Symi is one of the smaller islands in the Greek Dodecanese group. It lies north of Rhodos at only 9km from the Turkish coast. The island Symi is a popular destination for day trippers as it is only an hour ferry ride from the port of Mandraki in Rhodos.
While approaching the port of Symi, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of pastel painted houses constructed on the slopes of the surrounding hills. Beautiful villages and beaches are found in a walking distance from the port, offering a nice opportunity for hiking. Make a cultural trip to the southwest coast or relax in one of the secluded coves of the island, before you savor an evening meal in one of the many welcoming tavernas.
Symi Town
The main town of Symi Island distinguishes for its impeccable architecture and the easy-going atmosphere. The city is divided into two parts: the area at the harbor, called Gialós, and the bordering one on the slopes of the hills, called Chorió, which means “village.”
The harbor of Symi “Gialós”
Gialós
Gialos beauty is, without doubt, its elegant mansions – painted in indigo, ochre, and terracotta, with red tiled roofs and cute little balconies. They all have an astonishing view of the sea. In fact, Simi island has one of the most remarkable ports of all the Greek islands. A clock tower dominates the entrance of the harbor. Right in front of it stands the statue of the fisher boy, Michalaki, meaning little Michael, which seems to be welcoming visitors to the island.
The Town Hall, the Cathedral, and the Maritime Museum of Symi are the main sights in this part of the town while the promenade in the harbor invites you for a romantic evening stroll.
Indigo, ochre and terracotta colors
Chorió
The upper part of the town can be reached via a stone stairway of 500 steps. The locals call these stairs “Kalí Stráta” which means “good way”. When you take this walkway, you have a magnificent view over Gialós.
Chorio boasts some impressive churches, that – if you like it – are worth a visit. In the central square, people enjoy their lunch while others meet their friends for a coffee. High up in Chorió, you find the Byzantine Kástro which in principle are the remainders of a castle that the Knights of St John built here in the 14th century.
Small streets in the Old Town
Monastery of Archangel Michael
One of the most famous landmarks of Symi is the monastery of the Archangel Michael of Panormitis on the southwest coast. The original monastery dates back to 450 AD and is still popular with pilgrims from across Greece. It is situated in a spectacular setting between mountains and the sea, overlooking the bay of Saint Michael.
The monastery of Archangel Michaël in Symi
Pristine Beaches of Symi
There is no lack of beaches on Symi. Here you find sandy beaches as well as pebble beaches. One thing they have in common, they’re surrounded by incredible clear water. Symi has many isolated beaches that are hidden in secluded bays and reachable only by water taxi. In these calm bays, snorkeling is a favorite activity.
Explore Symi by boat
Greek Cuisine
If you go to a charming bar by the sea, a fine-dining restaurant or a traditional ouzo and meze taverna, they all serve many delicacies, among which plates full of fresh fish, stuffed cabbage leaves with fava, goat cheese, and much more. My favorite is always the traditional Greek salad. What you should not miss are the famous little shrimps that come from the beautiful sea of Symi.
Typical Greek Salad
Getting there?
There is no airport on Symi. The quickest way to reach the island Symi is to fly to Rhodes, and then take the ferry from Mandraki Harbor to Symi. Also from the island Kos, you can take a ferry to Symi.
With the boat to Symi Island (Picture by Omar El Mrabt)
[The “off-the shoulder stripe dress” is from DressLily and one of my favorite dresses]