The Hidden Wonders of Syros: A Local’s View

Christos Gkolfis made Syros his home fifteen years ago, where he founded the now legendary Kouchiko bar and introduced third-wave coffee to the island.

Now owner of the dreamy cocktail bar Theosis, Christos reveals his favourite ways to enjoy the capital of the Cyclades. 

Interview by Gina Lionatos 

Christos, what do you believe sets Syros apart from its Cycladic neighbours?

Syros is unique because it combines a small city’s charm with an island’s natural beauty. Its urbanization provides a lively atmosphere, while its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural calendar ensure that Syros is full of life year-round.

In the summer of 2023, I paid a much-anticipated visit to your bar Theosis, and I was immediately taken by its energy, warmth and attention to fine quality. What is your vision behind Theosis?

Our vision was to create a complete concept, encompassing everything from the bar’s name to its design, cocktail creation, graphics, and gifts. Along with my co-founders, Natasha Polyzou and Nikos Sotiropoulos, we aimed to craft a space where the scents, flavours, and energy evoke a sense of uniqueness—a place for creating new memories. You’ll see this carried through from the communal outdoor space, to the handmade ceramics and even menu design.

Theosis, located in Ano Syros, was restored using traditional methods and materials. We focused on handmade details, ceramics, and light fittings that reflect the essence of a traditional home in Ano Syros.

Ano Syros has a special vibe of its own. Aside from Theosis, where else should people visit when in this part of Syros? 

Ano Syros, the home of Theosis, possesses a unique energy that perfectly aligns with the spirit of our bar. The fortress town’s mix of Cycladic architecture, tiny alleys and old-world Venetian charm make it a special place to be. One of my favourite spots for a memorable meal is Maison de Meze, renowned for its exceptional small plates. For fine dining and stunning views from above, Hygge is the place to go. And for a classic souvlaki, you can’t miss Hima kai Tsouvalata. Ano Syros is also a hub for exceptional artistic and creative talents, such as Fay Papanikou and Zanis Roussas, whose boutiques are definitely worth exploring. Let’s not forget to mention the breathtaking views of the South Aegean Sea!

In this writer’s opinion, anyone who visits Ano Syros must stop in at Theosis. When they do, what cocktails should they be sure to try?

At our core, we are a cocktail bar, and I take great joy in seeing people enjoy each other’s company while savouring our creations.

Eros, true to the Ancient Greek word for love, is a cocktail that balances sweetness and bitterness, featuring Campari, cherry liqueur, and homemade floral tea.

Thlipsis, our twist on a Pina Colada, is creamy and sweet, made with gin, cucumber cordial, coconut, bitter almond, and a hint of Ardbeg whiskey.

Eternity is a cocktail you’ll want to drink forever, blending rum with honey ginger syrups.

Ermoupolis, the capital of Syros, is a visually impressive city. I’m sure you have some much-loved spots! 

Ermoupolis is a wonderful mix of history and culture and the newly established Hermoupolis Heritage and the Historical Museum O Hermoupolis are spaces dedicated to preserving and restoring the island’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The team creates immersive experiences that emphasize architecture, culture, industry, and the environment, all aimed at showcasing the rich history of the island.

Ermoupolis also happens to be a haven for creatives. The city boasts a flourishing scene of designers, including Chiara Aliotta and Until Sunday agency, as well as numerous boutiques and ceramic studios. Notable names include Konstantinos Katagas, and the talented ceramists such as Sofia Trigoni and Fani Skoulikidi Boukouvala, and curators of handmade designs at Chimera Boutique, to name just a few.

Coffee, Wine, and Beyond: Epta Syros is by far my preferred third-wave coffee shop on the island. For an early, relaxed spritz, try MouSouTou. If you’re interested in local spirits, Makrionitis Distillery provides every type of tsipouro you can imagine. Lastly, I must mention my first venture in Syros, Kouchico, which has a bustling energy until the early morning hours. All the best nights in Syros usually end at the old-school bar, Boheme Del Mar.

Syros boasts many villages and towns with something special to offer. Tell us some of your favourites.

The villages of Episkopio and Xroussa are ideal for exploring on foot. Kini offers the undisputed best sunset on the island. 

Poseidonia and Finika are favoured seaside towns. San Michali, on the northern part of the island, is home to Xatzakis Winery which boasts local grape varieties. 

Finally, we at IN+SIGHTS GREECE are all about the food! Where can we find you dining out? 

Syros offers a wealth of exceptional dining options. Some of my favorites are Lygeros and Steadi Kafeneio on the north side of the island for traditional Greek cuisine and dishes. Revans, located in the old market of Ermoupolis, serves tastefully simple plates alongside coffee, ouzo, and tsipouro. Mikraki is a beautifully traditional mezedopoleio, and just a few meters away in the same stenaki (small alley), you’ll find the new-age kafeneio, Laoutari.

Theosis is located at Piatsa, Ano Syros, and operates from 6.30 pm – 2.30 am during the summer season. 

Step Inside Ermoupoli’s Most Elegant Boutique Hotel

Housed in a stunningly restored mansion in the historical centre of Ermoupoli, the Aristide Hotel, which opened in mid-2020, combines old-world elegance with contemporary design and comforts. 

The mansion, with its show-stopping marble staircase and Doric columns, is an architectural gem highlighting Greek neoclassical and art deco styles. Not to mention the open-air and garden-style terrace, with its divine luxe style furniture facing out towards the Aegean Sea, neighbouring Cycladic islands and the aristocratic neighbourhood of Vaporia. 

Having been beautifully restored by its owners- from the moment guests arrive- they are able to enjoy the airy and inviting features of a grand mansion that’s been delicately filled with celebrated interior design pieces and a private art collection. 

Location 

Set in the Vaporia neighbourhood, the beach is only an eight-minute walk away, as is the town centre and the imposing main square of Ermoupoli. Located near the waterfront in the heart of the city, Aristide Hotel is well placed for seeing the major sights of this elegant town, known for its neoclassical architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Syros (two hours with a fast ferry from Athens) boasts lovely beaches and a cosmopolitan lifestyle; and the hotel is close to the Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli, Miaouli Square and Neorion Shipyards. 

Style & Feel

Luxurious, chic and aesthetically pleasing, the grand mansion makes you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time with stunning ornate ceilings and Doric columns, combined with contemporary furnishings, lighting, and a wonderful collection of vivid artwork on display. This old-world charm blends in beautifully with the modern materials, textures and colours used to enhance the original architecture. Greek marble is at the heart of the hotel (nine types of local marble has been used throughout) adding an opulent finish.  

Suites 

Having been transformed into a luxury hotel, the mansion features nine charming suites, each individual in its design. All present bright and bold colour schemes, designer furnishings and eclectic paintings on the walls. Full of character; almost all suites boast five-metre high ceilings, sea views, balconies or terraces, and private plunge pools or stone bathtubs. All suites also feature rain showers, marble bathrooms, solid oak flooring and doors, dimmable lighting and Bluetooth speakers.

Food & Drinks 

The hotel offers a buffet and à la carte breakfast, champagne breakfast, and brunch, with a focus on local, seasonal and organic ingredients, and Cycladic recipes. The menu includes dishes such as Tirititim eggs, San Michali saganaki and tomato spoon sweet, or zucchini tart with yoghurt. Breakfast is served in the garden and in the evening guests are invited to the rooftop bar, with its stunning views of the sea and neighbouring islands. The cocktail menu is developed in collaboration with renowned bartender Christos Gkolfis and is focused on well-executed classics, while the wine list offers the best of Cycladic and Greek wines. 

Ideal for…

Aristides is the ideal place for guests seeking luxury, privacy, quality service and comfort. It’s also the perfect place for a romantic escape, and for those who truly appreciate design, arts and culture. 

Facilities & Services 

In addition to the nine suites, the boutique hotel with a focus on design, art and sustainability, hosts an art gallery, an artists’ residence and workshop, and two bars. 

  • Airport / Port Transfer Service
  • Wi-Fi
  • Art Gallery
  • Bar Restaurant
  • Snacks, Light Meals
  • Beach Towels
  • Beauty Treatment (on request)
  • Boat Trips
  • Car & Motorbike Rental
  • Concierge
  • Garden
  • Laundry & Ironing Service
  • Library
  • Lobby Lounge
  • Massage

A: Babagiotou 27, Ermoupoli, Syros 

Ermoupoli, the Most Aristocratic Town of the Cyclades

Without a doubt, the majestic capital of Syros and the prefecture of the Cyclades will fascinate you. From the moment the ferry approaches the port of Ermoupoli, you will sense the incomparable beauty.  

If Ermoupoli was a woman, she would be an aristocratic one at that, modern and at the same time traditional, with the charm of a past era. Some days you will see her walking in all her beauty and in a classy manner; dressed in a long gown, carrying an umbrella to protect her pretty skin from the sun. You will discover aspects that reveal her delicate elegance, her sweet romance, and her gentle origins. On other days she will inspire you with her independence, strength, and will for life and adventure. Then you will catch her smiling at the countless flashing lights from the decks of the ships like a movie star. The lady of Ermoupoli begins her day with a coffee at Ermou Street, then swims in vast green-blue waters at Asteria beach, tastes traditional flavours during a late lunch before wandering the small charming streets like a young child in a candy store. And when the sun is preparing to dive into the sea, she slowly rides her bicycle along the pretty promenade, where everything looks beautiful and few things stand out; the stunning architecture, the warm sun, and the magic of the sea. 

Insights Greece - Ermoupoli, the Most Aristocratic Town of the Cyclades
Wander around the most beautiful town in the Cyclades

In the afternoon you would find her devouring loukoumia (Greek sweets) at the square, under the imposing building of the Town Hall. Then she tests her luck at the casino. She would also be a culture lover and find joy in the theatre, museums, painting, and photography exhibitions. She would read Roidis and Manos Eleftheriou and she would listen to Markos Vamvakaris. After all, he wrote a song for her, the famous “Frankosyriani” with the Greek lyrics “Mia fountosi, mia floga echo mesa stin kardia. Les kai magia mou cheis kanei fragkosyriani glykia” – “I have a flush, a flame in my heart. As if you did magic on me, sweet Frankosyriani.” (Catholic girl from Syros).

The city of Ermoupoli is the lush fruit of the hard labor of local refugees who came to the island after the Revolution of 1821 from Chios, Psara, Kassos, Kydonia, and Smyrna. Syros was another “land of promise” for them because the war had not touched the island as it was under the protection of France. Ermoupoli means “The City of Hermes”, the God of commerce and in fact, it was the primary port of Greece. During these years the population reached 14,000 and Ermoupoli had one of the first post offices in Greece, a hospital, an opera house, the oldest high school in Greece and a private school for art and culture, a municipal orchestra, the historical Neorion Shipyards, an orphanage, a sanitarium and much more. But above all, it had the most amazing 19th-century architecture, very different from the rest of the Cycladic islands. In other words, “Greece was reborn in Syros,” as the late politician Eleftherios Venizelos once said. 

Insights Greece - Ermoupoli, the Most Aristocratic Town of the Cyclades

The first landmark you should definitely visit is the majestic Syros City Hall, designed by famous German architect Ernst Ziller, the most impressive Town Hall of all Greece. Its inviting design draws architecturally on three different styles: Tuscan, Ionic, and Corinthian. It dominates the historic Miaoulis square, one of the largest marble-covered squares in Greece, since 1898. The Town Hall now houses the courts, the land registry, the archaeological museum, and other various public bodies and municipal services.

Another significant attraction of the city is the Apollo Theatre, an extraordinary building of 1864 that is said to be a miniature of the Milan Scala but in reality, it’s the colour that connects the two theatres. The Apollo Theater first opened its doors with an Italian theater troupe, which among other performances staged the famous Italian opera La Traviata. Apollo’s stage has hosted great operas and operettas and also holds local amateur theatrical plays, cultural events, and the annual ‘Ermoupolia’ summer festival.

And this is just the start. The Cycladic Art Museum, the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the church of Agios Nikolaos, the church of Resurrection, the Industrial Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Vaporia Quarter will make you realise why this place is a living museum and Syros is an island for all seasons.

Images by Polina Paraskevopoulou © (Copyright) 

Step Inside an Alluring Luxury Villa in Syros

This luxury villa in Syros gracefully blends modern living with the earthy and timeless characteristics of the Greek islands. Featuring natural handcrafted materials, serene neutral colours, and a simple design concept, the result is a luxurious sense of comfort and style.

Owners Ilektra and Giorgios have added a poolside jacuzzi, a cinema under the stars, a secluded cave, and a vegetable garden to Villa Syros.

“Our house is both a little design project and a very practical and spacious family home,” says Ilektra.  

Insights Greece - Step Inside an Alluring Luxury Villa in Syros

Situated on a secluded hill on this beautiful Cycladic island, this place is the perfect spot for a relaxing holiday with family and friends. The villa boasts five bedrooms and offers a stunning view of the Aegean Sea and the Cycladic islands, with its modern yet welcoming design and an infinity pool with sun terraces- that will tempt you to spend the entire day catching the sun.

Surrounded by olive trees and several herbs including lavender, rosemary, thyme, and oregano, here you can totally relax and take in the natural surroundings. When you step inside the house you immediately feel as though you are entering a home away from home. The modern design, the raw materials, and the stone-washed fabrics offer a sense of style and coziness. 

Insights Greece - Step Inside an Alluring Luxury Villa in Syros

The villa features several common areas including a living room with a chic open kitchen, an infinity pool with an adjacent jacuzzi, a BBQ and lounge areas as well as several sundecks.

Touches of traditional Cycladic architecture are highlighted throughout the entire home and blend perfectly into the landscape. While the airy interior design includes traditional handcraft pieces based on chosen natural materials and high-quality fabrics with minimal design. It is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as a central under-floor cooling/heating system in all rooms, automatically controlled humidity regulation, and a geothermal heat pump. 

Insights Greece - Step Inside an Alluring Luxury Villa in Syros

The villa was built using locally sourced natural materials with two main objectives: to provide an extraordinary experience to its guests and to give the feeling of being ecologically in tune with the natural surroundings of the Kokkina mountain.

The earthy and warm wood and stone materials give it a very comfortable and cozy feel – and each piece of furniture has been carefully hand-picked to ensure guests find plenty of spots to unwind and destress. 

It’s the perfect place for couples looking for a romantic getaway, families that wish to spend quality time together, and friends wanting to gather at the same place to celebrate a special occasion. 

Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches

From the famous Cyclades to the most remote islets, whitewashed churches blend in beautifully with the picturesque landscapes in Greece. Here is a small list compiling some of the most stunning sacred places found on the Greek islands! 

Monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos, Patmos

The Monastery of Saint John is one of the most important religious sites in Greece, located on the holy island of Patmos. It is built next to the cave where Saint John wrote the Book of Apocalypse (Revelation).

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos, Patmos @yourgreekisland

Seven Martyrs, Sifnos

Sifnos is said to be home to 336 churches. Located in a picturesque setting, the Church of the Seven Martyrs is situated near the small village of Kastro, on top of an islet. Its white and blue dome stands out against the crystal blue waters of the sea.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Seven Martyrs, Sifnos

Panagia Ekatotapiliani, Paros  

The Church of 100 Doors is situated in Parikia and is said to be one of the earliest Byzantine churches in Greece, built in the middle of the 4th century. Legend has it that the church has 99 visible doors, with the hidden, locked 100th door set to appear and open only when Constantinople becomes Greek again.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Ekatontapiliani, Paros @greeka

Panagia Megalochari, Tinos

Located on the island of Tinos, this is one of the holiest sites in Greece, as Panagia (Virgin Mary) is said to have visited the island and Panagia Megalochori is said to be the protector of the country. It was constructed on top of a hill where people found the icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to be the source of miracles.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Megalochari, Tinos @travelgreecetraveleurope

Panagia Hozoviotissa, Amorgos

This is one of the most important Byzantine monuments in the Aegean standing on the slopes of Amorgos island. This impressive 11th-century structure built into the face of a cliff is 300 meters above the sea, where a miraculous icon of the Virgin, patron saint of the island, was found. 

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Hozoviotissa, Amorgos @amorgosgr

Agios Isidoros, Chios

Located on a bay with a small pebbly beach, it’s without a doubt one of the most photographed places on the island. The chapel was built on the ruins of an Early Christian temple, and the interior filled with mosaic floors holds the holy relics of Agios Isidoros.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Agios Isidoros, Chios @explorechios

Agios Ioannis, Skopelos

Perched atop a cliff near the village of Glossa, pilgrims have to climb 106 steps to reach it, but they are always rewarded for their efforts; the impressive vistas from the church are worth every single step.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Agios Ioannis, Skopelos @afar

Panagia Tsambika, Rhodes 

Known for the many miracles in helping couples conceive, thousands of pilgrims walk up 300 steep steps to visit the Holy Monastery of Panagia Tsambika. Perched at an altitude of some 240 m, it offers some truly spectacular views of the coast.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Tsambika

Agia Sofia, Kythira

 Agia Sofia is situated inside a cave overlooking wild landscapes and the Aegean Sea. Amongst other holy items you will find fresco icons from the 13th century. 

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Agia Sofia, Kythira

Panagia Kalamiotissa, Anafi 

Perched atop the promontory of Kalamos, which is connected to the rest of Anafi by a narrow stretch of land; the church was built in the 19th Century with many ruins from a temple dedicated to the god Apollo.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Kalamiotissa, Anafi

Panagia Makrini, Samos

Panagia Makrini was built during the 10th century as part of a larger monastery and bones from previous ascetic monks were also found here. Visiting this site involves an easy hike through a lush forest and caves surrounded by turquoise.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Makrini, Samos

Agios Spyridonas, Santorini

The famous worldwide postcard of a white church with a blue dome belongs to the church of Agios Spyridonas and just behind it is another blue-domed church, Anastasios (Resurrection).

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Agios Spyridonas, Santorini @ansharimages

Agia Paraportiani, Mykonos 

Paraportiani lies behind Little Venice and the famous windmills, this stunning church is one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. 

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches

Panagia Tourliani, Milos

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary it’s located in Klimatovouni, a hill above the area of Klima- boasting old icons and courtyards overlooking the bay of Adamantas.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Tourliani, Milos

Panagia Chrysopigi, Sifnos 

This famous church was built in 1615 as a home to an icon of Zoodochos Pigi (the life-giving spring, that is the Virgin Mary) that was salvaged from the sea by fishermen.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Chrysopigi, Sifnos

Koimisi Tis Theotokou, Folegandros 

Built into the side of a steep hillside overlooking the main town of the island, the church is famous for its icon of Panagia, which was brought over from Constantinople and is said to perform miracles.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Koimisi Tis Theotokou, Folegandros

Panagia Kakaviotissa, Limnos

This “roofless” church, sits on top of a cave in which it’s nestled, in a crag on Mt Kakavos, 4 kilometers from Myrina. The church dates back at least to 1305 when it became a branch of the Great Lavra Monastery of Mount Athos.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Panagia Kakaviotissa, Limnos

Agios Stefanos, Syros

According to tradition, the church of Agios Stefanos was built by a fisherman named Stephanos from the nearby village of Galissa, who was threatened by a huge octopus that was pulling him to the sea. He made a vow to Agios Stephanos to save him and so he built the chapel in this secluded crag in his honour.

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Agios Stefanos, Syros

Panagia tou Charou, Leipsoi

This church is located on the hillside southeast of the capital of Leipsoi, a small island located south of Samos. It is home to the only icon in which the Virgin Mary is not holding Jesus Christ as a child, but rather after his crucifixion. 

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches

Kyra Panagia, Karpathos

The church stands out for its red dome and is located on the southeastern side of the island. It was built in traditional style with whitewashed walls and features a small terrace that offers amazing views of the Aegean Sea and to the bay of Kyra Panagia. 

Insights Greece - Greek Islands 20 Most Breathtaking Churches
Kyra Panagia, Karpathos @cafekarpathos

Cover image @ansharimages

20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

With breathtaking sea views, laid-back vibes, and lush cocktails- there are so many beautiful beachfront bars all over Greece, where you can relax and unwind all day and night! And although the list can go on forever, we’ve rounded up our Top 20! 

Hydronetta, Hydra  

Embraced by rocks and enwrapped by the sea of Hydra, this beach offers a magical spot to swim and dive. And when you are done you can sit at one of the little tables shaded with straw umbrellas to enjoy the breathtaking sunset. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Scorpios, Mykonos

This bohemian-luxe social club by the sea comes complete with a restaurant, boutique, bar, and event space. It’s one of the island’s most popular spots, so it’s a good idea to get here early over the peak summer season. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece
image @annabellkutucu

Ftelia, Mykonos

Retro hues of ochre and burnt orange add a summery warmth to this beach bar that has talented chefs on site creating fresh seafood dishes and homemade desserts to accompany your drink of choice. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Nammos, Mykonos 

This is where the world’s rich and famous gather every summer to enjoy the much-loved Mykonos vibe. From Jon Bon Jovi and Mariah Carey to the world’s best football players and Victoria’s Secret models- you are bound to spot a celebrity. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

 La Grotta Beach Bar, Corfu

Built in the 60s in a little cove near Paleokastritsa, this cool beach bar still draws huge crowds each summer. The bar is open all summer long from morning until late at night so you can have an exotic cocktail overlooking the illuminated bay below.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Piedra del Mar, Corfu  

This exclusive beach bar is set over three levels. Starting with the sun loungers, located a step away from the sea, it continues to a lounge bar for drinks and ends with a fine restaurant for a late lunch or dinner. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Copla Beach Bar, Lefkada

Set right next to Kathisma, one of the most striking beaches on the Ionian, this beautifully designed bar compliments the stunning surroundings. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Sorokos Bar, Koufonisia  

Set right next to the beach, this bar offers the most relaxing summer afternoons, while your nights will liven up with the music of their guest DJs and superb cocktails. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Krabo, Athens Riviera

Perfectly located on a secluded bay in the exclusive Kavouri area, here you can soak up the Greek sun on full-service sunbeds and wooden cabanas or head to the restaurant to enjoy a Mediterranean lunch or dinner under the pergola. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Astir Beach Bar, Athens Riviera

A high-end beach bar with stylish cabanas, here you can sit back and unwind as waiters take your order. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Ciel, Syros

This romantic all-day restaurant and beach bar in the heart of Syros serves Greek and Mediterranean dishes, plus lush cocktails and a huge selection of Greek wines. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Kalypso Beach, Crete

This is one of the most unique beaches in Greece. Set in its own secret cove a short drive from the beach village of Plakias in Crete, you come here to swim, snorkel, soak in the sun while enjoying a refreshing drink. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Agistri Bar, Halkidiki

For a casual place to spend all day and night in Halkidiki, head to Agistri, where the water is crystal clear and the vibe is refreshing.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece 

KOHI Beach Bar, Halkidiki

This bar is located on one of the most beautiful beaches of Halkidiki. The blue water and the pines that almost reach the sea make this majestic spot one of a kind!

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Sotos Beach Bar, Aegina

Located in Agia Marina, here sunbeds spread over formations of rocks, and the sea is entered into by diving off them. Then sit back and enjoy drinks and casual dishes as you watch the sunset. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Soros Beach, Antiparos

For a casual yet chic experience, head to Soros where you are served refreshing tailor-made cocktails and a great selection of regional and international wines. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Kaiki Beach Club, Spetses

A short walk away from the centre of Spetses town, you can chill out on comfortable wooden cushioned loungers or a cabana, as the beach attendants will serve you anything you choose from the beach bar or restaurant menu, until sundown.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Tinos Surfing Lessons, Tinos

Kolymbithra is one of the best beaches in Tinos and Tinos Surf Lessons beach bar makes it even more unique. A small camper van converted into a bar, the wooden tables and chairs and umbrellas shaped like mushrooms and woven by local basket-makers make this small beach bar a place you will never forget.

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Kavos Lounge Bar, Skyros

From stepped terraces cut out of the rocks, you can dive straight into the sea and jump onto a paddleboard. Then you can make your way back up and enjoy the views while sipping on a cocktail. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Limanakia Vouliagmenis Bar, Athens Riviera

Set between the coastal suburbs of Varkiza and Vouliagmeni, by day, you can swim off the rocks and at night you can enjoy a drink as you sit back and take in the Athens Riviera. 

Insights Greece - 20 Best Beachfront Bars in Greece

Main Image: Scorpios Mykonos