Things to Do in Ermoupoli, the Capital of Syros and the Cyclades
Ermoupoli is one of the most beautiful small towns in Greece. Founded during the Greek War of Independence by refugees from other islands, it soon became the country’s main port and a major commercial center.
The city flourished throughout the 19th Century, and many buildings from that period give it a distinct neoclassical appearance. Though it experienced some hardships in the 20th Century, it has recovered in recent years thanks to tourism.
Today, it’s a wonderful town full of life. It is the main city on the island of Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, and the administrative center of the South Aegean Region. You can visit it all year round.
Get Lost on the Streets of the Old Town
The first thing you’ll notice upon arriving at the port is Ermoupoli’s colorful old town. The city rises from the harbor toward the surrounding hills and mountains. Its old town is a maze of streets running parallel and perpendicular to the sea.
Walk north of the port along the waterfront. Some of the best restaurants and tavernas are located here. Turn left and then right onto Parou pedestrian street. Here you’ll find much-needed shade and many charming local shops. Syros is still one of the less visited Greek islands, so you probably won’t encounter large crowds.
Another area you must explore is Vaporia, northeast of the harbor. Walk to the main square and then follow M. Merkouri and Agiou Nikolaou streets until you reach this charming neighborhood. In the past, sea captains lived here, and their neoclassical mansions are still standing.
Wonder about the Main Square
The grand rectangular Miaouli Square is the lifeline of Ermoupoli and Syros. Its monumental neoclassical appearance is unique in all of Greece. The Town Hall, the Municipal Cultural Center, the Archaeological Museum, and two courts are located here.
The impressive Town Hall was designed by renowned German architect Ernst Ziller (who also designed many neoclassical buildings in Athens). It seamlessly blends classical Greek architecture with Western Romanticism.
Lush green trees line both the northern and southern sides of the square, and there are several cafés where you can sit and recharge. The Town Hall is open on weekdays from 8 AM to 3 PM. Step inside and prepare to be amazed.
Watch a Show in the Apollon Theater
Few Greek islands boast such an impressive theater and opera house as Syros. The Apollon Theater was designed by an Italian architect and modeled after La Scala in Milan. It opened in 1864 with Verdi’s ‘Rigoletto’.
The building has undergone more than a dozen reconstructions. Unlike its modest exterior, the interior features rich decorations, including a painted ceiling, elegant lamps, and classical sculptures.
Today, the theater hosts a variety of events, from theatrical performances and concerts to art exhibitions. Many cultural festivals take place in this building. You can check the current program here.
Visit Three Churches
Among the many churches in Ermoupoli, three are especially worth visiting. Agios Nikolaos Church is the most impressive. It’s a marble church with columns, two tall bell towers, and a large dome. You’ll recognize it by its yellow, blue, and red colors.
The Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior (also known as the Metamorphosis Church) is the oldest church in town. It’s a three-nave basilica with a dome and two bell towers, resembling the Church of Panagia in Tinos. It serves as the bishop’s seat.
The third must-see church is the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This is another three-nave basilica with a dome, famous for its Byzantine icon created by El Greco. The famous painter made this icon, ‘The Dormition of the Virgin Mary’, while studying art in Crete.
Spend Some Time on the Beach
Many travel sites claim that Ermoupoli has no beach. However, that’s not entirely true. Asteria may not be the typical sandy beach you dream of, but it is a beach.
We love Asteria because of its incredible views of the old town. The imposing Agios Nikolaos Church towers over the beach, making it a picture-perfect setting.
It’s a rectangular strip of concrete with parasols. Locals come here to relax and swim, and you might even see ducks and geese. At its eastern end, you’ll find a cool beach bar called Ciel Syros, complete with deck chairs and umbrellas.
Visit a Museum or Two
Ermoupoli hosts a surprisingly large number of museums and galleries for such a small town.
Our favorite is the Kyveli Institute, located near Agios Nikolaos Church. It displays old furniture, clothing, paintings, letters, and postcards.
The Archaeological Museum of Syros, inside the Town Hall, is not as grand as those in Athens or Heraklion but is still worth a visit. The Art Gallery of the Cyclades hosts interesting temporary exhibitions.
If you have extra time, the Industrial Museum and Textile Museum are also worth a visit. The former showcases the island’s rich industrial history, while the latter focuses on textiles.
Walk All the Way to Ano Syros
Exploring Ermoupoli on foot is the best way to get to know the island’s capital. One of the nicest walks is from the city center up to medieval Ano Syros.
This beautiful town was built in the 13th Century by the Venetians. Originally a Catholic settlement, many churches still stand, including the impressive Cathedral of Saint George. The area is a maze of winding alleys, narrow staircases, whitewashed houses, and bougainvillea.
To get there, walk to the Church of the Transfiguration and then follow Omirou Street (which later becomes Andre Karga Street) north. It’s an easy uphill walk with wonderful views along the way.
Buy a Cool Gift
Even if you’re not into shopping (like us), it’s hard to resist local Greek shops. All over the country, you’ll find handmade products crafted using centuries-old recipes.
Our favorite food store is Kostas Prekas on Chiou Street. They sell a wide array of products—from sausages and cured meats to honey, herbs, and tea. We buy Turkish delight and halva pies at Loukoumia Denaxa.
If you’re looking for a gift for yourself or a loved one, we recommend two places. Physis Keraloifi sells handmade soaps, creams, and gels, while Aromatopoleion specializes in handmade perfumes.
Eat Like a King (or a Queen)
You won’t have trouble finding delicious food in Ermoupoli. The amazing Avant Garden is located right across from the Apollon Theater. They serve Greek food with a modern twist in a beautiful courtyard.
For a traditional Greek taverna experience, we recommend Laoutari. They serve delicious food in a charming setting with live music. We especially love their tomatoes stuffed with tuna and yogurt.
If you want to dine by the sea, book a table at To Tsipouradiko Tis Mirsinis and order fish or seafood. In Ano Syros, we always go to Maison de Meze for their food, warm service, and unforgettable views.
Stay in a Place with a View
Most visitors to Syros stay near the island’s nicest beaches, like Galissas, Kini, or Agathopes. However, spending a night or two in Ermoupoli is absolutely worth it. As you can see, there are plenty of things to do, and the city comes alive in the evening when most tourists leave.
We usually stay at the lovely Electra Syros Boutique Hotel. Its elegant rooms have balconies with views and it’s located just steps from Agios Nikolaos Church and Asteria Beach.
If you’re looking to splurge, Syros is the perfect place. The Apollonion Palace Hotel is a 19th-century mansion overlooking the sea, offering beautiful rooms with stunning views. It’s just a short walk from the main square.
