Choosing Your Trip: Ferry vs Excursion
The first thing to decide is whether you want maximum time ashore or a structured boat tour. This choice is more important than the boat's speed, as it defines your day.
A direct ferry gives you the freedom to explore Symi Town at your own pace. In contrast, an organised excursion builds the day around its itinerary, which might include swimming in secluded bays or a visit to the famous Panormitis Monastery. These trips serve different priorities, so read the schedule carefully before booking.
- Direct Ferry: Best for independent travellers who want to climb the Kali Strata, linger over lunch, and explore the upper village of Ano Symi without a strict schedule.
- Island Excursion: Ideal if you want a packaged day that combines the harbour with stops for swimming in bays like Saint George’s, which are only accessible by boat.
- Monastery Visit: If seeing Panormitis Monastery is a priority, you must book a trip that specifically includes it. It is on the south side of Symi and is not a standard stop on every service.
What to See in Symi Town
Symi's main settlement is a joy to explore on foot. The lower harbour, Yialos, is where you will arrive, surrounded by waterfront cafés and colourful mansions. From here, the real character of the island unfolds as you climb upwards.
The ascent is via the Kali Strata, a wide staircase that links the harbour with the upper town. Lined with historic doorways and offering ever-improving sea views, the climb is an attraction in itself. At the top, you’ll find Ano Symi, a quieter and more residential village of old stone houses, tiny squares, and authentic local life.
Where to Swim on Symi
While the harbour is the main draw, Symi is also ringed by beautiful bays with crystal-clear water. Some are easily reached from town, while others require a boat.
- Nos Beach: The most convenient option for a quick swim, located a short walk from the harbour area.
- Pedi Bay: A quiet, sheltered bay perfect for a relaxed swim and lunch. You can walk from Symi Town or take a short water taxi ride.
- Nanou Beach: A stunning pebbly shore backed by dramatic cliffs. It is reached via a boat taxi from Yialos harbour.
- Saint George’s Bay: A spectacular swimming spot only accessible by sea, often included as a highlight on organised boat excursions from Rhodes.
What to Eat in Symi
No visit to Symi is complete without trying its most famous local delicacy: Symi shrimps. These tiny, flavourful shrimps are typically pan-fried and eaten whole. The waterfront tavernas in Yialos are the perfect place to enjoy them, alongside other fresh seafood like grilled sea bream, octopus, and calamari.
For a quicker snack, local bakeries offer savoury pies, while a gelato or a Greek coffee provides a welcome break between exploring and swimming.
Choose the itinerary, not just the crossing
Start with how much time you want in Yialos and Ano Symi. A swimming stop, the climb up Kali Strata and a long harbour lunch compete for the same time ashore. Check whether Panormitis is actually included rather than assuming every Symi trip visits the monastery.
Use Rhodes Town to plan your departure base and compare the boat-trip collection for current options. Confirm the exact departure point, time ashore and return arrangements with the chosen operator. This page is about a day on Symi, not a general guide to every Rhodes boat trip.
What to Bring and When to Walk
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Kali Strata and the upper village. Bring water and a hat, and avoid tackling the steps at midday in summer. Go slowly: the views are part of the climb, not just a reward at the top.
If swimming is part of your day, pack a swimsuit, towel and sandals. Sandals are especially useful on Nanou’s pebbly shore. In high season, book your ferry early rather than leaving it until departure day.
Frequently asked questions
Should I take a direct ferry or an organised tour to Symi?
It depends on your priority. A direct ferry offers more freedom and time to explore Symi Town and Ano Symi at your own pace. An organised tour is better if you prefer a structured day that includes guided stops, such as swimming at Saint George’s Bay or visiting Panormitis Monastery.
Do all boat trips to Symi visit Panormitis Monastery?
No, many do not. The monastery is on Symi's south side and is not part of every itinerary. If visiting Panormitis is important to you, you must choose a ferry or excursion that specifically lists it as a stop.
Can I reach all of Symi's beaches on foot from the harbour?
Not all of them. Nos Beach is an easy walk from the harbour, and Pedi Bay is also accessible on foot. However, other popular beaches like Nanou Beach require a separate water taxi, while Saint George’s Bay is only reachable by boat, usually as part of an excursion.
How much time should I allow ashore in Symi?
Around 3–5 hours is a useful starting point for a town-focused visit. Keep the harbour, Kali Strata and lunch as your main plan rather than trying to fit in every beach and the monastery too. A Nanou boat taxi or Panormitis visit needs to fit the actual transport schedule and your return boat.