Syros holidays

How to reach Syros

There are no direct flights to Syros. To reach the Greek island in the Cyclades, you must fly to Athens and then take a ferry for the final leg.

• Flight time: Flights to Athens from London Heathrow, Manchester and other major UK airports generally take about 4 hours. British Airways and Aegean Airlines have regular direct flights from major UK airports to Athens. During high season, charters are available to Mykonos or Santorini, which in turn offer ferry connections to Syros.

• Transfer time: From Athens International Airport, you’ll need to reach the port of Piraeus or Rafina to board a ferry. The quickest way is by metro or airport bus (X96 line), which takes an average of 1 hour. Ferries from Piraeus then take roughly 3.5–4 hours, depending on the service.

• Price: The airport metro costs around €10 for a single ticket, while the X96 bus costs €5. Ferry prices vary by service: high-speed ferries from Piraeus cost around €55 one-way, while standard ferries cost €30–€35. Alternatively, taxis from the airport to Piraeus are about €50–€55 during the day, with slightly higher rates at night.

Best time to visit Syros

The island is a year-round destination, so the best time of year for your Syros holidays depends largely on your sightseeing and temperature preferences.

• April to June is the best time to experience Syros without large crowds. Springtime offers mild and sunny weather, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C in April to 23°C in June. Rain is minimal (20–30mm per month) and you’ll enjoy lots of sunshine (9–12 hours daily). This season is perfect for beach days, cultural excursions and pleasant evenings.

• July to August is the high season when the island is liveliest, with music festivals and cultural events galore. Temperatures soar to between 26 and 28°C, while rain is almost non-existent, with around 11–12 hours of sunshine each day.

• September to October is when the crowds begin to thin. However, temperatures remain warm, averaging 25°C in September, gradually cooling to 20°C in October. This is a favourite time for many to visit, as the sea is still warm and visitors can experience local life with fewer tourists. Expect 7–10 hours of sunshine per day and some rainfall (around 40–60mm).

• November to March brings winter, which tends to be mild but can be wet, with rainfall averaging 60–90mm from December through February. Average temperatures range from 10 to 15°C, so this is a safe bet if you prefer a quieter visit and don’t mind cooler days.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: The Greeks are known for their warm hospitality. It’s polite to greet people with ‘kalimera’ (good morning) or ‘kalispera’ (good evening). Be prepared for a slower pace of life, especially during the afternoon when siestas take priority.

• Currency: Greece uses the Euro. ATMs are widely available in Ermoupoli and tourist areas, and most places accept credit cards.

• Getting around: Syros has a reliable bus network, with services connecting Ermoupoli to key spots like Galissas and Kini. A single bus ticket is around €2. Taxis are also available, and renting a car or scooter is an option, although parking can be tricky, especially in Ermoupoli.

• Electricity and plug types: Greece uses the standard European two-pin plugs (220V). UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Syros is in Eastern European Time (EET), 2 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.

Beaches in Syros

Syros is a beautiful island in the Cyclades known for its stunning beaches, offering a mix of lively coastal spots and peaceful, secluded coves. Whether you're looking to relax on sandy shores, enjoy swimming in clear waters, or explore the picturesque coastline, the beaches of Syros cater to all types of beachgoers.

Galissas Beach

Galissas Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Syros, with its long stretch of golden sand and calm, shallow waters. It’s an ideal spot for families and those looking to relax by the sea. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, the beach has a laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying a leisurely meal at one of the nearby tavernas. Galissas also offers a range of amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars.

Kini Beach

Another lovely beach on the island, Kini Beach is a small, sandy cove surrounded by hills and crystal-clear waters. It’s a quieter option compared to Galissas, offering a more relaxed vibe for those looking to escape the crowds. Kini Beach is ideal for swimming, with its calm waters and scenic views of the surrounding area. There are several seafood restaurants along the beach, where visitors can enjoy fresh local dishes while taking in the views.

Ahladi Beach

Ahladi Beach is a more secluded beach, known for its pebbly shoreline and tranquil environment. It’s less developed than other beaches on the island, offering visitors a more peaceful setting for relaxation. The clear waters make it a great spot for swimming and snorkelling, and the surrounding natural beauty adds to its appeal. Ahladi Beach is perfect for those who prefer to enjoy a quiet day by the sea, away from the hustle and bustle.

Delfini Beach

For a more tranquil beach experience, Delfini Beach is an excellent choice. Located near the village of Vari, Delfini is a small and charming beach known for its clean waters and peaceful surroundings. It’s perfect for a relaxing swim or a quiet day sunbathing. The beach is less crowded, offering a serene escape where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island in a more private setting.

Vari Beach

Vari Beach is a small, sandy beach located near the village of Vari. It offers clear waters and a calm environment, making it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, and the nearby village provides a great place for a relaxing stroll or a visit to one of the local cafes. Vari Beach is ideal for those seeking a quiet, relaxing day by the sea with convenient access to local amenities.

The beaches of Syros offer a wide variety of options for all kinds of beach lovers, from the lively Galissas Beach to the peaceful, secluded Ahladi Beach. Whether you're looking to unwind in a tranquil setting or enjoy the amenities of a more popular beach, Syros has something to suit your preferences. The island’s natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect destination for beach lovers during your Syros holidays.

Local dishes in Syros

The cuisine in Syros is a mix of traditional Greek dishes and unique Cycladic flavours that reflect the island’s Venetian and Aegean heritage. Here are a few culinary highlights to try:

Some typical dishes

• Louza: This local cured pork, flavoured with herbs like pepper and oregano, is a favourite meze (appetiser) on Syros and pairs perfectly with the local wine.

• Kopanisti: A spicy, tangy cheese made from goat’s or sheep’s milk, often served with bread – a must-try for cheese lovers.

• Revithada: A hearty chickpea stew cooked slowly in a clay pot with lemon, olive oil and herbs. Often found in local tavernas, this is comfort food at its best.

• Saganaki: A delicious fried cheese appetiser, often enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled octopus: Grilled to perfection, this dish is typically served with lemon and herbs and is a staple in seaside tavernas.

• Gouna: This traditional Cycladic fish dish features mackerel that’s sun-dried and then grilled. Its unique flavour reflects the island’s culinary traditions.

Sweets and desserts

Syros is known for its sweets. Loukoumi (a chewy, rose-flavoured delight similar to Turkish delight) is a classic treat, often paired with coffee. Another favourite is halvadopita, a soft nougat made with honey and almonds.

Local drinks

• Wine: Syros produces a variety of local wines, with reds and whites that complement the island’s flavours.

• Souma: A local spirit similar to ouzo but typically less anise-flavoured, souma is often enjoyed as a digestif.

Best things to do in Syros

Syros combines Cycladic beauty with Venetian elegance, making it one of the most unique and charming Greek islands. Here’s what holidays to Syros have to offer:

Historical monuments

• Ermoupoli Town Hall: One of Greece’s grandest neoclassical buildings, this imposing Town Hall is a must for photographers. Designed by Ernst Ziller, it faces the bustling Platía Miaoúli, a central square that’s perfect for people-watching.

• Apollon Theatre: Built in 1864, this Italian-style theatre, modelled after Milan’s La Scala, is an iconic sight in Ermoupoli. Visitors can explore its beautiful interiors and catch musical performances at this cultural hub.

• Church of the Resurrection (Anastasis): Perched on a hill above Ermoupoli, this impressive Orthodox church offers views over the island and the neighbouring Cyclades. Its interior is equally captivating, with icons and architectural details that reflect the island’s mixed heritage.

The best districts

• Ermoupoli: Syros’ lively capital and the administrative centre of the Cyclades, Ermoupoli blends grand architecture with local charm. The Vaporia district is known for its stately mansions, while the winding streets near the port offer boutique shops, cafés and authentic local cuisine.

• Ano Syros: A medieval and predominantly Catholic district, Ano Syros sits above Ermoupoli and is something of a step back in time. Visitors can wander through its narrow alleys, visit the Capuchin monastery and explore the museum dedicated to the famed musician Markos Vamvakaris.

• Day trip to Delos: From Syros, visitors can hop on a ferry to the island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is dotted with ruins, temples and ancient mosaics.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Vaporia and Ayios Nikolaos: The waterfront neighbourhood of Vaporia near the Ayios Nikolaos church offers worthwhile vistas, with colourful neoclassical mansions lining the coast.

• Ano Syros: From the hilltop above Ano Syros, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Ermoupoli and the surrounding islands.

Beaches

• Galissas Beach: A popular beach spot with soft sand and shallow waters, ideal for families and those looking to relax. Nearby tavernas, offering refreshments and dining, add to its appeal.

• Finikas Beach: This sheltered beach on the southwest coast offers a quieter alternative. It has tamarisk trees and clear waters, is popular with locals and has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

• Kini Village: Located on the western coast, Kini is a picturesque fishing village with a well-serviced beach. A small aquarium nearby showcases local marine life.

Activities for families in Syros

Syros offers a host of activities that families will love, from interactive museums to beach days.

• Beaches: The sheltered bays of Galissas and Finikas are perfect for children, with calm waters and nearby facilities. Kini Beach is another excellent family choice, with beach umbrellas, cafés and an aquarium where children can learn about local marine life.

• Museums: The Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli has interactive exhibits suitable for older children and showcases Syros’ history as an industrial hub. For musical families, the Markos Vamvakaris Museum in Ano Syros offers an introduction to traditional rebetika music.

• Local festivals: Visiting during a local festival, like the summer Ermoupolia Festival, offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Greek culture with live music, dance and fireworks.

Free things to do in Syros

Exploring Syros on a budget is easy and there are plenty of free activities to enjoy.

• Free events: The Ermoupolia Festival, held each July, offers free access to music performances, art exhibitions and public events around Ermoupoli.

• Walking tours: Several organisations offer free walking tours around Ermoupoli, with guides working on a tips-only basis. Tours often cover the town's historical and architectural highlights.

• Church visits: The island’s historical churches, such as Ayios Nikolaos in Vaporia or St George’s Cathedral in Ano Syros, are free to visit. The sites offer a glimpse into Syros' unique cultural and religious heritage.

• Exploring Ano Syros: A wander through the narrow, whitewashed lanes of Ano Syros serves up viewpoints, small art galleries and quiet courtyards that showcase the charm of this traditional Cycladic town.