Symi is a small mountainous island in the Dodecanese, north of Rhodes and very close to the Turkish coast. In the 19th century it grew rich on shipbuilding and sponge diving, and its people built the elegant neoclassical houses that still ring the harbour of Gialos, with triangular pediments and pastel colours. In May 1945 the surrender of German forces in the Dodecanese was signed on Symi.
What to see
| Place | Why |
|---|---|
| Gialos | The harbour, with its clock tower, captains' houses and sponge shops |
| Kali Strata | A stairway of about 500 steps climbing to the upper village of Chorio |
| Chorio | The hilltop village, with the museum and the remains of the Knights' castle |
| Panormitis monastery | Large monastery of the Archangel Michael, patron of sailors, in a southern bay; a pilgrimage site |
The best beaches, such as Agios Georgios Dysalona, Nanou and Marathounda, are reached by taxi boat from Gialos; Nos and Agios Nikolaos are within walking distance. Try the tiny Symi shrimps, fried and eaten whole.
Getting there
Ferries and fast boats from Rhodes (1-2 hours), often stopping at Panormitis; many visitors come on a day trip, but it is worth staying for the evening when the harbour empties. There are also links with Piraeus and the other Dodecanese islands.
See also Rhodes.