Symi: Daydreaming of the colourful Greek island

A CURATED GUIDE TO SYMI ISLAND, GREECE

Last updated: May 2026
This is not a sponsored post and I am not affiliated with any of the businesses or organisations mentioned.

Imagine yourself on a boat. It is warm, sunny and you are surrounded by the calm deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. And then, slowly but surely, after passing plenty of tiny uninhabited islets, the beautiful island of Symi reveals itself.

A small colourful port with beautiful neoclassical houses built amphitheatrically, all facing the sea. How did they manage to built them? How does one climb all those steps to get to the ones at the top? It almost looks like a set from a play in the theatre! As the boat approaches, the water turns from deep blue to crystal clear emerald…

As you disembark in the port of Symi, one thought comes to mind. How come this place is not world famous? 

Symi is more than a first impression. The longer you stay, the more its colour, its rhythm and its quiet charm begin to reveal themselves. What follows is how to experience it at its best, from its iconic harbour to its quieter corners, always at the right pace.

SOME BACKGROUND INFO ABOUT SYMI

Symi is a small island in the southeastern edge of Greece with approx. 2600 inhabitants. Despite its proximity to Rhodes, its architectural beauty and crystal clear waters, it has somehow managed to remain blissfully ‘non-touristy’ but for the sailing boats and luxury yachts that fill its port.

Being a small island away from the mainland, winter here is hard and lonely. Come summer, and the island transforms into a picturesque fantasy of sea, sun and tavernas all against a backdrop of charming, colourful houses. 

Symi has not been inundated by mass tourism but it is not a backpackers’ destination either. The many yachts and sailing boats that fill up the small port are a testament to the type of travellers the island attracts. However, don’t get discouraged if you are not a seafarer! The island is perfect for young professionals, families or retirees seeking peace but do enjoy a busy café and a lively tasty dinner. I guess that’s pretty much everyone! Hotels are small and mostly locally owned, so your stay will directly boost the local economy. 

WHAT TO DO IN SYMI?

GO TO THE BEACH

In the morning, take one of the many boats which, in a bus like manner, pick up people from the port and drop them off at the various beaches of the island. If you are feeling the heat a bit too much and can’t wait for the next boat, dive into the crystal clear water from the steps at the beautiful promenade, right next to the port! 

All of Symi’s beaches feature crystal clear water and many of them are organised with umbrellas and sun loungers. In some of them there is even a taverna nearby.

Nevertheless, our favourite was Agios Giorgios (Saint George), a secluded bay accessible only via private boat or the small public caiques. Agios Giorgios beach is completely unorganised which only adds to the beauty of the scenery; think towering vertical cliffs and dazzling emerald water…

EXPLORE SYMI TOWN

In the afternoon, explore the cute cobblestone little streets and squares of Symi town. Take photos of colourful shipowners’ mansions and admire the beautiful architecture.

If you are in the mood for some shopping, you can browse the cute boutiques selling sailing gear and summer kaftans. You can also stock up on Greek olive oil, wine or other delicacies at the many delis. Don’t miss the stalls selling local herbs -their aromas are unlike the ones you will find in supermarkets. 

HOW TO GET AROUND SYMI? 

Walk, walk, walk! And if you fancy a more vigorous exercise, go up the stairs to the higher tiers of the settlement and enjoy a wonderful view of the quaint port. 

The easiest (and more fun) way to get to the various beaches is to get on one of the beach hoping caiques from the port. You can also hire a motorbike if you prefer getting around by land. 

WHERE TO STAY IN SYMI?

STAYING AT HOTEL ALIKI 

A neoclassical manor with antique furniture overlooking the water’s edge, Hotel Aliki was a delightful choice for the three nights we spent in Symi. The hotel is located just a 5min (gorgeous) walk from the hustle and bustle of the port and overlooks the seaside promenade.

Hotel Aliki is reasonably priced, therefore, I would recommend upgrading from the modest standard room and opt for the rooms with the sea view. But, no matter your room, the highlight of your stay will be having breakfast on the waterfront!

ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ACCOMMODATION IN SYMI

While researching accommodation options, I was also quite impressed by The Old Markets, located in town, and Selene, close to Emporios beach. At slightly higher price points than hotel Aliki, they still provide good value for their understated luxurious atmosphere and facilities.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN SYMI? 

Don’t be fooled by the small size of the island! Symi punches above its weight when it comes to restaurants and bars. There are quite a few options on how to spend a relaxed summer evening.

To start the evening, head towards the promenade on the side of the port and start with coctails at Tsati cocktail bar; this could be one of the best cocktail bars I have ever been to. Obviously, there is no comparison with the mega famous ones in London or other capital cities. However, it is the perfect place to sit back, gaze at the crystal clear water next to you and the beautiful buildings across the road while sipping super tasty cocktails.  

For dinner, head to the port for a variety Greek tavernas, souvlaki joints, pizzerias and creperies. Make sure to try the famous Symi shrimps.

One of the most iconic tavernas on the island, especially if you’re drawn to simple seafood done well in a beautiful setting is Taverna Haris. Its harbour views and classic dishes like Symi shrimp, calamari and grilled fish create a perfect setting for a long, unhurried lunch or dinner.

Haritomeni is a more elevated yet still deeply traditional taverna, set just above the harbour with sweeping views across Symi. A short climb leads you to a quieter, more atmospheric setting, where classic Greek dishes -from meatballs to slow-cooked favourites- are served in a way that feels both authentic and unpretentious.

For the potential of a more fun / chaotic experience, head over to Manos fish restaurant towards the end of the promenade on the side of the port. Manos leans more towards a lively, almost theatrical take on the Greek taverna -with music, dancing and, on some evenings, the familiar ritual of plate smashing. Many international celebrities have been spotted engaging in this old school type of entertainment… I am not one to gossip, so go ahead, google it!

FUN FACT -BREAKING PLATES IN GREEK NIGHT CLUBS

In case you were wondering why you have not come across it while visiting the country… Breaking plates for entertainment in night clubs and tavernas is, in fact, illegal in Greece. It has been long outlawed as many people were injured by flying glass.

Fear not though because, night clubs with live Greek music have replaced it with… flower wars! Customers can buy trays filled with flowers which they can throw at each other or to the singer and orchestra; usually as a sign of flirtation or admiration!

HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I STAY IN SYMI?

Some visit the island as a day trip from Rhodes. Indeed, you can spend a day and tick the island off your list. However, I think you’d find yourself wanting more!

We spent 3 nights in Symi following a 5-night stay in Patmos. Do I wish I stayed more? Always. If you can, stay for a week, and immerse yourself in the laid back rhythm of the island!

HOW TO GET TO SYMI? ISLAND HOPPING TIPS & ITINERARIES

The easiest way to get to Symi is via an approximately 1 hour Dodekanisos Seaways ferry / catamaran ride from the island of Rhodes. Rhodes has an international airport so, apart from mainland Greece, it is also directly connected to many European cities.

Apart from the logistical sense of combining Rhodes and Symi islands in one holiday, it also makes for a nice juxtaposition of destinations. Rhodes is quite a well-established destination with many international hotel chains and all-inclusive resorts and Symi is the complete opposite! Nevertheless, if you don’t fancy staying in Rhodes, make sure you get an early flight; you will be able to reach Symi in the same day. We did the reverse route for our return from Symi to London. 

The other option for reaching Symi is to include it on an island hopping trip. In that case, I would strongly advise combining Symi with one of the other Dodecanese islands -the islands in the southeast edge of Greece. Dodekanisos Seaways serves all the Dodecanese islands following a logical north-south route. We combined our trip to Symi with our stay in Patmos. We used Dodekanisos Seaways and found the service convenient, modern and punctual.

Check out my suggested Symi island hopping itineraries below! No matter your itinerary, my guide on getting to the Cyclades and Dodecanese islands as well as my guide to booking Greek ferries & flights will sure come in handy.

FINAL THOUGHTS: WHY VISIT SYMI?

Right at the edge of Greece and Europe, Symi will make you feel like you have fallen off the map and stepped into a fairytale! In this almost surreal setting of colourful houses, emerald waters and tasty food, you will be surrounded by like-minded people who have also fallen in love with this gem of an island… So much so that they will be trying to keep this place a secret!

Tell only your best friends…

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Still undecided? If you’re comparing more refined, lesser known destinations, have a look at my guide to choosing the right Greek island by travel style as well as my list of top 10 under-the-radar Greek islands.