It stands proud and colourful on the southeastern edge of the Aegean Sea, a distant but unique journey of revelation.
The stately, colourful houses, the secluded beaches and the fresh fish dishes are worth the many hours of travel to Symi.
The allure that spreads over the travellers is almost mystifying. The Central Archaeological Council has declared the whole of the Dodecanese island an archaeological site, thanks to 159 sites and monuments that capture the region’s history, with roots in the prehistoric era.
There are direct routes from Piraeus, but not every day of the week. The duration of the trip varies depending on the route, from 14 to 19 hours.
Alternatively, you can travel by ferry or plane to Rhodes and, from there, by ferry daily to Symi. The journey time from Rhodes to Symi is approximately 2 hours.
Take a walk between the colourful mansions of the port and the settlement that has developed amphitheatrically around it. Wander through the narrow streets of Gialos and admire the huge palette of colours in the island’s buildings.
The dozens of colours on the walls and triangular gables of the mansions make the walk through the settlement fascinating. Walk along the entire bay of the harbour, past the boats and quays.
You will pass in front of the port that has traditional cafes and fish tavernas with octopuses hanging. You will also see a clock tower, built in 1881 on the model of Big Ben, as is the legend…
From Gialos, you can climb the 500 stone steps that lead to Chorio or Ano Symi, the capital of the island. The stairs are called Kali Strata and lead between mansions and small churches to the central square.
The view is magnificent from there, but also from almost every point of the town.
Visit the Holy Panormitis Monastery of the Archangel Michael. It is located on the south side of the island in a bay of amazing beauty. Dozens of myths and stories accompany the monastery.
You can also take a refreshing dip next to the monastery and the harbour. The sight of the waters, the vast open spaces, and some slopes with trees and greenery is impossible not to pique your interest.
It is worth going around the island in a traditional boat. Many memorable beaches of Symi are only accessible from the sea. The boat departs daily from the port in the morning and returns in the afternoon.
The walk usually makes its first stop at the hidden beach of Fokospilia and the last at the beach of Agios Georgios.
Enjoy fish and seafood. Symi has a long tradition in everything related to the sea. Its inhabitants became known as fishermen, spongers, shipbuilders, and sailors. They dive for octopuses, fish with trawls, and, of course, always have fresh Simian shrimp.
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