Symi Island Guide

If you want to get away from the pace of life and rest your soul on a secluded Aegean island that will touch your heart, let me tell you a place: Symi Island. It is right next to Rhodes, but much more peaceful. Neither too crowded nor completely quiet. It welcomes you with its colorful neoclassical houses, boats sail right next to you while you drink your morning coffee, and the sounds of laughter coming from the back streets whisper how livable the island is.

How to get to Symi?

There is no airport in Symi, so there is no chance of arriving at the island as soon as you get off the plane. But this means that your journey will be more enjoyable. To reach Symi from our country, you can take direct ferries from Bodrum or use the Fethiye/Marmaris-Rhodes-Symi line. The ferries from Rhodes to Symi are regular and take only 1 hour. There are also direct Symi ferries from Bodrum, approx. There are also direct ferries from Bodrum to Symi, it takes about 90 minutes. Moreover, you can easily access ferry ticket prices and times online.

What to do in Symi?

1. Gialos: The Heart of Symi: Gialos, the harbor area, is the first sight that greets you the moment you arrive on the island. Colorful houses with neoclassical architecture, small cafes, boutiques and taverns along the shore are not enough to describe the energy of this place. Have your morning coffee in this beautiful harbor and watch the sunset in the evening.

2. Climb the Kali Strata Stairs to Horio: The 500 steps of Kali Strata are waiting for you to climb up to Horio, the old settlement above Gialos. The walk can be a bit tiring, but the houses, art galleries and quiet streets you'll see on the way are well worth it. When you reach the top, take a coffee break and look down on the harbor from below, this time from above.

3. Panormitis Monastery: Located on the southern tip of the island, this 15th-century monastery is a must-see for architecture and history buffs as well as religious believers. You can light candles inside or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Accommodation is also possible in some rooms.

Symi's Most Beautiful Beaches

Agios Nikolaos Beach: Ideal for those who want shade. There is also a small cafe on the beach.
Nanou Beach: A relaxing spot with peaceful, clear waters.
Agia Marina: For those who want to swim in the sea and eat fresh seafood.
Fokospilia: A peaceful break in nature.

Where and What to Eat in Symi?

It is impossible to spend a day in Symi and not leave a trace on your palate. On this tiny island, a shrimp, freshly baked goat meat or even just a Dakos salad with olive oil can be unforgettable. Because eating here is not just about being full; it's about sitting with the view, feeling the wind, chatting a little, slowing down a little.

Katsaras Taverna (Pedi Beach): Be sure to try the Dakos salad and roasted goat meat.
Pantelis Greek Cuisine: Elegant, delicious and plenty of variety. The seafood pasta is highly praised.
Maratonda Taverna: Family-run, warm atmosphere and a menu that tastes like home cooking.

Note

• Sunscreen and sea shoes are a must.
• Make sure you know the time of the taxi boats.
• If you want to buy souvenirs, local soaps and seashell magnets are ideal.
• There is no booming nightlife, but the peace of having a glass of wine under the stars is enough.

For accommodation suggestions, you can check our Symi Island page.