SyrosCyclades · Greece

All About Syros

Syros is a beacon of regal charm and traditional island vibes where your senses will be dazzled by spectacular landscapes and picturesque scenery. This is the capital of the Cyclades group of islands and is the epicenter of all administrative matters. The island has a very majestic feel to it, which you will notice as soon as you disembark. Taking a ferry to Syros is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets.

The capital town of Ermoupolis stands as a proud reminder of the island’s past, with neoclassical mansions, Catholic & Orthodox churches, quaint cobbled streets, and even a miniature of Scala di Milano. This is a destination perfect for those seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a beach holiday, or simply a desire to step back in time to traditional island life. Syros is a treasure trove of vibrant colors and unforgettable experiences just waiting to welcome you.
 

Routes and Ferries to Syros

Book your ferry to Syros with Ferryscanner and enjoy a wonderful trip to this eclectic island. Ferries leave from the main ports of Athens on a regular basis, and you can also book your ferry tickets to Syros from many islands in the Aegean. Blue Star Ferries operate connections from the port of Piraeus to Syros and you can take the regular route, which lasts 4 hours and 40 minutes or hop on a faster ferry with Fast Ferries to arrive there in 2 hours and 40 minutes. Hellenic Seaways also run from the port of Lavrio and you can book your ferry tickets to Syros and sail from here in 4 hours and 25 minutes.

You can travel to Syros from the ports of Amorgos in 5 hours, 50 minutes, or from destinations such as Samos (8.05 hrs), Andros (3 hrs), Ikaria (3.20 hrs), Astypalaia (10.50 hrs), and Chios (10 hrs.) You can also book your ferry tickets to Syros with Ferryscanner from the islands of Donoussa (5.30 hrs), Fourni (4.45 hrs), Kalymnos (8 hrs), and locations further afield such as the town of Kavala (19 hrs) and Thessaloniki (23.20 hrs).

If you are on Kea, you can book ferry tickets to Syros and be there in 3.30 hrs, or sail from Kimolos in 6 hrs and 40 minutes. Connections are also available from Kos (8.55 hrs), Koufonisia (4.30 hrs), Kythnos (1.35 hrs), Leros (6.30 hrs), Lesvos (15.30 hrs), Nisyros (16.35 hrs), and Limnos (21.35 hrs). The islands of Milos, Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Tinos also offer frequent ferry services to Syros, as well as several other destinations such as Santorini and Symi.

There is a small airport on Syros that receives domestic flights from Athens International Airport all year round, as well as flights from the airport of Thessaloniki during the high season. If you arrive at Athens International Airport and have booked your ferry tickets to Syros from the port of Piraeus, you can travel to the port with the X96 express bus service or take a taxi. Trains also run to the port from the center of Athens, leaving at Monastiraki station.
 

Ports of Syros

Syros has one large commercial port that serves the passenger ferries arriving and departing the island, as well as several small marinas and fishing harbors. Ermoupolis is the main port and is an impressive sight as you approach from the sea, with the town clambering up the hillside towards the blue-domed Church of the Resurrection, which can be seen from a distance.

Syros established the first modern shipyard in Greece in 1861, and over 2,000 people were employed at one point, delivering about 80 ships per year. This strengthened the island’s economy and port activities increased until the introduction of steam, at which point the port took on a more commercial function. Use Ferryscanner to compare prices, routes, ferry companies and book ferry tickets to Syros.
 

Capital & Villages

Apart from Ermoupolis, which is the island’s grand capital, there are many smaller villages to visit as well, each with their own unique charm. Most are a blend of Venetian influences mixed with more traditional Cycladic architecture, all with a distinct sense of history, cultural identity, and natural beauty.

Ermoupolis

Named after the winged messenger and god of trade, Ermoupolis continues to be a bustling commercial capital town and hub of activity. Syros once enjoyed great economic prosperity as an important maritime trading center and built a strong cultural legacy over the years.

Today, you will find evidence of its colorful past wherever you look, from the beautiful neo-classical architecture and grand marble squares to the old mansion houses and statues of significant historical figures.

As with most coastal towns in Greece, Ermoupolis is built in an amphitheater-like style and features a rich tapestry of architectural styles. Visit Miaouli Square to check out the impressive 19th century Town Hall designed by Ernst Ziller, and the Apollo Municipal Theatre of Syros, built in 1864 by the Italian architect Pietro Sampo (the first opera house in Greece).

In the Square, you will also find the Archaeological Museum and the Cycladic Art Museum while a walk to the dockyards will lead you to the fascinating Industrial Museum of Ermoupolis. Stroll past the captains’ mansions in the Vaporia Quarter and sit to enjoy a culinary feast of local cuisine at one of the many restaurants.

Ano Syros

Ano Syros is a lovely Venetian settlement known as the Catholic Quarter and it dates back to 1200. A stronghold of houses huddled together to provide protection from enemy attacks now offers you a wonderful walk through stone-walled narrow streets, graphic archways, and rambling alleyways.

A small square and museum have been dedicated to Markos Vamvakaris, founder of the popular ‘rebetiko’ style of music, and the Catholic Church of Saint George stands proudly at the top of the town.

Kini

Kini is the exact opposite of Ermoupolis. It’s a quaint fishing village just 9 km to the west that oozes old-world charm and sensational sunsets. Here you can slow down to experience island life as it was meant to be, with the picturesque port inviting you for a leisurely stroll before trying out the succulent fresh fish served at the waterfront taverns.

Take a small boat trip to the beaches of Delfini and Lotos after visiting the Catholic Church of the Virgin Mary and the monastery of Agia Varvara. Check out the museum of fishing vessels and the monument of the Virgin Mary portrayed as a mermaid in the harbor.

Foinikas

Named after the ancient port of the Phoenicians, this is a lovely marina where private yachts find a safe haven and it is also popular with watersports enthusiasts. The busy seaside hamlet welcomes many tourists due to its picturesque setting and fine beaches and also happens to boast one of the best volleyball teams in Greece. Here you can relax, indulge in delicious culinary experiences, and enjoy graphic views across the bay.

Syringas

Head for the mountains towards the village of Syringas on the north side of the island and discover an oasis of spring waters and an abundance of greenery. Also known as San Mihalis, Syringas has remained traditional in style, with the stone-built houses, paved streets, and welcoming taverns reminding you that customary island life is still thriving on this busy island.

Near the village, you will find the Cave of Mentonis and the lighthouse of Diapori, while hikers can walk the area from Mount Syringas down to the coast. It belongs to the Natura 2000 network as it is an important habitat for migratory birds of prey.
 

Best Beaches

Syros has many beautiful beaches and the most popular are located on the southern side of the island, although the western coastline up to the north side also boasts some stunning resorts. Some of the beaches are sandy and others are pebbled, while most are organized with restaurants, bars and hotels nearby.

Agathopes Beach

The amazing Agathopes Beach sits on the southwest side of the island and is 14 km from Ermoupolis. It is a popular spot for diving, while the coastline itself is very scenic, with a small islet sitting out to sea.

This is also home to the Monachus-Monachus seals as well as a rare kind of indigenous lily and you can take a small path from the beach into the sea to the Stroggilo islet, where you will see the impressive lighthouse in Cape Viglostasi.

Vari Beach

Vari Beach is popular with families as it is found in a very sheltered bay, with clean, shallow waters. It is an organized beach, with umbrellas, sunbeds, and watersports facilities, as well as traditional taverns serving fresh fish right on the waterfront.

The nearby village is a simple reminder of island life and you can enjoy a nice evening stroll as you take in the mesmerizing sunsets.

Megas Gialos Beach

This is another popular tourist resort about 12 km from Ermoupolis and offers golden sand and trees on the water’s edge for natural shade. The water at this large beach is extremely clean and shallow enough for young children to play in, while it is also protected from the summer winds.

The pretty village provides all amenities and is crowned by the lovely little chapel of Agios Antonios, which you should visit during your stay.

Azolimnos Beach

Azolimnos Beach can be found in a village of the same name, just 4 km south of Ermoupolis, and it is an attractive seaside hamlet where locals like to come for a quick swim after work.

It’s a great place to try some diving and take an underwater trip due to its crystalline waters while the nearby taverns serve some of the best seafood on the island. The beach of Azolimnos is an ideal choice for those seeking a refreshing getaway near the capital of Syros.

Kini Beach

 Kini is about 9 km from Ermoupolis and has an attractive beach with a pebbled seashore and crystal clear waters. It is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as offering a range of restaurants that serve succulent local cuisine and superb seafood.

Check out the small aquarium in the town and the endearing mermaid statue at the waterfront before you catch a small boat to another secluded beach on the nearby islets.
 

Transportation Around Syros

Syros has a very well-organized transportation system and you can get around the island in a number of ways, either by public transport or on your own. The local buses are very cheap and run from the main station in Ermoupolis to almost every main settlement while, if you prefer to take a taxi, you will find an abundance of them all over the island.

Car and motorbike rentals are also available and a great way to explore the hidden corners of Syros. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Syros.