How to go to Greek island Syros
Getting to Syros is easy. Most visitors fly from Athens (35 to 40 minutes) or take a ferry (2 to 4 and a half hours) from Piraeus Port in Athens. The island is well connected by air and sea, making it one of the most accessible islands in the Cyclades.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison of Main Transportation Methods
| Method | Time | Cost Level | Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight from Athens | 35-40 mins | Medium | Very High | Those short on time or preferring speed |
| Fast Ferry from Piraeus | 2-2.5 hours | Low to Medium | High | Budget conscious travelers and families |
| Standard Ferry from Piraeus | 3-5 hours | Budget | Medium | Travelers wanting scenic views and lower cost |
| Inter-island Ferry | 15 mins to 1.5 hours | Budget | High | Island hoppers already in Cyclades |
Step One: Getting to Athens International Airport
Most international visitors start their journey by flying to Athens International Airport, also known as Elefthérios Venizélos Airport. This is the main entry point for travelers coming from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and other countries around the world.
Flying to Athens from the United Kingdom
From the UK, flying to Athens is straightforward and affordable. The journey from London to Athens takes about three and a half to four hours on average. Multiple airlines operate this route daily, giving you plenty of options.
Major airlines serving this route include Ryanair, easyJet, Aegean Airlines, British Airways, and Eurowings. You can fly from London Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, or other UK airports.
Ticket prices vary by season. Generally, you can find cheap flights starting from around £28 if you book well in advance. The average price tends to be around £52 to £109 per person for a return ticket. The best time to book is at least four to six weeks before your planned travel date.
The fastest direct flights take around three hours and thirty five minutes. If you are flexible with your dates, you can often find better prices by traveling during off-peak months like October or early spring.
Flying to Athens from the United States and Canada
Travelers from the USA and Canada will need to book connecting flights, as there are no direct flights from North America to Athens. Most flights connect through major European hubs like Frankfurt, Paris, or Munich.
The total journey from major US cities like New York to Athens typically takes between 12 to 15 hours including the connection time. Round trip costs usually range from $349 to over $900 depending on the season and how far in advance you book.
Major carriers like Air Canada, United Airlines, and American Airlines offer regular services on these routes. Again, booking several weeks in advance will help you secure better prices.
Flying to Athens from Other European Countries
If you are coming from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, or other European cities, you will find numerous direct flight options to Athens. Flight times range from one and a half hours from Milan to about four hours from Paris or Amsterdam.
Budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet offer frequent flights at competitive prices. You can often book these flights for £20 to £80 per person if you are flexible with your dates.
Athens Airport Facilities and Getting Around
Athens International Airport is modern and well equipped. The airport has restaurants, cafes, shops, and ATM machines throughout the terminal. There is free WiFi available for all passengers.
The airport is located about 33 kilometers east of central Athens. From the airport, you have several options to reach Piraeus Port (the main ferry port):
The X96 express bus runs directly from the airport to Piraeus Port and takes about 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. This is the most budget friendly option at just a few euros.
Alternatively, you can use the metro system. Take Metro Line 3 from the airport toward the city center. You will need to transfer to Line 1 heading toward Piraeus. The entire journey takes about 60 minutes and costs a few euros.
A taxi or private transfer from the airport to Piraeus Port will take around 45 minutes to one hour and costs between £30 to £50 depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Night transfers usually cost more.
Ride sharing services like Uber are also available at Athens Airport if you prefer door to door service.
Step Two: Ferry Travel from Piraeus Port to Syros
Once you arrive in Athens, most travelers take the ferry from Piraeus Port to Syros. This is the most popular and convenient option.
About Piraeus Port
Piraeus Port is located about 12 kilometers from downtown Athens and about one hour from the airport. It is the largest port in Greece and serves thousands of passengers daily traveling to islands throughout the Aegean Sea.
The port has modern facilities including a passenger terminal, ticket offices, restaurants, cafes, and shops. There are ATM machines available and free WiFi in waiting areas.
Parking is available near the port, though it can get very busy during peak summer season. If you are driving, book parking in advance or consider arriving early to secure a spot.
The port address is: Port of Piraeus, Akti Papagoi, Piraeus 185 38, Greece.
Ferry Companies Operating to Syros
Three main ferry companies operate routes from Piraeus to Syros:
Blue Star Ferries is one of the largest and most established ferry operators in Greece. They offer both conventional and high-speed ferries with comfortable seating, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and onboard shops. Their vessels are modern and well maintained.
SeaJets specializes in fast ferry services. Their high-speed ferries are known for being efficient and relatively comfortable for shorter journeys.
Fast Ferries also operates selected routes during peak season with modern high-speed vessels.
Standard Ferry Service from Piraeus to Syros
The conventional ferries take longer but are more affordable and offer a more relaxed journey across the Aegean Sea.
Journey duration is typically four to five hours depending on weather conditions and whether the ferry makes stops at other islands. Some conventional ferries may take up to five hours and forty minutes.
Cost for a standard ferry ticket ranges from £16 to £47 per person if you book in advance. Prices increase if you purchase on the day of travel, typically reaching £54 to £68.
Standard ferries include various comfort features. Most have comfortable seating areas, restaurants or snack bars, outdoor decks where you can enjoy sea breezes, and shops. Some ferries offer cabin options if you want a more private space.
Conventional ferries run all year round from Piraeus to Syros, with multiple departures daily during summer months. In winter months from November through March, there are still regular services but fewer departures.
High Speed Ferry Service from Piraeus to Syros
If you want to save time, high-speed ferries are an excellent choice. These modern vessels make the journey from Piraeus to Syros in just two to two and a half hours.
High-speed ferries cost more than conventional ferries. Expect to pay between £30 to £54 per person if booking in advance. Day of travel prices are higher at around £54 to £68.
These ferries offer good comfort levels with air-conditioning, comfortable seating, restaurants or cafes, and onboard facilities. They are especially popular with travelers who want to minimize sea travel time.
High-speed ferries operate year-round but are most frequent during summer months from June to September. During winter months, there may be fewer departures, and some high-speed services may be cancelled due to rough sea conditions.
Ferry Schedule Times and Frequency
During the busy summer season from June to September, there are typically at least three to five departures daily from Piraeus to Syros.
In spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), there are usually two to three ferries daily.
During winter months (November to March), services continue year-round but with reduced frequency. You can generally expect at least one conventional ferry and one high-speed ferry daily.
A typical summer schedule includes:
Morning departures around 7:00 AM to 9:45 AM with journey times of two to four hours depending on ferry type.
Afternoon departures around 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM for various journey lengths.
Evening departures around 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM are also common during high season.
Ferry schedules are announced several weeks before the start of each season by the shipping companies. Always check the official websites or booking platforms for the most current schedule, as times can change.
Step Three: Inter-Island Ferry Connections to Syros
If you are already visiting other Cycladic islands, you can easily reach Syros by ferry from nearby islands.
Ferry Connections from Mykonos to Syros
Mykonos and Syros are close neighbors in the Cyclades. Two ferry companies operate this route: Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets.
The journey takes approximately 25 to 45 minutes depending on which ferry you choose. Fast ferries take about 25 to 30 minutes, while conventional ferries take closer to 45 minutes to one hour and twenty minutes.
There are typically two daily sailings during summer season, with increased frequency during peak tourist months. In winter, service continues but with reduced frequency.
The ferry departs from Mykonos Port and arrives at Syros Port in Ermoupoli. The crossing is scenic and quick, making it ideal for day-trippers.
Ferry Connections from Tinos to Syros
Tinos is another nearby island with excellent ferry connections to Syros.
The journey from Tinos to Syros is very short, taking only about 15 to 35 minutes depending on sea conditions and ferry type.
Ferries run daily during summer months, typically with multiple departures. This is one of the shortest inter-island routes in the Cyclades, making it perfect for quick island-hopping.
Ferry Connections from Paros to Syros
Paros is a larger island with good ferry infrastructure.
The journey from Paros to Syros takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes on a fast ferry or about one hour to one hour and 20 minutes on a conventional ferry.
Regular daily services operate throughout the year, with more frequent departures during summer months. This route is well served by both Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets.
Ferry Connections from Naxos to Syros
Naxos is one of the largest islands in the Cyclades and has excellent ferry connections.
The journey from Naxos to Syros takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes depending on the ferry type.
Daily ferry services operate year-round, with several departures during summer season. This is a popular route for island-hoppers.
Ferry Connections from Other Islands
Syros also connects to Santorini, Ios, Rhodes, Crete, and other islands in the Cyclades. Journey times vary but are generally well under three hours for nearby islands.
Ferry schedules for inter-island routes vary significantly by season. Always check FerryHopper or ferry company websites for current schedules, as services can change frequently.
Step Four: Getting from Airport to Town or Hotel on Syros
Syros has its own small airport called Syros Island National Airport with airport code JSY. However, flights to this airport are limited.
Flying Directly to Syros Airport
Syros Island National Airport operates flights mainly during summer months. The primary operator is Sky Express airline, which offers several flights per week from Athens International Airport.
The flight duration from Athens to Syros is approximately 35 to 40 minutes gate to gate.
The frequency varies by season. In summer months, you might find three to five flights per week. In winter, service is much more limited or may not operate at all.
Flight costs vary between £100 to £150 return depending on how far in advance you book and the season.
The advantage of flying to Syros directly is speed and convenience. However, limited frequency makes this option less practical for many travelers compared to the ferry.
Airport Facilities at Syros
Syros Island National Airport is small but functional. It has the following facilities:
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal.
ATM machines are located in the terminal building for withdrawing cash.
Two VIP lounges are available if you prefer more comfortable waiting areas.
The airport is located about 8 kilometers from Ermoupoli, the main town on Syros.
Getting from Syros Airport to Your Hotel
Once you arrive at Syros Airport, you have several transport options.
Taxi service is available at the airport. Taxis are available 24 hours a day. The journey to central Ermoupoli takes about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic and your final destination. Cost ranges from £15 to £25. Night surcharges apply for arrivals after 11 PM. You can book taxis in advance if you prefer, which is recommended during peak season.
Hotel Pickup Services may be available depending on your accommodation. Many hotels offer free or fee based pickup services from the airport. Confirm this when booking your hotel. Pre-booking is highly recommended to ensure your hotel has a driver available.
Airport Transfer Services can be arranged in advance through services like Transfeero. These offer shared minivan options or private transfer services. Shared transfers are more affordable at around £15 to £25 per person. Private transfers cost more but offer convenience and flexibility. Pre-booking is required for both options.
Rental Cars and Scooters are available at the airport if you want transportation flexibility for exploring the island. This is best arranged after settling into your accommodation rather than immediately upon arrival.
Getting from Syros Ferry Port to Your Hotel
The ferry port in Syros is located in Ermoupoli, the island’s capital and main town.
The port is located only about 3 to 4 kilometers from the town center. This is very convenient compared to many other Greek islands.
You can walk from the ferry port to nearby hotels in 5 to 10 minutes depending on which part of town you’re staying.
Bus Service from Ferry Port
Syros has a local bus service operated by KTEL bus company. Buses serve the entire island and connect major towns and beaches.
The bus hub is located right next to the ferry port, making it very convenient. From here, buses depart regularly to various destinations across the island including beach areas like Azolimnos and villages like Kini.
Bus fares are extremely affordable at just £1.60 to £1.70 per journey within the island. Summer schedules are more frequent than winter schedules.
The buses are modern, air-conditioned, and reliable. This is the most budget-friendly option for getting around Syros.
Taxi from Ferry Port
Taxis are always available at the ferry port when ferries arrive. You can queue for a taxi or call one in advance.
Cost to central Ermoupoli is typically £8 to £15 during the day. Night surcharges apply for late-night arrivals.
During peak summer season, taxis can get busy and you might wait 15 to 30 minutes during rush arrivals. Pre-booking a taxi for known ferry arrival times is highly recommended.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Many hotels in Ermoupoli offer shuttle services from the ferry port. How to arrange this depends on your specific hotel.
Contact your hotel several days before arrival to arrange a shuttle. Most hotels request advance notice.
Pre-booking is especially important if you are arriving late at night or during peak season when taxis are in high demand.
Cost varies by hotel. Some include it free, while others charge £10 to £25 depending on distance.
Rental Car or Scooter from Port
Car and scooter rental companies have offices right across the street from the ferry port at Syros Port.
If you want maximum flexibility exploring the island, renting a vehicle is ideal. However, consider renting after settling in rather than immediately upon arrival with luggage.
Scooter rentals start from around £10 to £15 per day. Car rentals range from £25 to £50 per day depending on vehicle size and season.
To rent a car, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country. EU citizens’ licenses are automatically accepted. UK, USA, and Canadian visitors should check whether an International Driving Permit is required, though most rental companies accept home country licenses.
Cost Comparison of Main Transportation Methods
| Route | Cheapest Option | Typical Cost | Fastest Option | Travel Time | Best Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| London to Syros (via Athens) | £52 flight + £16 ferry | £100-150 total | Flight + fast ferry | 8-9 hours total | Ferry only |
| USA/Canada to Syros | $450-600 flight + $30-40 ferry | $500-700 total | Direct flight + ferry | 14-16 hours total | Ferry only |
| Athens Airport to Piraeus Port | £5-10 express bus | £5-10 | Taxi | 45-90 mins | Express bus |
| Piraeus to Syros Ferry | £16 advance booking | £30-50 average | Fast ferry 2 hours | 2-5 hours | Fast ferry |
| Syros Airport to Town | £15 taxi | £15-25 | Taxi | 15-20 mins | Taxi |
| Syros Ferry Port to Town | £1.70 bus | £1.70-10 | Walking | 5-30 mins | Bus |
Total Journey Time from Major Cities
From London to Syros:
Flight time to Athens: 3 hours 35 minutes to 4 hours
Layover and connection: 2-3 hours
Ferry time Athens to Syros: 2-5 hours
Ground transport: 1-2 hours
Total: 9-15 hours
From New York to Syros:
Flight time to Athens (with connection): 10-15 hours
Layover and connection: 2-4 hours
Ferry time Athens to Syros: 2-5 hours
Ground transport: 1-2 hours
Total: 16-27 hours
From Toronto to Syros:
Flight time to Athens (with connection): 12-16 hours
Layover and connection: 2-4 hours
Ferry time Athens to Syros: 2-5 hours
Ground transport: 1-2 hours
Total: 18-28 hours
Pro Tips for Longer Journeys:
If you have jet lag from a long flight, consider spending a night in Athens before taking the ferry to Syros. This helps you adjust and gives you a chance to rest.
Book evening ferries if arriving from intercontinental flights. This gives you time to collect luggage, clear immigration, and reach the port without rushing.
Pack snacks and a water bottle for your ferry journey. While food is available onboard, having your own supplies is convenient and saves money.
What is the cheapest way to get to Syros?
The cheapest way is to book a standard ferry from Piraeus Port to Syros well in advance. Ferry tickets can be as low as £16 per person if booked several weeks ahead. Avoid day-of-travel bookings, as these cost significantly more. Flying from Athens costs more but saves time.
How long does it take to get from Athens to Syros?
From Athens city center, allow about 8 to 9 hours total. This includes 30 minutes to 1 hour getting to the ferry port, 2 to 5 hours by ferry, plus time for boarding and disembarking. If flying, it is much faster at about 1 to 1.5 hours total flight time plus airport procedures.
Can I fly directly from London, USA, or Canada to Syros?
There are no direct international flights from these countries to Syros. You must fly to Athens first, then either take a domestic flight (35-40 minutes) or ferry (2-5 hours) to Syros. Flying to Athens then taking the ferry is the most practical option for most travelers.
What should I do if I miss my ferry to Syros?
If you miss your ferry, contact the ferry company or your booking platform immediately. You may be able to book a seat on the next available ferry at no extra cost if you have a refundable or flexible ticket. With non-refundable tickets, you may lose your money. Always aim to arrive at the port at least 30 minutes before departure.
Can I bring a rental car to Syros?
Yes, you can bring a rental car from mainland Greece to Syros by ferry. However, vehicle transport costs extra, typically £30-60 depending on car size. Most rental companies will allow you to take rental cars on ferries, but you must inform them in advance. Small rental agencies may not permit island ferry travel, so confirm this before booking.
Is it cheaper to fly or take a ferry from Athens to Syros?
Ferries are typically cheaper, especially if you book in advance. A ferry ticket costs £16-30 per person if booked weeks ahead. Flights cost around £30-40 per person even with advance booking. However, flights save you 2-4 hours of travel time, which some consider worth the extra cost.
How far is the airport or ferry port from Ermoupoli town?
The ferry port is very close to Ermoupoli center, just 3-4 kilometers away. You can easily walk there in 10-15 minutes or take a cheap bus or taxi. The airport is further at about 8 kilometers away, requiring 15-20 minutes by taxi.
What happens if I arrive late at night to Syros?
Late-night arrivals are manageable. Taxis are available 24 hours, though night surcharges apply. Pre arrange hotel pickup if your hotel offers this service, as drivers will be waiting for you. Avoid relying on buses for late arrivals, as services are limited after dark. If your ferry arrives very late and you did not pre-arrange transport, consider staying one night near the port and traveling to your accommodation the next morning.