A newcomer’s guide to Syros, Greece

Charming Syros beautifully blends traditional and contemporary Greece. As one of the smallest islands in the Cyclades, it remains largely rural outside the capital. However, it boasts the highest population as the legal and administrative hub of the archipelago. Additionally, it serves as the ferry gateway to the northern islands and is home to Ermoupoli, the most impressive town in the Cyclades, rich with a unique history.

As the capital of the Cyclades, Syros attracts less tourist traffic, meaning its beaches are often less crowded compared to neighboring islands. The island thrives with life throughout the year, offering fantastic dining options and showcasing the essence of daily Greek culture.

If you’re considering adding Syros to your Greek island adventure, here’s what you should know.

When is the best time to visit Syros?

Summers on the island can get quite warm, but due to Syros being less touristy than other Cyclades hotspots, you’re likely to find a nice spot to lay your towel even in the height of the season. In comparison to other islands, Syros remains relatively uncrowded. Late spring and early autumn are also great times to visit, with pleasant weather and sunny days perfect for exploring the island.

Visiting during the off-season is another fantastic option. Many accommodations stay open, especially in the vibrant town of Ermoupoli. Unlike popular destinations such as Mykonos or Santorini, the businesses here are less dependent on the season, and ferries run throughout the year since Syros is a key ferry hub in the Cyclades. Temperatures can dip to around 12 degrees Celsius (53F) in January and February, but the days are generally sunny. If you go in late February, you can join in the lively Apokries (Greek Carnival) festivities.

How long should I stay in Syros?

Plan to stay at least a night or two. While many travelers see it as just a quick stop on their Cyclades journey, Syros offers enough attractions to deserve more time. Dedicate one day to exploring Ermoupoli and another to discover the island’s historical landmarks and stunning beaches.

Is getting to and around Syros straightforward?

Syros is accessible via its airport, with Sky Express operating flights from Athens to Syros Island National Airport in approximately 35 minutes. There’s no public transportation, but taxis are available near flight arrivals.

As the capital of the island group, Syros is supposed to have reliable ferry connections year-round with all Cyclades islands and Piraeus (Athens) on the mainland. During peak season, ferries to Ermoupoli include routes from Piraeus, Kythnos, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos. Generally, the frequency and variety of routes increase significantly in high season but can drop to just a few per week in winter. Always check in advance (on a site like Openseas) and book your tickets during the busy months.

Buses depart from the Ermoupoli bus station next to the ferry terminal, serving beach towns such as Galissas, Finikas, Posidonia, Megas Gialos, Vari, and Azolimnos. The entire loop takes about an hour, with buses running in both directions (at least three times daily, increasing to hourly during peak season). There are also three to five buses heading to Kini, some of which connect to the main island loop. Regular minibuses also operate to Ano Syros from the waterfront end of El Vanizelou Street.

You can rent cars and scooters from agencies like Vassilikos located on the Ermoupoli waterfront. It's best to avoid driving in central Ermoupoli due to numerous stairs, pedestrian-only areas, and one-way streets.

Must-see attractions in Syros

Savor the flavors of Ermoupoli

The streets of the capital buzz with activity both day and night, transforming from purposeful energy to joyful leisure. Wandering through lanes adorned with bougainvillea and filled with markets, cafes, souvlaki stalls, and bars is one of the delightful experiences Syros has to offer.

Chiou Street, which stretches between the harbor and the square, is home to shops featuring local delicacies, including the island's renowned cheeses. Enjoy house-roasted coffee at the book-filled Corner Cafe. For a sweet treat on the go, visit the historic Sykoutris Turkish Delights, a beloved maker of Cycladic confections. Don’t miss Django Gelato, where the owner recommends seasonal fruit flavors, with fresh figs being a must-try when available.

For dinner, you won't go wrong at Cantina Analogue, a spacious restaurant with a bohemian vibe that offers inventive interpretations of traditional taverna dishes. In a chic, secluded courtyard in Ermoupoli, Avant Garden presents a stylish setting with a creative menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients.

Experience Renaissance art at the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin

Despite being heavily bombed during WWII, this elegant 1820s Orthodox church has remarkable surviving elements. The discovery in 1983 of a signed icon by El Greco, painted in the 1560s before his move to Spain, adds to its significance. This masterpiece is now proudly exhibited in the church’s porch, right by the main entrance.

Schedule a day at the beach

Surrounding Ermoupoli, Syros features rolling hills and valleys leading down to charming bays and beaches, most accessible by bus. Kini, located on the west coast, offers a sandy beach in a sheltered bay, complete with a strip of bars and tavernas, making it a family favorite due to its shallow waters. Galissas, popular among French visitors, boasts a lovely beach, Cycladic buildings with white-and-blue accents, excellent tavernas, and a picturesque white church on the headland. Adjacent to the church is Armeos, a quaint pebbly nudist beach.

Further south, Finikas is situated on a large bay featuring a marina and a narrow stretch of pebbles and sand. It's more developed than many other beaches and has a slightly worn atmosphere. Along the bay lies Voulgari Beach, near Posidonia village. Beyond the headland, the small yet popular Agathopes Beach offers calm waters and a taverna. A short 10-minute walk south leads to Komito, a serene bay backed by olive trees.

The town of Megas Gialos on the southern coast has a few beaches right next to the main road. For a more beautiful and sheltered option, Vari, located further east, features a sandy beach, though its waterfront and tavernas can become crowded with families during peak season.

Sip a sunset drink in Plateia Miaouli

This vibrant square is arguably the most exquisite urban space in the Cyclades. Originally by the seashore, it now sits further inland, dominated by an impressive neoclassical town hall. Lined with palm trees and flanked by cafes and bars, the square and its statue honor the Hydriot naval hero Andreas Miaoulis.

Enjoy the stunning views from St. George’s Cathedral

Dominating the medieval hilltop settlement of Ano Syros, this charming cathedral serves as the mother church for the significant Roman Catholic community in the Cyclades. Step inside to admire the pastel-colored interior and star-fretted barrel roof while taking in the scenic view of the medieval town below.

Explore the secluded village of San Michalis for delicious food and breathtaking views

Don't miss the scenic drive along Syros's mountainous spine to the northern village of San Michalis, a quaint hamlet of stone houses and vineyards offering stunning views of pristine valleys and nearby islands. Hike the rocky path to St. Michael's Catholic Church, then enjoy exceptional local cuisine and panoramic views at the timber-framed Plakostroto, famous for its local cheese and wood-fired grilled meats.

What is the budget needed for Syros?

Thanks to its commercial activities, Syros boasts a variety of hotels and restaurants, with prices generally lower than those on more tourist-focused islands.

• hostel room: €14 - €20 per dorm bed per night during high season

• basic hotel room for two: €100 - €120 per night during high season

• self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €80 - €120 per night during high season

• public transport ticket: €1.50 - €1.60 one way on the bus (children under 5 travel for free)

• coffee: €0.50 for an espresso, €3.20 for a latte/cappuccino

• casual lunch: €3 - €5 for a gyros from a market

• dinner for two: €30 - €50

• beer: €3

This article has been adapted for digital format from two of our Greek guidebooks. The guidebook on Greece was authored by Alexis Averbuck, Rebecca Hall, Paula Hardy, Helen Iatrou, Vangelis Koronakis, Vesna Maric, Leonid Ragozin, Simon Richmond, Helena Smith, Sarah Souli, and Ryan Ver Berkmoes. The guidebook on the Greek Islands was written by Kate Armstrong, Stuart Butler, Peter Dragicevich, Trent Holden, Anna Kaminski, Kate Morgan, Isabella Noble, Leonid Ragozin, Kevin Raub, Simon Richmond, Andrea Schulte-Peevers, and Greg Ward.