The thing that most defines Symi is color. A stroll around the island is like walking through the palette of a vibrant artist. Although the Cyclades are famous for their whitewashed villages and bright blue details, Symi has its own particular character. Soft ochres, warm terracottas, elegant pinks, pastel yellows, sage greens and deep blues flow down the slopes, resulting in one of the most visually impressive harbors in the Aegean.
The striking facades are not merely a beautiful background; just as with so much in Greece, each color has a purpose.
In this post, we explore some of the reasons to visit this remarkable island in the southeastern Aegean, part of the Dodecanese and just a short distance from the Turkish coast.
A History of Prosperity
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Symi became one of the richest islands in the Dodecanese, its prosperity due to shipbuilding, maritime trade, and above all its well-known sponge diving industry; to display their wealth, the merchants and sea captains constructed elegant neoclassical mansions situated over the harbor. As a result of their numerous trips throughout the Mediterranean, they were inspired by the architectural styles they encountered and decided to apply what they had seen on their own island.
The houses were filled with bright colors that showed off both their wealth and the cosmopolitan character of a place where people carried on trade from Constantinople to Alexandria and beyond.
Visit the Naval Museum of Symi
A visit to the Naval Museum of Symi in Gialos offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich maritime heritage. Housed in an elegant neoclassical building, the museum brings Symi’s seafaring past to life through an impressive collection of traditional diving equipment once used by sponge divers who risked their lives harvesting the island’s world-famous natural sponges from the seabed. Historic photographs, maritime artefacts and exhibits reveal how this perilous profession transformed Symi into one of the wealthiest islands in the Aegean during the 19th century.
Gialos and the Kali Strata
Today, the harbor of Gialos is still regarded as one of the most memorable arrivals in Greece — and for a good reason. As the boat approaches, hundreds of colorful neoclassical houses seem to rise straight from the sea, framed by rugged slopes and shimmering turquoise water. It is a view that immediately explains why Symi leaves a lasting impression.
Take time to wander along Gialos harbor, where colorful fishing boats, elegant sailing yachts and waterfront cafés create the lively atmosphere that defines Symi. Throughout the day, boutique shops welcome visitors to browse local crafts, jewelry and island souvenirs, while traditional tavernas tempt passers-by with the aromas of freshly prepared seafood. Keep an eye out for octopus hanging outside many of the tavernas—a time-honored local tradition that reflects the island’s deep connection to the sea.
As you continue your walk towards the old shipyard, you’ll come across Symi’s distinctive Clock Tower. Built in 1881 and inspired by London’s famous Big Ben, this elegant landmark has watched over the harbor for well over a century and remains one of the island’s most recognizable monuments.
And if you would like to experience one of the best views then you must walk the Kali Strata. Regarded as the most famous landmark, this stone staircase connects the harbor with the upper settlement of Chorio. Its roughly 500 steps once served as the main route home for merchants and local residents. The climb does take effort, but each turn brings wider and more dramatic views over the harbor, making it one of the island’s most rewarding experiences.
The Monastery of Panormitis
Set on Symi’s peaceful southern coast, the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Dodecanese. The monastery dates back to the 18th century and stands on the site of an earlier Byzantine monastery, continuing a centuries-old tradition of devotion to Archangel Michael.
Panormitis is also linked to the intriguing legend of the “St. Michael Line”—an imaginary alignment connecting a series of sanctuaries dedicated to Archangel Michael across Europe, from Ireland towards the Holy Land. Whether this remarkable alignment is simply a geographical coincidence or carries a deeper spiritual meaning remains a matter of interpretation, but the legend adds another layer of mystery to an already extraordinary place.
The monastery makes a striking first impression. Its tall Venetian-style bell tower rises prominently above the complex, welcoming pilgrims and visitors arriving by sea. Step inside, and the atmosphere becomes wonderfully peaceful, with quiet courtyards, beautifully preserved religious buildings and an ecclesiastical museum that offers a glimpse into the monastery’s long spiritual and cultural history.
A Taste of Symi
Symi is also known for its seafood, and no dish is more closely associated with the island than garidaki Symis, the tiny local shrimp. Lightly fried until crisp and eaten whole, these shrimps have a sweet, delicate flavor that has become part of Symi’s culinary identity.
Enjoyed with fresh fish, local meze, and a chilled glass of ouzo by the harbor, they offer a true taste of the island’s maritime heritage.
Beaches of Symi
Symi’s coastline hides a collection of beautiful coves with crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs and a wonderfully secluded atmosphere. Nanou Beach, surrounded by rugged hills and cypress trees, is one of the island’s most scenic spots, while Marathounda Beach offers calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. For a truly dramatic setting, head to Agios Georgios Dysalona, a tiny beach tucked beneath towering cliffs and accessible only by boat.
For a truly memorable experience, consider exploring Symi by boat. The island’s coastline is scattered with tiny coves that remain inaccessible by road, and a private boat or day cruise allows you to stop for a swim wherever the water looks most inviting.
Symi is far more than one of Greece’s prettiest islands. It is a destination full of character, elegance and timeless charm, ideal for anyone who values authenticity.