Discover the History, Beaches, and Magic of Siros, Greece

Syros, also known as Siros or Sira, is one of the beautiful, lesser-known Greek islands of the Cyclades group. The central city on the island is Ermoupoli, a town characterized by its noble houses, squares, churches, and beautiful beaches. The homes are a hallmark of the architectural style in the Cyclades islands.

Visitors will be impressed by the buildings' neoclassical style, with the windows, doors, and terraces that make the island so dreamy. This picturesque town boasts a magnificent port that retains its splendor. In the prior century, it was one of Greece's most important commercial ports.

The villages on the island include:

• Foinikas
• Manna
• Galissas
• Poseidonia
• Kini
• Pagos

Siros has a total population of approximately 20,000, and the island offers numerous attractions for visitors, including stunning beaches, picturesque bays, and a diverse range of hotels.

The island of Siros is ideal for family vacations and couples' adventures, as it offers various facilities to cater to any traveler, including those looking to practice water sports.

Typical Greek restaurants and taverns complement the lively nightlife, guaranteeing an unforgettable stay on the island.

Getting to Siros

Getting to the island is also relatively easy and pleasant. The trip to the island of Siros from the port of Piraeus is four hours long. You can also reach the island by plane from Athens.

Due to their proximity, a trip to Siros can be complemented by a visit to the islands of Tinos and Kythnos. Ferries cross the island from Piraeus or Rafina to Tinos, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Ios, Santorini, and other Cyclades islands.

Siros and Its History

The first inhabitants of Siros were the Phoenicians. A testament to this theory is the island's name, which appears to be of Phoenician origin, and the fact that a locality on the island is called Finikas.

The island played a crucial role in the development of the Cycladic Civilization. The archaeological discoveries in the towns of Chalandriani and Kastrí revealed significant findings that actively contributed to the study of that ancient civilization, which existed between 2700 and 2300 BC.

The philosopher Ferekydes, a professor of Pythagoras, lived on the island. After the Persian wars, Siros was allied with Athens.

A significant date for the island of Siros and the Cyclades was the arrival of the Venetians in 1207. The powerful Marco Sanoudo conquered Siros and integrated it, like most of the Cyclades, into his dukedom, whose center was the island of Naxos. Finally, the island fell into Turkish hands in 1537.

The Best of Siros

Siros still retains its archeological sites, ancient history, and traditions. Walking down its streets and alleyways, you will see several sophisticated Venetian mansions and notable Neoclassical buildings.

They also have several museums where you can learn about the island's historical events. The tourist destinations offer natural scenery that provides a wonderful experience, including fantastic beaches with tourist facilities where you can swim in crystal-clear, blue waters.

If you're more of a hiker, you'll be glad to discover the island's mountains, which may offer you a slight challenge.

You can visit the local food vendors and restaurants to enjoy delicious traditional dishes. And, of course, stay at luxury villas on Siros island for comfort and relaxation.

Beautiful Places and Beaches to Visit on Siros Island

Many interesting sites are worth seeing on the island of Siros. The island's capital, Ermoupolis, is renowned for its Venetian mansions, imposing churches, the charming area of Vaporia, and notable Neoclassical buildings, including the Apollo Theatre and the Town Hall.

Galissas, Kini, Megas Gialos, and Posidonia are the major beaches on the island. They are family-friendly and well-organized, featuring sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, various water sports activities, and comprehensive tourist facilities.

You can do other things on the beach, like relaxing at one of the beach bars while refreshing yourself with a drink, eating in the restaurants there, or even resting in the hotels surrounding the beach as you view the magnificent scenery.

One of the museums that attracts many visitors is the Bouboulina Museum. Bouboulina was regarded as the heroine of the Greek revolution.

The museum contains items such as gun collections, documents, and letters from the Greek Revolution. You'll also find old books, maps, ship models, paintings, portraits, old furniture, and personal items of the heroine.

Top Hotels, Restaurants, and Bars

Different spots in Siros offer relaxation, fun, and fantastic nightlife. Jar and Plaza offer a combination of cafe and bar services, while Baraki and Peiramatiko offer bar and Club services to ensure an unforgettable night in Ermoupolis.

Siros is an island where you can enjoy a variety of delicious international and local dishes. Savvas, Talaras Taverna, and Seminario restaurants are some of the best places to eat on the island. They offer tasteful Mediterranean, Greek, contemporary, and vegetarian-friendly cuisines.

Laoutari, Kastri, To Kapilio tou Markou, and Plaza Cafe & Croissant are excellent choices for cheap eating. They offer delicious Greek and Mediterranean dishes, as well as seafood, at a pocket-friendly price. 

Are you wondering where to stay during your visit to Siros? The hotels in Siros have got you covered. You can make a choice based on your budget and taste. 

The top hotels on the island, based on facilities, location, and services, include Hotel Benois, Apollonion Palace, 1901 Hermoupolis Maison, Hotel Ethrion, Lila Guesthouse, and Hotel Ploes.

This Greek island might not be as famous as Santorini or Mykonos. Still, it is just as beautiful and offers a splendid landscape in which to enjoy a beautiful and happy holiday in a less crowded corner of Greece.