Symi Island journey: a clear guide to its colorful architecture, old fortress paths, coastal villages, secluded beaches, transport options, monasteries and practical advice for visitors
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A trip to Symi is one of the most popular tours from Rhodes. But the island doesn’t remain in the shadow of its neighbor, captivating visitors with its distinctive character. In this article, I’ll tell you about all the attractions of Symi, as well as how to get to the island, what you can do there, how to get around the island, and more.
Among dozens of Greek islands, Symi stands out for its architecture. Its colorful houses create a special character that’s hard to forget, even after visiting this piece of land in the Aegean Sea just once. But besides traditional houses, Symi has many other attractions.
Symi Island: key takeaways from this article
In this article, as always, we tried to create a detailed guide to Symi island — a gem of the Aegean Sea. The material covers all the important aspects of a trip: from landmarks and local architecture to practical tips on transport and getting around the island. For those with limited time, we recommend starting with what we consider the key sections, which we have pulled together into this separate short information block.
1. Symi island — what kind of place is it and why do people come here?
In the south-eastern part of the Aegean Sea, just 26 nautical miles from Rhodes, lies the picturesque island of Symi. Despite its modest size (11.5 by 9 km), the island impresses visitors with its unique beauty.
For its distinctive architecture, Symi is often called the “Greek Venice” — its signature feature is a cascade of neoclassical buildings descending towards one of the most beautiful harbours in Greece. The island is renowned for its cosy beaches with crystal-clear water, excellent diving spots, and captivating boat trips. The most convenient way to get here is by ferry from Rhodes, and to comfortably explore the island and all it has to offer it’s worth setting aside 2–3 days.
2. How to get from Rhodes to Symi island
The easiest way to reach Symi from Rhodes is by ferry. Departures are regular and the journey takes around 90 minutes. Tickets can be bought in advance or directly at the port.
Ferry connections: Ferries depart from the Commercial Port of Rhodes, located near the Old Town. In summer they run daily, with 2–3 sailings in each direction. The first ferry from Rhodes departs at 8:30 (arriving in Symi at approximately 10:00), and the last at 16:00. A one-way ticket costs 28–35 euro for adults. Children under 4 travel free, and children aged 4–12 receive a 50% discount.
A good alternative to this kind of trip is an organised day tour. The difference is that by choosing a tour you immediately secure return transport within a single day and take care of all the logistics and organisational questions on Symi — and the price usually also includes guide services.
For example, you can choose a standard full-day sea cruise (8–9 hours) for 50 euro per person. This includes a hotel transfer, a guided walk around Symi, and 3 hours to explore the island independently.
And for those who prefer a more comfortable experience, there are private cruises from Rhodes to Symi. For example: you can hire a private yacht for up to 10 people (1,600 euro for a full day).
3. What to see on Symi island: the best places
Symi island is a place where every tourist will find breathtaking scenery, secluded beaches, a wealth of activities — all in one place. We have grouped the best places on Symi and the reasons tourists come here into several main categories:
3.1 Natural landmarks. Symi island impresses with its rocky landscapes and crystal-clear water. For example, the Panormitis Cave, with its unique acoustics and underwater grottos. I also recommend climbing Mount Vigla (beautiful views and great photos are guaranteed). And on the island you can also find wild olive groves and cypress trees.
3.2 Bays and beaches. Among the places for a beach holiday, I can highlight Nos Beach, Saint George Bay, and Pedi Bay. These are essentially the most popular spots for active leisure, and the beauty of these places will captivate everyone.
By the way, these places can be visited on a cruise to Symi island and Saint George Bay (49 euro per adult and 30 euro per child aged 4–13, cruise duration 8 hours), or the second, also quite good option — a boat trip to Symi island and Saint Marina Bay (40 euro per adult and 25 euro per child aged 5–10, boat trip duration 8 hours).
There is also another interesting location — Marathounda Beach — a romantic spot where tourists and locals alike love to watch the sunset. You can head there on an evening cruise to Saint George Bay from the port of Hersonissos (Crete) (40 euro per person, duration 2.5 hours).
3.3 Authentic atmosphere. The main town of Symi enchants with its neoclassical buildings and narrow streets that breathe the atmosphere of centuries past. Tavernas offer seafood delicacies (I definitely recommend trying the shrimps), and at the market you can observe and immerse yourself in the everyday life of the islanders.
3.4 Historical landmarks. The Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis (the island’s main religious site), the Castle of the Knights Hospitaller (perched above the town and offering magnificent views), and ancient windmills will all tell the story of the island’s rich and fascinating history.
There are many interesting places here for lovers of history and architecture. By the way, we found a full-day trip option to Symi island and the Panormitis Monastery (45 euro per adult and 25 euro per child aged 3–9). During this tour, in addition to visiting the Panormitis Monastery, there will be the opportunity to see the symbol of the town — the Clock Tower, built in 1881.
4. Is it worth going to Symi island from Rhodes? Our view
We believe that a day trip to Symi island from Rhodes is a wonderful way to add variety to your holiday and take a break for a day from the routine of beach relaxation. During such a cruise you can simply unwind and enjoy a scenic sea voyage, admire the neoclassical mansions in the harbour, and taste fresh seafood — in particular the famous Symi shrimps.
However, the limited time (usually 4–5 hours) doesn’t allow you to fully enjoy the island, and in summer it can be hot and crowded (which sometimes gets in the way of fully appreciating the trip).
I also want to add that the best time to visit Symi island, in our view, is May–June or September–October.
Overall, I can say that it’s worth staying on the island for 2–3 days to explore it more thoroughly — but if that’s not possible, then the best way to visit Symi and see its beauty is through organised day cruises (most of them depart from Rhodes, but there are also options from the eastern coast of Crete, and even from Marmaris).
Symi Island in Greece: what this place is and why it's worth visiting
I’d like to note right away that Symi has the most beautiful harbor in Greece. On both sides of the steep fjord rise tiers of houses, some white, some pastel yellow, but almost all with neoclassical-style facades – a reminder that just 100 years ago this was one of the most prosperous islands in Greece.
There was practically no modern concrete construction here, and now these beautiful old houses are being revived for visitors. The spirit of the island remains untouched.The island is a rock, a Greek Venice, an advanced outpost opposite the Asia Minor coast – Symi Island. Local residents often refer to it as a “toy” or “doll island,” emphasizing the unique character and style of this place.
Unique architectural traditions, crystal-clear water, high cliffs – all this makes Symi one of the most beautiful and unusual islands in the Aegean Sea.
On Symi, there are monasteries, chapels, and churches. The island is a major historical and pilgrimage center. The Panormitis Monastery attracts thousands of pilgrims and is known throughout the Orthodox world. The coastline is indented with numerous natural bays.
Dozens of cozy, secluded beaches with the cleanest water, protected on all sides by rocks, are accessible only from the sea. You can reach them by boat – the island’s original taxi. That’s why Symi has firmly established itself as a land for lovers.
View of the island’s capital – Ano Symi, from the water
My top 3 reasons to visit Symi island
Symi is a gem of the Aegean Sea, drawing visitors with its unique character, historical landmarks, and picturesque bays. Here I’d like to share my three main reasons why it’s worth heading to Symi island:
- Accessibility from Rhodes. Symi is just an hour by ferry from Rhodes, making it a popular destination for day trips. What’s more, during the journey you can enjoy views of the coastline or even swim in the sea or in a beautiful bay. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
- For example, you can take a cruise to Symi island and Saint Marina Bay for 40 euro (with a swimming and snorkelling stop and a walk around Symi included in the programme).
- Or set sail on a cruise from Rhodes for 30 euro: a speedboat to Symi with free time to explore the island.
- The opportunity to swim in picturesque bays during a tour. The water around Symi is crystal clear, and bays such as Saint George and Saint Marina are accessible only by sea. Many cruises from Rhodes stop here so that tourists can dive into the turquoise waters:
- Cruise with a swimming stop at Saint George Bay: a wonderful opportunity to cool off.
- Cruise with three swimming stops: stops at the best swimming spots.
- Cruise with a visit to Panormitis and Saint George Bay: a combination of cultural and natural landmarks.
- Landmarks and a special atmosphere. Symi is a vibrant island with neoclassical buildings that create an unforgettable atmosphere. Despite its small size, Symi has many historical landmarks, such as ancient catacombs and Roman mosaics.
I especially recommend visiting the monasteries of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis and Panormitis. It feels as though almost every corner of the island breathes history and culture. And for a better exploration of its history, you can take a daily cruise to the Panormitis Monastery — an accessible and ideal opportunity to connect with the history of this incredible island.
Where Symi Island is located and its geography
The island is located in the southeastern part of the Aegean Sea. This is a border zone of Greece. The distance to the Turkish coast (Asia Minor) is only 5 nautical miles.
Symi is located north of Rhodes Island and is 26 nautical miles away from it.
The distance between Athens and Symi is approximately 255 nautical miles. The island’s dimensions: 11.5 km by 9 km. The landscape is mountainous, most of the island is covered with rocks. The highest point is 616 m above sea level (Mount Vigla).
There are no significant sources of fresh water on Symi; it’s delivered from Rhodes.
The island’s capital is the town of Ano Symi or Yialos, where most of the population is concentrated.
The Symi region includes uninhabited islands: Nimos, Chondros, Diavates, Galezino, Marmaras, Kouloundros, and Sesklia (ancient Teutlussa). These islands, together with Symi, form the so-called Dodecanese archipelago (or Southern Sporades).
Location of Symi Island on the map
Climate on Symi Island
All islands of the Dodecanese archipelago, including Symi Island, are characterized by a mild Mediterranean climate. Also, a very characteristic feature is the large number of sunny days per year (more than three hundred).
The most comfortable months for visiting are May and September; from June to August, the island is very, very hot.
Average air temperature:
- January – +14 °C
- July – +33 °C
Average water temperature:
- May – +19 °C
- July through September – +24 °C
- October – +22 °C
The coldest period, unsuitable for swimming, is considered to be from November to April. During the resort season, air temperature can exceed +40 degrees, water temperature +27 degrees.
How to get to Symi Island
You can reach Symi exclusively by sea transport, or by private helicopter. Still, I believe that most tourists prefer regular sea connections.
Between Rhodes and Symi, service is provided by the Symi II ferry. Dodekanisos Express is a ferry that operates between the archipelago islands, including Symi. Travel time is approximately one and a half hours.
The Tilos SeaStar ferry also makes regular Rhodes-Symi trips, taking about 50 minutes.
Tours to Symi from Rhodes island (the most popular direction)
The most popular sea destination from Rhodes is Symi island. Departures from Rhodes to Symi take place from the pier near the Rhodes Fortress.
- When travelling to various islands to see the sights, I recommend a motorboat trip with free time. The price of this tour is 29 euro for adults and 19 euro for children. The trip lasts approximately 6–7.5 hours, and the price includes sea transport, tour services, and a guide. The route: Rhodes – Symi, where tourists then have free time to sample the local cuisine. What makes it special? The 46-metre Neilak Tower, windmills, the Fortress of Saint Nikolaos, and an aquarium — all of these can be seen during this tour programme.
- Another wonderful option is a cruise to Symi island and Saint George’s Bay. The price of this cruise is 40 euro regardless of season (for both adults and children), and the trip lasts approximately 8 hours. During this trip tourists also visit Saint Marina Bay (the same body of water with colours like a paradise island). What I liked most about this cruise is the balance between sightseeing and free time to relax. There’s the opportunity to stroll around Symi, soak up its character, and then spend time in Saint Marina Bay, which makes this option simultaneously active and relaxing.
How to get around Symi: transport on the island
Air connections. Helicopter pads are located in the upper part of Symi town.
Sea connections. On Symi Island, in addition to regular taxis, there are boat taxis. This exotic transport is not an invention for tourists at all. The fact is that some beaches can only be reached by sea. Steep cliffs don’t allow access to the water from the land side.
Guests can rent a boat to avoid being tied to the taxi schedule. Around 6:30 PM, boat taxis usually depart from the beaches in the return direction.
City “parking” for boats and yachts
Buses. Buses run between the island’s main settlements on a single route. It starts its route in Yialos, then passes through Chorio, arrives in Pedi, and back. Tickets can be purchased from the driver.
Taxis. You can order a regular taxi by phone, hail one on the street, or ask a waiter or bartender to call a car for you.
You can also rent a car on the island. I talked in detail about car rental in Greece in this article.
To find an excellent car rental option on Symi Island and in Greece in general, based on the “price/quality” ratio, I recommend using the following three comparison services for various car rental companies: DiscoverCars, EconomyBooking, AutoEurope.
A very popular attraction on Rhodes island — renting luxury yachts and speedboats with a skipper for day trips to Symi island
Rhodes is known for its enchanting scenery and historical landmarks, but that’s not all. Another attraction on Rhodes worth paying attention to is renting a luxury yacht or speedboat with a skipper. This allows you not only to enjoy a private cruise, relax, and take in the views, but also to feel the atmosphere as if from a film — to feel like a true sailor.
The first option I liked is a private RIB boat — the key to a luxury island getaway. The price of this cruise is 2,000 euro at any time of year (expensive at first glance, but your group can be up to 20 people), and the trip lasts approximately 8 hours. Included in the price: transport, skipper services, lunch, and drinks. Particularly appealing is the ability to choose your own route (including Symi island, Lindos, beautiful bays, or swimming in the Aegean Sea on the way between Rhodes and Symi).
Snacks and an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are available at any time, so just bring your sunscreen and get ready for an exciting day!
And here is the second, also quite attractive option for a similar cruise — a private catamaran sunset cruise. An evening full of relaxation and impressions awaits: swimming in blue waters, dinner on board, and the best possible finale of stargazing. In just 3 hours, travellers can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a true Greek fairytale. The price of this private experience is 1,600 euro for a group of up to 10 people.
What to see and do on Symi Island
All arrivals to the island are greeted by the port and the surrounding neoclassical-style part of the city – a legacy from the times when Symi reached its economic prosperity through the extraction and export of sea sponges.
The upper town, Chorio, is permeated with a “web” of narrow, winding, confusing streets. The ascent there begins from Skala Square via a staircase of 500 steps (the so-called “Beautiful Way” – “Kali Strata”). At the top of the hill are the ruins of Kastro fortress, built in the 14th century by the Knights’ Order on the site of an ancient acropolis.
Streets of Symi town
A magnificent circular panorama opens from the foot of Kastro.
In Chorio, the Church of St. George has been preserved from the Byzantine period. There’s also an Archaeological Museum here.
On Symi’s territory, there are more than 500 Orthodox churches and chapels. The island’s main temple, the functioning Panormitis Monastery, built in honor of St. Michael the Archangel, is located on its southern edge. Walking tours are organized on the island, during which a guide will take you through the most picturesque corners.
Yialos (Ano Symi) – The island’s capital. The island’s largest port is located here.
This city has preserved the neoclassical character of its architecture. Cafés, taverns, restaurants, small hotels, and shops are located on the waterfront. In the evening, Yialos comes alive. Music and songs pour from clubs, young people enjoy themselves in bars to modern rhythms.
Waterfront in Ano Symi
Kastro Fortress
Getting to know the island always begins with a walk through the capital – the town of Symi. Above it are the ruins of Kastro fortress, built in the 14th century on the site of an ancient acropolis and Byzantine castle.
Above the main entrance, you can see the emblem of the Knights of St. John, and next to the fortress – ruins of early buildings. From the height of Kastro, breathtaking views of the port and sea open up. At the highest point is the chapel of Kira Panagia. From it, you can see Yialos (the lower part of town) and Chorio (the upper part).
How to get there: you can reach Kastro on foot. The climb up the hill is quite steep, so it’s worth choosing early morning or evening hours for your visit, when the heat subsides.
Additional information: within walking distance of the fortress are taverns, shops, and apartments.
Please note: from Yialos to Chorio, a picturesque old street has been laid – Kali Strata. You’ll face a climb of 500 wide steps with steep turns, but the journey is worth it. You can see unrestored houses and look at Symi from above.
Archaeological and Folklore Museum
Many traditional mansions have been preserved in the island’s capital. Once they belonged to local families. Many of them have been converted into hotels, but one mansion after restoration became a museum of archaeology and folklore. Its collection includes finds from excavation sites: Roman and Hellenistic sculptures, ceramics, weapons. The museum displays a rich collection of Byzantine artifacts: icons, manuscripts, coins.
The most impressive collection is the folklore one. Visitors can see traditional costumes of Symi Island, musical instruments, crafts, household items, and photographs capturing island life several decades ago.
How to get there: the museum is located in Ano Symi, 500 m from Kastro.
Additional information: ticket price – 2 euros, opening hours – from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Maritime Museum
The museum dedicated to Symi’s maritime history opened on the island in 1983, and in 1990 it “moved” to a picturesque neoclassical mansion.
The Maritime Museum houses old maps, ship models, and a collection of diving suits. A separate hall is dedicated to sea sponges, the extraction of which has long been the main occupation of the island’s inhabitants. The museum’s collection includes carved wooden sailboats and paintings on themes of the sea and navigation.
How to get there: the museum is located in Yialos. You can reach it on foot from the center of the island’s capital.
Additional information: open daily, ticket price – 2 euros
Roukouniotis Monastery
The Monastery of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis is one of Symi’s most famous spiritual places. The monastery was built on the ruins of an ancient sanctuary in the 5th century and is considered the oldest monastery on the island.
It took on its modern appearance in the 15th century, when the Knights of St. John built a small fortress here. By the 17th century, a monastic community was located within the fortress territory. Remote from the shore, it was protected from pirate raids.
Today, the monastery’s two churches house valuable 15th-century frescoes. The main relic that attracts pilgrims is the icon of Archangel Michael. An interesting feature of the monastery is a cypress tree that has been growing at this site for more than 100 years.
How to get there: the monastery is located 5 km from Symi’s capital. It’s best to get there by rented car.
Additional information: open daily, from early morning until sunset
Panormitis Monastery
Among the attractions of Symi Island, Panormitis Monastery occupies an important place. The exact construction date is unknown, but according to old manuscripts, it already existed in the 15th century.
Panormitis Monastery in the bay of the same name
Inside, Panormitis Monastery is decorated with Byzantine-period frescoes, and on one of them, you can distinguish the image of Archangel Michael. The monastery also houses carved wooden icons, and in two monastery museums, there’s a collection of silver icons, church vessels, folk culture items, Byzantine manuscripts (many dating to the 16th century), as well as paintings depicting Panormitis against the background of the island’s surrounding landscapes.
The monastery’s main shrine is considered to be the miraculous icon of Archangel Michael. And of course, they’ll tell you that there are numerous testimonies of pilgrims being healed from various ailments thanks to this icon.
How to get there: Panormitis Monastery is located in the village of the same name, 19 km from Symi’s capital. You can reach it by rented car. Another option is by sea from Rhodes. Ferries always make a stop near the monastery, dropping off pilgrims, and only then proceed to the island’s capital.
Additional information: entrance to the monastery museums – 2 euros. Near Panormitis, there’s a picturesque waterfront. You can drink coffee in a tavern with a sea view and stroll through Panormitis village.
Panormitis Monastery inside
Tours to the Panormitis Monastery
I strongly recommend that everyone planning a trip to Rhodes set aside one day to visit the Panormitis Monastery on the island of Symi.
One of the best ways to organise this trip is through group tours. What’s more, such tours vary considerably in duration and programme, with departure points both on Symi itself and from neighbouring Rhodes. I’d like to share the options I managed to find:
- For those looking for a relaxed, scenic break, I recommend a full-day trip to Symi from Rhodes. This trip costs 39 euro regardless of season and lasts around 6–8 hours. The price includes a cruise on the ship and free time to explore the island. I recommend bringing a light jacket, as it can be a bit windy on deck (but according to reviews, this only adds to the atmosphere). Also make sure to stop at the waterfront tavernas, where you’ll be treated to delicious food. In my view, this is the ideal option for those who want to explore Symi independently, enjoying the sea, beautiful streets, and authentic atmosphere.
- Another great option is a speedboat trip to Symi town and the Panormitis Monastery. The price is 34 euro for adults and 24 euro for children (also unchanged regardless of season). Included in the price: boat transport, a minibus transfer from Symi to the Panormitis Monastery, and a visit to a local eatery for traditional dishes (though food is not included in the price, so any snacks there will be at your own expense).
- For those with limited time, I recommend the bus trip to the Panormitis Monastery. The price is 9 euro for all seasons, and the duration is less than half a day (approximately 3 hours including the journey there and back). The price includes a bus transfer from Symi town to the monastery. This is an excellent choice for visiting this place even if you don’t have much time — and you’ll still be able to say you’ve been there, with unforgettable memories to show for it. During the trip there will be the opportunity to photograph the scenery (buses make stops at beautiful spots) and visit the museums (one ecclesiastical, one secular, though an additional 1.50 euro is required).
Villages of Symi
There are several villages on the island worth visiting during your stay on Symi:
- Emborios (3 km from the capital) is interesting for its traditional architecture. The village’s surroundings are rich in historical heritage: you can see Roman mosaics and catacombs, the Church of St. Mercurius
- Pedi (2 km from the capital) – a village with the cleanest sea, excellent fish taverns, and a calm atmosphere. It has preserved traditional colorful houses and neoclassical mansions typical of Symi. Boats depart from Pedi to nearby isolated bays
Beaches on Symi
One of Symi’s most popular beaches is Agios Nikolaos – named after the nearby Chapel of St. Nicholas. The beach has well-developed infrastructure; you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds.
Agia Marina is located at the entrance to Ano Symi bay.
Pedi – crystal-clear water. The interesting seabed landscape attracts snorkeling enthusiasts. Safe for holidays with small children. At a short distance, there are several smaller beaches.
Symi also has a pebble beach – Nos Beach.
Vacationers seeking solitude will appreciate Nanou Bay, Nimbrios, and Marathounda beaches.