YIALO YIALO TO SYMI

Experience the true pleasure of island living through a boat tour to Symi island, a tiny island with grand past and big appetite for life. Plus, it is easily accessible and only one hour away from the cosmopolitan island of Rhodes. Once you arrive at Gialos, the island’s main port, you will find yourself wondering through seaside fish tavernas, picturesque pastel houses and welcoming locals.

 

Even though you can definitely explore the entire island in just one day, we totally recommend you spend more time to feel its charming energy and laid-back style.

Wander around
Take a stroll around Gialos port, where the clocktower and belfry of Panagia Evangelistria church proudly stand out. Get mesmerised by the colourful mansion houses and bougainvilleas rising up the hill and make sure to capture some photographs there.

 

Reach new heights
500 stone steps may sound a lot, but the unique path of Kali Strata will take you through the lower and upper town, the shops with local handmade goods, the neoclassical architecture, offering the prettiest views of the port.

 

Indulge in local tastes
The island is legendary for its seafood, so make sure to stop at an ouzeri or a fish tavern to enjoy the famous shrimps “garidaki symiako”, the seafood pie “atherinopita”, handmade pasta and the honey balls “akoumia”.

Swim in crystal clear waters

Accessible only by boat, St. George’s beach is the most impressive and turquoise beach of the island, with a massive rockface reaching 300m. At Marathounda beach, you can take a siesta on your sun lounger while being surrounded by the friendly goats. The majority of the beaches are pebbled but if you are looking for a sandy beach, head to Nos beach, 300 meters away from the port.

 

Visit holy places

The Panormitis Monastery is one of the most emblematic monasteries in Greece. Dedicated to Archangel Michael, the patron of the island, it boasts the largest baroque style bell tower in the entire world.

 

Explore tiny neighbour islets

Seskli, the ancient Teftlousa, it’s a fertile island with figs and vineyards and other fruit-bearing trees and archaeological findings dating back to Neolithic period, yet not inhabited.

There is a turquoise beach and the chapel of St. Paul, who is said to have rested there during his journey from Kos to Rhodes. Right next to Seskli, there are the rocky islets of Troubeto and Koulountros.