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Syros is a real gem with its clear waters and a mix of popular beaches and hidden coves. The island's capital, Hermoupolis, is a neoclassical beauty, while the medieval Ano Syros has that charming Cycladic vibe. The countryside is sprinkled with vibrant beaches, charming settlements and manorial villages all celebrating a unique culture in the stunning Cyclades. With a history going back to the Early Bronze Age, Syros has seen its share of ups and downs. The Greek War of Independence was a turning point, with Hermoupolis rising in the early 1820s as a major trading and cultural hub. Famous architects designed a town that celebrated neoclassical beauty, with grand mansions, marble squares, and impressive public buildings. By the late 19th century, Hermoupolis had shifted to manufacturing, textiles, and shipbuilding. Today, it's a neoclassical landmark, inviting architecture fans to explore its heritage. The majestic Town Hall, designed by Ernst Ziller, stands out in Miaouli Square, a remarkable 19th-century square in Greece. The square is the heart of Syros; lined with grand neoclassicals and featuring palm trees, a marble music stage dedicated to Apollo, and the statue of War of Independence admiral Andreas Miaoulis. There, visitors may visit the Archaeological Museum, the Municipal Library, the Cyclades’ Archive, and the Culture Center. Hermoupolis is packed with landmarks like the Apollo Municipal Theater, the Byzantine-Neoclassical Temple of Saint Nicholas, and the iconic Vaporia quarter, where shipowners and industrialists built their exquisite manorial residences on cliffs. The urban beach Asteria, the monumental Custom Office, the Transit Warehouse, and the School of Mercantile Marine on the waterfront promenade are also worth a stroll. The former 'Hellas Club,' now hosting the Culture Center with the Cycladic Art Replicas Exhibition, offers an insight into the island's long history.
Sitting pretty on the nearby hill is Ano Syros, a Cycladic fortress from the later Byzantine days, offering amazing views of the Aegean Sea. Here, everything is all about charming small houses, tightly packed together, with tiny terraces bursting with colorful bougainvillea.
Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and covered walkways up to the Church of Saint George and the Capuchin Fathers' Monastery at the top. The views are epic, and the cozy cafés and tavernas, shops with local crafts, and spots like the Historical Archive of Ano Syros, the Exhibition of Traditional Professions, and the house of Markos Vamvakaris, an influential figure in Greek rebetiko music, are absolute must-sees.
Take a drive along Syros' southern coastline to discover seaside resorts tailored to your style. Here, you can relax on sunbeds and hang out with the trendy crowd. Beaches like Agathopes and Galissas are perfect for a cosmopolitan vibe, complete with sun loungers, cafes, and restaurants. For a family-friendly beach with shallow waters, check out Megas Gialos, Vari, Azolimnos, or Kini. If you like water sports or need a marina? Finikas has got you covered. Prefer a quieter spot? Komito, Ambela, Achladi, Delfini, Lotos, and Kokkina are great picks. For a more secluded adventure, explore the northern coastline by boat or a scenic footpath. You'll discover untouched beaches like Aetos, Lia, Varvaroussa, Marmari, Gria Spilia, and Grammata, where the turquoise waters are just waiting for you.
To discover the rest of what Syros has to offer, wander to the island’s interior where you will find scenic villages, like Episkopio - on a hill slope with imposing 19th century mansions - or Poseidonia - by the sea with grand manors built by the elite of the past - and Chroussa - with majestic mansions and estates with pavilions. Venture into the rugged north of Syros, following winding roads to uncover Syros' untamed beauty - secluded coves, tranquil landscapes, and a slice of authentic island life. Reach the northern tip of Syros, to visit the prehistoric sites of Chalandriani and Kastri, both considered as the most important fortifying construction of the 3rd millennium BC in the Aegean. Both sites are of major value to archaeologists as the excavations brought to light important findings of the Early Cycladic culture and art, indicating a flourishing society dating back to the late Neolithic era, between 4000 and 3000 BC.
When in Syros…Spanning millennia of history, Syros honours its heritage passing down recipes from one generation to the next. Here, gastronomic Cycladic flavours are brought about by local ingredients and, since the people love to experiment, with new refreshing touches. From traditional family-run eateries to modern restaurants and upscale fine dining, tavernas and grill houses, the food scene is quite vibrant. Fresh fish and seafood, sun-dried tomatoes, top dairy products, and thyme honey are some of the stars in this junction of Aegean cuisines. One of the best ways to explore Syros’ food culture is to visit Hermoupoli's bustling market. So, when you are on the island, start with the stars; Loukoumi, the iconic trademark of Syros, the celebrated P.D.O. cheese San Michali, Louza (special dry cured ham), the local fennel sausage made from pork meat and fennel, sun-dried tomatoes, caper buds and the amazing thyme honey, rock samphire.
