We didn’t initially plan to go to Syros when we first made our Cyclades Island hopping itinerary, but what a wonderful surprise we had at Galissas Beach! This diverse island is off the typical tourist track, and after visiting we think that will change very quickly. The locals are proud, extremely welcoming, and excited to share it with you. So how did we end up deciding to travel to Syros?
Arriving on Syros Island
After arriving by flight from Athens to Mykonos, it was actually cheaper to take the ferry to Syros Island than to continue on to Paros and Naxos. For the same cost to go from Mykonos to Naxos, it was cheaper to travel from Mykonos to Syros, Paros, and then Naxos!
Basically, we got three islands for the same price as one by playing around with our dates and boat schedules. Here are some quick tips to using the Greek ferry system before your next trip.
Our first introduction to Syros Island was stepping off the ferry right into the heart of downtown Ermoupoli. The administrative capital of the Cyclades is stunning, especially with the pink, yellow, and blue buildings sprinkled between traditional Greek architecture.
We decided to take a break from the bigger towns and head straight to the more secluded Galissas village, which we’d heard was one of the best Syros beaches!
→ Blue Star Ferries: Why We Use the Affordable Slow Ferry in Greece
How to Get to Galissas Beach Syros
Bus (45 minutes): The bus is a good option on Syros, but it comes with a warning. No one really seems to know when it’s running!
When you get off the ferry, take a left and the bus stop will be just past the gas station. Our boat arrived at 2:45pm and we caught the 3:30pm bus to Galissas Beach.
We enjoyed this loop to get a feel for Syros island. However, if you don’t want a long ride, a taxi is your best option.
*FOOD ALERT: If you’re taking the bus, we have a tasty recommendation for you. Just after the bus stop (on the street leading away from town) will be a small Gyro shop on your right.
Once you get a waft of delicious meat spinning at Ο Μπόμπος, you’ll know you’re there. The day we went they had lamb gyros, so be sure to keep an eye out for it!
Taxi (10 minutes): From the ferry, you can grab a taxi for €10-12 Euros. Just make sure to set the price when you get in if they don’t have a meter. Note that the bus wraps around the south of the island making Galissas one of the last stops. This is the reason it takes so much longer than a taxi, as the car just fires straight across to the beach in 15 minutes!
Where To Stay In Galissas Syros
Luxury (High End) – Hotel Benois – Located right on Galissas Beach with a beautiful pool behind the property. Bar on-site and steps away from all the great restaurants.
Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – Ventoura Studios & Apartments – Our home during our visit to Galissas Beach! Just a few seconds back from the water are these wonderful studio apartments. Each room has a balcony with a view, and the property has a jacuzzi and steam room as well.
Budget Life (Longterm Travel) – Manousos’ Rooms – Most central location you’ll find and right across from the bus stop. The rooms are above a restaurant and bar that gets lively during the summertime.
Our Visit to Galissas Beach
The small town of Galissas is a small seaside village that comes alive during July and August. Visiting the Syros beaches in May meant we were one of the few tourists there, and we really enjoyed the peace and quiet.
We spent our days hiking through the hills, swimming in the dreamy blue water, and drinking wine at a local watering hole. Locals we spoke with on other islands talked fondly of Syros and confirmed that it was indeed very traditional.
This is definitely a place to relax, take in the beautiful Syros beaches, and fall in love with Greek culture! Of course Galissas has its main spot in the sand, but there is also a secret place that not many tourists know about around the corner. So what’s the difference between these two Syros beaches?
Galissas Beach
Located in the center of town, the main beach stretches the entire cove with its soft sand and crystal clear Aegean Sea. A few restaurants and bars open during the summer months, and umbrellas and chairs line the water.
The hillside to the left towers over Galissas Beach with the Agia Pakou church shining atop. It’s only a 10 minute hike, and you’ll have an awesome view of Syros Island and the surrounding mountains.
Armeos Beach Syros
Up and over the small hill and church sits the hidden beach of Armeos. The beach is rocky and it’s much smaller than its counterpart of Galissas.
Although it’s less crowded, you might be in for a different surprise when setting up your towel and getting ready to jump in. This is commonly a NUDE beach, so don’t be shocked when you see everyone around you stripping down!
Best Restaurants at Galissas Beach Syros
Our mornings started with a massive breakfast that was included with our stay at Ventoura Studios & Apartments. For lunch and dinner, there are half a dozen restaurants to grab a meal in town.
You can find pretty much everything, from cheap Gyros to upscale dining. Still, you know that if you visit in off or swing season, most of the restaurants will be shut down.
There is however a small mini-mart that sells beach snacks and drinks. Make sure not to skip the massive freezer with trays and trays of homemade ice cream sticks at the store! Here are some of our favorite restaurants and bars that were open when we visited.
Manoúsos: This was our go-to place for dinner. The simple shop gets slammed at night, serving giant Gyro plates, greek salads, and other local specialties.
Angelino: Right on the corner of the main street in Galissas Syros. This coffee shop is a perfect place to relax and take in the morning. The bus also pulls up right in front so you can grab a coffee while you wait.
Green Dollars: Great local spot to grab a craft of wine or beer for sunset.
Savvas: If you’re looking for a nice dinner out, this place is for you! Savvas specializes in local homemade greek dishes, so you’re sure to find something yummy here.
aVentoura: This is the only Galissas Beach restaurant that we didn’t go to because it was just starting to open. Yet, it is still worth mentioning because it is the only spot located right on the sandy beach.
Exploring More of Syros Island
Hike to Agios Stefanos Church: Just over an hour hike from Galissas Beach, you will find a one-of-a-kind church on the hillside. It was built by a local fisherman who was saved from the tentacles of an octopus after praying to the holy saint. I bet you weren’t expecting to hear that while planning your trip!
Explore Ermoupoli: Take an afternoon to explore the main town during your stay. Walk through the streets and stop at one of the many cafes, or grab a bite to eat on the ocean in the port. For the best view, work your way up to the beautiful Church of Resurrection that sits above the city.
Rent a Car or Motorbike: There’s no better way to see Syros than by renting a vehicle and circling the entire Island! This is such a fun idea to experience to all the landmarks, eat local food, and find secret swimming holes of your own. Compare rates and companies with DiscoverCars to find the best deals before your vacation.
Visit More Syros Beaches: Syros is home to many nice beaches, but Galissas was definitely our favorite! Agathopes, Kini, Delphini, Vari, and Megas Gialos are all worth seeing if you have time.
Is Galissas Beach Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Galissas Beach is the perfect getaway on your trip to Syros Island.
We fell in love with the small village, beautiful beach area, and local charm. The incredible Greek food was also a nice bonus!
As we mentioned, you’ll want to visit just outside of July and August to avoid the busy period. It’s a great town to spend a couple of days in or use as your homebase to discover more of Syros Island from.
Have any questions on this article or want to share more tips for Galissas Beach Syros? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Pin For Later ↓
What part of May did you travel to Syros? We are planning to arrive around May 23, 2025 and I’m wondering if there will still be a problem with places not being open yet.
Hi Cindy! We went in the middle of May. Everything is open year round in the capital, but it seemed like things were just starting to open up in the beach towns. You shouldn’t have any issues. Enjoy!
Since 1998 we visit regular the greek Islands and in special Syros.
This place took our ❤️, so we decided to stay for longer time, than just for Holidays. In 2001 we’d spend 4 month in Galissas, me working as a Chef in Finikas/Kokkina Beach Hotel and in the night in Aithrio Taverna (next to Angelinos)
We came Back to Syros in 2003 and stayed until November 2004.
My wife worked as a waitress in Manousos Barok Bar and me as a Chef again in Aitheio.
We made a lot of Friends for Life this time.
Now, 20 Years later our Kids are grown Up and they Love Syros too and have good memories abour this lovely place.
Right now, we are again in Syros, staying in Manousos Rooms and having a wonderful time in the Island ( First time without the Kids, after 20 Years 😉)
Kisses from our ❤️ place
Wow! Thank you so much for sharing this experience. Love that you return to Syros. Such a special island (-:
Excellent review
Love Syros!
I SPENT A WEEK OR SO SLEEPING ON THE BEACH AT GALISSAS AND ARMEOS BACK IN 1971! I WAS WITH MY BEST FRIEND AND WE MET OTHER YOUNG PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES CAMPING OUT UNDER THE PINES AS WELL. WE BUILT A HUT OUT OF DRIFTWOOD ON ARMEOS TO SHADE US FROM THE SUN. VERY UNCROWDED BACK THEN. I SPENT TIME TWICE A DAY UP AT THE TINY CHAPEL ON THE HILL, GAZING OUT AT THE SEA, AND THANKING THE GODS AND GODESSES. IT WAS A VERY SPECIAL PLACE. WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK ONE DAY, BEFORE I GET TOO OLD!
Wow what an amazing story. Syros is still so beautiful. Thanks for sharing!