Island Guide | Symi – PalmaCoco Travel

Visit Symi

Symi’s location in the Dodecanese, just off the coast of Turkey and a hop-away from Rhodes, surrounded by the shimmering Aegean Sea, gives it a captivating blend of Greek island charm, warm Mediterranean climate and breathtaking coastal scenery.

From pastel-coloured neoclassical mansions rising above its harbour to peaceful monasteries, secluded coves and traditional village squares, Symi offers a harmonious mix of relaxation, discovery, culture and gentle adventure.

Symi

Its history stretches from ancient Greek settlement through Byzantine, Knights of St John and Ottoman influences, shaping an identity that feels both timeless and uniquely its own. Today, this elegant island stands out for its graceful architecture, serene ambience and welcoming, small-island character.

Whether you’re drawn by history, hiking, sea-soaked tranquillity or authentic island culture, Symi delivers a compact yet richly varied experience. From the vibrant waterfront of Gialos to the quiet bays tucked into its rugged coastline, it invites you to wander, breathe and truly unwind.

Excellent Hiking And Nature

Symi’s rugged landscapes are ideal for walkers who enjoy scenic routes and rewarding views. Trails weave through pine forests, old stone paths and dramatic cliffs, offering panoramas of turquoise bays and neighbouring islands that make every hike memorable.

Quaint, Storybook Streets

Symi’s maze of narrow lanes, stone stairways and flower-draped passages invites slow, aimless wandering. Every turn reveals a charming detail, bright shutters, tiny courtyards, glimpses of the sea, creating a sense of stepping into a living postcard where everyday life unfolds with effortless beauty.

A Picture Perfect Harbour

Symi’s iconic harbour, lined with pastel neoclassical houses stacked amphitheatrically up the hillsides, is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean. Arriving by boat feels like gliding into a painted postcard, with sparkling waters, charming cafes and a timeless maritime atmosphere.

Slow-Paced Island Bliss

Symi is perfect for travellers who want to escape the rush and sink into a slower rhythm. With leisurely waterfront dinners, serene sunset moments and a gentle, welcoming atmosphere, the island encourages you to unwind, recharge and simply enjoy the beauty around you.

Charming Villages

Beyond the harbour, Symi’s upper town (Ano Symi) and small inland hamlets offer a quieter, more traditional pace. Wandering through narrow alleys, meeting friendly locals and discovering family-run tavernas provides a genuinely Greek island experience.

Rich History And Culture

Symi’s layered past, from ancient Greek roots to Byzantine and Ottoman influences, has left it with monasteries, castles, and a unique architectural character. Exploring Panormitis Monastery or the old Kali Strata stairway gives visitors a sense of history woven naturally into daily island life.

Getting there and getting around

Buses: Symi has a small but dependable local bus service that links the harbour (Gialos) with key areas such as Chorio (the upper town), Pedi, and Panormitis Monastery. It’s an affordable and practical way to move between the island’s main villages.

Taxis: Taxis are available around the harbour and main villages, offering a convenient option if you prefer door-to-door travel or want to reach more remote spots. They’re especially handy for those who’d rather skip long stairways or steep paths.

Water Taxis: One of the most popular ways to get around Symi, water taxis operate from Gialos to many of the island’s beautiful beaches, including Agia Marina, Nanou and Agios Georgios Dysalonas. They’re efficient and ideal for beach-hopping.

Travel time from the UK: Typically around 4–4.5 hours (to Rhodes)

Symi doesn’t have its own airport, so travellers fly into Rhodes International Airport (RHO), which is well connected to the UK.

From Rhodes, it’s an easy onward connection: ferries and fast boats run regularly from Rhodes Town to Symi, with journey times of roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on the service.

Upon arrival in Symi’s harbour, everything is close by, accommodation, taxis, buses and water taxis are all just steps from the ferry.

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Weather

Symi enjoys a classic Aegean climate, with long, sun-soaked summers and mild, comfortable winters. The island sees abundant sunshine for most of the year, making it ideal for beach days, boat trips, hiking and relaxed exploration whenever you visit.

Summer (June – August):
Symi’s summers are hot and dry, with average temperatures between 27°C and 33°C. The clear turquoise waters and gentle island breezes offer the perfect balance for swimming, boat-hopping between coves, and enjoying alfresco dinners by the harbour. This is peak season, with vibrant energy and warm, golden evenings.

Spring (March – May):
Spring is one of the loveliest times to visit Symi, with temperatures from 18°C to 25°C and landscapes dotted with wildflowers. It’s ideal for hiking the island’s scenic trails, wandering the quiet streets of Ano Symi, or exploring beaches before the summer heat and crowds arrive.

Autumn (September – November):
Early autumn stays warm and bright, with temperatures between 22°C and 28°C and sea temperatures perfect for swimming well into October. The island becomes calmer and more peaceful as the season progresses, offering mild weather, relaxed harbour evenings and some of the most beautiful sunsets over the Aegean.

Top ten things to do in Symi…

Gialos Harbour – Arrive by boat into Symi’s postcard-perfect harbour, framed by pastel neoclassical mansions and fishing boats.
Kali Strata – Walk the historic stone stairway connecting Gialos to Ano Symi, lined with traditional houses.
Panormitis Monastery – Visit this impressive 18th-century monastery dedicated to Archangel Michael.
Symi’s Upper Town (Chorio) – Explore winding alleys, old fortifications and the remnants of Symi Castle, revealing centuries of history.
Beaches & Hidden Coves – Take a water taxi to beautiful spots like Agios Georgios Dysalonas, Nanou, and Agia Marina, where dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and peaceful swimming await.
Archaeological & Folklore Museum – Gain insight into Symi’s maritime tradition, sponge-diving history and everyday island life.
Boat Trips Around the Island – Join a boat excursion to discover secluded bays and perfectly clear water ideal for snorkelling.
Ano Symi’s Tavernas – Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at traditional, laid back tavernas.
Hiking Trails – Explore scenic routes that weave through pine forests, old stone paths and rugged landscapes.
Local Shops & Boutiques – Browse handcrafted goods, ceramics, natural sponges and artisanal products in Symi’s charming waterfront and back-street shops.