If you’re ever in the Dodecanese and you desire something quieter and more colorful than the typical Greek island scene, let me introduce you to Symi—a charming Greek island that is truly out of the box! A destination that feels like it belongs in a postcard. I recently spent a day there and to be honest, I didn’t want to leave.
It all began while we were on holiday in Rhodes Island and a friend suggested taking a day cruise to Symi aboard the fast ferry – catamaran “King Saron” from Sea Dreams. They had already experienced this cruise and the memories were unforgettable!
A Day in Symi 2025
The day started at around nine o’clock when we boarded the ferry and set off to Symi. The journey took about an hour or so. Just enough time to enjoy the first coffee of the day. As we approached Symi, we were greeted by the-colorful houses stacked up on the hillside. It’s ridiculous how pretty this image was. I couldn’t take it in! I sort of just sat there staring like… is this place real?
We got off the ferry in Yialos, the main harbor town, and strolled along the waterfront, which is lined with traditional tavernas, cafes, bakeries, and quaint shops. No big tourist traps, just local charm. We bought a second cup of coffee for the adults and freshly squeezed orange juice for the younger members of the group, and some traditional snacks for everybody and walked along the beach watching the fishing boats and the locals. Instant calm.
The best way to explore Symi?
Just walk. We wandered the picturesque alleys and admired beautiful mansions, cats lounging on warm stone walls, geraniums and bougainvillea plants adorning the lanes and yards. Of course, we visited the local shops that offer traditional art and crafts, as well as natural sponges, fragrant oregano, and sage. The perfect gifts for our friends and family back home.
For lunch, we found a taverna with a shaded terrace and tucked into fresh seafood, Greek salad, and Symi’s famous tiny fried shrimp. Crunchy, salty, addictive! We also sampled the local cheese pie called Tourta (definitely a must-try!). And yes, we had a carafe of chilled local white wine. For dessert, tradition dictates Akoumia, a kind of doughnut. Island rules apply.
The afternoon was all about beach time. We wanted a beach close to the harbor, so we chose Nos Beach for our swim (it’s just a short walk from the harbor, Yialos). It offers the ideal option with shallow and calm clear blue waters. We swam, dozed, and read a few pages of a book. Pure bliss.
The hours passed so quickly and it was time to return to Yialos, where the light turned golden and the harbor started to sparkle. We boarded “King Saron” of Sea Dreams and in about an hour the day cruise became a sweet memory.
Symi isn’t about ticking off sights.
It’s about slowing down, soaking it all in, and letting the beauty of it all sneak up on you.
One day was enough to fall in love—but not nearly enough to satisfy. I’ll be back.
