One of the must things to do in Rhodes is to go on a day trip to Symi. If your time allows, consider spending a couple of nights here, too. Trust me, you won’t regret it at all 🙂

Symi’s story stretches back to ancient times, when it was known for shipbuilding and sponge diving. The island flourished during the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, becoming an important trading hub. Its prosperity is reflected in the elegant mansions that still line the harbor today. Symi was officially united with Greece in 1948, following centuries of shifting rule under various empires. Despite its small size, Symi has maintained a distinct identity, preserving traditions and architectural marvels.

Top things to do here:

• Ano Symi: the main port of the island, where most ferries and small cruise ships dock. It is also the postcard perfect type of town, with so many instagram worthy spots that you might forget how fast time flies. The island’s main town is split into the bustling harbor area of Yialos and the hillside village of Chorio. Stroll along the waterfront, admire pastel-colored houses, and climb the famous Kali Strata steps connecting the two districts.

• Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis: Located on the southwest coast, this 18th-century monastery is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the Dodecanese. Its impressive baroque bell tower and tranquil setting make it a favorite among visitors. The church can be visited for free, but for the museums the entry fee is 1 euro (for both). Photos are not allowed inside the museums. Decent clothing is a must (shoulders and knees covered, no swimsuits) and everyone must uncover their heads when they enter the church.

• Beaches: Symi is home to numerous picturesque beaches, many accessible by boat. Don’t miss St George Bay, Nos Beach, Agios Nikolaos, or the secluded Agia Marina, where crystal-clear waters await.

• Symi’s Sponge and Maritime Museums: Discover the island’s maritime heritage and learn about the traditional sponge-diving industry that once brought prosperity to Symi. You will find natural sponges in all souvenir shops and in the back alleys even shop dedicated entirely to them

• Pedi Bay: A tranquil bay just a short walk from Chorio, Pedi Bay offers calm waters for swimming, charming tavernas, and a laid-back atmosphere.

How to get to Symi:

Well, the only way to get here is by boat. There are is no airport on the island, the closest one is Rhodes airport. There are several options:

1. By regular ferries that connect it to different islands in the area, the main one being Rhodes, with daily schedule all year round and multiple trips/day. On some ferries you can bring your car too, others are only for passengers. You can also get here from Tilos, Kos, Kastellorizo(Greek Islands) and from Bodrum, Turkey. Check the schedule and journey duration on ferryhopper and choose the best for you
2. By catamaran – you can rent it for your group or share it with other tourists
3. By day trips from Rhodes (passengers only). It departs from Mandraki Port and it can be found in the port area ar at any local agency in Rhodes. Read carefully which type of trip you pay for, as there are 2 main options:

• Ano Symi (2-3 hrs of free time) and Monastery of Panormitis (1-2 hrs of free time) and back to Rhodes
• Ano Symi (2-3 hrs of free time), swim stop at St George’s Bay (30 mins) and back to Rhodes

Good to know before you go:

• There is only one main road that connects Ano Symi to Panormitis
• Cars are pretty useless here, as Ano Symi is mostly pedestrian with narrow streets. You can rent a scooter for exploring
• There are two local bus lines: Ano Symi – Pedi and Ano Symi – Panormitis, but with limited service and seats (20 seats vans)
• Make sure to try the Symi shrimps, a local delicacy. The shrips are bright red, tiny and sweet in taste.
• You will find shops dedicated to natural sponges. These shops have a particular smell of stale seawater and it is normal, as the sponges are collected directly from the sea bottom
• The ferry trip can be rough, depending on the wind speed and direction. Make sure you have sea sickness pills with you
• If you book from a local agency, it can be cancelled if the weather conditions does not allow a safe journey for the small ships
• To reach Ano Symi you will pass very close to the Turkish shore. Pay attention to your mobile phone, as you can switch automatically to Turkish mobile operators without noticing it. It is not that often, but it can happen. Remember that Turkey is not part of EU and roaming costs are pretty high (if you have an EU or local Greek number).
• You will cross open sea from Rhodes. Make sure to use sunscreen and have something to cover yourself if you plan to stay on the upper deck. It can be very chilly. The wind can be pretty strong, so be careful when you take photos or videos (my phone was almost blown away from my hand)
• Ano Symi and Panormitis are sheltered harbours, hence the heat will be felt differently, as there is no breeze
• Some stairs in Ano Symi are perfect for insta stories, but they are mostly private properties.
• Expect crowds, especially in high season.