Syros Travel Guide (Cyclades/Greek Islands/Greece/Europe)

Introduction to Syros

Syros, located in the heart of the Cyclades in the Greek Islands, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. The island boasts a rich cultural history coupled with stunning landscapes that make any visit to Syros unforgettable. Visitors can get lost in winding alleys in the old Cycladic town of Ermoupolis, enjoy the Mediterranean sun on beautiful beaches like Galissas, or experience the authentic Greek island lifestyle with sumptuous local cuisine and warm, friendly people.

List of Places to Visit in Syros

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Syros has a rich and diverse cultural history that is both unique and fascinating. The island boasts an array of museums and historical places waiting to be explored by visitors.

Archaeological Museum of Syros offers a glimpse into the island’s past with its impressive collection of ancient artifacts, ceramics, and sculptures.
Industrial Museum of Ermoupolis showcases the industrial history of the island through exhibits on shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, and the famous Syros Loukoumi.
Apollon Theater is one of the oldest surviving theater buildings in Greece and is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture.
Ano Syros is a picturesque town nestled atop a hill with charming narrow alleys and traditional Cycladic architecture. It offers a rich cultural experience and a glimpse into traditional Greek living.
Saint Nicholas Cathedral is an Orthodox Christian cathedral in Ermoupolis that is a prime example of neo-Byzantine architecture.

Natural Attractions of Syros: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Syros is replete with natural beauty and is home to some of the most stunning natural attractions Greece has to offer. The island’s rugged terrain, crystal-clear waters, and diverse flora and fauna offer visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

Grammata Beach is a hidden gem on the north shore of the island, surrounded by steep cliffs and sheltered from the wind. This beach is ideal for those seeking to relax and sunbathe.
Azolimnos Beach is another stunning beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Mount Troulos is the highest point on the island, and it is an excellent destination for hiking or mountain biking. The stunning panoramic views from the top are worth the journey.
Megas Gialos Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach on the south coast of the island, offering golden sands and turquoise waters.
Vari Beach is another highly recommended beach on Syros, attracting visitors with its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Syros

With its rugged terrain and natural beauty, Syros has several wonderful hiking and biking trails waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best ones:

Ano Syros Trail is a 3.5 km trek that takes you from Ermoupolis to Ano Syros. The trail weaves through the hills, offering fantastic sea views and views of the island.
Mount Troulos Trail starts near the village of Galissas and winds up through the foothills of Mount Troulos, offering stunning panoramic views and a great workout.
Platys Gialos Beach to Vari Trail is a moderate hike that takes you from Platys Gialos to Vari Beach, offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea along the way.

Best Things to Do in Syros: Activities and Tours

Syros has plenty of thrilling activities and tours that cater to all interests and ages. Some must-try activities include:

Cooking Classes are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Greek culture, and Syros offers some of the best cooking classes in Greece. Learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes and enjoy a delicious meal made with fresh, local ingredients.
Sailing and Yachting Tours give visitors a unique perspective of the Aegean Sea and the stunning beaches of Syros. Float around the island and appreciate the beauty of the coastline, with stops at secluded coves for snorkeling or swimming.
Wine Tasting Experience the flavors of Syros with a wine-tasting tour of some of the island’s best vineyards, and learn about the ancient tradition of winemaking in Greece.

Week-Long Itinerary for Syros

Syros has plenty of sights and experiences to offer, making it an ideal destination for a week-long stay. Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your time on the island.

Day 1: Take a leisurely walk around Ermoupolis to get acquainted with the island’s architecture and culture. Head to the Archaeological Museum of Syros to learn about the island’s past.
Day 2: Explore Ano Syros, a traditional Cycladic town with stunning alleys and architecture. Visit Saint Nicholas Cathedral to marvel at the Byzantine-style architecture.
Day 3: Head to the beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Azolimnos Beach. Hike the Ano Syros Trail to see some of the island’s best views.
Day 4: Go on a sailing or yachting tour of the island to gain a unique perspective of its stunning scenery. Stop at secluded coves for snorkeling or swimming along the way.
Day 5: Visit the Industrial Museum of Ermoupolis to learn about the island’s industrial history. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Greek dishes.
Day 6: Hike the Mount Troulos Trail to get the best panoramic views of the island. Visit Grammata Beach to relax and sunbathe.
Day 7: Wind down your stay with a wine-tasting tour of some of the island’s best vineyards and sample the unique, flavors of Syros.

Food and Drink Scene of Syros

The island’s cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, and its vibrant food and drink scene is a must-try for any visitor to the island.

Must-Try Dishes

Syros Loukoumi is a traditional sweet made of sugar, starch, and flavorings like rosewater, mastic, and fruit. It is the island’s most famous culinary export.
Louza is cured beef that has been soaked in red wine and spices like cinnamon and black pepper, giving it a unique flavor.
Pitarro** is a Syros version of rakomelo (a traditional Greek drink), that combines raki (an alcoholic spirit) with honey and spices like cinnamon. It is served hot and is perfect for winter months.

Local Beverages

Raki is a traditional alcoholic drink made from grapes. It is a staple in Greek drinking culture, often served with meze dishes.
Mastika (mastic liqueur) is made from the resin of the mastic tree and has a distinct, refreshing flavor. It is a popular drink on the island and is often served after meals.

Where to Stay in Syros: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Syros boasts several accommodation options to cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

Dolphin Bay Hotel is a cozy hotel overlooking a beautiful bay, offering stunning panoramic views. It is ideal for couples and families alike.
Nissaki Hotel is situated near the beach and offers rooms with stunning sea views. It is perfect for those looking for a luxurious vacation.
Asterope Guesthouse is a traditional Cycladic guesthouse in Ano Syros that offers a unique experience of traditional Greek living.

What to Buy in Syros: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Syros offers a host of unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect to bring back as a reminder of your time on the island. Here are some suggestions:

Syros Loukoumi is a must-buy, a quintessential part of Syros’s culinary culture.
Figs and Walnuts are a tasty and healthy snack often grown in the island’s countryside.
Local Wines are flavorful and unique, made from Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon grape varieties.

Local Culture and Customs of Syros

Like most Greek islands, the local culture in Syros is heavily influenced by religion, food, and dance. The island boasts a rich cultural heritage steeped in Greek mythology.

Best Time to Visit Syros

The best time to visit Syros is from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny, ideal for exploring the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Syros

Do:

Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Carry cash for local markets and shops.

Don’t:

Swim at unauthorized beaches since they may be hazardous.
Leave your rented vehicle unattended or unlocked.

Safety and Health

Safety in Syros

Syros is a generally safe destination. Visitors should take basic precautions like locking doors and keeping their belongings safe.

Health in Syros

The medical facilities in Syros are adequate, but visitors should still take basic precautions such as drinking bottled water, using sunscreen, and wearing insect repellent.

Getting to Syros: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Syros

The best way to get to Syros is by air. The island has its own airport, Syros Island National Airport, which connects it to Athens and other Greek destinations.

Bus Stations Near Syros

KTEL operates an extensive bus network that connects Syros to other Cycladic islands and major cities in Greece.

Other Options

Syros can also be reached by ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens. Several ferry services operate daily, making it easy to reach the island from the Greek mainland and other islands.

How to Get Around in Syros

The best way to explore Syros is by renting a car, a moped, or a bicycle. It is also possible to get around the island by taxi or public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Syros: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Syros is an excellent base for exploring other popular Greek island destinations, such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos. Visitors can also take a day trip to Delos, an uninhabited island located near Mykonos and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclusion

Syros is a unique destination that offers a rich cultural history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Greek island living. With its array of museums, natural attractions, and vibrant food and drink scene, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience in Syros.

Syros Image Gallery

Ano Syros and Ermoupoli

View of Ermoupoli from Ano Syros

Ermoupolis City Hall, designed by Ernst Ziller, with the statue of Andreas Miaoulis (work of Georgios Bonanos)

Plateia Miaouli

Protopapadaki street, one of the central streets of Ermoupoli