The capital of the Cyclades blends neoclassical mansions with Orthodox and Catholic churches on its hills. Its marble-paved streets lead to small tavernas and beaches.
Syros, in the heart of the Cyclades islands, remains active throughout the year with cultural events and daily life. You can watch opera performances at the 1864 Apollo Theatre, walk through the marble-paved streets of Ermoupoli, or climb the medieval pathways of Ano Syros. The island's local food specialties include halvadopita nougat and PDO-certified San Michali cheese, while its calm bays and beaches make swimming possible from spring through autumn.
Getting to Syros
Daily ferries connect Syros to Athens' Piraeus port, with fast boats making the journey in 2 hours and regular ferries in 3.5 hours. The island also has an airport with daily flights from Athens. From Syros, you can reach Mykonos in 45 minutes and Tinos in 30 minutes by ferry, making it a good base for island hopping.
Exploring Ermoupoli's Center
Miaouli Square forms the heart of Ermoupoli, with its marble-built Town Hall as the central landmark. Inside the 19th-century building, you'll find an archaeological museum displaying artifacts from Syros and neighboring islands. The Apollo Theatre, a miniature replica of Milan's La Scala, hosts classical concerts, jazz performances, and theater productions throughout the year.
Medieval Ano Syros
White houses line the narrow stone pathways of Ano Syros, a 13th-century Venetian settlement 2km uphill from Ermoupoli. The Catholic Cathedral of Saint George sits at the highest point, giving you clear views across to Tinos, Delos, and Mykonos. Many small cafes in Ano Syros play rebetiko music, continuing the legacy of local musician Markos Vamvakaris.
Local Food Scene
Syros has developed its own food traditions separate from other Greek islands. Try the PDO-certified San Michali cheese, made only on Syros, or halvadopita - a nougat sandwich with honey and almonds. In the village of Kini, waterfront restaurants serve fresh fish caught daily. Look for local specialties like maratholoukanika sausages and kaparosalata (caper salad) in Ermoupoli's restaurants.
Beaches and Swimming
Several beaches on Syros have earned Blue Flag certification. Galissas beach, 9km from Ermoupoli, sits in a protected bay where the water stays calm even on windy days. Azolimnos, 5km from town, has a long stretch of golden sand. Kini's beach extends along its fishing port, while Megas Gialos in the south has shallow water suitable for families.
Cultural Events
Summer brings multiple festivals to Syros. Musicians from across Europe perform at the International Classical Music Festival. In September, ANIMASYROS presents animation films and digital art. The Ermoupoleia Cultural Festival runs art exhibitions, theater performances, and music concerts in venues throughout Ermoupoli.
