Discover Symi

The Capital of Symi

The Harbour of Gialos is the harbour of Symi located on the northern side of the island. The charming settlement is one of the most romantic villages of the Dodecanese embellished with neoclassical mansions and abandoned captain houses, cobblestone courtyards and pebbled mosaics that give an aura of nobility to the island. The two sides of the harbour are connected with the stone bridge, known as Kalderimi, that lead to the charming square of Kambos. The main stairway that leads to the capital of Symi, known as Horio, is called Kali Strata. The beautiful village has a traditional character with old mansions, charming chapels and labyrinthine cobblestoned alleys that spread towards the hillside. The entire area is crowned from the castle of the Knights standing on the highest point of the settlement. Since 1970, the whole settlement has been declared as preserved owing to the historical importance of the buildings.

The Beach of Agios Georgios Disalonas

The Beach of Agios Georgios Disalonas is one of the most impressive beaches of the Aegean. It is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the east side of the island. It is the most beautiful beach of the island lying in front of a vertical cliff of three hundred metres. The beach is accessible either through a hiking path from Pedi or by boat.

The Castle of the Knights

The Castle of the Knights is located on the highest point of Ano Symi. The defensive fortress was built on the remnants of the ancient acropolis of Symi from the Knights of Saint John in 1407 with the intention of strengthening the defence system of the island. At the main entrance, an emblem of the Knights can be found. Today, the outer defensive walls of the castle are the sole significant remains. The castle of the Knights offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis 

The Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis is one of the most important pilgrimage centres of the Dodecanese located on southwest side of the island. The monastery was constructed from the architect Anastasis Karnavis in 1783 while it was decorated from the local iconographers namely Monk Neofytos and Kyriakos Karakostis. The impressive bell tower of Panormitis was built in a baroque style in the early 20^th century, and resembles the bell tower of the monastery of Zagorsk in Moscow. Inside the monastery, one can visit an interesting folklore and ecclesiastical collection. The cells of the monastery can accommodate up to five hundred guests wishing to stay overnight. Excursions boats to the monastery operate from the harbour of Gialos.

The Pondikokastro is considered to be one of the oldest monuments of the island found in the area of the windmills. It is a strange circular stone building, known as the grave of Nereus from the locals. Unfortunately, archaeologists have not yet been able to determine the age of the monument. One can access the monument by ascending the five hundred steps of Kali Strata.

The Castle of the Knights is located on the highest point of Ano Symi. The defensive fortress was built on the remnants of the ancient acropolis of Symi from the Knights of Saint John in 1407 with the intention of strengthening the defence system of the island. At the main entrance, an emblem of the Knights can be found. Today, the outer defensive walls of the castle are the sole significant remains. The castle of the Knights offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Chapel of Agios Emilianos is a charming chapel located on the islet of Agios Emilianos. The chapel is an ideal spots for enjoying the sunset. Usually, the circumnavigation of the island with the boats passes through this spot.

The Chapel of Virgin Mary of the Castle is a beautiful chapel located on the highest point of the castle. The chapel offers spectacular views of the surrounding areas.

The Cathedral of Timios Prodromos is beautiful church with a marvelous pebbled yard and an impressive bell tower located on the harbor of Gialos. The temple is connected with the most historical moments in the life of the island, as it is related to the resistance against its conquerors.  At the entrance of the courtyard, various cultural events are held during the Festival of Symi.

The Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis is one of the most important pilgrimage centres of the Dodecanese located on southwest side of the island. The monastery was constructed from the architect Anastasis Karnavis in 1783 while it was decorated from the local iconographers namely Monk Neofytos and Kyriakos Karakostis. The impressive bell tower of Panormitis was built in a baroque style in the early 20^th century, and resembles the bell tower of the monastery of Zagorsk in Moscow. Inside the monastery, one can visit an interesting folklore and ecclesiastical collection. The cells of the monastery can accommodate up to five hundred guests wishing to stay overnight. Excursions boats to the monastery operate from the harbour of Gialos.

The Monastery of Archangel Michael Roukouniotis is a fortified monastery located on the west side of the island. The monastery was constructed on the remnants of an ancient temple from the Knights of Saint John during the 15^th century. It consists from two interesting temples with significant murals within the courtyard shaded from an impressive umbrella-shaped cypress. The monastery celebrates in honour of the patron saint of Symi on November 8.

The Archaeological and Folklore Museum of Symi is housed in the traditional mansion of the family of Gianeski in Horio. The museum exhibits a rich archaeological collection of inscriptions, pottery, textiles and musical instruments of the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The Ecclesiastical and Folklore Museum of Symi is housed within the premises of the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis. The museum exhibits an interesting collection of underwater antiquities and a collection of manuscripts, portable icons and sacred vessels.

The Maritime Museum of Symi is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building in the Square of Kambos. The museum exhibits artefacts from nautical equipment of old diving suits, maps and photographs and ships models of the local ships.

The Reading Room of Aigli is one of the most ancient libraries of the Aegean housed inside the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis. The museum exhibits manuscripts of ecclesiastical, historical and philosophical content.

The Shipyard of Harani will take you back in time, as you will see the manner that fishing vessels were made with simple tools. Harani is the last preserved shipyard of the island that showcases the inextricable connection of the island with shipbuilding. During the Ottoman occupation, the residents of Symi gained special privileges from the Turks as they built the fastest ships.

Gialos is the harbour of Symi located on the northern side of the island. The charming settlement is one of the most romantic villages of the Dodecanese embellished with neoclassical mansions and abandoned captain houses, cobblestone courtyards and pebbled mosaics that give an aura of nobility to the island. The two sides of the harbour are connected with the stone bridge, known as Kalderimi, that lead to the charming square of Kambos. The main stairway that leads to the capital of Symi, known as Horio, is called Kali Strata. The beautiful village has a traditional character with old mansions, charming chapels and labyrinthine cobblestoned alleys that spread towards the hillside. The entire area is crowned from the castle of the Knights standing on the highest point of the settlement. Since 1970, the whole settlement has been declared as preserved owing to the historical importance of the buildings.

Emborios, else known as Niborio, is a seaside settlement located on the northern side of the island. It is considered to be one of the most charming fishing settlements of the island with a nice pebbled beach. Emborios has a picturesque atmosphere with traditional houses and red tiled roofs. It is worth mentioning that a tavern operates in the village during the summer. Emborios is an ideal place for those looking for relaxation and peacefulness.

Pedi is a seaside settlement located on the northwest side of the island. The beautiful settlement has a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful natural surroundings. It is worth mentioning that Pedi is renowned for its delicious fish taverns. Pedi is ideal for those seeking for tranquillity and calmness.

Spot: Castle of the Knights, North Symi

Spot: Bridge of Love, North Symi

Spot: Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis, South Symi

Boat Trip: The Island of Halki is a mysterious island with artistic landscapes that compose a beautiful image of a marvellous canvas, a charming village waiting to catch your attention. A handful of neoclassical mansions spread around the charming harbour of the island in all the shades of the colours of the rainbow that reflect under the blinding light of the sun. Characterized by Unesco as the island of Peace and Friendship, Niborio is the colourful capital and harbour of the island! The beautiful settlement has an authentic atmosphere with tall mansions and enormous windows under the red tiled roofs and cobblestone labyrinthine alleys. And what about the size? Whatever Halki lacks in size, it replenishes in landscapes and colours; besides they say less is more. This is Halki, a tiny island with virgin natural beauty eager to be discovered. An island with traditional colours and remarkable historical monuments create a peaceful and tranquil environment even for the most discerning travellers.

Boat Trip: The Island of Kos has been the crossroads of cultures and civilizations from the mythological era of Hercules and the Hellenistic period of Asclepius. It is a mysterious island where the beauty of Ancient Greece meets the Oriental exotic elegance and the sophistication of Italy. The rich history of Kos is visible all over the island through the scattered heritage of historical monuments. Kos gives a taste of multiculturalism as evidenced from the unique architecture that embraces all the historical periods of the island, an exciting history that gave birth to a culture with impressive monuments of incomparable beauty. The imposing purity of this beautiful island is combined with the exotic natural beauty of endless sandy beaches that compete with the verdant valleys and water springs. Every corner of the island is hiding an unexpected surprise. Dive in the crystalline waters of Paradise, enjoy the sunset from the village of Zia, wander around the cultural wealth of Asclepius, cycle to the Palm Avenue of Kos, surf to the waves of Mastihari, hike to the mountain of Dikeos, swim to the isle of Kastri and visit the volcanic island of Nisyros to experience the unique beauty of Kos! Mountainous traditional villages and medieval monuments, exotic natural beauty sceneries with the spirit of Hippocrates wandering around the island under the sun of the Aegean, it is no wonder that the island of Kos hides dozens of unrevealed beauties.

Boat Trip: The Island of Nisyros is a mysterious island of the Dodecanese that was captured from pirates, conquered from the knights and subjugated from the Turks, an island that hypnotizes the traveller from the captivating contrast between the lunar volcanic scenery of the inland and the surrounding fertile area of dark beaches and thermal springs. Nisyros shapes an exceptional character with its unique mystical beauty embellished with diversified landscapes of a seductive and idyllic volcano atmosphere. The island emits a distinctive charm that goes beyond natural beauty, possible due to the captivating energy vibes of the active volcano. The outstanding contrast between the volcanic colours of the volcano and the whitewashed houses of the Aegean will definitely amaze you while the lunar sceneries of the crater of the volcano with the odour of sulphur will make you want to hold your breath! Evident in every little stone, the volcanic composition of Nisyros has been originated from the massive eruptions millions of years ago. Fascinating contrasts between the dark brown earth and the deep blue sea forms a succession of darken seashores of extreme wild beauty. Nisyros is a truly genuine island with an unusual beauty. The captivating landscapes, the hypnotizing landscapes and the thermal springs might even feel like you have “Nisyriasi”: a word meaning a severe addiction to the volcanic energy of the island in the world of Nisyros!

Hiking: Symi hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. Walking around the island, one will have the opportunity to discover hidden churches and monasteries with great views. (1) One of the most beautiful routes starts from the harbour of Gialos and leads to the village of Horio through the five hundred steps of Kali Strata. (2) Another interesting route starts from Horio and leads to the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis. It is a beautiful route that passes through verdant sceneries and scattered churches.

Snorkelling and Spearfishing: The crystal clear waters of Symi are ideal for snorkelling lovers while the rich marine life of Symi is ideal for spearfishing lovers.

Agios Emilianos is a pebbled beach with crystal clean waters located on the west side of the island. There, you will find the the beautiful chapel of Agios Emilianos. The beach is only accessible by boat.

Agios Georgios Disalonas is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the east side of the island. It is the most beautiful beach of the island lying in front of a vertical cliff of three hundred metres. The beach is accessible either through a hiking path from Pedi or by boat.

Agios Vasilios is a pebbled beach with crystal clear waters and cypress trees located on the west side of the island. It is a remote beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity. Agios Vasilios is an idyllic spot with rocky surroundings and an ideal place to enjoy the sunset. The easiest way to access the beach is by boat.

Agios Nikolas is a sandy beach with blue waters and pine trees located on the east side of the island. The beach is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, and a tavern. The beach is accessible either through a hiking path from Pedi or by boat.

Marathounda is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the south side of the island. It is an isolated beach ideal for those looking for peacefulness. A canteen operates at the beach.

Nanou is a pebbled beach with azure waters surrounded and cypress trees located on the southeast side of the island. It is one of the most scenic beaches of the island. A tavern operates at the beach.

Niborio is a pebbled bay with emerald waters located on the northwest side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of the island due to its close proximity to the center of the town.

Nos is a pebbled beach with crystal clean waters located on the north side of the island. It is a beautiful beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, and a tavern. The beach offers beautiful views to the surrounding areas.

Pedi is a natural bay with crystal clear waters located on the northeast side of the island. The area offers a series of consecutive beaches ideal for snorkelling lovers. Nearby taverns offer delicious fresh fish. Excursion boats operate to the beaches of the island.

Panormitis is a scenic pebbled beach with crystalline waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most charming areas of the island located in front of the Monastery of Panormitis. Due to the close proximity to the monastery, nudism is prohibited.

Coffee Corners

Elpida: Coffee, Gialos

Kantirimi Cafe Bar: Coffee, The Square

The Olive Tree Cafe: Coffee and Pastries, Kali Strata

Roloi Cafe: Coffee, Gialos

Gastronomic Delights

Dafnes: Greek Cuisine, Toli bay

Haritomeni: Greek Cuisine, Pitini

Georgio and Maria: Greek Cuisine, Kali Strata

Muses: Greek Cuisine, Gialos

Pandelis: Greek Cuisine, Gialos

Tholos: Greek Cuisine, Gialos

The Windmill: Greek Cuisine, Gialos

Cocktails Inspirations

Tsati: Cocktails and Drinks, Gialos

Vapori: Cocktails and Drinks, Gialos

The local products of the island include fresh fish, thyme honey, wine and wild herbs.

The local products of the island include fishballs, chickpeas with dill, stuffed cabbage leaves with fava, shrimps, akomia, a local sweet, and gaelopita, a smelt pie.

Every summer, numerous cultural and musical events takes place on the island with the participation of various acclaimed performers.

Every 17^th of July, the traditional celebration in honour of Agia Marina takes place on the homonymous islet.

Every 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of Virgin Mary takes place in the Monastery of Panagia Alithini.

Every 8^th of November, the traditional celebration in honour of Archangel Michael takes place in the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis.

Mythology

One of the antiquity names of the island was Egli, the nymph who gave birth to the Three Graces while another myth states that Symi was the name of the nymph who God Poseidon fell in love with, and had a son, Chthonios, the first king of the island. However, another myth reveals that the island was named after the daughter of Ialysos and Dotida, who was kidnapped from Glafkos and was brought to the island. He was the first resident of Symi, an excellent fisherman and shipbuilder, who constructed the ship of the Argonauts leaving the everlasting legacy to the island.

History

Archaeological findings show that Symi has been inhabited since the prehistoric times. The island followed the historical path of the Dodecanese, felling under the domination of the Roman and Byzantine Empire and the Order of the Knights of Rhodes who contributed to the economic prosperity of Symi helping in the development shipbuilding, sponge fishing and trade. When the Ottomans conquered the island, the people of Symi managed to gain important privileges from the Sultan that gave them autonomy and great benefits in seamanship. Subsequently, Symi served as the capital of the Dodecanese. This was the golden era of Symi in 1900 for a decade.  However, Symi was dominated from the Italians followed from the English and the German occupation. Symi was incorporated to Greece in March of 1948.

By Boat (216 Nautical Miles): Symi is accessible by boat from the harbour of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts seventeen hours. The quickest way to get to Symi is by airplane to the island of Rhodes. There, you can hop on a boat and visit Symi. The journey usually lasts one and a half hour. Symi is also connected with the islands of Agathonisi, Kalymnos, Kastelorizo, Kos, Leros, Leipsoi, Nisyros, Patmos and Tilos. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !