, with the most demanding being the trail to the gorge of Schizomenes.
Another demanding but stunningly beautiful trail is in the northwest of Syros, where the terrain is rugged and barren at the Diapori area close to the north Syros Lighthouse.
Looking for accommodation in Syros? Check out here for rates and availability!
10. Visit the beautiful, remote village of Ai Michalis
Go to the small traditional village of Ai Michalis with imposing vistas and have lunch in one of the taverns for really traditional Greek food.
11. Hike to the Early Bronze Age Settlements
Syros island has many ruins from the Cycladic Civilization – a Bronze Age culture (c. 3200–c. 1050 BC). Excavations have revealed the remains of fortified settlements in Kastri dating circa 2300-2200 BC and a cemetery in Chalandriani.
More than 600 tombs have been excavated, dated between 2700-2400 BC, all belonging to the Cycladic Civilization.
The two settlements are linked with a long and rough trail that is easy to find and is marked with red spray paint, including arrows. If you wake up early, you will watch the most stunning sunrise of your life.
**Other ancient sites in Syros include:
- Ermoupolis: remains of an ancient wall and a theater north of the citadel on the hill where the Church Panagia Theotokos is
- Vari: Roman tombs and ruins of a prehistoric settlement (4000-3000 BC).
12. Taste Syros Local Delicacies
Syros offers a diverse culinary experience, showcasing fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional Greek dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Syros’ unique delicacies like
The most famous of the island’s local tastes is loukoumi — essentially the Greek version of Turkish delight and white, round, scented nougat.
They can be found in every bakery and pastry shop in Syros but also at the Greek coffee shops (Kafenio) served with Greek coffee.
Other local delicacies that you can taste on the island, in taverns or groceries, are:
Halvadopita, kaparosalata (capers salad), ladopita (olive oil pie), louza (cured pork), and local cheeses: San Michali, sweet gruyere, haloumi and spicy Kopanisti.
Where to Stay in Syros
Picking the right place to stay in Syros really depends on what you’re after — city vibes, quiet views, or a bit of both. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
Ermoupolis
The island’s capital is lively and full of character — perfect if you want to be close to shops, restaurants, and nightlife. It can get a little busy, but that’s part of its charm.
Syros Soul Luxury Suites – Family-friendly, right across from the main square, with stylish rooms and an amazing breakfast.
Guesthouse Lila – A mid-range favorite of mine! It’s a peaceful, beautifully decorated traditional guesthouse, super central yet quiet.
Ano Syros
Perched high above Ermoupolis, Ano Syros is all about charm and panoramic views of the Aegean. Just keep in mind, it’s steep and has fewer restaurants and shops — definitely a workout for your knees!
Elia Concept Apartments – A cozy, traditional self-catering stay with plenty of space and character — perfect for families or longer visits.
Syros has some lovely beach resorts, each with its own vibe.
Galissas is a favorite for families — it’s got a long sandy beach, shallow waters, and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing days by the sea.
Hotel Benois – A great family-friendly choice with an outdoor pool and bright, spacious rooms, just a few steps (164 ft) from Galissas Beach.
Kini is another family-friendly spot, known for its peaceful feel and beautiful sunsets.
Anemos and Almyra – One of the island’s most traditional and authentic hotels, surrounded by nature.
It actually reminded me of my grandmother’s summer house — warm, simple, and full of charm.
Quick Links for Syros
Best Hotel in Syros: Syros Soul Luxury Suites.
Nothing beats renting a car — total freedom to explore Greece.
Top-rated Guided Tour for cooking class and traditional Greek cuisine.
Getting around Syros
There are public buses that will take you to beaches in Syros, starting from Ermoupolis but I recommend renting a car and driving around the island. I loved having the freedom to find hidden sites and stay as long as I wanted, wherever I wanted.
How to Get to Syros Island
You can fly to Syros from Athens International Airport. The Airport Dimitrios Vikelas of Syros is only three km from Ermoupolis, with a daily connection to Athens.
Syros is well connected by ferries from Athens’ main port, Piraeus (the fastest ferry takes about 2,5 hours to reach Syros), or from the smaller Athens port of Lavrion.
Book your ferry transfer with FerryScanner to secure your seat, especially if you travel during the summer.
When is Best to Go to Syros
Syros island has been one of the most important industrial centers of the new Greek state – after the War of Independence in 1821 – and still has a thriving economy. That makes it a 4-seasons island as it is busy all year round with frequent ferry transfers.
If you are interested in summer vacation, then June to October in Syros will be quite warm. July and August are the busiest, hottest, and windiest months for the Cyclades.
A great time to go to Syros is during Easter, with magnificent Greek Orthodox and Catholic celebrations in April. The sea waters will be cold to swim in but hiking will be at its best as the island will be covered in wildflowers, and the weather is simply perfect.
Easter in the Cyclades is very popular among Greeks so you’d better check for availability early on Booking.com.
Is Syros a good island for families?
Syros is a family-friendly island with several beaches suitable for young children, like Galissas and Kini. It also offers various family-oriented activities, including boat trips, water sports, and cultural exploration.
What is the nightlife like in Syros?
Ermoupolis offers the most vibrant nightlife on the island, with bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to various tastes. Other villages like Vari and Kini also have lively bars and restaurants, especially during peak season.
How expensive is Syros compared to other Greek islands?
Syros is generally considered slightly more expensive than some other Cycladic islands. However, compared to Santorini or Mykonos, it offers a more affordable option while still providing a charming and authentic Greek experience.
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Evgenia
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Syros is one of the best Greek islands. I wouldn’t mind living there!
Yes, I agree, Syros is beautiful and lively throughout the year!