Syros, the most aristocratic island of the Cyclades, a gem that elegantly dazzles with refinement and timeless charm, was our next destination. Here, we had the pleasure of experiencing a stay at an eco-friendly hotel that is literally the jewel of the island, the Argini hotel. With a hotel award from National Geographic, part of the small luxury hotels of the world, and with a Michelin for its restaurant in 2025, Argini welcomed us with open arms!

Set within a beautifully restored mansion in the historic heart of Ermoupolis, The Argini blends old-world elegance with contemporary design.

Restored by the owners as if it were their own home, every space, from the shared lounges to the private bathrooms, offers the grandeur of a stately residence, enhanced by carefully curated interior design pieces and a private art collection.

One of my favorite suites was the Victoria Suite! The suite’s ceiling murals, rich with depictions of mythical sea deities and dreamlike coastal vistas, offer an imaginative blend of Greek mythology and European sophistication. Beneath this artistic canopy lies a king-size bed, outfitted with a triple-layered mattress system designed to deliver uncompromising comfort.

Intelligent design meets refined aesthetics throughout the space. Smart home technology is seamlessly integrated, while furniture and accessories from world-renowned designers lend an air of understated luxury. Though the striking Obsidian marble in the bathroom and the intricate ceiling art capture the eye, it’s the suite’s modern comforts—underfloor heating, a spacious walk-in rain shower, dual sinks, and indulgent Bulgari amenities—that leave a lasting impression.

Another suite that I loved was the E. Ziller room. In a city where neoclassical elegance meets Cycladic charm, one suite stands out as a tribute to Ernst Ziller—the architect who left an indelible mark on Hermoupolis. The space is more than just accommodation—it’s a curated environment where high design and historical reverence meet.
Natural materials take center stage. Silver Portoro and Hermes marbles bring a dramatic contrast of texture and tone, while oak flooring adds warmth underfoot. Stone elements ground the space in permanence, and Gessi’s sleek metal bathroom fittings introduce a sculptural, modern edge.

The suite balances heritage with innovation. A king-size bed with a triple-layered mattress system anchors the room in comfort. Lighting by Buster+Punch brings a contemporary mood, enhanced by a smart system that lets guests adjust lighting scenes to their preference.

Internal blackout shutters ensure uninterrupted rest, while the bathroom offers underfloor heating and Bulgari amenities—details that elevate the stay from luxurious to unforgettable.

Food isn’t just a passion at this place—it’s a way of life. The team behind the restaurant doesn’t just love to eat; they live for the stories that food tells. They’ll happily recount, in vivid detail, meals they enjoyed years ago, and they’ve designed the dining experience here with the hope that one day, guests will do the same—reminiscing about a dish they once had on Syros, with a faraway look in their eyes.

The menu draws on the rich culinary traditions of Greece and the Cyclades, offering a thoughtful mix of the familiar and the surprising. Expect an abundance of seafood, standout cuts of Greek meat, and vegetables that are treated with reverence, transformed into something quietly extraordinary.The wine list is exclusively Greek, showcasing the country’s blossoming viticulture with bottles carefully chosen to complement the food.

Guests can dine on the rooftop, with panoramic views of Hermoupolis.

But what you’ll likely be talking about long after dinner is the bar! Amazing cocktails that aren’t just drinks; they’re layered, inventive experiences with a loyal following. There are signature concoctions, dramatic flourishes, and even a few secret recipes passed along only to those in the know. One sip might turn into a long night—and more than one guest has found themselves rearranging their holiday plans around a second visit.

The capital of Syros (and the Cyclades), Ermoupoli, is a neoclassical masterpiece. It is like stepping into a 19th-century painting. Marble-paved squares, pastel-hued mansions, and grand neoclassical buildings, like the Apollo Theater and the impressive Town Hall, reflect its rich history as a major commercial and cultural hub. This place is one of the few in Greece where Catholics and Orthodox Christians coexist harmoniously with their traditions intact and unbothered by time. Syros retains an authentic vibe with its year-round residents.
From the golden sands of Galissas and the calm waters of Kini to the secluded coves near Grammata, Syros offers pristine beaches for every person, while keeping its relaxing momentum.

Its vibrant art scene is definitely the treasure of this island. The Syros International Film Festival (SIFF) and the Classical Music Festival of the Cyclades give this place a sophisticated, cosmopolitan flair.
Don’t forget to try the Loukoumi dessert of Syros, locally made with such mastery as no other. Visit the Kriari store to get your gifts and enjoy a more artsy vibe at the Erle Art Gallery with pieces from my personal favorite, John Valyrakis!