Symi island: getting there from Rhodes, what to see and when to go
Little Symi, near Rhodes, is famous for its harbour of colourful houses. Visit for a day or a few nights. Here is what to know.
- The ferry from Rhodes to Symi takes about an hour (45 minutes to 1h20, depending on vessel).
- In season there are about 10 sailings a day, roughly 08:00–18:00 (Direct Ferries).
- Best time: May–June and September–October; July–August is very hot.
From Rhodes you can see Symi in a day. To see it quietly, without the day-trip crowds, stay a night or two.
How do you get to Symi?
Symi has no airport; you arrive by ferry from Rhodes. According to Direct Ferries, the crossing averages about 1 hour 12 minutes (45 minutes to 1h20), with about 10 sailings a day in season, roughly 08:00–18:00. Operators include Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, SAOS, Sea Dreams and Sebeco. Full details in Rhodes to Symi ferry. Getting to Rhodes: flights from Israel to Rhodes.
What to see on Symi
Gialos harbour
The main harbour, with colourful neoclassical houses climbing the hillsides. It is the island's famous view, best seen as the ferry enters the bay.
Chorio and the Kali Strata
From the harbour, the stone steps of the Kali Strata climb to the upper village, Chorio, with quiet lanes, views over the bay and the remains of the Knights of St John castle. The climb is steep, so go in the morning or towards evening.
Panormitis monastery
A large 18th-century monastery on the southwest coast dedicated to the Archangel Michael. Some ferries from Rhodes stop there on the way; check when booking.
Beaches on Symi
| Beach | Access | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Nos | short walk from the harbour | the closest beach to Gialos |
| Pedi | road or walk | quiet bay with tavernas |
| Nanou | water taxi or hike | beautiful, secluded bay |
Many Symi beaches lack an easy road, so water taxis from the harbour are the simplest way to reach them.
When is the best time to visit Symi?
May–June and September–October bring pleasant weather and a sea warm enough to swim. July–August is very hot and the harbour fills with day trips from Rhodes. The Symi Festival runs from July to September with concerts and events.
Day trip or overnight?
A day trip from Rhodes is possible and popular, but most day-trippers arrive in the morning and leave in the afternoon, so evenings and early mornings are far quieter. If you can, stay a night in Gialos. More ideas nearby: Rhodes for couples.
Where to stay on Symi
Gialos is most convenient, close to ferries, restaurants and water taxis; Chorio is quieter with superb views but means steps or taxis; Pedi suits a quiet bay. One day covers Gialos, Chorio and a nearby beach; two or three nights add remote beaches, Panormitis and quiet sunsets.
FAQ
How long does it take from Rhodes to Symi? According to Direct Ferries, about an hour on average: 45 minutes to 1h20, depending on vessel.
Can you do a day trip to Symi? Yes. In season there are morning sailings and afternoon returns; it is a popular day trip from Rhodes.
What is the best thing to see on Symi? The view of Gialos harbour, the Kali Strata climb to Chorio, and Panormitis monastery.
Does Symi have good beaches? Yes, but most are small and pebbly, and many are reached by water taxi from the harbour.
