Syros

Ermoupoli is the capital of Syros and the Cyclades. Syros Port, a pulsating, almost town-like place with a pastel-coloured sea of houses, where even the approach is an adventure. Visitors are greeted by neoclassical buildings, such as the grand town hall or the opera, which both bear witness to the former metropolis. Ermoupoli is a very vibrant place with many excellent restaurants and taverns, lovely street cafés and dozens of small stores. The many ferries splutter out new endless streams of tourists during the season who then blend in with the many locals. Yachts moor stern-to in the northern part of the harbour basin. The many ferries generate a heavy swell which means long shore lines and a taut anchor chain are definitely needed. When the harbour is full and sailing yachts are moored right next to each other, make sure the the masts are offset and do not keep slamming into each other when there is a swell. At the bend in the centre of the quay a pipe releases sewage in to the harbour, resulting in noticeably unpleasant odours. As is so often the case in Greece, the port is in the centre of the town and so you only have to cross the street to find the first taverns, cafés, ouzerias and stores. Consequently, it can also get loud at night. The shopping amenities are excellent. It is worth visiting the market street nearby, but it is nothing for the faint-hearted – skinned sheep hang on hooks next to beheaded chickens here.