Posted by Symi, with an area of just under 60 km², is located in the Dodecanese, just 25 km from Rhodes Town. At the narrowest point, it is only 10 km from the Turkish mainland. The majority of the 3,000 inhabitants live in the capital, Symi. There are a few other small villages around the main town, and the rest of the island is almost uninhabited.
The island is hardly covered in vegetation, bare rocks characterize large parts of Symi. The Dodecanese island is increasingly attracting wealthy package holidaymakers and wealthy sailors. The price level and the quality of the accommodation and restaurants is rather high. Backpackers are in the clear minority. A very large proportion of tourists on Symi do not stay overnight – they are day tourists on excursion boats from nearby Rhodes.
Day trip from Rhodes to Symi: There are various boat tour providers starting at around 25 euros for such day trips: Booking and more information on the German ticket website Getyourguide: Click here
Image: Ghido – Fotolia.com
Symi town: The port town of the island, located on a slope, is almost a small town. The lower part of the town is called Gialos, the upper part Chorio. If you want to get to the old center of Symi town, you have to climb about 500 steps on a wide staircase from the harbor. From the top you have a great view. Symi is one of the most beautiful places in the Dodecanese. Many of the large houses are testament to past wealth – Symi once had over 15,000 inhabitants. The exodus has only been stopped in recent years by the rapidly growing tourism. In the harbor of Symi you can eat in upper class restaurants while watching the fishermen mend their nets. The price level around the harbor is a little higher than in the upper areas of the city. There are many hotels in the upper and middle price ranges. However, it is difficult to get a cheap room in Symi, especially in high season. Nikos and Eva’s Studios are very good and usually inexpensive.
Pedi: Small village about 2 km east of the town. Average beach, a few taverns. In general, the beaches on Symi are not the best. From Chorio, the upper part of the town of Symi, you can walk to Pedi in about 30 minutes.
Nimborios: Another beach near the capital (west). The pebble beach can also be reached on foot from the town in just under an hour. Nice walk, quieter than Pedi.
Panormitis Monastery: Located on the other side of the island from Symi town, the Panormitis Monastery is the most important sight on Symi. The monastery church is famous for its wood carvings and frescoes. The small museum in the monastery is also worth a visit. There is a good beach near Moni Panormitis. You can stay overnight in the monastery easily and cheaply. Excursion boats travel daily from Symi to the monastery (unfortunately rather expensive).
Buses run frequently between Symi town and Pedi. However, the 2 km long route from Chorio to Pedi can also be walked. In addition, there are two buses a day between the city and Panormitis in high season.
Ferries to Symi: Daily connections with ferries, excursion boats and catamarans from Rhodes. Several times a week there are also ferry connections to Kos and other islands in the Dodecanese.
Day trip from Rhodes to Symi: There are various boat tour providers starting at around 25 euros for such day trips: Booking and more information on the German ticket website Getyourguide: Click here
Hiking Symi
Hiking on Symi is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the island and discover its less touristy sides. Always bring enough water and wear hiking shoes! Here are some popular hiking trails and tips for hiking on Symi:
Popular hiking trails
Hiking to Panormitis:
Start: Chora
Duration: approx. 2-3 hours
Description: This route takes you along the coast and through varied landscapes to Panormitis Monastery, where you can enjoy the impressive architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Chora to Nimborio:
Start: Chora
Duration: approx. 1 hour
Description: An easy trail that leads from Chora to Nimborio, a small beach resort. It is ideal for a short walk with great views of the sea.
Hike to the ruins of the old fortress:
Start: Chora
Duration: approx. 1-2 hours
Description: This hike leads to the remains of an old fortress and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Hike to the bays of Agios Georgios:
Start: Chora or Nimborio
Duration: variable
Description: Discover the hidden bays and beaches around Agios Georgios. This hike can easily be adapted to your preferences.
Snakes: There are poisonous snakes of the mountain viper species on Symi. If you are bitten by a snake, seek medical attention immediately. Other species of snakes on Symi are non-venomous. To our knowledge, the mountain viper (also common on other islands) is the only poisonous snake.
Beaches
Symi offers several beautiful beaches and secluded coves, each with its own charm. Here are some of the best beaches on the island:
Nos Beach
Description: A small sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for swimming. It is a popular spot with locals and tourists, where sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented.
Agios Georgios Beach
Location: On the southwest side of the island
Description: A lovely pebble beach with crystal clear waters. It is relatively quiet, making it a great place to relax and swim. There are a few tavernas nearby for refreshments.
Marathounda Beach
Location: Near Panormitis Monastery
Description: A secluded beach with pebbles and clear waters. It is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, and you can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Agios Nikolaos Beach
Location: On the northwest side of Symi island
Description: A beautiful, quiet beach with a mix of pebbles and sand. A great place for swimming and sunbathing, with a few beach tavernas nearby.
Pedi Beach
Location: Near Pedi village
Description: A sandy beach with calm waters, perfect for families. There are several tavernas and cafes along the beach, making it an easy place to spend the day.
Kali Strata Beach
Location: Near Chora
Description: This beach offers a picturesque setting with clear waters and beautiful views. It is accessible via a short hike and rewards you with a peaceful atmosphere.
Despotiko Beach
Location: Near Panormitis
Description: A lesser known beach that is a bit harder to reach and therefore less crowded. It is an ideal place for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
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German version)
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