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Each one of the Dodecanese Islands offers a distinctly different experience – and Symi is one of the most culturally rich of them all. You'll discover its laidback charm and visit sights such as Panormitis Monastery and a sponge maker. Fotini, one of our local guides, says, ‘Symi is one of the smallest and most picturesque Greek islands. The sight of the colourful houses as soon as you enter the harbour never fails to impress.'
The fun starts with a glide across the Aegean to Symi. The first stop is in the southwest of the island, at the vast, Venetian-style Panormitis Monastery. It is famed for its Byzantine frescoes and icon of St Michael, but most of all for its location right on the water's edge in a remote and sheltered bay. You'll also have free time to explore the site.
Next, you'll sail for Symi town itself. The arrival into the harbour is a joy to behold – tiers of pastel-coloured houses cascade down the surrounding hillsides. There's a guided tour of Symi town, too. And during the sponge maker visit, you'll learn about the island's sponge-diving heritage and its importance to the eco system surrounding the Symi. Your visit also helps support this traditional industry, vital to the local community. You'll get a small gift to take home, too. It's Fotini's favourite part of the experience. She says, ‘The old tradition of sponge diving has strongly affected the history and the customs of the Dodecanese Islands.'
Based on 204 reviews from verified customers
Review categories
Safety
4.3/5
Staff
4.3/5
Service
4.3/5
Value for money
4.2/5
Aammyy66
From United States of America - October 2024Traveled as a couple
18 - 24 years old
Great
Overall rated3/5
I'm sure that when I booked this trip it was meant to have a swim stop! You get told to bring bathing stuff. So expected there to be a swim stop. Had ...
Joanie
From United Kingdom - October 2024Traveled as a couple
Great
Overall rated4/5
Loved our trip to Symi but it was really long day. The ferry was not very comfortable, was crowded and took almost two hours. The transfer to our hote ...
Gary
From United States of America - October 2024Traveled as a couple
35 - 44 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Yorkshire girl
From United States of America - October 2024Traveled with a group of friends
55 - 64 years old
Great
Overall rated4/5
Would have liked more time in Symi rather than the monastery. The ear piece to listen to the guide was rubbish, had difficulty hearing her, it kept br ...
Ian Chaloner
From United States of America - September 2024Traveled as a couple
35 - 44 years old
Average
Overall rated3/5
Symi island was lovely but the gide that was with us was a waste of time, not much information given, the earpiece that was given to us constantly los ...
Ronald Williamson
From United States of America - September 2024Traveled as a couple
55 - 64 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5