Symi, Greece is a picturesque island located in the Dodecanese group of islands in the Aegean Sea. With its stunning natural beauty and ric…
Best for you if…
Symi is a strong pick for beach relaxation & exploring historical sites — plan about 5-7 days days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: June to September.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 93/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Packed density — Lots to see in a compact city footprint.
High season: June to September
Best months for lower-cost travel: April · May · October
20-30°C
15-25°C
25-35°C
10-15°C
Symi is a beautiful island located in Greece, known for its picturesque harbor, colorful neoclassical houses, and stunning beaches. If you are planning a trip to Symi, here are some ways to reach this enchanting destination:
Although Symi does not have its own airport, you can fly to Rhodes International Airport, which is the closest major airport to the island. From Rhodes, you can take a ferry or a hydrofoil to reach Symi. The ferry ride from Rhodes to Symi takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, while the hydrofoil journey is shorter, taking around 50 minutes.
Another popular way to reach Symi is by sea. There are regular ferry connections from various ports in Greece, including Piraeus (Athens' main port), Kos, and Rhodes. Ferry rides from Piraeus to Symi can take around 10 to 12 hours, depending on the type of ferry. If you prefer a faster option, you can take a high-speed ferry, which typically takes around 6 to 7 hours.
If you are sailing in the Aegean Sea, Symi is a perfect stop to include in your itinerary. The island has a marina where you can dock your private yacht. This option allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding islands and have the flexibility to explore Symi at your own pace.
Many cruise lines include Symi as a port of call during their Greek island itineraries. If you are on a cruise vacation, you can disembark at the Symi port and explore the island's attractions during your allocated time. It's a great way to experience the charm of Symi, even if you have limited time.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, reaching Symi is an adventure in itself. The journey allows you to witness the beauty of the Aegean Sea and build anticipation for the wonders that await you on this idyllic Greek island.
Symi, Greece is a picturesque island located in the Dodecanese group of islands in the Aegean Sea. With its stunning natural beauty and rich historical heritage, Symi has become a popular tourist destination. The island is characterized by its colorful neoclassical houses, which are stacked upon each other and create a unique architectural style. The narrow streets and staircases add to the charm of the island, as visitors can explore the various shops, tavernas, and cafes nestled within the traditional buildings.
One of the main attractions of Symi is its breathtaking coastline. The island boasts numerous pristine beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Some of the most notable beaches include Nos, Marathounda, and Nanou, each offering a tranquil and idyllic setting. Visitors can also take boat trips to nearby secluded coves and discover hidden gems along the coast.
In addition to its natural beauty, Symi also has a rich cultural and historical heritage. The island was once a major sponge diving center, and visitors can learn about this traditional industry at the Symi Sponge Museum. The town of Chorio, located at the top of the hill above the main harbor, is home to the Symi Archaeological and Folklore Museum, where artifacts and exhibits showcase the island's history and folklore.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
50 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~1.2 km · 4 places
~0.5 km · 2 places
~1.1 km · 4 places
~2.6 km · 5 places
~2.5 km · 5 places
~1.5 km · 5 places
~5.2 km · 5 places
~6 km · 7 places
~5 km · 7 places
~3.3 km · 7 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~3.2 km path
~6.6 km path
~2 km path
~6.8 km path
~6.3 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 5-7 days days in Symi, Greece.
High season is typically June to September.
Travelers often find better value in April, May, October.
Symi suits Beach relaxation, Exploring historical sites, Hiking and nature walks, Boat tours and water activities.
Lots to see in a compact city footprint.
Visit the Monastery of Panormitis for a peaceful retreat
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