Top Things to Do in Ermoupoli

The top things to do in Ermoupoli expose you to the elegance the capital of Syros island is known for. Here’s a rundown of what to do in “the city of Hermes.”

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Admire the Architecture

Come in by ferry and you’ll dock at Ermoupoli. Think neoclassical architecture awash in ocher colors, fine dining, beautiful sea views and a calm, quiet atmosphere.

Exploring Ermoupoli you’ll get to know a unique Cycladic island that boasts Venetian influences, a history of two religions, an impressive arts scene, a significant industrial history, natural beauty and an upper class ambiance.

Municipal Palace and Miaouli Square

Both were designed by the famous European architect Ernst Ziller. During business hours feel free to roam around. Syros is the administrative capital of the Cycladic islands. Take in the detail of its impressive classical interiors.

Have a coffee in the impressive marble inner courtyard. There’s also a little archaeological museum a separate left wing entrance.

Apollo Theater

Nearby, the grand Apollo Theater is a must see. It was modeled after the La Scala in Italy and to this day it hosts various operas and significant events including the Festival of the Aegean and the International Classical Music Festival.

Walk Through Little Venice

Syros has its share of picturesque beaches which are a short or longer drive away from Ermoupoli. If you simply want to take a dip right in “the city” head down to the where the land meets the sea in what’s called the Little Venice of Syros. The neoclassical buildings built right onto the dramatic rocky coastline edge right up to the sea. There are public spaces and a few cafes where you can just jump off a dock right and find yourself swimming happily in the Aegean.

At the food market on Xios Street you can find local San Michalis cheese, loukoumi sweets and other island delicacies. Walk two minutes over to nearby Parou Street and have a snack or lunch at To Kastri. It’s a small women’s cooperative where local island women serve home cooked Greek dishes each day.

Visit the Industrial Museum

The Industrial Museum of Syros gives you insight into the industries and companies that built the island’s wealth in the 19th and into the early 20th centuries.

Head to Ano Syros

A short cab ride or bus ride north to Ano Syros brings you to the sweeping hilltop northern area of Ermoupoli. Here you’ll take in gorgeous panoramic views of the island, port and sea – perfect for a few photos.

night view at lilis tavern — Lilis Taverna

panoramic shot from ano syros — Panoramic shot from Ano Syros.

Churches of Ermoupoli

This area resembles more traditional Cycladic style with its whitewashed dwellings and little stone and marble paths. The Roman Catholic community has roots in its medieval center. and the St. George Catholic Cathedral stands tall on St George hill. Ano Syros is still a residential area but you’ll find a few good cafes and eateries. Sit back and enjoy the view and the delicious taverna food at Lilis. The Roussos family has proudly run it for three generations.

Ermoupoli Dining

Ermoupoli has its share of fine dining, with restaurants that are considered some of the finest in the Cyclades.

Kouzina has the ideal location on one of the prettiest dining streets I’ve ever seen which is lined with bougainvillea and pretty taverns.

You’ll find Kouzina at the very end of Kiparissou where it meets Androu St. The food served is a beautiful fusion of North American and Mediterranean tastes.

Ermoupoli Nightlife

Nightlife is calmer compared to other Greek islands. Up on the east side of the docks a a few bars and clubs are grouped together and it’s the commotion gathers for drinks and dancing after 11 or midnight.

Be sure to head to Mammo. It is the latest hot spot with excellent cocktails and a fun atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Ermoupoli
Syrou Melathron |Babagiotou 5, Vaporia district|22810 86495

If you want to stay in the center of it all the Syrou Melathron is your best bet. Its classic interior of marble, wood and high vaulted ceilings reflects the historic architecture of Syros. The service is great and you can opt for room with a little balcony that introduces you to the island’s unique sea views.

Nightlife
Mammo | Akti Petrou Ralli 38 |22810 76416

How to Get to Syros

Flights

Olympic Airways has one daily flight from Athens to Syros Airport.

Ferry

Several ferry companies schedule regular runs including Blue Star Ferries, Nel Lines, and Hellenic Seaways. As the administrative center of the Cycladics there are an abundance of ferry routes connecting to and from all over Greece. www.opeanseas.gr

Getting Around
Rent a car or motorcycle. Also, there’s a bus that leaves regularly from Ermoupoli up to Ano Syros and the beaches. www.ktel-syrou.gr

So, that’s my rundown of top things to do in Ermoupoli. Have you been to the city of Hermes?

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Top Things to Do in Ermoupoli