Hotel Ploes
The traditional boutique hotel of Hotel Ploes embodies some of the best aspects of Syros, with its neoclassical building, close proximity to the main attractions, and location on the rocky city-front seawall. You'll be able to gaze straight down into the water from one side of the 150-year-old mansion.
There are eight rooms available to guests, all carefully decorated with touches like handmade rugs and Venetian chandeliers. Works by Greek artists decorate the walls. Go straight from the hotel down to a private terrace with direct sea access for a swim or visit the Plous cafe-bar and look out over the water with a drink or meal.
Apollonion Palace
The Apollonian Palace offers the ideal combination of price, city proximity, and sea views. This 19th-century neoclassical mansion was restored in 2009 to five floors of its original architecture, with foundations that reach the sea.
Inside, soft romantic colors and design elements echo Syros's old manors. Take in the morning sun on the eastern terrace or a drink under the moon, or head to the seaside terrace for stairs straight down into the water. Its spot in the Vaporia neighborhood, on prestigious Apollonos Street, puts it in the center of the action.
Xenon Apollonos
Also among the neoclassical buildings of the Vaporia sits the Xenon Apollonos. Its three color-themed rooms have housed guests such as Eleftherios Venizelos and the first king of Greece.
The small size of the hotel creates an intimate atmosphere with attentive staff. There are three communal spaces: a breakfast room with a painted ceiling, a living room with a sea-view balcony, and a plant-filled patio. Each room hosts rotating art exhibitions that enhance the elegant atmosphere.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Aristide Hotel
The artistic Aristide Hotel is green in decor and philosophy, focusing on guest comfort and sustainability. This restored mansion in Ermoupolis, an eight-minute walk from both the beach and town center, "combines old-world elegance and contemporary design" with features like a dramatic marble staircase, Doric columns, and plentiful Greek marble and natural materials.
The nine suites of the hotel exist alongside an art gallery and an artists' residence and workshop. Follow the permanent art collection throughout the halls of the hotel, or stop in the gallery for the rotating exhibitions by resident artists. Start the day with a food-critic-created breakfast in the garden, then sip a cocktail in the shade of the garden bar later in the day or accompanied by sea views from the rooftop. They plant trees on the island to offset the carbon footprint of guests' travel, avoid single-use plastics, compost leftovers, and serve local and organic food.
Arion
Also a restored 19th-century mansion in the Vaporia, the Arion houses six rooms across its three floors. Naturally, all of them come with a sea view and blend "urban chic with understated luxury." From the moment guests are greeted with a welcome tray to handmade local breakfasts, each aspect of the hotel is designed to make you feel comfortable and at home.
Relax in the breakfast nook, one of the other cozy communal spaces, or on the patio. When you're ready to wander, many of Syros' central attractions are close by, and the hosts will be happy to help you plan your ideal path for the day.
Syra Bay Hotel
Head to Megas Gialos Beach to find the Syra Bay Hotel, an excellent spot for families who want space and self-catering. The hotel is roughly a 20-minute drive from the main town of Ermoupoli, with dark wood and stone outdoor accents that help it blend into the landscape.
Large rooms can accommodate up to six guests and have kitchens and living rooms, allowing for full meals and plenty of space to relax. There are eight residences total in varying sizes, all with private balconies or patios and sea views decorated in cool aquatic tones.
Hotel Emily
Beachfront Hotel Emily is a quiet retreat for couples who want some time by the sea. Located on the island's southern side in the town of Achladi, Hotel Emily is about 5 miles (8 km) from Ermoupoli. Cafés and bars accompany the small, sandy beach.
The same family has run the hotel since its construction in 1965 when its founder named the hotel after his wife. His grandson now oversees the property, focusing on sustainability, customer service, and social responsibility. All 11 rooms offer terraces with sea views, and guests can enjoy breakfast in the garden or visit the café bar before heading to the sunbeds on the beach.
Calma Boutique Hotel
Head to the sands of Agkathopes Beach to meet the friendly hosts of the Calma Boutique Hotel, just over 7 miles (12 km) from the main port of Ermoupolis. This organized beach is suitable for visitors of all ages, and the smooth structure of Calma fits right in with its stone and wood furnishings.
Each room has its own veranda to look out over the sea. Start your day in the breakfast lounge or by dining in your room, then relax in the lounge or garden if you aren't quite ready to hit the beach. When you're ready, the sand is just steps away.
Blue Harmony Hotel
You'll find the Blue Harmony Hotel on the water at Kini Beach. The newly built, seasonal hotel offers guests sea views and quality service from May through September, with rooms decorated in clean light wood and blue hues to match its natural surroundings.
Guests don't have to worry about going hungry; from the buffet breakfast to the coffee and snack bar, there's always something to munch on. You can also arrange for services such as nail services, a hairdresser, or a boat tour before you head out to the sea and your sun lounger.