A complete guide to our Syros walking tour, perfect for one day in Ermoupoli and Ano Syros
If you visit the Greek island of Syros, you have to explore its capital, Ermoupoli, with its neoclassical charm and the medieval beauty of Ano Syros. We have created a half-day or full-day free walking tour for you, which will take you to some of the best things to do in Syros.
Whether you’re visiting during the warm, lively summer or the peaceful, cooler months (check our article on the best time to visit Syros), this walking tour will help you to enjoy Ermoupoli to its fullest. While you walk from highlight to highlight, you’ll be able to uncover its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture.
Ermoupoli is also one of the best places to stay in Syros (especially without a car). If you stay here or in Ano Syros, you’ll easily be able to walk to the start of the hike. If you are staying around one of the beaches in Syros, you will have to rent a car, take a taxi, or a public bus to get to Ermoupoli.
Read more: How to get to Syros
Why do a walking tour in Ermoupoli?
In our opinion, walking is always one of the best ways to truly explore a place. And this definitely is the case for Ermoupoli, as it is a relatively small town and all the best things to do in Ermoupoli are easily reachable on foot.
Another reason to walk around Ermoupoli and Ano Syros is that a lot of spots aren’t even reachable by car. The city is built against two hills, which means there are many stairs! And when we say many, we mean many! Therefore, walking is often the only way to see certain areas.
Read more: Best hikes in Syros
But this also means a lot of areas are traffic-free, making walking around town a very enjoyable and safe experience.
TIP: If it is really hot, avoid climbing up to Ano Syros in the middle of the day. Either go a bit later or take a taxi up to Ano Syros and then explore the little streets on foot. Also if you are having a hard time with stairs, consider taking a taxi up.
Read more: How to get by ferry from Athens to Syros
What should I take on this Ermoupoli walking tour?
Ermoupoli and Ano Syros have a lot of stairs! We do advise you to wear proper walking shoes or sturdy sandals. Not that it is not possible with flip-flops, but having good shoes will make it more comfortable and easier.
During summer, don’t forget your sunglasses and a hat to protect you from the heat. In the colder winter months, make sure you are wearing layers. Going up the stairs, you will want to lose a layer, but by the seaside or on top of the hill, a windproof jacket is advisable.
Read more: What should I wear in Syros Greece
TIP: If you do want to have a local with you, who can explain you more about the history of Ermoupoli and show you some hidden gems, you can book this guided Ermoupoli walking tour, or this Industrial Ermoupoli walking tour, focussing on the very interesting industrial past of the capital of the Cyclades.
How long does this Syros walking tour through Ermoupoli and Ano Syros take?
Our walking tour has two parts: the first one takes you through Ermoupoli, and the second one through Ano Syros (which is right by Ermoupoli, but technically a different town). You can choose to do both parts one day, or split them up and spread them over more days.
If you rushed through both parts of the walk, you could probably finish it in half a day. But where’s the fun in that? You need to have time to visit some of the shops, go inside the most beautiful churches, have a coffee in one of the trendy bars, and have lunch by the seaside.
If you only have one day in Syros, we advise you to take the Ermoupoli walking tour in the morning and the Ano Syros walking tour in the afternoon. If you have more time, you could easily spread them out over two days.
Map of our Ermoupoli + Ano Syros walking tour
This map contains both of our walking tours through Ermoupoli and Ano Syros. You can either split them up or walk them as one big loop. The letters on the map correspond with the places we describe below. We start in the southwest, close to the waterfront.
Time to dive in, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the unique charm of Syros!
TIP: Want to discover even more about Syros, from the best places to eat and stay to the most beautiful hikes, what to pack and what to know before you go? Check out our ultimate Syros Travel Guide + Syros Google maps!
Part 1: Ermoupoli walking tour
🚶♂️Duration: Half or full day ☀️ Season: All year round
A: Dormition of the Virgin Mary Holy Orthodox Church
Begin your walking tour at the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Church, home to a precious masterpiece—The Dormition of the Virgin by El Greco. Step inside to admire this iconic artwork and soak in the spiritual ambiance of this historic site. From here, head down to the waterfront and take in the charm of Ermoupoli’s seaside promenade.
B: Thessalonikia Bougatsa & Pizza
As you stroll along the waterfront, treat yourself to a traditional bougatsa (a sweet, custard-filled pastry) for breakfast or lunch, a delicious coffee, or a fresh orange juice at Thessalonikia Bougatsa & Pizza. It is one of our favorite coffee places in Ermoupoli.
It’s a perfect stop to fuel up for the day ahead. Continue along the harbor until you reach the National Resistance Monument (a statue), then turn left to make your way toward Miaouli Square.
C: Miaouli Square
Take a moment to soak up the lively atmosphere of Miaouli Square, the beating heart of Ermoupoli. This picturesque square is ideal for people-watching, sipping coffee on one of the outdoor terraces, or feeding the ever-present pigeons. Don’t miss the chance to enter the neoclassical Town Hall, a true architectural gem, with even a cafe inside, and explore the Archaeological Museum for a deeper dive into the island’s history.
D: Apollon Theater
From Miaouli Square, make your way to the Apollon Theater, a unique 19th-century landmark inspired by La Scala in Milan. If possible, peek inside to see the beauty inside or even book a ticket for a performance to experience its splendor firsthand. As you continue, you’ll pass several charming boutique shops, such as before reaching the Church of Saint Nicholas.
E: Church of Saint Nicholas
This striking Orthodox Church, with its iconic blue dome, is one of Ermoupoli’s most recognizable landmarks. Step inside to marvel at its grand interior, where sunlight streams through colorful stained-glass windows, creating a serene and magical ambiance.
F: Stairs Down to Asteria Beach
After visiting Saint Nicholas Church, pass the church on your right side and descend the steps leading to Asteria Beach. This spot offers breathtaking views and is one of the most photographed areas in Ermoupoli.
If the weather permits, take a swim in the crystal-clear waters, do some yoga, or relax and enjoy the scenery. For lunch, choose between Ciel Syros (bar by the water, with sun loungers) or Sta Vaporia (up the stairs a bit), both offering delicious meals with spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and some of our favorite restaurants in Ermoupoli.
As these restaurants are only open during the high season, you can also pack a picnic to savor by the water.
Read more: Complete guide to Asteria Beach in Ermoupoli
G: Anástasis, Church of the Resurrection
Conclude the first part of your tour by climbing to the Church of Anástasis, perched high on a hill overlooking Ermoupoli. The walk is steep, so take a rest every now and then and look backward to catch the panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea.
This Greek Orthodox Church stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, offering a peaceful end to this leg of the journey. If the church is open, go take a peek inside to see a typical Greek-Orthodox church.
If you want to end your walk here, go back down the stairs towards the harbor of Ermoupoli. Or continue to do the second part of our walk to Ano Syros, the old city.
TIP: If you want to see more of Ermoupoli, we advise you to explore the little streets around Miaouli Square that are filled with coffee bars, boutique shops, etc. You can easily spend some time wandering around here. For an amazing view of the skyline of Ermoupoli in the evening, walk over to the end of the pier.
Part 2: Ano Syros walking tour
🚶♂️Duration: Half day ☀️ Season: All year round
A: Steps towards Ano Syros
Start your Ano Syros tour at the majestic Anástasis Church, where we left off on our Ermoupoli walking tour. If you prefer to explore Ano Syros in the morning or at a completely different time, you can begin your journey from the center of Ermoupoli and don’t need to walk up to this point.
From Anástasis, descend the hill and climb back up towards the iconic stairways of Ano Syros, starting from this point. Also, if you are coming from the center, make sure you get to the same point if you want to walk up the main stairs. These steps lead to the heart of this medieval settlement, a distinct area separate from Ermoupoli. The walk is steep and can be challenging, so take your time, or consider taking a taxi or the free minibus to the top.
Read more: What to do in Ano Syros
B: Ano Syros
Once you arrive, wander through the charming streets of Ano Syros. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleys, soak up the history, and enjoy the timeless atmosphere. If visiting during high season, take a moment to relax on one of the terraces of the restaurants and bars, savoring a drink while admiring sweeping views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
C: Saint-George Cathedral
Continue your ascent to the highest point of Ano Syros, where the Catholic Saint George Cathedral dominates the skyline. This historic site (dating back to the Venetian occupation) offers panoramic views of Ermoupoli, the neighboring islands, and the endless blue of the Aegean.
TIP: If you have more time, you can walk down from Saint-George Cathedral to the back of Ano Syros, and start the short hike to Agios Athanasios, a beautiful church hidden behind the hill of Ano Syros.
D: Markos Vamvakaris Exhibition
Descend slightly to visit the Markos Vamvakaris Exhibition, dedicated to the legendary musician and father of rebetiko music. Learn about his life and contributions to Greek folk culture while enjoying yet another breathtaking view of the island.
E: The Transfiguration of the Savior Metropolitan Church
After exploring Ano Syros, make your way back down the stairs, or take a taxi, to Ermoupoli. Visit the Orthodox Cathedral of the Transfiguration of the Savior, an architectural masterpiece and the oldest church in the city center. Its stunning interior and historical significance make it a must-see.
F: To Tsipouradiko tis Mirsinis
End your day with a memorable meal at To Tsipouradiko tis Mirsinis, a beloved Greek taverna located by the harbor. Enjoy traditional dishes bursting with flavor as you reflect on your day of exploration. If you’re in the mood to keep the night alive, the vibrant nightlife of Ermoupoli awaits, with popular spots like Barrio and Mousoutou just a short walk away.
We hoped you liked our free Ermpoupoli walking tour. If you want to discover more of what Syros has to offer, check our other Syros articles or our ultimate Syros Travel Guide + Syros Travel Map.