Home to thousands of islands, Greece is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the planet. Every year, destinations like Corfu, Santorini and Mykonos are flooded with visitors from abroad, each looking for their very own slice of sun-kissed paradise.

Greece is also well known for its exceptional hospitality, enshrined in the ancient DNA of its people and culture. It’s no surprise therefore that one of the country’s island capitals has been listed among the most welcoming places in the world by the online travel agency, Booking.com.

At this year’s Traveler Review Awards, celebrating destinations that excel in providing first-class hospitality and customer services, the Netherlands-based agency analyzed over 309 million verified customer reviews across accommodations spanning 221 countries globally. The travel experts then curated a list of the world’s Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities.

While Brazil’s Arraial d’Ajuda claimed the top spot, boasting expansive sandy shores fringed by verdant foliage and swaying coconut palms, Greece’s picturesque Ermoupoli, capital of Syros and the Cycladic islands, came a respectable second.

Waterfront Gem

According to Booking.com, Ermoupoli’s allure lies in its “exceptional neoclassical architecture painted in attractive pastel hues, making this hillside town an eyecatcher on its own.”

In the article, travelers are encouraged to meander through the labyrinthine lanes, taking in sights like Miaouli Square, a storied marble plaza at Ermoupoli’s heart, and the grand town hall featuring a majestic 15-m staircase.

Booking.com also recommends staying at the centrally located Syros Soul Luxury Suites, “a modern bed and breakfast that offers incredible views of the city and the sea.” It also encourages readers to rent a car and explore some the island’s “incredible beaches, and quaint villages with many tavernas to enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.”

Arjan Dijk, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer for Booking.com said: “Whether it’s a tip on hidden local gems to explore at the car rental counter or a personalized welcome note from an apartment owner with recommendations for the best spots in the neighborhood to grab a bite, our partners make trips more memorable and enjoyable for our customers each and every day.” 

Timeless Elegance

Ermoupoli first emerged as a commercial and industrial giant in the 19th century, with its well-protected port becoming one of the most important shipping centers in the Aegean. A substantial portion of the city’s population was comprised of leading industrialists, merchants, bankers, and ship owners, whose influence is evident in the plethora of neoclassical buildings that now stand as a testament to the city’s rich history, effectively transforming it into a living museum.

The Ermoupoli Town Hall, one of the biggest in Greece, is regarded by some as the city’s most striking building. It was designed by German-Greek architect Ernst Ziller in 1876, and was completed over 20 years later, in 1898. The Archaeological Museum of Syros is housed inside the town hall.

Similarly, Agios Nikolaos Church, located in the town’s picturesque Vaporia district, is a stunning example of Orthodox architecture. Its striking blue dome and intricate frescoes make it a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike.

The island of Syros itself, home to a large community of Greek Catholics, boasts plenty of attractions for the discerning traveler. Visitors can relax and unwind on the golden sands of Kini Beach, a tranquil bay renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying fresh seafood at one of the waterfront tavernas, Kini Beach offers the perfect escape.

Visitors can also explore the quaint villages scattered across Syros, each with its own unique charm and character. From the stone-built houses of Galissas to the traditional windmills of Posidonia, these villages offer a glimpse into the island’s timeless beauty and traditional way of life.

Best of the rest …

Third place on Booking.com’s list of the most hospitable cities in the world is Viana do Castelo, Portugal, situated north of Porto. Adorned by the striking Santa Luiza Sanctuary basilica atop a commanding hill, the city boasts a rich maritime heritage intertwined with Portugal’s illustrious voyages of discovery.

Rounding out the top five are Daylesford, Australia, renowned for its therapeutic mineral springs, and Grindelwald, Switzerland, a lofty Alpine haven offering awe-inspiring vistas and premier hiking opportunities during the summer months.

The sole US inclusion, Moab, Utah, clinches the sixth spot, lauded as an outdoor enthusiast’s haven boasting some of the nation’s most breathtaking landscapes.

The remaining four destinations include the medieval town of Uzès in France’s Provence region, Mazatlán in Mexico—a beachfront paradise in Sinaloa—Jaisalmer in India, and Fujikawaguchiko in Japan, nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji.