Best bars in Syros: dive into the Syros nightlife

Does Syros have a nightlife? When people think of Greek island nightlife, they often picture the wild beach parties or all-night raves of Mykonos. But let me tell you a little secret: Syros might not be a party island, but it definitely knows how to have a good time.

Here’s the thing. Syros is not just a summer destination. It’s a year-round island with real locals, real lives, and yes, real fun. This means there are not only amazing coffee places and fantastic restaurants, but also great places to go have a drink or do some dancing, from January to December.

The students, the creative crowd, and the vibrant local community make sure that there’s always something going on. Whether you’re in the mood for a classy cocktail with a sea view, a lively bar with Greek tunes, or a chilled drink under the stars, the island has got you covered.

Ready to discover Syros’ best bars and nightlife spots? Let’s break it down by neighborhood. And read to the end of this article to get our best tips to plan your night out.

TIP: Do you want to easily find all the best bars and see whether they are open or not? Get our interactive and downloadable Syros Google Maps + Travel Guide so you don’t miss anything while going out in Syros.

Nightlife in Ermoupoli: elegant bars and craft cocktails

Ah, Ermoupoli, the heart of Syros and the place where most of the action happens after sunset. If you are looking for a fancy bar or a delicious cocktail, Ermoupoli is the place to be! As the neoclassical buildings light up and the breeze drifts off the port, the city transforms into a buzzing hub of bars, music, and clinking glasses.

There are many different types of bars in Ermoupoli, ranging from high-end cocktail bars and funky dance clubs to local Greek taverns that feature rebetiko music. Here are our favourite bars in Syros that you can’t miss if you are looking for a nice evening out.

TIP: Are you traveling between mid-October – April? Not all the bars mentioned in this article will be open, but enough to still have a great evening out. Always look up whether they are open during low season.

Fine drinking

• MouSouTou: One of our favorite bars close to Miaouli Square. The friendly owner serves a nice collection of cocktails and drinks, including their own gin you have to try on your next evening out in Syros.
• Roga Syros: If you don’t know there’s a bar, you might just walk by it. Located in the market alley in Ermoupoli (and the size of a big closet), this lovely bar serves a fine selection of wines (including an orange one) and small snacks. Go sit at one of the tables in the street and watch the people walk by.
• Aristide Bar: Although they serve food, you come here for the fancy drinks and the fantastic view over the Aegean Sea. Being part of one of the best hotels in Syros, they know how to serve their customers here.
• Kouchico: A popular bar in Ermoupolis, tucked away in a small alley near the port, offering an upscale nightlife experience with a wide range of signature crafted cocktails and a sophisticated ambiance.
• Cafe Plous: Another tastefully decorated bar with a beautiful terrace overlooking the Aegean. Come here for the intimate atmosphere and to enjoy a delicious cocktail while enjoying the magnificent views.
• Passo Aperitivo Syros: Being one of the latest additions to Syros’ bars, they know how to craft good cocktails at Passo Aperitivo. Located in the pedestrian area of Ermoupoli, you can enjoy the nice music and atmosphere.
• Espiritu Cocktail & Drinks: Very nice bar with a lovely atmosphere (and a bit of Mexican vibes), excellent service, and very tasty cocktails, especially the Espiritu and the Zombie! Prices are pretty reasonable compared to some other bars.
• Porte Galleria del Cocktail: Lovely decorated bar, both inside and outside, located in one of the small alleys in Ermoupoli. The staff is very kind, and the bartender and staff know how to make an original cocktail.

TIP: Are you a bit hungry? Most bars also offer finger food or small dishes. Or you could do like the locals, and grab a delicious souvlaki before stepping into the nightlife (or maybe after).

For local and alternative vibes

• Laoutari: One of the hidden gems in Ermoupoli, this local taverna serves some of the best food but also has a wonderful atmosphere if you want to go out for a night. There is often live Greek music and locals dancing or singing.
• Boheme del Mar: Want a glass of wine with a sea breeze and a front-row view of the sunset? Head to Boheme del Mar, right on the promenade. It’s a relaxed, bit alternative place where the drinks are good, the crowd is a mix of locals and travelers, and the vibes are just right.

For meals and drinks

• Psyra: This new bar is a place you can’t miss during your visit to Ermoupoli. While being a coffee shop and a fantastic brunch place during the day, you can get the most delicious cocktails here in the evening.
• Ciel Bar: Located at Asteria Beach, they offer a great mix of chill and lively vibes, with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. During the day, you can rent a sunbed, during the evening, you can try one of their cocktails, and listen to a variety of music while looking at the lights on the other islands.
• Jar Bar: This bar is only a stone’s throw from the main square. It’s set in a charming alleyway and features a cozy outdoor seating area, making it an ideal spot for healthy meals and coffee during the day, and a cocktail during a night out. Only open during high season.
• Mammo Wine Bar: Set at the harbour, this lively restaurant is always busy, both with locals and tourists. You can come here all day for a delicious meal, or in the evening for a nice glass of wine or a cocktail.
• 40 Tales Fox: Another great place where you can have a delicious meal but also dance the night away with a cocktail in your hand. The bartender takes his mixing seriously, so whether you’re a mojito traditionalist or a “surprise me with something fancy” type, you’ll be in good hands.

Dance vibes

• Barrio: A beloved bar by locals and tourists, with a welcoming atmosphere. They often feature themed nights and live music, making it a great place for both a quiet drink (at the terrace) and a lively night out. Or maybe you want to join one of the karaoke evenings together with the locals?
• Quattro Syros: If you are in for a party, come to this popular bar by the harbor. Think loud music, a mix of locals and tourists, and good drinks. As one of the few places in Syros, they often work with live DJs.
• Severo: Although open all day, most people come here for the drinks and dancing that can go on all night long (they don’t really have a closing hour). Try one of their delicious cocktails and enjoy the lively music.

Bars in Ano Syros: a traditional Cycladic vibe

Ano Syros has a completely different vibe from Ermoupoli with its narrow alleys, whitewashed houses, and stunning views over the Aegean. Don’t be fooled by its sleepy daytime charm. Ano Syros comes alive at night, especially if you’re into cocktails, (Greek)music, and a touch of ouzo-induced dancing.

Here are some of our favorite bars in Ano Syros:

• Theosis Bar: Being one of the most popular bars in Syros, Theosis has a lively atmosphere and serves delicious drinks. You get to enjoy an evening in the small alleys (they turned the stairs into lovely seats and tables. Don’t forget to check out their cool attire with great quotes.
• Syrianon Bar: If you are a cocktail lover, you have to come to this bar! They have some of the best cocktails on the island (they can easily compete with Athens) and excellent music. To top it off, you get to enjoy the magnificent view over Ermoupoli and the Aegean.
• Locals: A fantastic place to hang out, both during the day and in the evening. You can come here for breakfast, brunch, finger food, a delicious coffee, or a fantastic cocktail. They have a beautiful terrace and very friendly staff.
• Το Tsagkaradiko Cocktail Bar: Another great cocktail bar in Ano Syros, with affordable prices (where else can you still find a mojito for 8 euros). And in true Ano Syros style, you get to enjoy the view while sipping your cocktail.
• Braziliana Snack Bar: This cafe-bar offers a great view, nice music, and a very welcoming atmosphere. The owners and staff are very kind and prepare the most delicious food (try the pinsa) at reasonable prices. In the evening, come here for a nice cocktail.
• Ano The Upper Cocktail Bar: Sit down at one of their two terraces with breathtaking views, and enjoy their tasty cocktails and great atmosphere. The staff is very helpful and friendly, making sure you have the perfect evening.
• Sei Giorni: Just like most bars in Ano Syros, you get to enjoy your cocktail (at fair prices) while admiring the amazing view over Ermoupoli! In the evening, they have nice music and good vibes. Try their delicious cheese plates!

Beach bars in Syros: salt in your hair, cocktail in your hand

If your idea of nightlife involves sand between your toes, Syros won’t disappoint. You won’t find as many beach bars as in Mykonos, and they are more relaxed than rave-ready. But they’re perfect for sunset drinks, occasional DJ sets, and that laid-back island vibe we all crave.

• Kahuna Seaside Bar Restaurant (Azolimnos): One of the best beach bars in Syros, right off Azolimnos Beach. The food is amazing, and served by the most friendly staff. They also have top-notch cocktails. A true gem!
• Baobab (Finikas): You can come here from early in the morning to enjoy your coffee or come at night to try their excellent food and drinks (best to reserve a table if you want to have a sea view). Very nice music and yummy cocktails!
• Hitana Syros (Galissas): A nice, low-key beach bar at Galissas Beach. They have sunbeds and simple snacks, but also nice cocktails at reasonable prices. While being at the beach, you can enjoy some relaxing deep house music and even the occasional live DJ.
• Green Dollars (Galissas): This ‘American’ style bar (also great for kids) is only steps away from the beach (but not directly on the beach). You can find all kinds of drinks here, and enjoy an afternoon or evening playing darts or chatting with a local beer.
• Noho Cocktail Bar (Kini): All-day bar at the seafront in Kini where you can come for a delicious breakfast, but also for a fun evening out with dancing on the street. On Wednesdays, they even have live music. Don’t forget to try the great selection of cocktails.
• Asado All Day Bar By The Beach (Kini): Another great beach bar in Kini on the beach. Come here around sunset to enjoy their delicious food and great cocktails while seeing the sunset over the Aegean Sea.

Accommodation near nightlife areas

It’s always nice if you can just walk home after an evening of fun. If you would like that, we advise you to stay in Ermoupoli or near one of the beaches of Syros, where there is also a beach bar. Various options are available, catering to different preferences and budgets, from hotels to rental apartments.

Read more: Where to stay in Syros

Local attire and dress code

The island balances a laid-back atmosphere with chic venues. And Greeks like to dress up, with their attire usually both stylish and comfortable. Many venues do not enforce strict dress codes, but upscale places may require dressing up. Respect local customs by avoiding overly casual or beachwear after sunset.

Read more: What to wear in Syros

TIP: You might have to walk a bit over stairs and cobblestone streets (especially in Ano Syros), so make sure you wear comfortable shoes.

Tips for a safe night out

To make sure it’s all about the fun, here are a few tips to make sure your evening out goes smoothly.

• Unless you can walk to the bars (if you are staying in Ermoupoli, for example), don’t drive and drink. Buses or local taxis are widely available. They operate late into the night, making it easy to get home without the need for personal vehicles. There aren’t apps like Uber on the island.

• Syros is a very safe place with minimal crime. Always stay careful, though. Keep belongings secured to prevent pickpocketing and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Instead, use cards whenever possible.

• Moderation is key when consuming alcohol. Especially when the weather is hot, drink enough water as well. Set a budget for the night to avoid excessive spending. Eating a substantial meal before drinking helps maintain balance and prevent intoxication.

• Many bars and clubs in Syros start to fill up around 10 pm, but dinner typically runs from 8 pm onward. Reservations at popular restaurants are recommended, especially during peak season. For those interested in live music or events, checking schedules in advance can help.

Our Syros Travel Ebook + Google Maps

The ultimate Syros Travel Guide (printable and downloadable on your phone) has ALL the information and inspiration you need to make the most of your Syros trip! From what to do, where to eat, and where to stay, to the best day trips, walks, and hidden gems.

Includes a detailed, interactive, and downloadable Syros Google Maps, with hundreds of pinned places.

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