WELCOME TO SYROS
Syros is a unique blend of contrasts, Cycladic minimalism, Orthodox and Catholic heritage, rugged hillsides and little fishing villages. It’s also a Greek island that is a family favorite, with a great variety of food, local products and beaches all around the coastline. Here are some suggestions to help you plan your time on Syros.
Places you must visit
1. Ermoupoli: The lively main town of Syros with colorful houses and a cosmopolitan aura are testament to Syros’ stature as a mid-19th-century commercial, political and cultural hub. Places to see include Miaouli Square (with its grand Town Hall, palm trees and cafes and shops), the Apollo Theatre (modelled on the Scala di Milano) and the prestigious Vaporia district (with its captain’s houses). Next door is Asteria, a rocky platform you can sunbathe on or dive off, or just pull up a chair and order a cocktail.
2. Ano Syros: Rising above Ermoupoli is Ano Syros, one of the stars of the Cyclades. It’s both a Venetian settlement that was once a fortress town and a classic Cycladic settlement of winding lanes and whitewashed houses. On the many pedestrian streets, you will find tons of cute shops and restaurants to explore as well as the Catholic Saint George Cathedral at the top of the town with stunning views all around.
3. St. Nicolas church: The Greek Orthodox church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas) in Syros is one of the most impressive edifices of Syros. It is located close to Miaouli Square and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, who is the town’s patron saint. The masterful building dates back to 1870.
4. Boating Adventure: Looking to explore Syros by water – there are none better than the captained rib boats of Syros Quest (www.syrosquest.gr) to take you around the island, exploring secluded beaches, and the “swim in” church at Agios Stefanos, built by a grateful fisherman who was saved from the tentacles of a large Octopus! Weather permitting, you can also venture further afield to Tinos, the ancient ruins of Delos or even Mykonos. A fantastic way to experience all that Syros has to offer.
The best beaches in Syros
- Kini beach: The popular Kini Beach in Syros is a wonderful sandy beach. Its shallow seabed makes it a great place for families with young children. Kini is a must-visit during the late afternoon hours for its beautiful sunsets!
- Agathopes beach: One of the most popular beach destinations on the island, Agathopes Beach has golden sand and mesmerizing, clear waters! It is highly recommended for swimming and sunbathing due to its shallow seabed. It also is a perfect spot to enjoy excellent sunset views facing the islet of Schinonisi. Don't miss: Ono Concept Beach Bar and De La Gracia!
- Vari beach: On the southern shores of the island, Vari Beach is a gorgeous sandy shore with a plethora of pebbles where the waves break!
- Komito beach: The beach of Komitos is easy-to-access near the popular Agathopes! Komito beach faces the islets of Stroggylo and Schinonisi!
- Delphini: A unique beach in western Syros, Delfini is a part-pebbly, part-sandy shore with similarly distinct sea bottoms.The southern part of Delfini is also frequented by naturists!
Hello - Yassou
Good Morning - Kalimera
Good Evening - Kalispera
Please - Parakalo
Thank you - Efharisto
You are welcome - Parakalo
Yes - Ne
No - Ohi
Cheers - Yasas
Beer - Bira
Water - Nero
Cat - Gata
FLIGHTS
From San Francisco (SFO):
Flights from the US to Greece:
1. Fly SFO to US location (Chicago, Newark, or others) and then to Athens.
2. Fly SFO to a European location (LHR, FRA or others) and then to Athens.
Other Major US Airports:
Most major US airports (New York JFK, Chicago O'Hare, etc.) offer flights with one stop in Europe or a direct flight to Athens.
Once you've landed in Athens, you have two options for reaching Syros:
By Air: There is a single daily flight to and from Syros, usually early morning from Athens. It's a short trip of about 30 minutes.
By Ferry: Ferries run from the port of Piraeus (PIR) to Syros (JSY) every day. Piraeus is a massive port, about 30 mins by cab from central Athens. Make sure you know your gate as you can't easily walk from gate to gate. There are two types of ferries, fast and slow. The best site to look at for the ferry schedule is www.ferries.gr/en/. Once you decide your route, we suggest booking directly with the ferry company at their own website to get online tickets etc.
1. Fast ferries: Seajets or Fast Ferries (2 hours)
2. Slow Ferry: Blue Star (3-4 hours).
Ferry Ticket Information:
For transportation on the island during your stay you may use taxis or consider renting a car.
Taxi Hermes: +30 2281 084222
Car Rental:
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
ETIAS travel authorization is a NEW entry requirement for visa-exempt travelers going to 30 European countries from several origin nations (including the United States) starting in 2025. It is linked to a traveler’s passport and is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization.
Please visit this website for ETIAS travel authorization information.
It takes a few minutes to apply online and your approval should be emailed to you shortly.
Application and Processing
You can fill out the application form using either this official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile application. Applying for the ETIAS travel authorization costs EUR 7, though some travelers are exempt from paying this fee.
Most applications are processed within minutes.
It is possible however that your application may take longer to process. If so, you will receive a decision within four days. Please note that this period could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation, or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview. This is why you should apply for an ETIAS travel authorization well in advance of your planned journey.