Symi Island

Symi Island: A Hidden Gem Near Rhodes

📍 Location: Aegean Sea, Greece (Less than 1 hour from Rhodes)
🌿 Best for: Relaxation, cultural immersion, and watersports

🏝️ Why Visit Symi?
✔️ Charming, colorful neoclassical buildings lining the harbor
✔️ Serene & authentic Greek island experience – away from mass tourism
✔️ Historical sites like the Monastery of Archangel Michael
✔️ Ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and boating

🗺️ Things to Do in Symi

1️⃣ Explore Symi Town (Gialos) 🌅
✔️ Stunning pastel-colored buildings & a lively waterfront
✔️ Local tavernas & cafes serving fresh seafood and Greek delicacies
✔️ Shop for natural sea sponges & local crafts

2️⃣ Visit the Monastery of Archangel Michael 🏛️
✔️ The most important religious site on the island
✔️ Originally built in the 6th century, restored in the 18th century
✔️ Houses sacred relics and impressive frescoes

3️⃣ Relax on the Best Beaches 🏖️
✔️ Nos Beach – close to town, with sunbeds & crystal-clear waters
✔️ Nanou Beach – secluded, accessible by boat, perfect for snorkeling
✔️ Marathounda Beach – quiet & ideal for a peaceful swim

4️⃣ Enjoy Watersports & Fishing 🎣
✔️ Snorkeling & diving in the island’s clear blue waters
✔️ Fishing excursions – try your luck with a local fisherman
✔️ Boat trips to explore hidden coves & nearby islets

5️⃣ Hike to the Kastro of Symi 🥾
✔️ Offers panoramic views over the town & harbor
✔️ Walk through historic ruins & charming stone pathways

🏨 Where to Stay in Symi?
🏡 Top Symi Hotels & Guesthouses:
✔️ Aliki Hotel (Luxury, Gialos) – boutique hotel with sea views
✔️ Opera House Apartments (Mid-range, Gialos) – traditional & charming stay
✔️ Kokona Hotel (Budget, near the port) – cozy & affordable

🚢 How to Get to Symi?
🚢 By Ferry:

From Rhodes: ~50 minutes (daily ferries available)
From Athens (Piraeus): ~13 hours (overnight ferry)
🚤 By Private Boat:

Many visitors take a day trip from Rhodes via organized boat tours

🏆 Why Symi Should Be on Your Travel List
✔️ One of the most picturesque islands in the Dodecanese
✔️ Relaxed, authentic Greek atmosphere – perfect for escaping crowds
✔️ Rich history & cultural sites with stunning monastery and castles
✔️ Crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing