Ermoupolis in Syros

If you arrive to Ermoupolis by sea the dominant impression is the large shipyard that may seem to make the otherwise so beautiful view over the town a little bit ugly. But you should really thank the shipyard, it has had an enormous importance for Syros, and for Ermoupolis.

If it were not for the shipyard, Ermoupolis may not even exist. Syros did not take part in the Greek War of Independence in 1821, many refugees chose to flee to Syros, they came from many different places, including Chios, Samos and Asia Minor, where many Greeks lived at the time.

The large shipyard in Ermoupolis.

The port of Ermoupolis in the evening.

It was these refugees who founded Ermoupolis. Many of them were businessmen or shipowners, and they built the shipyard, and the port that quickly became Greece's largest port. The name Ermoupolis comes from the god Hermes, which, according to Greek mythology, protected travellers and traders.

One of the shopping streets in Ermoupolis.

Therefore, it is thanks to the refugees that we today can stroll around in one of the archipelago's finest towns and enjoy the colourful neoclassical houses, lovely squares, winding steps and cosy alleys. Add to that, that the squares, steps, streets and alleys are mostly built in marble, and you understand how beautiful Ermoupolis is. Equally amazing is in the neighboring village of Ano Syros. Do not miss!

One of the marble streets of Ermoupolis.

Ermoupolis is a relatively large town with approximately 11,500 inhabitants. The Greek everyday life is as apparent here as in Athens, albeit on a smaller scale and at a slower pace (the traffic is not in any way comparable to the one in Athens).

The architecture also differs in comparison with Athens: Ermoupolis is unlike Athens a beautiful town, which is particularly noticeable in, and around, the fancy Miaouli square. The square with its grand City Hall is as the heart of Ermoupolis. To aimlessly wander around the town is a great pleasure, and the Miaouli square is a perfect starting point.

The Town House on Miaouli Square during the day.

A number of streets and alleys leads from the square. Along the streets there are shops of all kind (including a very good bookstore), and a goodly number of tavernas, cafes and ouzeries. In one of the alleys there is a fish- and vegetable market.

Fish and vegetable market in central Ermoupolis.

One of many cozy car-free alleys in Ermoupolis.

The food that are served on the restaurants on Syros are generally exceptionally good, and especially in Ermoupolis, where there are an abundance of places to eat, ranging from smart restaurants to simple gyros eating places. Some of the best restaurants are along two narrow alleys east of Miaouli square. One of these restaurants is called To Archontariki, and you just must go there to eat.

Restaurang To Archontariki.

If it is full on To Archontariki there are other good restaurants to choose from in the alleys, or you can walk to the lively waterfront where there are many places to eat and drink.

There are many good restaurants in Ermoupolis.

If you like gyros, there are many good gyros places to choose from.

To have a seat along the waterfront with an ouzo in your hand and people watch is to say the least entertaining. The entertainment in Ermoupolis are like everything else on the island: very Greek. The nightlife is focused mainly on Greek tourists and for residents on the island. There are several bouzouki clubs and music bars that open late and close early.

Nice cafes along the port promenade.

Tavernas along the harbour promenade.

Bars and cafes along the port promenade.

Cool cafe by the sea.

One restaurant that do not close late is To Kastri, located in a narrow alley between Miaouli square and the waterfront. The restaurant is only open during daytime. To Kastri - runs by a women's association - serves delicious Greek homely fare at very low prices. There are not many tables, most people take away their food and eat it somewhere else. Do not miss this little gem.

To Kastri i Ermoupolis.

To Kastri serves delicious Greek home cooking at very low prices.

There are only a few tables as most people pick up food and eat at home.

Apollon Theater in Ermoupolis.

One of many long stairs in Ermoupolis.

Many streets in Ermoupolis are named after islands in the Cyclades. Like Odos Amorgos above.

If you like beautiful door knockers, you will love Ermoupolis.

More pictures of door knockers in Ermoupolis can be found here »

If you live in Ermoupolis and want to swim, the nearest beach is Azolimnos beach. Although there are no beaches in Ermoupolis, there is no lack of bathing spots. There are both jetties and rocks where you can sunbathe and swim.

There are no beaches in Ermoupolis, but there is still the possibility to swim.

View from Ethrion Hotel in Ermoupolis.

ACCOMMODATION IN ERMOUPOLIS

The selection of hotels, pensions, apartments, studios and rooms are large. We use to stay at Ethrion Hotel, situated in a peaceful and quiet area, and the owners are very friendly. But there are other good hotels that you will find below.

Book Ethrion Hotel here »

Book Paradise Hotel here »

Book Hotel Hermes here »

Book other hotels in Ermoupolis here »

Do not miss Ano Syros, which you can read about here »

READ MORE ABOUT SYROS