Ermoupolis, Nisos Syros, Greece

Syros is an important island in the Cyclades, but rather off the tourist map. Just the sort of place we like. The town (named for Hermes) is the capital of the island group, and its airy Miaouli Plaza is a wonderful, palm-lined place to sit in a cafe and have a drink. The medieval Venetian village of Ano Syros crowns a hilltop nearby. Wander the narrow, cobblestone streets to the impressive 13th-century Agios Georgios church. Back in town, the Eastern Orthodox Church of the Assumption holds an icon by the Greek painter known as El Greco. A small archeological museum has some very fine Cycladic figures, and the Ermoupolis Industrial Museum recounts the island legacy of shipbuilding and other occupations.