About Symi
Symi is one of the most visually stunning islands in all of Greece. Sailing into Gialos harbour — a perfect amphitheatre of neoclassical mansions painted in ochre, terracotta, and pastel blue — is one of the great arrivals in the Mediterranean. The island was once wealthier than Rhodes, its fortune built on sponge diving and shipbuilding, and the grand mansions that line the harbour are testament to that prosperity. Beyond the harbour, Symi offers hidden bays, the impressive Panormitis Monastery, and a rugged interior crossed by hiking trails. For yacht charter guests, the arrival into Gialos is reason enough to include Symi on any Dodecanese itinerary.
Gialos Harbour
The most photogenic harbour in Greece — neoclassical mansions in pastel colours creating a perfect amphitheatre.
Panormitis Monastery
Impressive 18th-century monastery in a sheltered bay on the south coast.
Sponge Diving Heritage
Symi was once the sponge diving capital of the Aegean. Natural sponges are still sold in the harbour.
Hidden Bays
The coastline is dotted with secluded bays accessible only by boat — perfect for yacht exploration.
Best Time to Visit
May to October. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the day-trip boats from Rhodes.
Recommended Yachts
All yacht types work well. The harbour can accommodate large motor yachts. Sailing yachts enjoy the passage from Rhodes.
Anchorages & Marinas
Where to moor your yacht at Symi
Gialos
portThe main harbour. Stern-to berths along the quay or anchor in the bay.
Panormitis
baySheltered bay on the south coast with the impressive monastery.
Nanou Bay
bayBeautiful secluded bay on the east coast with a pebble beach. Boat access only.
Marathounda
bayQuiet bay on the south coast with a taverna and good swimming.
Beaches
The best swimming spots at Symi
Nanou
Yacht accessSecluded pebble beach accessible only by boat — crystal-clear water and complete privacy.
Marathounda
Yacht accessShingle beach on the south coast with a taverna and calm water.
Agios Georgios
Yacht accessRemote bay with pristine water, accessible by boat or a long hike.
Nos Beach
Yacht accessSmall beach near Gialos with easy access and good swimming.
Restaurants
Where to eat at Symi
Tholos
Seafood$$$Harbourside restaurant in Gialos with the freshest fish and a romantic setting.
Mythos
Modern Greek$$$Creative restaurant in the upper town with panoramic harbour views.
Meraklis
Traditional Greek$$Simple taverna in the back streets with excellent home-cooked food.
Olive Tree
Mediterranean$$Garden restaurant with creative dishes and a peaceful atmosphere.
Things to Do
The best experiences at Symi
Arrive by yacht at golden hour
adventureTime your arrival into Gialos harbour for late afternoon when the pastel mansions glow in golden light — unforgettable.
Climb the Kali Strata
adventureWalk the 500 stone steps from Gialos to the upper town of Chorio for panoramic views.
Visit Panormitis Monastery
cultureSail to the south coast to visit this impressive 18th-century monastery in its sheltered bay.
Swim at Nanou Bay
relaxationAnchor at this boat-access-only beach for a private swim in crystal-clear water.
Buy natural sponges
cultureBrowse the harbour shops for natural sea sponges — a traditional Symi souvenir.
Insider Tip from Our Captains
Stay overnight in Gialos to experience the harbour after the day-trip boats leave. The evening atmosphere — with the mansions lit up and the harbour quiet — is magical.
Charter to Symi
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