2 Days in Syros Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Syros for First-Time Visitors in 2024

Are you looking for the perfect Syros itinerary for spending 2 days in Syros? Look no further! We’ll take you on a journey through the vibrant streets of Ermoupoli, the capital town of the Cyclades, and guide you to the most picturesque beaches scattered around the island.

I’ve been to countless Greek islands, but when I set foot on the island of Syros, also known as the ‘Queen of the Cyclades’, it was love at first sight. This charming gem has quickly risen to the top of my list of favorite Greek island destinations. I’m excited to share the best places to visit and the top things to do in Syros to help you make the most of your trip.

Whether you’re into culture, local cuisine, or beachside relaxation, Syros has something to offer. Our itinerary includes everything you need to know if you plan to visit Syros in only 2 days. Join us for an unforgettable escape to one of the best-kept secrets in the Aegean!

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2 Days in Syros – Quick Tips

Not enough time to read the whole article? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Dive right into my top picks for hotels, places to visit, insider tips, and more, and make the most of your 2 days in Syros, Greece. Your journey starts here!

Best Places to Stay | Castro Hotel, Hotel Ploes, Syros Soul Luxury Suites

Best Time to Visit | June, September

How to Get Around | Rental Car, Walking, Bus

Top Places to Visit | Ermoupoli, Ano Syros, Kini Beach, Galissas Beach

Insider Tips | Asteria Beach, Agathopes Beach

Stay Connected | Get your Europe eSIM

Best Experiences & Tours | Traditional Greek Cooking Class, Ermoupoli Walking Tour

Keep reading for my complete Syros travel guide!

How to Get to Syros

Conveniently located, the island of Syros is easy to reach from the Greek mainland. The primary gateway is through Athens, the capital of Greece. From Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), you have two choices. The first is a direct flight to Syros Island National Airport, ensuring a quick and comfortable journey. There are multiple daily nonstop flights, which take you to Syros in about 45 minutes. If you plan to explore Athens before visiting Syros make sure to check out our perfect 2-day Athens itinerary.

Alternatively, if you prefer to combine your visit to Syros with a scenic ferry ride, you can catch a ferry from the Port of Piraeus in Athens. The ferry ride itself is a great experience, allowing you to savor the beauty of the Aegean Sea as you approach Syros. The ferry ride takes from 2 hours and 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on the ferry company you choose.

We went for the second option because it is much cheaper to go by ferry. I highly recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance if you visit Syros during the peak season.

💡Why not combine your visit to Syros with 3 days in Mykonos and 3 days in Tinos?

How to Get Around in Syros

Once you’ve arrived in Syros, you’ll want to explore every corner of this beautiful island. Thankfully, getting around Syros is a breeze, as you can easily drive around the entire island in only one day. The island offers a good public transportation system with buses that connect the major towns.

However, I highly recommend renting a car to be more flexible and to make the most of your 2 days in Syros. This allows you to venture off the beaten path, discover hidden gems, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the island at your own pace.

Best Time to Visit Syros

Syros, like many Greek destinations, has its unique allure all year round. However, if you’re a sun seeker and beach lover, the summer months of June to August will be your best bet. Warm weather and crystal-clear waters create the ideal conditions for swimming and sunbathing.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more tranquil and culturally immersive experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and the visitor numbers decrease, allowing you to experience the island’s charm without the crowds. Another advantage of visiting Syros in the shoulder season is that the accommodation prices will be much lower compared to the peak season.

We visited Syros in mid-September and we found it to be the perfect time to explore the capital town and enjoy Syros’ beautiful beaches. The weather was still warm with a pleasant, light wind, and the large crowds had already left the island.

You might also enjoy reading: Ultimate Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary

Where to Stay in Syros

I recommend staying in Ermoupoli, the island’s capital. Ermoupoli offers a variety of charming boutique hotels, each with its unique character. Staying in this area allows you to immerse in the vibrant heart of Syros, with its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and picturesque harbor.

Moreover, you can easily explore everything from charming restaurants, cozy cafes, and vibrant bars to quaint shops and the ferry port, all within walking distance.

I have compiled a list of the best hotels and suites in Syros for you:

• Castro Hotel Syros ($$-$$$) – luxurious hotel with stunning rooms, perfect location
• Hotel Ploes ($$-$$$) – gorgeous seafront hotel with charming rooms
• Syros Soul Luxury Suites ($$) – perfect location right at Miaouli Square, modern suites, incredible views
• Shapes Luxury Suites ($$) – modern rooms & suites, close to the port
• Aeolia Boutique Studios ($) – clean, modern rooms with boho elements
• Anemomylos Windmill ($$) – unique stay, sleep in a traditional windmill

If you’re more inclined toward beachside relaxation, the seaside villages and resorts scattered across the island may be the right choice for you. Make sure to check out these amazing beach-front hotels:

• Oro Suites ($$) in Kini Beach
• Hotel Benois ($$) in Galissas Beach
• Syra Suites ($) near Vari Beach
• Hotel Kamelo ($) in Vari Beach

Looking for something else?

2 Days in Syros Itinerary Overview

Below you can find a breakdown of the best things to do in Syros in 2 days.

Day 1 in Syros: Ano Syros and Ermoupoli

• Discover the charming hilltop village of Ano Syros
• Explore Ermoupoli Town, the capital of the Cyclades
• Relax at Asteria Beach
• Have dinner at the seafront promenade

Day 2 in Syros: Explore Syros’ Best Beaches

• Kini Beach
• Delfini Beach and Lotos Beach
• Galissas Beach
• Finikas Beach
• Poseidonia
• Komito Beach
• Megas Gialos Beach
• Vari Beach
• Santorinii Beach
• Sunset Dinner at Kini Beach

If you only have one day in Syros:

If you find yourself with just one day to explore Syros, my top recommendation is to dedicate your time to Ermoupoli and Ano Syros (Day 1 of our Syros itinerary), which will allow you to see the island’s top highlights. If you have enough time (and a rental car), I highly recommend including one of Syros’ beautiful beaches. I would go for Kini Beach, Galissas Beach, or Agathopes Beach in Poseidonia.

If you had 3 days in Syros:

If you have 3 days in Syros, you can explore the northern part of the island. There you can find the Archeological Site of Chalandriani, one of the prehistoric settlements in Ano Meria of Syros. You can also hike to the Neolithic settlement of Kastri, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes (return).

Alternatively, if you are not into history and hiking, you could spend a day in one of Syros’ popular beach clubs like Ono, Iguana, and Loco Verano.

💡 Are you a food lover? Don’t miss out on this Traditional Greek Cooking Class!

In the following, you can find our complete 2-day Syros itinerary, including the best places to visit, the top things to do, the best beaches in Syros as well as Syros’ hidden gems.

Complete 2 Days in Syros Itinerary

Day 1 of your 2 Days in Syros: Ano Syros and Ermoupoli

The first day of our Syros itinerary will take you to the picturesque village of Ano Syros, which is a must-see place when visiting Syros! After exploring Ano Syros, you will discover the highlights of Ermoupoli, the capital town of Syros.

Discover the charming hilltop village of Ano Syros

Start your first full day in Syros by visiting Ano Syros, a picturesque hilltop village situated above Ermoupoli. “Ano” translates to “Upper” in Greek, aptly describing its elevated location, offering sweeping views over the capital, the island, and the shimmering Aegean Sea.

Ano Syros is a historical gem steeped in tradition and history. The village, founded in the 13th century by the Venetians, boasts a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, whitewashed houses with colorful bougainvillea, and charming squares.

As you wander through these charming streets, it’s like stepping back in time. One of the village’s most striking features is its impressive churches and monasteries. The most prominent among them is the Church of Saint George, a beautiful structure with a blue dome that dominates the village skyline. Other sacred sites include the Capuchin Monastery and the Monastery of the Jesuits, each with its unique architecture and historical significance.

Ano Syros’ true magic, however, lies in the breathtaking panoramic views it offers. From the hilltop, you’ll be treated to an expansive view of Syros and the neighboring islands, making it a perfect spot for capturing those unforgettable photographs.

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Ano Syros certainly is one of my favorite locations on the island. Strolling through the winding alleys with its colorful houses and its many cute cats, I felt as if I had stepped into a Greek postcard. This place really left me in awe!

You might also be interested in: 4-day Santorini Itinerary & Travel Guide

Explore Ermoupoli Town, the capital of the Cyclades

After strolling through Ano Syros, follow the steps down to Ermoupoli. Ermoupoli (also Ermoupolis or Hermoupolis) is the vibrant capital of Syros island and the Cyclades. With its rich history, remarkable architecture, and bustling atmosphere, Ermoupoli is a must-visit place!

Founded in the early 19th century, Ermoupoli radiates a sense of splendor, thanks to its neoclassical buildings that line the streets. The emblematic Town Hall, a masterpiece of architecture, greets you as you enter Miaouli Square, a hub of activity where locals and tourists converge.

This bustling heart of Ermoupoli is surrounded by chic cafes and restaurants, making it an excellent spot to savor a coffee or dine al fresco. Moreover, there are many quaint boutiques around the city center if you want to go shopping in Syros.

Close to the town square, you can find the Apollon Theatre, which regularly hosts cultural events and performances, offering a glimpse into the local arts scene.

To delve deeper into the island’s history, don’t miss the Archaeological Museum. It houses a collection that uncovers Syros’ rich heritage, allowing you to trace the island’s history back through the centuries.

After exploring the city center, head to the charming neighborhood of Vaporia. It’s one of my favorite spots in Ermoupoli. This coastal area is dotted with stunning mansions, offering a glimpse into the island’s opulent past.

There, you can also find the iconic Agios Nikolaos Church (Church of Saint Nicholas). Next to its stunning exterior with its beautiful bell tower and dome, which is an integral part of Ermoupoli’s cityscape, it is also known for its impressive ornate interior and stunning frescoes.

Overall, there are many things to do in Ermoupoli, Syros, so I would recommend spending at least half a day exploring the capital of the Cyclades during your 2 days in Syros.

💡 Want to learn more interesting facts about Ermoupoli’s sights, history, and culture? Join this guided Ermoupoli Walking Tour!

Relax at Asteria Beach

After an active day of immersing ourselves in the charm of Ano Syros and the bustling streets of Ermoupoli, it’s time to relax! For a relaxed afternoon in Ermoupoli, there’s no better place to unwind than Asteria Beach. Asteria Beach is located right below the Agios Nikolaos Church, so you just have to follow the stairs leading down to the beach.

Asteria Beach is not a typical beach, it’s a platform with ladders to access the water. Nestled in the most beautiful setting overlooking the iconic church and the Little Venice neighborhood, this beach is a local favorite and holds a special place in my heart. I immediately fell in love with the charming vibe of this place!

It’s an oasis of tranquility with crystal-clear water, providing respite from the bustling town, making it my personal favorite spot in Ermoupoli. Here, you can just bask in the warm Greek sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply lay back and read a good book while savoring the blissful sounds of the Aegean Sea.

If you fancy a drink or some snacks, you can go for a cocktail at the Asteria beach bar, called Ciel Syros.

Have dinner at the seafront promenade

To end the first day of your 2 days in Syros, head to Ermoupoli’s seafront promenade for a delicious dinner by the water’s edge. We can highly recommend dining at To Tsipouradiko tis Mirsinis to try some traditional Syros cuisine. Every dish we had was excellent. We especially loved the grilled mushrooms with honey and thyme sauce. For us, it’s one of the best restaurants in Syros.

Insider Tip: Some of the must-try dishes and traditional foods in Syros include San Michalis cheese, pies (onion pie or tuna pie), kaparosalata (capers salad dip), fresh seafood dishes, and loukoumi (Turkish delight sweets).

After dinner, you can explore Syros’ nightlife if you feel like it. Most nightlife in Syros happens in Ermoupoli town, where you’ll find a lively fusion of bars and lounge cafes dotting the town’s streets and port area. During the summer months, some beach bars along the island’s shores also keep the party going late into the evening.

Day 2 of your 2 Days in Syros: Explore Syros’ Best Beaches

On your second day in Syros, you will explore the beautiful beaches around the island. Syros’ beaches are known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. Therefore, beach hopping is one of the best things to do in Syros, Greece.

Kini Beach

As our beach-hopping adventure begins, the first stop is the beautiful Kini Beach. Nestled on the western coast of Syros, Kini is a lovely beach escape with its soft, golden sands, turqouise waters, and a charming seaside village. It is an organized beach with many tourist facilities and, therefore, one of the most popular beaches in Syros island. At Kini Beach, you can relax, soak up the sun, or savor some local delicacies at the waterside tavernas before continuing to our next stop.

Delfini Beach and Lotos Beach

If you are looking for a quieter spot, consider visiting Kini’s neighboring beaches of Lotos Beach or Delfini Beach.

Right next to Kini Beach, Lotos Beach offers a similar blend of beauty with soft sands and the same crystal-clear Aegean waters, but with fewer crowds. The beach is dotted with trees, providing some welcome shade on hot summer days.

Delfini Beach, on the other hand, is a secluded paradise only a 10-minute drive north of Kini Beach. Nestled amidst rugged cliffs and lush greenery, Delfini is a natural gem. Its clear azure waters invite you for a refreshing swim, while the tranquil ambiance makes it an ideal spot for unwinding without the crowds.

Galissas Beach

The next stop is Galissas Beach. Galissas Beach is situated a 10-minute drive south of Kini Beach. It’s another beautiful sandy beach with tranquil waters. Galissas Beach belongs to my top 3 favorite beaches in Syros. It offers a picturesque setting framed by lush greenery and scenic hills.

Galissas is an organized beach, so you will find everything you need right there. Adjacent to the beach, a small promenade on the bay’s left-hand side invites you to enjoy the panoramic views of the surroundings. There, you can also find some ladders to enter/exit the water without getting sandy feet.

These articles may also pique your interest: 4-day Paros Itinerary & Travel Guide + 4 Days in Naxos

Finikas Beach

After visiting Galissas Beach, our beach-hopping journey takes us to Finikas Beach, a serene fishing village on the southwestern coast of Syros. With its calm, crystalline waters, golden sands, and an awesome platform to enter the water, Finikas offers a relaxing ambiance. The coastal village is also a great place to savor local cuisine in one of the seaside tavernas while embracing the island’s laid-back charm.

Next, head to Poseidonia, another picturesque fishing village, only a 2-minute drive from Finikas. Make sure to stop at the viewpoint located right above Finikas Beach to capture some scenic photos before following the road to Voulgari Beach in Poseidonia.

Poseidonia

In Poseidonia, we checked out two beaches: Voulgari Beach and Agathopes Beach. While Voulgari Beach certainly has its charm, we only opted for a brief visit because we wanted to have more time at Agathopes Beach.

Agathopes Beach belongs to my favorite beaches in Syros. Therefore, I highly recommend including it in your Syros itinerary. With its soft, golden sands and tranquil turquoise waters, this bay is just perfect for both relaxation and swimming.

Agathopes Beach is also home to the Ono Concept Beach Club, one of the most popular beach clubs on the island. There, you can enjoy a stylish beachfront atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and comfortable beachfront lounging.

Komito Beach

If you are looking for a quieter beach, just follow the road from Agathopes Beach until you reach Komito Beach. This beach also features crystal-clear waters and a small beach bar but is less crowded than Agathopes Beach. Nearby, the historic Mansion of Count Diakakis adds a touch of history and charm to the area.

You may also want to explore: Tinos Island Travel Guide & Best Things to Do

Megas Gialos Beach

Nestled on the southern coast of Syros, Megas Gialos Beach beckons with its tranquil charm. This small beach offers golden sands and clear waters, making it perfect for a serene seaside escape. I especially loved the scenic views of this beach, featuring a quaint Greek chapel on one side of the bay.

Vari Beach

Only a 5-minute drive from Megas Gialos, you can find Vari Beach (also known as Varis Beach). Vari Beach is a popular, organized beach on the southeastern coast of Syros. At the beach, you can find sun loungers, traditional taverns, beach bars, and water sports activities such as canoes, stand-up paddles, and pedalos.

Santorinii Beach

Santorinii Beach is a well-kept secret! This hidden gem is nestled in a secluded bay on Syros’ eastern coast. This beach stands apart from the island’s other beaches, featuring small pebbles and unspoiled natural surroundings. Santorinii Beach is a haven for nature lovers seeking a tranquil escape. We really loved the raw beauty of this place!

Sunset Dinner at Kini Beach

To conclude your unforgettable second day in Syros, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at Kini Beach. As the sun dips below the horizon, Kini offers a stunning backdrop for a Greek feast at one of the lovely beachfront tavernas. Savor local cuisine and soak in the enchanting ambiance—this is the perfect way to cap off your 2-day adventure on the charming island of Syros.

I hope you enjoyed reading our 2-day Syros itinerary. After this unforgettable 2-day journey through the charming island of Syros, it’s clear that this hidden Cycladic gem has much to offer. From exploring its impressive capital to discovering picturesque villages to basking on pristine beaches, Syros entices with its diverse beauty.

But your Greece adventure doesn’t need to end here. If you’re considering an island-hopping trip through the Cyclades Islands, I invite you to explore more Greek islands with our comprehensive itineraries and travel guides: Discover the vibrant energy of Mykonos, the allure of Paros, the beauty of Santorini, the serenity of Tinos, the authenticity of Naxos, and the enchantment of Ios. Each island offers its unique charm and appeal, waiting to be unveiled.

FAQ – Syros Travel Guide

Want to explore more of Greece? Check out my other Greece travel guides to get the best travel tips for your Greece adventures!

• Perfect Cyclades Island Hopping Itinerary
• 2 Days in Athens Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Mykonos Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Tinos Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Santorini Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Paros Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Naxos Travel Guide
• 5 Days in Rhodes Travel Guide
• 3 Days in Ios Travel Guide
• Best Photo Spots in Mykonos

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