Making the most of Symi
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Dock right in central Gialos, the harbor of the town of Symi, where modern construction has not spoiled the original charm or panorama of neoclassical red-roofed houses climbing steeply around the horseshoe-shaped island. Only smaller cruise ships can dock here, alongside luxury yachts and colorful small fishing boats.
Take along a printable map.
On Symi, tradition has outpaced time and life moves with the sea’s seamless grace. Admire colorful neoclassical mansions clinging to the hills, then climb to a viewpoint over the town and its coastline’s cliffs, coves and inlets.
Sit down for a peaceful lunch by the sea and enjoy flavorful fish fresh from the harbor.
Getting around
Symi has two buses. The gray bus makes the short, bone-shaking run to Chorio and then Pedi By on the hour, returning from Pedi on the half hour. At only 70 cents it is popular with locals and beats climbing to Chorio in the day’s heat; it also saves time on a day trip, leaving you to walk DOWN the Kali Strata steps to the harbor. 1 Euro. The blue minibus runs two times daily to Panormiits, at 10 am and 3.00pm. The fabulous-view 30 minute journey climbs over Symi and descends to Panormitis, costing 3.50 euros each way. The driver will kindly stop for…
A taxi to Panormitis costs about 25 Euro.
Less able walkers can use the little tourist train for a 40 minutes trip along the quay sides and towards Nimborio.
Car rental is directly across from the cruise dock.
Nearby places
Pay attention to the seaside towns of Pedi and Nimporio, and to Panormitis cove. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the historical Monastery of Archangel Michail Panormitis there dates to the 15th century.
Food and shopping
Rather upscale shops, sidewalk cafes and restaurants, plus the occasional touristy place, line the port’s approx. 1.5 kilometer main street. A leisurely waterside stroll is the town’s truly enjoyable main pastime.
The sea around Symi is renowned for natural sponges, a unique present for friends back home. A duty free store is in port.
Money
The currency is the Euro.
Staying connected
The language is Greek.
Wifi needs a cafe or restaurant purchase, after which a password is issued.
Opening Hours and
Public Services operate Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 2.00pm. Specialty Shops and Retail Stores open Monday to Friday, 9am – 1.30pm, then 5pm – 9pm, and Saturdays 9am – 2pm. Supermarkets are open Monday to Friday 9am – 9pm and Saturdays 9am – 6pm. Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores usually open from dawn until well after midnight during summer, without official opening hours.