Santorini and Mykonos continue to be some of the tourists’ most loved islands in Greece. Their popularity has, however, backfired at times as they are now facing issues linked to overtourism.
In Greece, however, there are still islands yet to be discovered where holidaymakers can have a more traditional Greek experience. One such destination is the stunning island of Syros, which is just 23 nautical miles and a 30-minute ferry ride from Mykonos. Covering an area of just 32 square miles, it is home to around 21,000 people as of 2021.
One of the smallest islands of the Cyclades, it is actually the legal and administrative centre of the entire archipelago. Yet, despite this important role, it remains almost completely off the tourist map.
Its beaches never seem to get busy, and its towns quietly buzz with activity year-round, nothing like its neighbours that now become completely overwhelmed during the tourist season.
The island is a fascinating blend of Venetian Catholic style, architecture and traditions as eastern Greek culture, which dates back as far as the Bronze Age.
Syros’s seaside capital, Ermoupoli, is a major hub of activity, while much of the rest of the island remains relatively rural. Ermoupoli was Greece’s first commercial and industrial centre and became an important shipping centre.
During your stay in the capital, be sure to visit the Industrial Museum, housed in three different structures that showcase the town’s economic growth. Among its other prominent landmarks are its Orthodox churches, including Metamorfosis Sotiros and Kimisis Theotokou.
The upper town of Ano Syros is a Venetian 13th century neighbourhood which showcases an impressive medieval style, with whitewashed houses and winding alleys and stairs.
For something even slower paced, head to the peaceful village of Kini, famous for its small fish eateries. Located just under six miles west of the capital, it is also next to a picturesque sandy beach, making for the perfect day trip.
For history enthusiasts, the remains of the Archaic Temple of Athena – located near the ferry port and offering a scenic view of the harbour – are a must-see. The temple, built in the 6th century BC, is dedicated to the goddess Athena and can be reached via a short but steep set of steps.
Unlike places like Mykonos or Santorini, businesses on Syros are not as strictly seasonal, and the ferries continue to operate year-round, since Syros serves as a central ferry hub for the Cyclades.
Syros has an airport (JSY), with airlines including Aegean Airlines, SKY Express and Wizz Air offering flights from cities including Athens, accessible in just a few hours from the UK.
