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
You will dock right in the center of Gialos, the harbor of the town of Symi, and discover that no modern construction has been allowed to spoil the tiny town's original charm nor the panorama of its neoclassical red-roofed houses that climb steeply up the horseshoe-shaped island. Only smaller cruise ships are able to dock here, alongside luxury yachts as well as small but colorful fishing boats.
Printable map to take along.
Symi is a place where tradition has outpaced time, where life moves with the seamless grace of the sea. Admire the colorful neoclassical mansions that cling to the hills and climb to a viewpoint overlooking the town where you can see the coves, inlets and cliffs that grace the coastline.
Sit down for a peaceful lunch by the sea, where you can dine on flavorful fish straight from the harbor.
Getting around
Two buses exist on Symi: The gray bus makes the short but bone-shaking journey to Chorio and then Pedi By on the hour and then returns from Pedi on the half hour. Well frequented by the locals and at only 70 cents its beats climbing the up to Chorio in the heat of the day! - plus it saves time if on a day trip and then you can walk DOWN the steps of the kali Strata back to the harbor. 1 Euro. The blue minibus makes two trips a day to Panormiits one at 10 am and 3.00pm. Price is 3.50 euros each way for the 30 minute journey which enjoys fabulous views over Symi as it climbs up the island and down to Panormitis. The driver will kindly stop for…
Taxi to Panormitis is about 25 Euro.
For the less able walker there is also a little tourist train (40 minutes trip). It goes along the quay sides and off towards Nimborio.
Car rental is right across the cruise dock.
Nearby places
The seaside towns of Nimporio and Pedi deserve your attention, and so is the cove of Panormitis with the historical Monastery of Archangel Michail Panormitis, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and dates back to the 15th century.
Food and shopping
The approx. 1.5 kilometer main street around the port is lined with rather upscale restaurants, sidewalk cafes and shops, with the occasional touristy places. A leisurely stroll along the water's edge is the town's main pastime and is truly enjoyable.
The sea around Symi is famous for its natural sponges, which make a unique gift for friends back home. Duty free store in port.
Money
Euro
Staying connected
Greek.
Wifi requires a purchase in a cafe or restaurant, at which time a password will be issued.
Opening Hours and
Public Services: open Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 2.00pm. Retail Stores & Specialty Shops: Monday to Friday, 9am – 1.30pm and then again from 5pm – 9pm. Saturdays, 9am – 2pm. Supermarkets: Monday to Friday, 9am – 9pm, and Saturdays, 9am – 6pm. Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores: most of these do not have official opening hours and are usually open from dawn to well after midnight during the summer months.