Syros

The Island

Located at the heart of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, just half an hour by boat from Mykonos, Syros stands out with its prominent history, cosmopolitan flair, and rich nature.

The thread of history of the island goes back centuries. Syros takes its name from Homer, who called it Syrii - after the Phonecian word ousoura which means happy. In its thriving capital, Ermoupolis, antiquity meets modernity. The hustle and bustle of every day life and the grand buildings could lead you to forget that you are on an island, yet just around the corner you will encounter the lapping of the waves and cries of seagulls. The way in which the medieval town of Ano Syros appears to perch above Ermoupolis leaves visitors with an indelible memory.

The town is an open museum with monumental architecture, breathtaking churches and magnificent public buildings, such as the City Hall, the Customs Office and the “Apollo” theatre (inspired by Milan’s La Scala). The island is one of the few places in Greece where both Catholic and Orthodox churches are in abundance - ranging from the most simple design to the most majestic construction. You can also experience the vibrant cultural life on offer - museums, galleries, theatre, film and live music. The many festivals that take place in Syros include tango, classical music, jazz, film and animation.

The Beaches

Surrounded by the tranquil blue Aegean Sea, Syros is blessed with many spectacular beaches where one can worship the sun or indulge in water sports or other activities.

Take a quick stroll down to Komito to enjoy a refreshing dip at the most southwest beach of Syros. The relaxed atmosphere at this less developed beach attracts a more youthful, carefree crowd.

Alternatively, you can walk to lively Agathopes, the most popular beach of Syros, with its golden sands, shallow waters, and beautiful lilies that bloom during the summer. Here there is also wide variety of food and drink available at the nearby beach bar, restaurants and tavernas.

The beach at Kini, in the west of Syros, is also served by many eateries and is especially picturesque at sundown. Not far from here is Delphini, a sand and pebble beach, which offers seclusion and protection from the seasonal meltemi winds.

Several beaches on the north-west of the island are not accessible by car but can be discovered by boat from Kini. Here is a list of all the island’s beaches.

Dining

As one would expect, classic Greek dishes can be found all over the island, made with the freshest ingredients available. Local products of renown include San Michali cheese, capers, olives and olive oil. Much of the meat served is locally reared and most of the fish and seafood available is sourced from the nearby waters. In addition to traditional Greek taverna fare, there is more sophisticated Greek cuisine served at some award-winning restaurants. Nothing can beat fine dining in an island setting! For those hankering for more international flavours, there are places which offer French and Italian cuisine as well as sushi.

Two local specialities which every visitor with a sweet tooth must try are loukoumi and halvadopita. Loukoumia were first made in Syros by those who migrated from Chios and Asia Minor in the 1830s. Otherwise known as Turkish Delight, these small cubes of temptation are available in a variety of flavours. Halvadopita is a nougat-filled cookie packed with honey and almonds. These are both widely available and can be taken home in your luggage.

Activities

Whether it is horse-back riding through the most scenic trails of the island, a choral concert at the church of St. George in Ano Syros, or a film night on Komito beach, Syros offers an activity for every visitor.

During the day much of island life revolves around the sea: water sports such as windsurfing, waterskiing, jet skiing, banana boat rides and paddle-boarding (SUP) are popular, and for those who want to explore below the surface, diving lessons and excursions are available with certified professionals. If you are looking for something more relaxing, cooking classes and painting courses are offered at certain times of the year. A small winery holds occasional wine-tastings and offers a glimpse into the process of wine-making at its premises.

After sundown sample some of the cultural activities for which Syros is so famous. Aside from live entertainment there are also several art galleries and museums to visit. In June and July there are several festivals of dance: traditional Greek dance, tango and dance theatre. In mid-July the Syros International Festival presents a packed programme of film ranging from high art film to cartoons with showings at venues all over the island. During the second half of July the Festival of the Aegean brings classical musicians from all over the world together for performances of chamber music and fully staged operas. In mid-August another classical music festival takes place: the International Classical Music Festival of the Cyclades. In September the famous animation festival AnimaSyros attracts visitors from far and wide. In the same month there is also a popular art festival - StrayArt. The Syros Jazz Festival last for several days at the beginning of October. Dotted in between the numerous festivals are unique musical performances ranging from accordion and guitar to church organ.

And then there are are the food and drink festivals…

Exploring the island

Apart from visiting the island’s villages one is encouraged to explore Syros further by taking advantage of its many hiking trails and walking routes. These vary in difficulty - for the novice walker or the experienced hiker. Follow the island’s paths to access its picturesque pastures and sheltered, inaccessible coves and beaches. The road leading along the coast from Foinikas to Komito (pictured below) is popular with early morning and sunset walkers and joggers. If you prefer hiking in nature, you can chose from the 10 Routes of Cultural Interest or the 2 Alternative Paths in Apano Meria.

Getting to Syros

Located in the centre of the Cyclades, Syros is easily accessible by plane or boat. A 20-minute flight operates almost daily from Athens. Alternatively, fly into Mykonos and take the short ferry over. Regular boats from Piraeus take just over three hours or two hours using the speedboat in the summer. Or jet over by heli. We are happy to help.