Tucked away in the Dodecanese, Symi is a hidden gem where time slows down and relaxation takes center stage. Unlike its busier neighbors, this charming island remains untouched by mass tourism. Instead of crowded beaches and packed resorts, you’ll find peaceful coves, crystal-clear waters, and traditional tavernas serving the freshest seafood.

The first thing that catches your eye is Symi’s postcard-perfect harbor. Rows of neoclassical houses, painted in soft pastels, rise from the water’s edge, reflecting the island’s prosperous past. Here, life unfolds at a slower pace, with mornings spent by the sea and evenings filled with delicious meals under starlit skies.
If you dream of an authentic Greek island experience, Symi delivers. No large crowds, no noisy nightlife – just the sound of waves, the scent of grilled seafood, and the warmth of the Mediterranean sun.

- About Symi: A Small Island with a Rich History
- Getting to Symi
- Getting Around Symi
- Best Beaches in Symi
- Staying Active at the Gym in Symi
- Where to Eat in Symi – A Taste of Local Flavors
- Taverna Trawler (Taverna Trata) – Classic Greek Comfort Food
- Pantelis – A Mix of Traditional and Creative Dishes
- Georgio and Maria – Home-Cooked Meals in Chorio
- Kali Strata Restaurant – An Elegant Dining Experience
- Taverna O Meraklis – Simple, Fresh, and Delicious
- Mediterraneo Café – A Perfect Spot to Relax in Gialos
- Fournos tou Panormion – The Best Bougatsa in Symi
- Final Thoughts – A Perfect 5 Days in Symi
About Symi: A Small Island with a Rich History

The Dodecanese is a group of twelve major islands and numerous smaller ones in the southeastern Aegean Sea, near the Turkish coast. This island chain, which includes Rhodes, Kos, Patmos, and Symi, has a rich history shaped by Byzantine, Ottoman, and Italian influences. Each island has its own character, but Symi stands out for its tranquil beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The island’s neoclassical architecture is a legacy of its affluent past.

Located just 41 kilometers northwest of Rhodes, Symi is a small island with a fascinating past. In the 19th century, its shipyards produced some of the finest vessels in the Aegean. Sponge diving also brought prosperity, with local divers traveling as far as North Africa to collect sponges. However, as these industries declined in the 20th century, the island’s economy shifted toward fishing, trade, and tourism.

Unlike other Greek islands with typical whitewashed houses, Symi’s buildings are painted in warm yellows, pinks, and blues, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue sea. Gialos (Yialos), the island’s main port, is one of the most beautiful harbors in Greece, with colorful mansions lining the waterfront. During summer, most visitors are European travelers, with a notable number of British expats who spend the warmer months here.
Symi’s Way of Life
Beyond its stunning architecture, Symi offers a slower, more peaceful way of life. There are no large resorts, no major roads, and no noisy clubs – just quiet beaches, friendly tavernas, and breathtaking views. This makes it a perfect escape for travelers looking to unwind and soak up the Greek island atmosphere.

For the best experience, visit Symi between May and September, when the island is vibrant, and everything is open. During these months, warm weather, lively tavernas, and stunning beaches make it an ideal summer getaway. In the off-season, most restaurants, hotels, and shops close, and many locals leave for the winter. To fully enjoy the island, summer is the perfect time to go.

Getting to Symi
The most common way to get to the island is by ferry. For travelers coming from Athens, the fastest route is to fly to Rhodes. Several airlines operate daily flights between Athens and Rhodes, with a flight time of just 45 minutes. Once in Rhodes, it’s a short 1-1.5-hour ferry ride to Symi, making it a quick and convenient journey.
Since we were already spending a few days in Rhodes, we simply took the ferry from Rhodes to Symi. Multiple ferry operators run daily routes, with options ranging from high-speed catamarans to slower, more scenic boats. Departures are frequent, especially in the summer, and tickets can be booked online or at the port. We typically get our tickets through Ferryhopper.com. The ride itself is smooth, offering gorgeous views of the Aegean.


For those traveling directly from Athens, there is also a ferry from Piraeus Port to Symi, though it’s a much longer journey. Depending on the number of stops along the way, the trip takes between 14 and 19 hours. We chose to take the overnight ferry on our way back to Athens. We booked a private cabin, slept through the night, and woke up in Piraeus in the morning, well-rested and ready to explore the city.
Getting Around Symi
Symi is a small island, but getting around can still require some planning. The main town, also called Symi, is split into two parts: Gialos (Yialos), the lower area by the port, and Chorio, the upper old town. Gialos is where ferries arrive, and it’s lined with waterfront cafés, small shops, and boutique hotels. Meanwhile, Chorio sits above the harbor and is home to several restaurants and residences.

A long stone staircase, known as the Kali Strata, connects Gialos to Chorio. The climb offers scenic views, but with hundreds of steep steps, it can be quite a workout – especially in the summer heat. Instead of making the long uphill trek, we rented a scooter, which made exploring much easier.

With a scooter, we could quickly reach Chorio without breaking a sweat and continue exploring nearby villages and beaches. Rental shops in Gialos offer scooters and small motorbikes, which are perfect for navigating the island’s winding roads. We rented our scooter at Jimmy’s Rent a Moto for €20 per day. Since Symi doesn’t have a major bus system and taxis are limited, having our own transport gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace.


For those who prefer not to drive, local buses and taxis provide transportation between Gialos, Chorio, and Pedi, a small seaside village nearby. Boats also serve as water taxis, shuttling visitors to Symi’s more remote beaches, which are otherwise difficult to reach by land.
Best Beaches in Symi
With its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere, Symi is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dodecanese. Many of these beaches are secluded and only accessible by boat, while others can be reached by scooter or on foot. Each one has its own charm, from pebbled shores to course sand and hidden coves. Visitors should bring beach shoes to comfortably walk on the pebbles and easily step into the water, making their beach experience even more enjoyable.
Nos Beach – Convenient and Relaxing

Located just a short walk from Gialos, Nos Beach is one of the most accessible beaches on Symi. The calm, shallow waters make it a great place to relax without taking a boat. With sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beachfront taverna, it’s an easy choice for a laid-back beach day.
Giala Beach – A Hidden Gem

Giala Beach is a quiet, lesser-known spot that offers stunning blue waters and a peaceful setting. The rocky shoreline makes it less crowded than other beaches, but the scenic views and clear sea are worth the visit. Bring water shoes, as the pebbles can be sharp. We had lunch at the beach’s local coffee bar, enjoying a delicious Pork Souvlaki with pita paired with a nice cold Greek beer – a perfect meal after swimming in the refreshing waters.

St. Nikolas Beach – A Tranquil Escape by Boat


Only accessible by boat, St. Nikolas Beach is a must-visit for those looking for a serene escape. The boat ride costs €12 (cash only), and upon arrival, you can rent two chaises and an umbrella for €15. The calm waters and soft pebbles make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This beach gets busy, so we recommend taking one of the earlier boats. This way you will ensure to have chairs and umbrellas available upon arriving at the beach.


We had lunch at the family-run beach taverna, which served fresh, local dishes in a laid-back setting. Our meal included a classic Greek salad and perfectly grilled fish, both of which were fresh and flavorful. Enjoying this meal with a view of the turquoise sea made for an unforgettable afternoon.
Nanou Beach – Turquoise Waters and Stunning Cliffs

Another boat-access-only beach, Nanou Beach was our favorite. The beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and deep turquoise waters. The boat ride costs €15 (cash only), while two chairs and an umbrella cost €10. The crystal-clear sea and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind.


After a refreshing swim, we had lunch at the beach family-run taverna. We enjoyed a Greek salad, Aubergine Imam, Stuffed Tomato and Green Pepper, and Chicken Souvlaki, all bursting with flavor. To top it off, we sipped on a very cold Mythos beer, the perfect complement.


Pedi Beach – A Beachfront Experience in a Charming Village

Located in the small village of Pedi, this beach offers a comfortable and scenic experience. Two sunbeds and an umbrella cost €40 on the first row and €30 on the second and third rows. The price includes a large bottle of water and a fresh fruit platter, making it a great place to spend a full day by the sea. The calm, clear waters and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among visitors.

The village itself has tavernas and cafés, perfect for a post-swim meal. For lunch, we dined at Katsaras Restaurant Bar, a fantastic seaside restaurant located right at the edge of the water. We enjoyed a plate of okra in tomato sauce, a flavorful and comforting dish, along with Symi’s famous tiny pink shrimp, lightly fried and perfectly crispy. Sitting by the sea, sipping a cold drink, and tasting these delicious local specialties made our afternoon at Pedi Beach even more memorable.


Nimborio Beach – A Peaceful Getaway


We reached Nimborio Beach by scooter, but a water taxi is also available for €10. This beach has a relaxed vibe, clear waters, and tavernas with delicious food. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
For lunch, we ate at Metapontis Taverna, one of the charming seaside restaurants right next to the beach. We had a fresh Greek salad, crispy Symi shrimps, and flavorful chicken souvlaki, all served with a beautiful view of the sea. The combination of delicious food and the tranquil setting made our visit to Nimborio Beach a perfect escape.


Whether you prefer an easy-to-reach beach or a secluded one accessible only by boat, Symi has the perfect spot for every type of traveler.
Staying Active at the Gym in Symi

We try to stay active even when traveling, so finding a fully equipped gym in Symi was a great surprise. Located near the east side of Gialos Port, it gave us the chance to keep up with our workouts while enjoying the island. Most small Greek islands don’t have a gym, so this was a rare and welcome find. The first visit cost €10, with each session after that at €7.
Where to Eat in Symi – A Taste of Local Flavors
One of the best parts of visiting Symi is indulging in its delicious local cuisine. The island’s food scene is deeply influenced by traditional Greek flavors, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and simple yet flavorful dishes. The most famous specialty is Symi Shrimps, tiny pink shrimp unique to the island. They are lightly fried, crispy, and incredibly addictive – so much so that we ordered them at nearly every restaurant we visited!
Here are some of the best restaurants we tried and loved:
Taverna Trawler (Taverna Trata) – Classic Greek Comfort Food

This traditional taverna is a great place to enjoy authentic home-style Greek dishes. We started with a Greek Salad, followed by a generous plate of crispy Symi Shrimps. For the main course, we had Giouvetsi, a rich and hearty beef and orzo casserole, cooked to perfection with a deep tomato sauce.

Pantelis – A Mix of Traditional and Creative Dishes



With a warm atmosphere and a fantastic menu, Pantelis quickly became one of our favorites. We shared a Greek salad, a flavorful Lentil Pâté, and Pan-Fried Feta with Sesame and Honey, which was a delicious mix of crispy, salty, and sweet. Of course, we also had a plate of Symi Shrimps. To finish, we were treated to a complimentary dessert, which included a decadent Chocolate Cake and a Coconut Phyllo Cake – a perfect ending to a great meal.
Georgio and Maria – Home-Cooked Meals in Chorio


This family-run taverna in Chorio is known for its comforting, home-style dishes, and we were eager to try some of their specialties. We ordered Imam Bayildi, a stuffed eggplant with tomatoes, bursting with flavor. Next, we had a plate of Symi Shrimps, because we simply couldn’t resist. For the main course, we tried the Braised Village Lamb, slow-cooked in a rich sauce of wine, garlic, and mustard – tender, flavorful, and delicious. Be aware that this is a cash-only restaurant.
Kali Strata Restaurant – An Elegant Dining Experience



For a more upscale dining experience, Kali Strata in Chorio is the perfect spot. The beautiful two-level patio creates a charming atmosphere, and the food is both refined and flavorful. We started with a Green Salad with citrus vinaigrette, followed by Feta Tempura with cherry tomato jam and black sesame – a unique twist on a Greek classic. Next, we had Zucchini Balls with fricassée greens and aromatic yogurt, a light but tasty appetizer. For the mains, we ordered Seafood Linguine, a dish loaded with shrimp, clams, mussels, squid, shellfish bisque, and lemon, as well as Octopus Risotto, made with cuttlefish ink and ouzo for an intense, rich flavor.
Taverna O Meraklis – Simple, Fresh, and Delicious



Sometimes, a simple menu with fresh ingredients is all you need, and O Meraklis delivers exactly that. We enjoyed a Greek Salad, another round of Symi Shrimps, and a beautifully cooked Grilled Sea Bass – perfectly fresh and seasoned just right. This is the kind of place where great food and a relaxed setting make for a perfect meal.
Mediterraneo Café – A Perfect Spot to Relax in Gialos

Mediterraneo Café sits right in the heart of Gialos, making it a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the lively atmosphere. During the day, it’s ideal for a coffee and a light meal, offering a relaxing setting with views of the harbor. In the evening, it transforms into a great place to enjoy a pre- or post-dinner drink, while watching people leisurely stroll along the waterfront. With its prime location, friendly service, and laid-back vibe, Mediterraneo Café is a fantastic spot to unwind and take in the charm of Symi.
Fournos tou Panormion – The Best Bougatsa in Symi

No morning in Symi is complete without a visit to Fournos tou Panormion, the best place to get freshly baked Bougatsa. This traditional Greek pastry consists of flaky, buttery phyllo dough filled with creamy custard, then sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon. Served warm and straight from the oven, it’s the perfect way to start the day. The bakery offers other fresh pastries and breads, but the Bougatsa is an absolute must-try. If you’re in Gialos early in the morning, don’t miss the chance to enjoy this delicious local treat with a cup of Greek coffee.

From cozy tavernas to elegant restaurants, Symi offers a fantastic variety of dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for a quick seafood lunch by the water or a long, leisurely dinner under the stars, the island’s food scene is sure to impress. And if you love shrimp, make sure to order Symi Shrimps as often as possible – you won’t regret it!
Final Thoughts – A Perfect 5 Days in Symi

Our goal for this trip was simple: relax, enjoy the beautiful beaches, and indulge in delicious local food. Instead of rushing between landmarks, we chose to slow down, soak in the scenery, and savor every meal.
Symi was the perfect destination for a laid-back, sun-filled escape. The crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and friendly atmosphere made every moment unforgettable. From hidden beaches reached by boat to mouthwatering Symi Shrimps, we loved every part of our stay.

Five days felt just right – long enough to fully unwind while still leaving us wanting more. We will definitely stay longer next time. If you’re looking for a place to relax, explore at your own pace, and enjoy incredible Greek cuisine, Symi is the perfect island getaway.
