The gorgeous little island loved by pensioners that's 21C in October

With over 200 inhabited islands dotted across Greece, it's incredible that most tourists only ever explore some of its most famous, like Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu, when there is so much to see. In fact, there is a small but gorgeous island boasting crystal clear waters and beautiful towns that has maintained a hidden gem reputation despite being justa 30-minute ferry ride away from the famous party island of Mykonos.

Syros, also known as Syra, covers an area of just 32 square miles and is part of the Cyclades archipelago, which also includes Santorini and Naxos. It is also just 78 nautical miles southeast of Athens, so is perfect for those wishing to partake in a bit of island hopping. Pensioners in particular love Syros for its less touristy nature, wealthy and self-sufficient atmosphere, as well as its rich cultural heritage, blending Venetian and Greek styles. Home to around 20,000 people, Syros boasts everything from postcard-perfect beaches to street art, music festivals and even film events at many of its villages.

Its largest towns are Emoupoli, the capital of not just the island but the entire Cyclades, Ano Syros and Vari. In fact, Emoupoli was once such an important port town that it was even more significant than Piraeus. Emoupoli stands on a naturally amphitheatrical site, with neo-classical buildings, old mansions and white houses covering the hillside down to the harbour. Dubbed the "City of Hermes", Syros has numerous churches, such as Metamorphosis, Koimisis, St Demetrius, Three Hierarchs, Anastasis, Evangelistria and St Nicolas.

Ano Syros is the second town on the island, built in the 13th century northwest of Ermoupoli. Here, visitors can find narrow streets lined with houses with colourful doors, which lead to the top of the town via marble steps. The Catholic cathedral of Saint George dominates the town, and from here, you can see panoramic views of not just the rest of the island but also across to neighbouring islands, including Mykonos, Paros, Delos, and Tinos.

Syros is not short of its own local specialities. In restaurants across the island, tourists can try various salads, like Kaparosalata (with capers) or Maidanosalata (with parsley), fried tomato balls called tomatokeftedes and pastelaria, a dried fig dessert.

The beaches in Syros are considerably less busy than those of more popular Greek islands, perfect for those looking for a relaxing seaside getaway. Galissas beach is one of the best on the island, guests can swim in the clear waters, relax on the golden sand, and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine in the tavernas of the nearby village. The chapel of Agia Pakou, which is located by the beach, offers incredible views of the island.

Visiting in October is the perfect time for those wishing to avoid any crowds that do descend during the summer, not to mention significantly cheaper prices. Temperatures are mild and sunny, providing ideal conditions for exploring the island's sights without the intense heat of summer. Average daily high temperatures hang around 21C and over seven hours of sunshine, with sea temperatures also lingering around 21C - still warm enough to enjoy.

Unlike some other Cycladic islands, Syros has a significant permanent population, so most tavernas, shops and services remain open year-round.

Syros is served by one airport, the Syros Island National Airport "Dimitrios Vikelas". Opened in 1991, it operates direct flights to Athens year-round, as well as seasonal flights to Thessaloniki. Alternatively, you can hop on one of the quick ferries from neighbouring islands, including Mykonos, Rhodes and Santorini. Ferryhopper and Direct Ferries are useful websites to check ferry schedules, compare prices and book tickets.