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The endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the royal splendor of Hermoupolis and the famous Cycladic minimalism of Ano Syros. Sun-kissed beaches, picturesque villages and rocky landscape. Glamour and laid-back vibe. Seaside resorts in the South and uncrowded coves in the North; Syros is an island full of surprises.
Here history is lost in the mists of time; From its earliest beginnings in 3rd millennium B.C. to the prehistoric period of the Early Bronze Age and era of the world renowned Cycladic marble figurines, Syros evolved, thrived and survived.
The Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire marks a major turning point. In 1821 hundreds of Greeks fled several Aegean islands and areas of the Asia Minor coast to escape the Ottomans. They found shelter in Syros and Hermoupolis was born. The new town rapidly grew into an international commercial, cultural and industrial hub and one of the most powerful in the 19th century’s Mediterranean. Exercising a commanding economic and social influence, Hermoupolis became the vibrant core of the Neo-Hellenic Enlightenment.
Here, old World grandeur reigns everywhere, reflecting the wealth and the influences of Neoclassicism and Romanticism.
Starting from our neighborhood, the monumental 1860’s Custom Office and 1834’s Transit Warehouse may be the glorious opening to your tours around a town that celebrates its magnificent past with grandiose mansions, marble piazzas with palm trees, impressive public buildings and exquisite town planning.
To fully get the experience of this town, you must visit its crown jewel; the majestic Town Hall of Hermoupolis. Designed by Ernst Ziller to impress, the iconic landmark of Syros is a 19th-century neoclassical that dominates the Miaoulis Square, one of the most remarkable squares of Greece. Flanked by imposing neoclassicals, tall palm trees and a marble music stage dedicated to the ancient Greek god of music Apollo, the square is the center of Syros. Here you can visit the Archeological Museum of Hermoupolis, the former Club Hellas and nowadays home of the Cultural Center where the Cycladic Art Replicas Exhibition and the Municipal Library.
As you wander around, you are bound to come across the Apollo Municipal Theater and enter a world of another era. And, of course, Vaporia (Greek for Ships); the emblematic quarter where mighty shipowners built neoclassical mansions perched on the edge of cliffs seemingly hovering over the sea. Here, the majestic temple of Saint Nicholas commands your attention with its impressive architectural structure and lavish interiors. Here, the popular urban beach Asteria (meaning Stars) will tempt you to dive in the azure sea and while away the night with dinner under the stars. Being such a diverse town to explore, Hermoupolis has to offer more than these postcard-perfect points of interest.
Climb up the neighbor hill to Ano Syros, the Cycladic citadel of the later Byzantine era. The small fortress town is a labyrinth of small quaint houses built close together, narrow cobbled streets and covered passageways that lead to the top where the Church of Saint George overlooks the endless blue of the Aegean. Discover tiny cafés and tavernas, shops exhibiting local artisan creations. Must-see attractions are the Historical Archive of Ano Syros, the Exhibition of Traditional Professions, the spring of the Orthodox Church of Saint Athanasios, the Capuchin monastery, the Catholic Cathedral of San George, the house dedicated to Markos Vamvakaris who was one of the most influential Greek rebetiko musicians.
To spend your days by the sea, drive along the coastline at the southern part of Syros. Cosmopolitan beaches like Agathopes and Galissas offer sun loungers in the sand, cafes, restaurants and tavernas. Megas Gialos, Vari, Azolimnos or Kini are popular for their shallow waters and family friendly reputation. If you are into water games and sports or looking for a marina to dock your boat, Finikas is your place. If low-profile, yet popular, beaches are your thing, Komito, Ambela, Achladi, Delfini, Lotos and Kokkina are all good choices. Or board one of the small boats sailing from the bay of Kini for a tour to unspoiled beaches like Aetos, Lia, Varvaroussa, Marmari, Gria Spilia and Grammata to see beyond the tourist hustle.
Discover scenic villages like Episkopio - on a hill slope with imposing 19th century mansions - Poseidonia - by the sea with grand manors built by the elite of the past - and Chroussa - with majestic mansions and estates with pavilions and dovecotes. Drive, or hike, up to the North to visit two archaeological sites of major importance; Kastri and Chalandriani, the prehistoric fortified hilltop settlement and cemetery, respectively, from the later years of the Early Cycladic period on the north of Syros.
Expressing the long journey of the island through time, Syros celebrates a higher standard of cuisine offering rich flavours, strong aromas and mouth watering specialties. Here, the junction of the Aegean cuisines and prime local ingredients give delicious gastronomic Cycladic flavours.
Starting with the stars, Loukoumi is the iconic trademark of Syros that sweetly melts in the mouth. San Michali is the celebrated cheese and favourite of chefs. Louza is a sun-cured and best-of-the best of Greek delicatessen cold cuts.
Love exploring further? Find out why the local sausages with the unique aroma and flavour of fennel, the sun-dried tomatoes, caper and thyme honey are so popular.
