All The Things You Don’t Want to Miss in Symi, Greece!

Looking for the best things to do in Symi, Greece? I planned the perfect picturesque trip to this Greek island and want to help you do the same!

For those who don’t know, Symi is a beautiful Greek island located on the southwest coast of the Dodecanese island group. It’s a sight unlike the stereotypical Greece seen in advertisements and postcards.

Only 34 nautical miles from Rhodes, it is ideal for a quick little getaway. This hidden gem is filled with many things to do, delicious food, and all the secluded beaches you want on holiday!

In this post, I will give you a complete guide to all the best things to do on the little island of Symi, including where to eat, the must-see spots, and hidden treasures that will make your trip unforgettable!

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Rhodes to Symi: How to Get to Symi Island

Most visitors to Symi come from Rhodes because the islands are so close. The main ferry terminals in Rhodes and Symi are conveniently located.

The ferry terminal in Rhodes is located at the edge of the old town and in Symi, right smack in Symi town center.

Whether you have arrived via ferry services from Dodekanisos Seaways or Blue Star Ferries, everything is within just a short walk.

You won’t have to rush around to see everything since it’s a tiny Greek Island.

The journey from Rhodes to Symi Island is quick. The ferry will take about 90 minutes, and either company is a good choice.

If you are coming to this magical island alone for a quick day trip, there is plenty to do!

When To Visit Symi Island

The best time to visit the port town of Symi is the shoulder season, which is right at the start or end of the busy season.

I would suggest either the end of May or anytime in September.

The end of May and the whole month of September often offer great weather with half the amount of people.

I also seem to find the best deals with accommodations in the shoulder seasons.

Keep in mind the Greek Islands are mostly closed from October till May.

What To Do in Symi, Greece

When visiting the peaceful island of Symi, there are many things to do with your time!

The island has a few main sights, but ideally, you come here to relax!

The island offers hiking trails, a mountainous landscape, and some of the most beautiful beaches with sun umbrellas.

Symi Greece is one of the perfect island hopping destinations in the Dodecanese Islands!

Here are the top things to do in Symi, Greece. Ranked in no particular order. If I were visiting Symi alone or with a partner, these are the must-see attractions in this lovely place.

#1. Explore Symi Town

I love a little fishing village, and Symi is one of the most picturesque places I have ever visited.

You can spend an hour or so strolling through the main village, admiring the beautiful bay, and browsing in the local shops.

Several cafes and restaurants are down little alleyways for a refreshing drink or snack.

One of the best things to do in Symi is picture-taking! I spent hours just taking photos and soaking up the atmosphere.

There were fewer people since this island is a little more remote than other Greek islands.

#2. Water Taxi Boat Trips

Take a small boat tour around this picturesque Greek Island! If you want to see more of the island on a small boat, head to the port, where several small boat vendors can take you on a water taxi.

GOOD TO KNOW: Some of the most magical beaches on Symi Island can only be reached by boat!

#3. Relax on All The Secluded Beaches in Symi

If you are traveling from the exciting and bustling island of Rhodes, you may be a bit tired and looking for a place to relax.

The best place to relax in crystal blue waters in Symi is going to be Nanou Beach! Here, you will find a taverna serving up some fresh seafood!

To travel to Nanou Beach, you must take a water taxi. Check out Irini Taxi Boats to arrange a ride to the beach.

Also, note that Symi is much HOTTER than Rhodes. I couldn’t believe how steaming it got on the island. I felt the need to be in the water as much as possible.

Alternative Beaches Worth Visiting in Symi

If you are looking for the best beaches close to the port, I recommend Sarah’s Beach. I used this beach because of its proximity to the Symi town center.

• Nanou Beach:  paid sunbeds
• Marathounda Beach: free sunbeds
• Agia Marina Beach: beach bar & paid sunbeds
• Saint Nicolas Beach: Restaurant and sunbeds
• Agios Georgios Beach: No facilities, one of the most secluded beaches.  

#4. Visit The Monastery of Panormitis

If you have the time, you should definitely visit the Holy Monastery of the Taxiarch Michael Panormitis, also known as the Panormitis Monastery.

Since it’s located on the other side of the island, you need to budget for more time at one of Symi’s most famous sites.

Dedicated to Archangel Michael, it is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into Symi’s cultural and religious heritage.

#5. Eat Local Food | Seafood & Popcorn Shrimp

I travel for the joy of tasting delicious food, and Symi’s local cuisine did not disappoint. The famous Symi shrimp, known for its unique and delectable flavor, is a must-try.

I couldn’t resist sampling the island’s renowned dish: popcorn shrimp.

If you’re a seafood lover, indulging in this culinary delight is a fun and essential part of your Symi experience!

#6. Explore the Colorful House & Streets of Chorio

The authenticity of Greek life is so visible when visiting Symi Island. Strolling Chorio’s small colorful houses and winding streets, you will see what I mean.

The locals gave me a warm feeling of community on this small Greek island. It is a place you visit that leaves a strong impression that makes you want to revisit.

#7. Hike Around the Beautiful Island

If you are an active person looking for things to do in Symi, I highly recommend that you go for a hike.

Symi has lots of trails you can hike around. The most popular trail is hiking from Symi Harbour to Saint Nicholas Beach!

A 5km hike that takes around an hour and a half to complete. This is a popular trail for hiking and running.

#8. Visit the Castle of Symi

A great way to spend time on this beautiful island is by visiting the Symi Castle just in time for sunset.

From the port, you will hike up approximately 25 minutes to reach the top. If it is an exceptionally hot day, it could take a little longer.

You will be able to explore the remains of this castle and admire the beautiful church.

There is no better view and place to watch the sunset on Symi Island than at the Kastro.

#9. Go Sea Diving

If you are an experienced diver or if it’s your first time, this is the place to do it!

This highly reviewed 4-hour dive is weather-dependent, but it takes you to some of the most hidden sights in Symi!

Go beneath the crystal clear waters to see the remnants of a village crumbled by an earthquake and a German WW2 Eboat.

#10. Check out the Folklore & Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological and Folklore Museum is a very small museum located 1.2 km from the Symi Ano Port.

It is an uphill journey, so you can either hoof it or take a 7-minute taxi ride from the port.

The museum is open daily at 8:30, except Tuesdays, when it is closed. If you have the time, it is a lovely way to spend an hour or so.

GOOD TO KNOW: I wouldn’t prioritize this if you don’t have more than a full day on the island.

#11. Climb Kali Strata For An Epic View

If you want to see Symi and the surrounding area from above, then climb the 500 stairs of the Kali Strata!

At the summit, you reach the Chiro and one of the best restaurants in Symi, Kali Strata Restaurant.

#12. Visit the Symi War Memorial

The Symi Greece War Memorial, located in the port of Symi, honors the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in various conflicts.

This poignant tribute reflects the island’s historical struggles for freedom and the importance of remembering the fallen.

Pay your respects and reflect on the enduring impact of war on communities.

#13. Go Shopping At The Local Boutiques

I love shopping at LOCAL boutiques to help support the economy of these little Greek villages.

I found a lovely hat in a cute boutique just along the port’s main strip.

Check out Aloustina Boutique Symi if you want to spend one of the plenty of things to do in Symi giving your wallet a workout.

#14. Visit the Windmills of Symi

I love visiting all the windmills in Greece, some being more preserved than others. In Symi, the windmills are a bit run down.

You will find the base of these windmills to be intact, but the rest has been destroyed over time.

Located on a steep hike from Symi town, it is a great thing to do if you are looking to get a workout and a panoramic view of the village.

#15. Visit the Pyrgos Rologion

Admire the clock tower in Symi at the Ano Symi Port!

All you can really do here is take a photo and admire it from the outside.

GOOD TO KNOW: There is no access to the clock bell tower.

#16. Take A Day Trip To Rhodes

If your trip to Symi is the base of your vacation, you should squeeze in a day trip to Rhodes.

With the island of Rhodes only 90 minutes away, it can be the perfect day trip from Symi!

There are many ferry options you can explore here. The ferry will drop you off in the old town of Rhodes so you won’t have to travel far by foot to explore the old town!

#17. Do a Personal Photoshoot

Whether on your honeymoon or just a holiday, you can capture the moment with a professional photographer.

Where To After Symi?

After you leave this magical little island off the Dodecanese island group, consider island hopping to consider visiting the island of Kos!

Located just approximately 58 kilometers (about 36 miles)! The ferry ride between these two islands takes around 1 hour and 27 minutes with Dodekanisos Seaways, which operates this route three times a week.

Alternatively, Blue Star Ferries offers a slightly longer trip, taking about 2 hours and 20 minutes, and runs four times a week​.

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