15 Best Things to do in Syros Greece for First Timers
What is a hidden gem? A destination that doesn’t see too many tourists despite having so much to offer by way of food, beauty, experiences. By that definition, I confidently dub Syros island in Greece a hidden gem! In this post I’m sharing some of the best things to do in Syros to help you as you craft your own itinerary for the island.
15 Best things to do in Syros Greece
Whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation, wellness, shopping or great eats you’ll find it in Syros. Here are my personal recommendations for some of the best things to do in Syros, Greece:
1. Feel invigorated at Vaporio beach
This is my number one pick for the best thing to do while you’re in Syros – go swimming at Vaporio beach. Now, at first glance it might strike you as unusual, especially when you learn that this is a concrete beach. Doesn’t sound great, does it?
But it’s incredible and the most awe-inspiring thing I did while I was in Syros. Plus, if you’re staying in Ermoupoli it’s an easy enough walk to get here as it’s a city beach.
The real draw of this particular beach is that you’ll be swimming with a view of the Church of Agios Nikolaos towering up behind you. It creates one of those surreal, pinch-me travel moments that make you feel grateful to be alive.
Logistically speaking, you’ll want to be mindful of not leaving your belongings on the concrete pavement before getting in the water.
When ferries go by in the distance, the waves raise up and onto the platform soaking everything on it. You’ll see hooks on the wall at the back where you can hang your things.
There are a couple of short ladders you could use to climb down into the water. I saw some folks jumping in, but I opted for the ladders each time to easily and safely get in and out of the water.
Be mindful of the ground beneath you if you’re in the shallower part of the water. I cut my foot a little on a sharp rock. Nothing too bad but, be aware.
And of course, never swim alone. I was visiting Greece solo and I would not have gone in for a swim if there were not other swimmers at the beach alongside me. Have fun but stay safe!
2. Relax on sand beaches
Now, I get it. Concrete beaches aren’t for everyone (but I still strongly urge you to check it out while you’re in Syros!).
Don’t worry, Syros also has lovely sand beaches. Check out the popular Kini or Galissas beach areas if you prefer a more traditional beach day.
3. Wander through Ermoupouli
The city of Ermoupoli is actually so beautiful. Within an hour of arriving and strolling through the streets, I found myself sending my sister a voice note sharing how much I’d love to spend an entire month or more living in Syros.
You’ll find winding yet comfortable streets dripping with charm and pops of vibrant flowers. In addition to picturesque buildings, local shops and inviting eateries you’ll also come across lively public squares or the waterfront where you can pause and people watch.
If you’re looking for a place to wander aimlessly and get lost for a little while I can think of few better places to do just that, than here.
Want to wander with a little more structure and guidance, while actually learning about the city? Then definitely reserve your spot on a locally-led walking tour.
👉🏽 Sign up for the Ermoupoli walking tour
4. Learn at the history museum
On recommendation from my accommodation host, a born and bred local, I visited this newer history museum in Ermoupoli. Unfortunately for me, the hours listed on Google maps were incorrect and I arrived after it had closed.
But the kind young woman who was working there that day showed me around a bit herself for a few minutes.
It’s not a very large museum and would probably only take you about 30 minutes to an hour to explore. But it’s a great way to understand the history of the place you’re visiting as a tourist. If you have the time, consider a visit here.
5. Take a traditional cooking class
One of the best souvenirs from Greece you could bring home with you is a new skill, and what better skill than the art of cooking a traditional Greek meal?
In this traditional Greek cooking class you’ll learn to make a complete meal, from appetizer to dessert, at a charming local villa. You can even add on a cheese and wine pairing!
Spend a few hours immersed in the comfort of aromatic spices, chilled wine, good conversation and hands on culinary adventure before you enjoy your home-cooked meal.
👉🏽 Reserve your spot in this cooking class
6. Cruise and hike off the beaten path
Spend a day letting a local guide you to a hidden beach and coastal hike. If you’re at all adventurous, this could have the makings of your perfect day in Syros.
You’ll start with a boat ride from Kini to the island’s far lesser visited beaches. Not staying in Kini? No problem. You can easily take a taxi or public bus to the meeting point. Or, add-on a roundtrip private transfer when you book this experience.
After some time enjoying the beach (snorkeling equipment will be provided!), you’ll take a coastal hike to Grammata and have the chance to witness ancient inscriptions in the rocks.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite you’ll picnic on the beach before returning to the starting point in Kini. Honestly speaking, this is an experience I’m bookmarking for myself for the next time I’m in Syros!
👉🏽 Book it here
7. Eat!
I really enjoyed Syros’ food scene. In particular, I noticed there were so many brunch cafes to choose from. I tried Epta, Armadillo, Avocado and Happen while I was there and that felt like only scratching the surface.
A couple times, I enjoyed an affordable and delicious sandwich for a takeaway dinner from Gnison Souvlaki. They also have a cute little outdoor space if you’d like to eat onsite.
For my birthday dinner I had a delicious seafood pasta at To Tsipouradiko tis Mirsinis, which I stumbled upon accidentally after another restaurant I tried was closed. They do tend to fill up as far as seating on their outdoor patio, so reserve in advance if you can.
Another simple yet great local place to dine is To Petrino. They have live music some evenings so it’s great for dinner, but I visited for a quiet lunch.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth try some local desserts at Athymarites.Really there’s so much to explore on the food scene and I didn’t have a single bad meal during my 5 days in Syros.
You’ll notice my recommendations are all in Ermoupoli since that’s where I stayed, but I’m sure you’ll find great eats across the island. Want even more guidance? Sign up for a food tour with a local!
8. Drink
In addition to the restaurants and cafes mentioned above, Syros has a great bar scene as well.
Even though I did not personally visit any during my solo time there, I passed several that looked lovely and saw many others with great ratings on Google maps.
You won’t find much of a party atmosphere here, but for something a bit more elegant or casual there are lots of solid options.
Some to look into are: Porta Galleria del cocktail, Quattro Syros, Roga Syros and Espiritu just to name a few.
Alternatively, book yourself a spot on this wine tasting and village walk excursion. This will also get you out into the oldest settlement on Syros – San Michalis.
👉🏽 Sign up for the wine tasting
9. Shop local
If you’re on the hunt for souvenirs, definitely check out some of the local shops. You’re likely to pass by different concept stores and souvenir shops that are actually worth checking out.
Unlike on some other islands, I didn’t feel like every shop on Syros carried all the same souvenirs. Pieces, from jewelry to magnets, looked much more unique and distinct from each other.
A popular local sweet, loukoumi, would make a great souvenir. It’s akin to Turkish delights.
I also visited a shop called Physis Soap Lab that had lots of locally made skincare products infused with local ingredients.
10. Visit Town Hall and people watch at the plaza
In the center of Ermoupoli is a large plaza where kids play and birds flock to. It’s a gathering space, or third space, if you will.
And it’s at the foot of the town hall building. This area is the perfect place for a walk through, or to sit near for a while to watch the world go by.
If you’d like, you can also go into Town Hall to look around, for free, and to visit the coffee shop inside if it’s open. This is definitely a hub of Syros so if you’re able to, it’s worthwhile to check out the area.
11. Admire Agio Nicholas church
Whether or not you take my advice in number 1 to visit Vaporio beach, you should absolutely make your way to the Church of Agio Niakalaos. It’s one of the most defining buildings of the island and is beautiful inside and out.
12. Explore the Opera house
If you have fairly limited time on the island, you can skip this. Since I had 5 leisurely days I decided to spend a couple hours one day on a self-guided tour of Apollon Theater. It has an interesting history and is a central cultural hub for the island.
Even better if you’re able to catch a show while you’re in town, but I simply visited casually one morning and it was a nice way to spend some time.
13. Climb through Ano Syros
Are you up for a lot of stair-climbing? If yes, Ano Syros is definitely worth meandering through. It’s hilly, narrow and easy to get a little lost up there. But it’s also beautiful and offers panoramic views over Syros.
14. Indulge in a deep cleansing facial
Since I was spending my birthday on Syros, I decided to treat myself to a beauty treatment. As a woman in my mid-30s, I love trying out skincare and beauty treatments around the world.
For less than $80 USD I received the best deep-cleansing, nourishing facial of my life. I strongly recommend a visit to Evy Zarpa if you’re interested in the same.
The woman who owns this family business has invented her own procedure which she plans to ship around to hotels in the rest of Greece as well. In my opinion, it’s an easy sell.
15. Day trip to Tinos island
Syros is great and honestly, I did not leave to take any day trips myself. But if you start to feel restless and want to get out to other nearby islands it’s easy to do so.
Probably the easiest, and most unique or interesting island to visit, is Tinos which is only a 30-minute ferry ride away.
The best way to see a lot of Tinos in a day is to book a private van tour of the island. Conveniently, they pick up right at Tinos port.
👉🏽 Book a private tour of Tinos island
Commonly asked questions about Syros activities
As you plan your Syros itinerary, it’s also helpful to know:
Is Syros, Greece worth visiting?
Personally, my answer is that Syros is absolutely worth visiting. But you can read more about if Syros is right for you and decide for yourself whether or not you want to grant it a spot on your Greece itinerary.
What is Syros famous for?
Syros is the capital of the Cycladic island group, and is also known for its Venetian architecture.
What to buy in Syros, Greece?
There are many great artisan products to buy in Syros. I would recommend local sweets such as halva or loukoumi. Or, skincare products like soaps and moisturizers infused with local ingredients like the ones you’ll find at Physis Soap Lab.
There are also some nice jewelry shops on the island, and the products here overall seem more authentic than what you’ll find on more tourist-popular islands.
Can you swim in Syros?
Yes, you can swim in Syros! There are several beaches to choose from including Vaporio beach, Kini beach and Galissas beach.
Do you need a car in Syros?
No, you do not need a car in Syros. Many areas are walkable and when you’re not able to walk, you can take a taxi or the public buses instead.
Final thoughts on what to do in Syros Greece
There are so many great things to do in Syros that I’m sure anyone would have a great time on this oft-overlooked island. Of all the islands I visited on my own visit to Greece, Syros was hands-down my favorite. I hope you’ll love it as much as I did!
