Syros: The Noble Capital of the Cyclades
Syros is the heartbeat of the Cyclades, but it doesn’t look like any other island in the chain. Instead of small white houses, you are greeted by the grand neoclassical mansions of Ermoupoli, the administrative capital of the Aegean. In 2026, Syros remains a year-round destination that celebrates the harmonious coexistence of Orthodox and Catholic traditions, world-class culture, and a culinary scene that is among the best in Greece.
Things to know about Syros
Geographically, Syros is located in the center of the Cyclades. Historically, Ermoupoli was the most important port in Greece during the 19th century, even rivaling Piraeus. An ideal trip length is 4-5 days. It is famous for its marble-paved Miaouli Square, the Apollon Theater (a miniature of La Scala), and its traditional ‘Loukoumi’ (Turkish Delight) and San Michali cheese. The island is defined by two hills: one topped by the Orthodox cathedral and the other by the Catholic cathedral of Ano Syros.
Top attractions in Syros
Ermoupoli Town
The capital of the Cyclades is an architectural marvel. Walking through its marble streets, you’ll see grand public buildings, the City Hall designed by Ernst Ziller, and the majestic Apollo Theater. It feels more like a miniature European city than a typical Greek island village.
Ano Syros (The Medieval Quarter)
Built by the Venetians in the 13th century, Ano Syros is a labyrinth of narrow alleys and stone steps leading up to the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George. It is a car-free zone filled with small traditional taverns and offers a stunning view of the port below.
Vaporia District
The most prestigious neighborhood in Ermoupoli, where the 19th-century shipping magnates built their mansions literally over the sea. The architecture here is breathtaking, with high ceilings and elaborate frescoes, many of which have been converted into luxury boutique hotels.
Miaouli Square
This is the social heart of the island. Paved with white marble, the square is dominated by the monumental City Hall. It is the perfect place to sit for a coffee and watch the locals pass by, especially during the many cultural festivals Syros hosts.
Apollon Theater
Built in 1864, this theater is a symbol of the island’s cultural wealth. It was inspired by La Scala in Milan and four other Italian theaters. Even if there is no performance, a tour of the interior is essential to see its velvet seats and ornate ceiling.
Asteria Beach
Not a traditional sandy beach, but a series of stone platforms in the Vaporia district. Here, you can dive directly into deep turquoise water with a view of the neoclassical mansions behind youฮฒโฌโa truly unique Syriot experience.
Galissas Beach
The most popular sandy beach on the island, located in a sheltered bay on the west coast. It is well-organized with many taverns and is ideal for families due to its shallow, calm waters.
The Church of Agios Nikolaos
Known as ‘Agios Nikolaos of the Rich,’ this church is a masterpiece of Orthodox architecture with a brilliant blue dome and two tall bell towers. The interior is lavishly decorated with marble and gold leaf.
The Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli
Reflecting the island’s history as a major 19th-century industrial hub, this museum is housed in old factories and showcases the machinery, shipping tools, and the first electric car ever built in Greece (the Enfield 8000).
San Michali and Local Delicacies
No visit to Syros is complete without tasting San Michali, a PDO spicy cheese. You should also visit the traditional workshops making Syros Loukoumi and Halvadopita, which have been produced on the island for over 150 years.
Island-hopping from Syros
Syros is the central hub for the Cyclades ferry network. From here, you can reach Piraeus in 2.5 to 4 hours. Daily ferries connect Syros to Tinos (30 mins), Mykonos (45 mins), Paros (1 hour), and Naxos (1.5 hours). It is also the primary connection point for the more remote islands like Kythnos, Kea, and the northern Aegean. Syros Airport (JSY) offers daily flights to Athens.
