Our Guide to Symi, Greece.
Date Posted: 06/03/2024
A Greek Island bound to make you ooh and ahh, Symi is a timeless showstopper of secluded coves, pastel-hued ports, and glorious Grecian flavours. Relatively undiscovered, holidays here are all about embracing the true Greek experience. Wander winding backstreets sprinkled with local vendors, hop aboard a water taxi to discover sun-kissed shorelines, and enjoy endless days of do-nothing downtime letting that oh-so-good holiday happiness wash over you.
If you’re looking for a peaceful slice of paradise away from the usual tourist hustle and bustle, Symi is the perfect Greek Island for your next getaway.
Where to stay in Symi:
A tiny island of natural bays and rolling hillsides that cascade with colourful collections of tavernas and boutique hotels, there isn’t an array of star-studded resorts to choose from when staying on Symi. That’s the appeal of this untouched island. No matter where you choose to make a base, you’ll be able to discover everything the island has to offer with ease.
Pedi:
If you want peace and quiet, welcome to paradise. A charming village snuggled into a valley on the island’s northern coast, Pedi is a serene stench of seaside restaurants and quaint local cafés waiting to welcome laid-back holidayers. Here, rest, relaxation, and revelling in the beauty of nature are the way of life. Popular with yachties who dock their boats looking for a couple of days of recuperation before setting sail into the horizon of the glimmering ocean, Pedi is perfect for couples wanting to get away from it all.
Although the pebbled beaches here are small, they run alongside a stretch of turquoise waters that would rival the serenity of the Caribbean. And it’s only a short stroll along a scenic pathway to one of the most beautiful beaches on the entire island.
Symi Town:
Imagine yachts soundlessly rocking by glimmering harbours, local sponge sellers setting up stalls, the drifting smell of sweet Roxakia pastries, cats stretching in a patch of the morning sun, and you've just scraped the surface of what your good morning wake-up call in Symi could look like. The epicentre of the island where relaxation and exploration come together in blissful harmony, Symi Town is the best of both worlds for families and couples alike. A colourful mirage of Italian neoclassic mansions and authentic Greek hotels, Symi Town is alive with chic boutiques and pretty restaurants for holidaymakers to enjoy. Simply sit back, relax, and let Symi Town be the ultimate base to discover the essence of Greek culture.
Things to See and Do:
Panormitis monastery:
With an intricate clock tower soaring amidst the hilltops, it's easy to spot the Panormitis Monastery on the tiny island. A 15th-century monastery dedicated to the archangel St Michael, the building attracts visitors to its blue and orange architecture with a promise of Byzantine period beauty. But the beauty of this monument doesn’t stop at the vivid carvings on the exterior. Step inside and discover vibrant frescoes depicting the scenes of the Orthodox faith, religious icons, and folk art.
St George’s Bay:
If you have ever ventured to the famous shipwreck beach in Zante, then you’ll have an idea of the beauty that awaits visitors on these secluded Greek coves. Crystal clear waters, towering white cliffs, and complete serenity. Nestled on the east coast of the island, St George’s Bay is a beachside oasis that needs to be seen to be believed. A powder-soft beach only accessible by boat, set sail from Symi port and experience this wonder for yourself.
Visit Rhodes for the day:
Want to experience, Symi’s family favourite neighbour of Rhodes? Steeped in history and bursting with sights to explore, set sail across azure waters to spend a blissful day taking in the sights, sounds, and ambience of Rhodes. As your boat pulls back into port and the horizon becomes a vision of colourful mansions rising from the harbour like an enchanting fairytale land, let the spirit of Symi welcome you home with warm and endless beauty. Just be sure to get your camera ready to capture the magic.
Food & Drink:
Souvlaki, Gyros, Moussaka- it’s understandable why Greek cuisine has stolen a place in British travellers' hearts and stomachs. But beyond these most famed dishes, there’s a whole host of exciting flavours to enjoy on Symi.
A heavenly destination for foodies, Symi’s classic cuisine is a blend of traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes, infused with the unique flavours of the island. If you’re a lover of seafood there’s one dish you must try on the island- Symi shrimp, affectionately referred to as popcorn shrimp. Delightful bite-sized morsels fired to a perfect crisp; this catch of the day is a perfect mid-day snack.
A vision of blue and white fished straight from the Greek handbook, one of the must-visit restaurants on the island is Meraklis. A charming eatery in Symi Town that serves delicious seafood and Greek classics, stop by and indulge in the tastes of Greece whilst you nurse a refreshing glass of ouzo in the welcoming ambience of this quaint taverna. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a romantic dinner, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds in Symi.