Our Favorite Syros Hotels
Luxury: Ploes
Cost Effective Stay: Dolphin Bay
Couples: Ploes
Families: Lodging on Benois
Beach Resort for Families: Lodging on Benois
Accommodation in Ermoupoli Old Town: Ploes
- Site: chateauversailles.fr
Galissas Beach: Benois
Kini Beach: Blue Serenity
Agathopes Beach: Calm
Ferry Port: Naves Suites, a hotel located in Naves, Syros, Greece that can be booked through booking.com 
See Also
• Prime coastal zones on Syros Island
Syros is the principal and most populated island of the Cyclades group, and one of the most charming and captivating islands in Greece. Being around 1.5 times the area of Manhattan, Syros is one of the smallest islands in the Cyclades; comparable in size to Mykonos, but with double the residents (just over 21,000 permanent occupants). And because it gets relatively few tourists, it seems more genuinely Greek than most others. Its compact dimensions means that it’s simple and relatively quick to drive practically anywhere on the island in 15 minutes or less.
The island’s busiest town, Ermoupoli, is occupied year-round, and hosts various cultural performances and festivals. Ermoupoli is constructed on a hill overlooking the Aegean Sea, boasting neoclassical architecture and pastel-colored mansions, historic churches, excellent dining, engaging museums, and romantic marble-paved streets. Lively Miaouli Square sits in the center of Ermoupoli, dotted with palm trees and surrounded by shops of all types. The city’s waterfront eateries spill out onto its charming sidewalks and harbor promenade, and Ermoupoli exudes a wonderful ambiance for dining and drinking, particularly in the evening during summer.
The medieval village of Ano Syros sits uphill from Ermoupoli and makes for a pleasant stroll, though the ascent is gradual. Dating back to the 12th century, this fascinating settlement contains an intricate network of rough-hewn stone lanes connecting historic churches, monasteries, and whitewashed houses. Pedestrian access is preferable through the village`s rustic paths as their narrow width precludes vehicles 
Syros has some excellent beaches along its western and southern coasts, making it easy to spend a day at the beach if staying in Ermoupoli or vice versa since highways are in good condition and it’s just a brief 15-minute drive across the small island. The most popular coastal resort areas on Syros are Kini Beach and Galissas Beach. The less populated and barren northern half of the island can be explored by boat trips departing from Kini Beach to remote northern beaches.
Getting To and Around Syros
Syros has a small airport 3 km south of Ermoupoli, Dimitrios Vikelas National Airport, that offers direct flights from Athens but no international flights. The vast majority of visitors arrive to the island’s ferry port in Ermoupoli via ferry from Piraeus port of Athens,Mykonos, or Santorini – all of which can be reached within approximately two hours or less time. Options for ferries include conventional ferries, hydrofoils, and high-speed ferries that often require around half the time of a regular ferry.
Renting a vehicle can be a viable way to explore the island, which is relatively small and simple to navigate. Driving from Ermoupoli on the eastern coast to Kini Beach and Galissas Beach on the opposing coast only takes approximately 15 minutes (7-8 km distance). The southern beaches of Agathopes and Komito are just slightly more distant at a measurement of 10 km from Ermoupoli. Note: be alert if operating a motor vehicle in central Ermoupoli (near Miaouli Square), as there are some staircases, one-way streets, and narrow pedestrian-only alleys.
Local KTEL buses serve the southern half of the island, departing at the bus terminal beside the ferry dock in Ermoupoli. Most villages on Syros (Galissas, Finikas, Posidonia, Megas Gialos, Vari, and Azolimnos) are serviced along one route, with a second route providing direct service to and from Kini. To travel around Ermoupoli, like to the village of Ano Syros, there are regular mini-buses (not KTEL bus) and no payment is required.
Best Time to Visit Syros
The ideal weather conditions for beaches on Syros Island generally occur from the beginning of June until the end of September. The capital city of Ermoupoli can be visited throughout the year and will be bustling with cultural and entertainment activities. Expect mild temperatures during the low season from November to April, with most rainfall taking place in December and January.
Table of Contents
Best Places to Stay on Syros
- Best Luxury Hotels on Syros
Hotel Ploes • Aristide Hotel • Castro Hotel - Best Boutique Hotels on Syros
Arion Syros • 1901 Hermoupolis • Villa Selena - Best Hotels for Families on Syros
Hotel Benois • Dolphin Bay Family Beach Resort - Best Hotel for Couples on Syros
Accommodations Website • Inquire about fees for Villa Florentine - Best Beach Hotels on Syros
Blue Harmony (Kini) • Oro Suites (Kini) • Calma Boutique Hotel (Agathopes) • Hotel Benois (Galissas) - Best Cheap/Midrange Hotels on Syros
- Merrie Monarch Festival (Big Island): Three day celebration including a large hula competition, invitational arts fair, hula shows, and a parade through Hilo. Most events are free to attend, but tickets are required for the competition and can only be requested by mail.
- Closest Hotel to the ferry port
This seaside hotel
Best Places in Syros for…
- Where to Stay on Syros for First-Timers: Ermoupoli
The city’s elegant architecture comprises pastel-colored mansions, an impressive town hall, and ornate cathedrals, all likely to please any first-time guest. Ermoupoli is very pedestrian-friendly, though the city is constructed on a steep hill with numerous steps. First-time guests will admire Ermoupoli’s many museums counting the historic Apollo Theatre, built in 1864 and open for both tours and live performances, the Ermoupoli Industrial Museum showcasing shipbuilding traditions, and the Syros Archaeological Museum located in the town hall. For excellent luxury lodging near Miaouli Square (450 m) and the Apollo Theatre (270 m), try Castro Hotel. - Where to stay on Syros for couples and honeymooners includes Ermoupoli.
Traveling couples love Ermoupoli’s elegant structures and scenic cafes, and enjoy wandering through its romantic lanes and byways. Ermoupoli boasts the island’s most luxurious hotels and its best selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars. For overnight stays, there are wonderful ocean-view coastal hotels such as Hotel Ploes, conveniently accessible on foot to romantic tavernas spilling out into bougainvillea-filled lanes. For honeymooners or couples seeking a beach holiday, Kini Beach is a good choice
- Preferred Area on Syros Island for Families: Galissas Beach
The longest beach on the island, Lovely Galissas, has gradually sloping golden sand that remains shallow a fair distance into the water. Equipment like canoes, water cycles, and SUPs can be rented for water activities. Several beach bars offer snacks and drinks nearby, and eateries are within a brief five-minute walk from the shore. Consider Hotel Benois, a modern coastal hotel with a pool; or the Greek-traditional Dolphin Bay Family Beach Resort, with seaview guest rooms, a pool and waterside area, kiddie pool, and an outdoor children`s playground - Best places to stay on Syros for beaches
The top beaches are Galissas Beach,Kini Beach, and Agathopes Beach. Galissas Beach has a relaxed rural vibe, while Kini Beach is more compact with seaside eateries and cafes — some where you can nearly dip your toes in the sand. Apathopes Beach has a sophisticated feel for adults and offers appealing views of two tiny islands. Galissas Beach and Vari Beach rent water cycles and SUPs; Galissas also rents canoes.
- Where to Stay on Syros without a Car: Ermoupoli
Those without a vehicle rented will find it most convenient to lodge in Ermoupoli, the principal town of Syros Island. The ferry docks are situated in Ermoupoli, providing frequent transportation to and from ports like Piraeus, Mykonos, Santorini, Tinos, and additional locations. The island airport, only a few kilometers away, offers direct flights from Athens. The central bus terminal is helpfully located just south of the ferry terminal. In summer months, daily coach service travels to many coastal villages and beaches on the western and southern shores, such as Galissas and Poseidonia for accessing Agathopes Beach. There is also a seasonal direct route connecting Ermoupoli to Kini Beach returning. Transportation within Ermoupoli itself is free of charge.
5 Best Villages on Syros
1. Old Town Ermoupoli
The port city of Ermoupoli (formerly known as Hermoupolis) has a rich history defined by grand buildings and palazzos encircling its scenic harbor. Its Old Town climbs from the waterfront into a maze of narrow lanes and pathways full of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.
Miaouli Square, located three blocks from the inner harbor, is the central meeting point of the town, and is often a lively area, especially during the summer months. This expansive marble plaza, surrounded by bakeries and coffee shops, is anchored with towering palm trees and offers shaded seating regions to sit back and relax. The Apollon Theater, a beautiful opera house with red velvet balcony boxes, dates back to 1864; today it hosts musical and local theatrical performances throughout the year, and is also open for visitor tours. The Archaeological Museum at the Town Hall in Miaouli Square is one of the earliest museums in Greece.
- Best Luxury Hotels in Old Town Ermoupoli
Hotel Ploes property contact details.
Castro Hotel – Establishment telephone: +30 2281 083000 - Best Boutique Hotels
A hotel • Hotel phone: +30 2281 084680 - Best Midrange Hotels
Naves Suites • Hotel phone: +30 694 537 6151
Apollonion Palace can be contacted by phone at +30 2281 089056
2. Vaporia
This waterfront neighborhood of distinction lies within easy walking distance from Old Town Ermoupoli (Miaouli Square) and offers lodgings of superior quality, many with scenic ocean views. Wealthy citizens of the island, such as shipowners and bankers, constructed magnificent mansions here, with the vast majority having undergone beautiful restoration. Asteria Beach is a common area for a scenic swim, though the name somewhat undersells its composition – it more closely resembles a concrete platform with sun umbrellas and a swim ladder allowing access to the water below. Also situated in Vaporia is the remarkable basilica of Agios Nikolaos with its striking blue dome and dazzling interior.
- Best Luxury Hotels in Vaporia
Aristide Hotel • Hotel contact number: +30 698 662 4881 - Best Boutique Hotels
Arion Syros hotel telephone is +30 2281 081749 Villa Selena – Establishment telephone: +30 697 671 3602
3. Kini
This picturesque beach town surrounded by rolling hills, located just 9 kilometers from Ermoupoli, offers a romantic setting for visitors. It boasts fantastic sunsets over Kini Bay. Seafood lovers can feast at the numerous waterside restaurants, while young ones can splash around in the safe waters for children that characterize Kini Beach. Situated in a charming cove with a small harbor on one side of the bay, Kini Beach is compactly sized. Numerous cafes and bars line its shoreline, overlapping it with views. They sit alongside several hotels that provide oceanside vistas. Boat tours and excursions are accessible from Kini Beach harbor to the isolated beaches dotting the island’s northern coastline.
- Best Luxury Hotels at Kini Beach
- The Oro Suites is located in Syros, Greece. Hotel phone: +30 2281 079994
- Best Boutique Hotels
Blue Harmony Hotel phone: +30 2281 071570
4. Galissas
The hamlet of Galissas and neighboring Galissas Beach share a hilly rustic landscape, with a scattering of farms and houses in the traditional Cycladic architectural style featuring white and blue colors. Galissas Beach is broad and lengthy (the longest beach on the island) with fine golden sand; it`s excellent for swimming and sunbathing.
Galissas’ accommodations and eating establishments sit roughly fifty meters from the shoreline, with a wide grass-covered area in between. At one end of the beach is a diminutive white house of worship; around the corner, just over a hill and along a slim pathway, lies a pebbly beach that welcomes nudists.
- Best Boutique Hotels at Galissas Beach
- The regal Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace
- Best Family Hotels
- Dolphin Bay Family Beach Resort • Hotel phone: +30 2281 042924
5. Ano Syros
Ano Syros, merely 2 km from Maouli Square, is a peaceful hilltop village dating back to medieval times; its network of extraordinarily narrow passages and roughly chiseled stone paths were constructed in the 8th century. Today, the village highlights several scenic taverns, some with outdoor spaces providing faraway vistas of the Aegean Sea and the port of Ermoupoli. Markos Vamvakaris Square, named after a renowned local musician, is home to a museum dedicated to the artist.
Ano Syros is a pedestrian-only zone, so visitors can drive to the village entrance, but must walk in from there. Note that the village of Ano Syros has many uneven stairs, walkways, and passageways that may necessitate added caution and attentiveness while walking. For a truly exceptional stay in Ano Syros, consider this holiday rental in a renovated historic windmill.
- Best Hotels in Ano Syros
Wind Tales • Hotel phone: +30 694 677 1400
12 Best Hotels on Syros
1. Hotel Ploes – Ermoupoli (Old Town)
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 079360
Elegantly restored oceanside mansion with views of Asteria Beach. Luxurious guest rooms feature ornate hand-painted ceilings, Venetian chandeliers, and marble bathrooms; some add ocean views. Courtesy of their on-site eatery, an excellent complimentary breakfast is served to their seaside terrace or the plush art-filled Lobby. Room service is also available. The hotel has a small private sundeck with a cement swimming platform.
• Hotel website • Check prices for Hotel Ploes
2. Aristide Hotel – Ermoupoli (Vaporia)
Hotel Phone: +30 698 662 4881
Nine lavish guest rooms, each with king-size beds, marble features, and their own unique motif. Exquisite (and roomy) bathrooms include either a freestanding tub or walk-in rainfall shower. A contemporary art collection is displayed throughout the hotel, including in a dedicated exhibition space. Breakfast and lunch are served in a leafy courtyard, while evening cocktails and dining are available on their rooftop patio. Note that guest rooms here do not have a small fridge or coffee machine.
• Hotel website – Inquire about pricing for Aristide Hotel
3. Arion Syros – Ermoupoli (Vaporia)
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 081749
Perched high above the ocean, this cliffside boutique hotel has been carefully renovated and offers six unique guest rooms, all with ocean views and some including a furnished balcony. Homemade breakfast is provided. Located in the upscale neighborhood of Vaporia, it’s a 10-minute walk to many restaurants, boutique shops, and Miaouli Square; 15-minute walk to the ferry port.
• Hotel website • Determine rates for Arion Suites accommodations
4. Castro Hotel – Ermoupoli (Old Town)
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 083000
This renovated mansion with luxurious guest rooms and top-notch service is located in a quiet neighborhood in Ermoupoli. Their extremely spacious premier suite features dual bathroom sinks, a separate shower stall, and a stand-alone deep soaking bathtub. An on-site restaurant and spa are available, and the hotel has a compact European elevator. Situated near vibrant alleyways full of excellent tavernas, and a 7-minute walk to the ferry dock.
• The website for the hotel and checking prices at Castro Hotel.
5. Oro Suites – Kini
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 079994
This new complex contains ten modern suites with a sleek, minimal design and soft neutral tones; some include a private hot tub or mini plunge pool. Larger families can combine two Family Suites to provide more space. Complimentary breakfast is available, and can be delivered to your room. Excellent location, only steps from Kini Beach and a variety of charming seaside restaurants, and a 15-minute drive from the ferry terminal in Ermoupoli.
• Hotel site • View prices for Oro Suites
6. Hotel Benois – Galissas
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 042833
This bright and cheerful hotel boasts a superb outdoor pool and guest rooms with either a balcony or patio. Rooms face the pool, back garden, or partial ocean view. Sunsets over Galissas Bay are best take in from the hotel’s outdoor lounge area. Excellent location just a brief walk to Galissas Beach (the largest beach on the island), and steps to Galissas village eateries.
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7. Apollonion Palace – Ermoupoli (Old Town)
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 089056
Comfortable and clean hotel with complimentary breakfast served on their oceanside terrace or stately breakfast room. Guest rooms have high ceilings and hardwood floors, many add great views of the Aegean Sea. The hotel has sun loungers with umbrellas, and direct access to sea swimming.
• Residence particulars • Verify rates for Apellonion Palace.
8. Blue Harmony – Kini
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 071570
Situated in the center of a charming seaside village on Kini Beach, this lodging has an appropriately beach-themed decor. Guest rooms are contemporary, colored in shades of blue and grey; sea-view accommodations are deserving of splurging. Their dining/lounge area is relaxed and cozy, with a good selection of sun loungers and pouf chairs. Complimentary buffet breakfast is included. Beach patio chairs are accessible across the street from the hotel and feature beverage service.
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9. 1901 Hermoupolis – Ermoupoli (Old Town)
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 084680
Charming and lovely, this five-room boutique hotel has antique furnishings and Laura Ashley bed linens. Situated in a residential area in Upper Ermoupoli and walkable to cafes and shops near Miaouli Square. Guest rooms have either a balcony or garden access – opt for the sea view suites, which have the best views of Ermoupoli from a private terrace. Complimentary shuttle from Syros airport.
• Hotel website • Check rates for 1901 Hermoupolis.
10. Dolphin Bay Family Beach Resort – Galissas
Hotel Phone: +30 2281 042924
This family-friendly hotel comprises 155 suites that descend down a hill with panoramic views of Galissas Bay. Their expansive outdoor pool terrace offers beverage service, lounge chairs, a waterslide, and a section designed for toddlers. The poolside bar’s sizable deck overlooking Galissas Beach provides dining and drinking while taking in the scenery, and there is also an on-premises restaurant as well as a gated outdoor play area for young guests. Lodging options range from basic doubles to spacious two-bedroom apartments. The primary building features a furnished veranda adjacent to a green lawn. (Tip: inquire about refurbished rooms) • Resort websiteCheck prices for Dolphin Bay
11. Naves Suites – Ermoupoli (Old Town)
Hotel Phone: +30 694 537 6151
Seven modern suites are spread across two separate buildings, some with ocean views and balconies overlooking Ermoupoli’s busy waterfront promenade and yacht harbor. Guest rooms feature top-of-the-line Coco-mat mattresses, a spacious work area, and eco-conscious bath products. A short stroll to stores and harborfront eateries. Note there is no attended front desk, however requests are handled promptly. A 3-minute walk to the ferry terminal.
• Hotel websiteCompare prices for Naves Suites
12. Villa Selena – Ermoupoli (Vaporia)
Hotel Phone: +30 697 671 3602
The guest rooms at this elegant establishment are adorned with bold and bright furnishings alongside restored hardwood floors. Unwind on their small rooftop patio or sophisticated lobby. A complimentary buffet breakfast is provided in their cozy outdoor courtyard near the Asteria Beach swimming area, within easy access of numerous cafes, shops and tavernas in Ermoupoli.
• Hotel website • Check rates for Villa Selena.
