Symi Island Travel Guide – Explore the Best of This Greek Gem
If you’re looking for a quiet spot with blue waters, white houses, and fresh seafood, Symi is worth a closer look. It’s a small island in the Dodecanese that feels like a postcard come to life. You can wander narrow streets, sit at a harbor café, or hike up to panoramic views without fighting crowds.
Top Things to See on Symi
The first stop for most visitors is the colorful harbour of Panormitis. Boats line the quay, and the iconic blue dome of the Panormitis Monastery stands out against the sky. Inside the monastery you’ll find a tiny museum with icons that date back centuries – perfect for a quick cultural fix.
Don’t miss the old town (Chorio). Its narrow lanes are packed with pastel‑colored houses, boutique shops, and hidden courtyards where locals chat over coffee. Climbing up to the hilltop castle gives you sweeping views of the whole island and a glimpse into its Venetian past.
If sunbathing is on your agenda, head to Agios Georgios Beach or Nanou Beach. Both have clear water and soft sand, but Nanou feels more secluded while Agios Georgios is closer to town and has a few beach bars for snacks.
How to Get Around and Where to Stay
Getting to Symi is easy by ferry from Rhodes or Kos. Once on the island, most places are within walking distance of the main harbour. For spots farther away, local buses run a few times a day, but renting a scooter gives you freedom to explore hidden coves at your own pace.
Accommodation ranges from budget hostels in the town centre to boutique hotels with sea‑view balconies. If you love authentic vibes, try a family‑run guesthouse in Chorio – they often serve homemade dishes like “mpougatsa” (a sweet or savory pastry) and fresh grilled fish.
Food on Symi is simple but delicious. Order the local specialty “Symian shrimp saganaki,” which comes sizzling in olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. Pair it with a glass of local white wine for a true taste of the island.
In short, Symi offers a mix of relaxed beach time, charming streets, and easy‑going hospitality. Pack light, bring comfortable shoes, and let yourself wander – you’ll find that every corner has a story to tell.
Intensive Search Operation for Michael Mosley Resumes with High-Tech Aids on Symi Island
The search for renowned British television doctor Michael Mosley has resumed with helicopters and drones on Symi island. The 67-year-old disappeared during a walk, prompting a large-scale search effort involving locals, Greek officers, and additional police forces amid extreme heat. Authorities are focusing on the Pedi area, and there is speculation he may have been injured.
