Symi is crisscrossed with scenic trails that link historic villages, postcard-perfect chapels and hilltop lookouts. Learn more about the island’s past at its excellent museum.
Peak summer temperatures in Symi can be blistering, so consider shoulder months like April, May and September if you prefer to be active on hikes. Accommodation here is a mix of small hotels and private houses with self-catering rooms.
Opera House
The Opera House is a family-owned and operated hotel in the heart of Symi town. It offers traditional and elegant rooms with modern facilities, such as Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. It is also close to the main port and the city center, making it a convenient base for exploring the island.
The hotel is a great option for families and couples looking for an affordable accommodation with good amenities. Its quaint rooms are equipped with air conditioning and private balconies. They are also surrounded by trees and gardens, which makes the rooms more comfortable and relaxing. Guests can also enjoy their meals at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves local dishes.
Symi is a small island that is dotted with traditional villages, postcard-perfect chapels and hilltop lookouts. It is crisscrossed with scenic trails that lead to the fabled waterfront monastery of Panormitis and allow you to cool off in crystalline water after working up a sweat on the hike. The island is also known for its long history of diving for natural sponges, and this legacy is still evident in the local restaurants today.
If you are planning to stay in Symi, it is important to research the different areas and pick a hotel that is in a location that will suit your needs. Choosing the right place to stay will make your vacation much more enjoyable. The best time to visit Symi is during the shoulder season, from Easter until early June. This is a good time to avoid the crowds, but still enjoy warm temperatures and a low chance of rain.
Located in the heart of Symi, the Opera House is only a short walk from the ferry terminal and provides easy access to everything on the island. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s spacious rooms, free parking and a discerning bar. Guests can also relax on the balcony and enjoy the wonderful view of the sea and the picturesque village. The hotel is also a short walk from the Monastery of the Archangel Michael and Symi Museum. The staff at the Opera House is happy to provide recommendations for the best places to eat and things to do on the island.
Old Markets
The Old Markets is one of the most opulent hotels in Symi. Its exquisite townhouse rooms have been carved out of historic buildings and offer enthralling views over the island’s elegant harbour. It’s on the list of Greek National Monuments and has been painstakingly restored to deliver a boutique hotel that feels like a home.
The rooms are designed to be comfortable and welcoming, with modern furnishings and amenities. They also have balconies and kitchenettes, making them ideal for families or groups travelling together. Some rooms feature a sitting area and a furnished terrace with stunning sea views, perfect for relaxing in the afternoon. Other rooms have a private bathroom, while some are suitable for disabled guests. The hotel also offers a rooftop bar and restaurant with sweeping views over the island.
Symi is home to a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from traditional Greek fare to Italian and international cuisine. The best restaurants in the island are usually found around the port/marina, with many of them facing the water. Some of the island’s most popular restaurants are also found in Gialos, while other dining options can be found in the villages.
The best time to visit Symi is during the summer, from May through to early November. This is when temperatures are highest and the majority of visitors arrive. The weather is warm and dry with little chance of rain during this time.
During the shoulder season from Easter to late June and September, the island is less busy. The weather is still hot but not as sweltering, and hotel prices are cheaper. The village of Chorio is especially beautiful at this time of year and the scenery is truly spectacular.
The best way to save money on your trip to Symi is by booking your accommodation in advance. This will help you secure the best deal and avoid paying high season rates. You can also save money by eating at local tavernas and restaurants, which are known for their affordable prices and delicious food. You can even get your groceries from a local supermarket to cut down on costs.
Symi Beach Hotel
For a tranquil holiday in the sea, look no further than one of the Symi beach hotels. These properties boast some of the best reviews for their beautiful surroundings, excellent customer service and luxurious amenities. They are also conveniently located near the water so you can enjoy everything Symi has to offer without leaving your hotel room.
The Pedi Beach Hotel is a beautiful hotel set in an idyllic bay with a stunning natural beach just in front of it. The crystal clear waters make for a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the sea and enjoy the views. The staff at this hotel is also a standout feature with almost all guests praising their kindness and friendly attitude. Many also say that the breakfast here is amazing with cooked-to-order eggs, omelets and pancakes.
This hotel is located just a short distance from the center of Symi and offers great value for your money. Its rooms are well-appointed with a traditional blue and white color scheme. They also have a balcony or terrace and air conditioning. Some rooms also come with a refrigerator and a TV. The bathroom is spacious and features a bath or shower. Guests can enjoy lunch and dinner at the on-site restaurant, which serves a range of Mediterranean dishes.
Guests at the Pedi Beach Hotel can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi, private parking and a bar. The hotel has a small swimming pool, which is great for cooling off in after a day of sunbathing. The staff at this hotel are friendly and helpful, and they can provide recommendations for local restaurants and activities.
This neoclassical hotel in the heart of Symi Island is just 200 metres from Paradise Beach. Its cosy and well-appointed rooms and suites are fitted with a minibar, a flat-screen TV and a kitchenette with an oven. Some of the rooms have a terrace with sea or mountain views.
Symi Marina Hotel
Symi is a favourite stop for day trippers from Rhodes, Kos and other nearby islands but it deserves to be enjoyed over a few nights. With beautiful hiking, idyllic beaches and delicious food, this Dodecanese island is a gem just waiting to be explored.
Symi town is a lively enclave of pastel-painted houses and 19th century neoclassical mansions, with pretty cobbled streets that lead to atmospheric cafes and restaurants. A stroll around this picturesque area will take you to the harbour and the beautiful Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis, an important landmark on the island.
As you wander the streets, you’ll be amazed at how well preserved the old architecture is. There’s plenty to explore, from picturesque churches and chapels to hilltop lookouts with sweeping views. The island is also crisscrossed with scenic trails that can lead to historic villages, postcard-perfect beaches and other sights of interest. Taking a boat trip around the island is another must-do, whether to visit one of the secluded bays or to visit a neighbouring island for the day.
There are plenty of hotels in Symi to choose from but many travellers prefer to stay at a private house or apartment for the most authentic experience on the island. These homes are often a short walk or bus ride to the centre of Symi and come with their own entrance, kitchen and living areas so you can feel at home on the island. One great option is to stay at a traditional taverna and beachfront villa called Pedi Beach Hotel.
This is a charming and comfortable hotel, offering a warm welcome from the friendly owners. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with a lovely balcony space to relax on. There’s a lovely restaurant with a fantastic view below the hotel, which is perfect for dinner and drinks. The staff at the hotel are also very helpful, with recommendations and information on the best things to do on the island. They can also book tours for you. The price is good for the location and quality of the hotel.