Syros is a hidden gem of the Cyclades Islands in Greece. It has all the sun-kissed beaches, activities and excellent dining experiences with a more authentic feel as the residents who live on Syros are mostly year round residents.
Located between the ever popular Mykonos and Paros, Syros is a great escape from the large crowds of the neighbouring islands even during the height of peak season.
Want to explore a different Greek Island? Read our guide to the Greek Island of Kefalonia here
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How to get to Syros?
There are no direct flights to Syros, which makes holidaying there great as you have to take that extra step to get to the island. However there are two different ways in which you can get to Syros from London.
London – Athens
From London you can get one of several flights into Athens International Airport, most budget airlines run these daily. From Athens Airport you can them get to Piraeus Port which is around 1 hour from the airport.
To get here you can take a taxi, airport shuttle or Metro to reach the Port. If you are taking the Metro you can take Metro Line 3 (Blue Line).
From here you can take a ferry through one of the many ferry companies to Syros. The ferry to Syros can take anywhere between 2 to 4 hours depending on the amount of stops for your particular ferry journey. To find which ferry works best for you you can used Ferryhopper to show you all the different options.
London – Mykonos
An alternate option to get to Syros is to go via Mykonos Airport. From London flights leave regularly through most airlines to Mykonos Airport.
Once you arrive in Mykonos to reach the port you can take the local bus or a taxi. Taxi’s in Mykonos are very expensive, it would be worth organising a transfer prior.
There is also a bus service from the airport which will take you to the port, make sure to leave enough time between arriving at the airport and your ferry. The busses run hourly and can be very unreliable. The bus however is much cheaper than a taxi and will cost around €1.50.
From the port the ferry from Mykonos to Syros will take under 40 minutes depending on the ferry size and stops that you choose. There are several different companies you can choose to make the crossing however if you are travelling in peak it is advisable to book your crossing prior. To compare all the different ferry companies we recommend using Ferryhopper.
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How to get around in Syros?
The island has a well-connected bus network providing access to beaches, villages, and other attractions. During peak times it runs on a regular schedule. Tickets can be purchased onboard the bus, remember to try have the correct change before boarding the bus.
The bus routes are as follows:
- Ermoupolis – Galissas – Foinikas – Posidonia – Mega Yialos – Vari – Azolimnos – Ermoupolis
- Ermoupolis – Azolimnos – Vari – Mega Yialos – Posidonia – Foinikas – Galissas – Ermoupolis
- Ermoupolis – Kini
- Kini – Ermoupolis
All the bus timetables and information can be found here.
Hiring a car to get around the island provides more flexibility and independence to discover Syros at your own pace. It also allows you to be able to get to different beaches that you otherwise would not be able to get to with the bus. Having a car also allows more flexibility on where you can stay as well.
Things to do in Syros?
Wander around the capital
The capital of Syros, Ermoupolis, is full of beautiful architecture, vibrant squares, and charming streets. There are lots of different options for dinning in Ermoupolis and excellent bars overlooking the harbour to watch the mega yachts come in and out.
Ermoupolis is a busy town as the population of the city lives here year round and services the larger more touristy islands on a daily basis. Maiouli Square comes alive of a nighttime and is a popular place for children to play. There are also several beaches is town that have concrete platforms into the water, beware as these are rockier beaches there can be a lot of sea urchins.
Explore Ano Syros
Ano Syros is the medieval town situated on the hill above Ermoupolis. When going to Ano Syros you can opt to be driven to the top by taxi or perhaps you brave the short but steep walk up from Ermoupolis.
Wander through narrow alleyways and soak in the authentic atmosphere of this historical part of the island. The views from Ano Syros are worth the steep walk up the hill.
Relax at the Beach
Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Syros. The best part about Syros Island is that due to it not being a busy island over the summer you weren’t fighting for a space along the beach. Some of the beaches that are connected by the bus will become busier and if you do not have your own shade you will have to fight for a prime spot amongst the trees.
Take a boat trip
Want to explore some of the more secluded beaches of Syros then why not take a boat trip to some of Syros’s coves. You can start in Kini where there are several different boat trips you can take. When in Syros we went with Syros Adventures, you can also if you feel confident enough hire your own boat as well.
From here the boat company will drop you at a location then give you a time for them to return to collect you. As where they drop you is a remote part of the island you will need to bring your own supplies for the day.
Best Beaches in Syros:
Galisass
Galissas Beach is a picturesque sandy stretch ideal for sunbathing and swimming. This was the most recommended beach on the island however it was the most popular of all the beaches we visited and wasn’t our favourite on the island. There are conveniently located taverns and water sport activities on the beach for those that want to spend the whole day relaxing at the beac.
Kini
Kini Beach charms visitors with its golden sands and clear turquoise waters. This family-friendly beach has shallow waters, making it ideal for children to splash around safely. The promenade along the water has a large selection of resturants from fine dining to budget resturants.
Delfini
Delfini Beach is a great place for those looking for good sunbeds to be able to lounge the day away on. The beach has several tavernas along its sand making it an easy day by the sea. There is also an abundance of sea-life at Delfini.
Komito
Komito is a relatively small beach located near Posidonia. There isn’t a lot of shade along the beach so make sure to get there early to grab one of the beach umbrellas or beach chairs located on the shore. The beach itself has a small cafe and beach bar onsite which has a range of different food and drinks.
Fionikas
Foinikas Beach has a laid-back vibe and stunning sunset views. This sandy beach offers a range of facilities, including sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as water sports opportunities. The small village of Foinikas nearby has a great range of local tavernas within walking distance. Our favourite along the beach was Calmo Mare for coffee and a large variety of traditional dishes.
Where to eat in Syros?
Jar – Ermoupoli
Django – Ermoupoli
Epta – Ermoupoli
Gnision Souvlaki – Ermoupoli
Λαουτάρι – Ermoupoli
Allou Yialou – Kini
Asado – Kini
Melydron – Poseidonia
Calmo Mare – Finikas
Where to stay in Syros?
Di Mare – Posedonia
Captain’s – Kini
Pino di Loto – Kini
Castro Hotel – Ermoupoli
