Discover Syros: The Hidden Gem of the Cyclades
Endearing little Syros merges traditional and modern Greece. As one of the smallest islands of the Cyclades, it boasts the highest population since it serves as the legal and administrative center of the entire archipelago. Moreover, Syros acts as the ferry hub for the northern islands and is home to Ermoupoli, the grandest of all Cycladic towns with a rich and unusual history.
As the capital of the Cyclades, Syros pays less heed to tourism compared to its neighboring islands, making its beaches less crowded. The island buzzes with life year-round and features great eateries that showcase the best of everyday Greek life.
When Should I Go to Syros?
Summer can be hot, but since Syros isn’t as touristy as other Cycladic destinations, you’ll likely find a spot to relax on the beach even during peak season. Late spring and early autumn provide pleasant weather with mild temperatures and sunny days, making these seasons enjoyable for exploration.
Visiting during the off-season is also a great option, as many hospitality businesses remain open, particularly in Ermoupoli. Unlike Mykonos or Santorini, businesses here aren’t strictly seasonal, and ferries operate year-round since Syros is a major ferry hub. While January and February can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to as low as 12 degrees Celsius (53°F), the bright days can still be very appealing. If you visit in late February, you may experience vibrant celebrations for Apokries (Greek Carnival).
How Much Time Should I Spend in Syros?
For a rewarding experience, plan to spend at least a night or two on the island. While many treat it as a brief stopover in their Cyclades itinerary, Syros has enough to offer to warrant more time. Allocate a day to explore Ermoupoli and another day to discover the island’s historical sites and beautiful beaches.
Is It Easy to Get to and Around Syros?
Syros has an airport, with Sky Express flying from Athens to Syros Island National Airport in approximately 35 minutes. There is no public transport, but taxis are readily available around flight times.
As the capital of the island group, Syros features fair to good year-round ferry links with all the Cyclades islands and connects to Piraeus (Athens) on the mainland. High-season services to Ermoupoli include Piraeus, Kythnos, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos. Frequencies and routes greatly increase during high season but can reduce significantly in the winter months. It’s advisable to check ferry schedules in advance and reserve tickets during peak seasons.
Buses run from the Ermoupoli bus station, stopping at beach towns such as Galissas, Finikas, and others. The full loop takes about an hour, with at least three daily trips in low season increasing to hourly in peak season. Additionally, you can hire cars and scooters at various local agencies.
Top Things to Do in Syros
Eat Your Way Through Ermoupoli
The bustling streets of the capital are lined with markets, cafés, souvlaki stands, and bars. One of the joys of Syros is wandering through lanes adorned with bougainvillea. Don’t miss Chiou Street, famous for its local food products, including excellent cheeses, house-roasted coffee, and delightful sweets.
See Renaissance Art at the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin
After being bombed during WWII, the 1820s Orthodox church intriguingly houses a signed El Greco icon from the 1560s, discovered in 1983. This stunning piece is displayed in the porch to the right of the main door.
Plan a Beach Day
Explore the small bays and beaches surrounding Ermoupoli that cater to a variety of preferences:
- Kini: A sandy beach in a horseshoe bay, perfect for families.
- Galissas: A quaint beach town frequented by French travelers.
- Finikas: Features a marina and a narrow strip of pebbles and sand.
- Vari: Known for its sandy beach, attracts families in high season.
Enjoy a Sundowner in Plateia Miaouli
This magnificent square is perhaps the finest urban space in the Cyclades. Once by the seashore, it is now set inland, with a neoclassical town hall that serves as a fantastic centerpiece surrounded by cafes and bars.
Check Out the Views from St George’s Cathedral
Proudly perched atop the medieval settlement of Ano Syros, this picturesque cathedral is a must-visit. Enjoy its pastel-hued interior and exquisite views of the town below.
Visit the Remote Village of San Michalis
Take a scenic drive to the village of San Michalis, known for its stunning vistas and excellent local food. Enjoy traditional dishes at a local eatery while appreciating the panoramic views of the valleys and distant islands.
How Much Money Do I Need for Syros?
Syros offers a range of accommodation and dining options, generally priced lower than on more tourist-oriented islands, making it an attractive option for travelers.
- Hostel room: €14 – €20 per dorm bed per night in high season
- Basic hotel room for two: €100 – €120 per night in high season
- Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €80 – €120 per night in high season
- Public transport ticket: €1.50 – €1.60 one way on bus
- Coffee: 50 cents for an espresso, €3.20 for a latte/cappuccino
- Casual lunch: €3 – €5 for a gyros at a market
- Dinner for two: €30 – €50
- Beer: €3
This article has been crafted to provide you with essential information for visiting Syros, helping you to plan the perfect getaway to this enchanting Greek island.
