The Dodecanese
The Dodecanese is the name given to a group of twelve larger and over one hundred smaller Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Famous for their pristine beaches, medieval castles and rich archeological history. Symi is among one of the smallest of and is far less known than its larger counterparts like Kos and Rhodes. I myself had never heard Symi mentioned until I visited Rhodes and learnt that you could take a boat trip there.
The small but stunning island is most well known historically for its shipbuilding expertise and sea sponge diving. Today these industries have been replaced, with the majority of the population working in the fishing trade and tourism.
Symi makes for the perfect day trip escape for those looking to explore another tranquil island whilst visiting Rhodes. A population of less than 3000 people makes for a chilled out atmosphere which is due to there not being a flight route here, with any tourists arriving by boat or ferry only. I’ve learnt that during peak tourism season, the population can actually double with the number of day-trippers arriving on the island!
With there being fewer tourists than the other larger islands, Symi island arguably offers a more authentic Greek experience. Here are some of my tips and memories from visiting the picturesque Symi island that I hope will pique your interest and encourage you to add this little gem to your travel bucket list.
Getting there
Symi island can be reached by sea only. You can either jump on a boat or ferry and take a day trip from Rhodes Town (Rhodes). These tours do not operate all year round from my understanding, so be sure to check with your hotel or speak to a tour operator in Rhodes Town for more up-to-date travel information. The trip itself only cost around £30 which I found to be really great value for a full day of exploration.
Panormitis Monastery
The first stop our boat made on our day trip to Symi island is to the monastery of Archangel Michael. Situated on the southwest coast and built in the 18th century, the monastery is beautiful with an unmistakable bell tower protruding from the surrounding landscape.
The monastery houses two museums – one dedicated to religious items, the other exhibits items relating to folk culture. Inside the monastery you will find walls adorned with Byzantine period paintings and frescoes depicting Archangel Michael.
The area is free to be explored by tourists as long as a modest dress code is adhered to (shoulders and legs need to be covered). There are locals on hand to lend out cover-ups should you need one, but I think it’s best to plan ahead and bring a shawl with you, for example.
Gialos Harbour
I’ll never forget the breathtaking view of Symi’s rainbow coloured neoclassical houses revealing themselves as our boat drew in closer to Gialos harbour and approach Symi’s main town.
Once you’ve taken a million different photographs of all the colourful buildings from the boat, you can begin exploring the harbour and main town by foot. The harbour is very easy to navigate, just make sure you bring comfy shoes to wander around in, unless you prefer to take a horse and carriage ride!
There are also lots of little restaurants and souvenir shops. This is the perfect place to stock up on souvenirs such as spices, sea sponges and artwork to commemorate your trip!
Chorió
Translating to ‘village’ in Greek, Chorió is the name of the upper part of the island. This can be reached by either climbing up the treacherous ‘Kali Strata’ which is a steep stairway made up of 450 steps (we only managed about 100 steps before walking back down!).
Chorió can also be reached via other little stairways and passages just off the harbour and we found a route that was broken up by little residential pathways which made the journey feel less like a workout compared to Kali Strata.
The views of the harbour and village below become more and more spectacular the higher you choose to climb!
The Tavernas
It comes as no surprise that because of Symi’s location, the island has some fabulous fresh fish and seafood to sample. All along the horseshoe shaped harbour you will find pretty tavernas selling just that! Get a ‘taste’ of local life and try the catch of the day like we did!
Did you know?
Symi is famous for its shrimps. Symi’s shrimps are a particular speciality of the island and are small and a bright red colour. Apparently because they are so small they can be eaten whole – heads and tails included!
A ‘must see’ while visiting Rhodes
Should you ever find yourself on holiday in Rhodes, I would highly recommend taking advantage of Rhodes’ proximity to the picturesque Symi island. Our holiday was made that much more memorable for it! Just be sure to pack your camera as you won’t want to miss any of the views…
Until next time,
Lica xoxo
