Symi Ferries

The port of Symi plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by 4 ferry companies, Symi serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Symi, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Symi with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, Sea Dreams run regular services from Symi, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Symi offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Symi is primarily accessible by ferry services operating from Rhodes, with journey times of approximately 1-1.5 hours depending on the vessel type. Travelers typically fly into Rhodes International Airport first, then connect to Symi via sea. During high season (May-October), multiple daily ferries connect Rhodes to Symi, while service reduces in winter months. The main ferry terminal is conveniently located in Symi Town, placing you directly in the heart of the action upon arrival. For those staying in Rhodes before transferring, taxis and public buses provide easy connections from Rhodes Town to the ferry departure point.

Nestled in the Dodecanese archipelago, Symi enchants visitors with its vibrant neoclassical architecture and crystal-clear waters. This small Greek island offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic Greek charm without the crowds of larger destinations. As you approach by ferry, the horseshoe-shaped harbor lined with pastel-colored mansions creates one of the most spectacular port arrivals in the Mediterranean.

Symi enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit is from late May to early October when temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F) and ferry connections are most frequent. June and September offer perfect conditions with warm seas but fewer visitors than the peak months of July and August. The annual Symi Festival runs throughout summer, featuring cultural performances and events across the island. Winter visits (November-April) reveal a quieter, more authentic island experience, though with reduced ferry schedules and some seasonal businesses closed.

Symi serves as an excellent base for exploring neighboring Dodecanese islands. Rhodes is just a short 1-1.5 hour ferry ride away, offering medieval architecture and vibrant nightlife. The peaceful island of Tilos can be reached in about 2 hours, perfect for nature lovers seeking unspoiled beaches and hiking trails. Adventurous travelers can also visit Kos (approximately 3 hours by ferry), famous for its ancient ruins and beautiful beaches. During summer, smaller excursion boats offer day trips to secluded beaches and nearby islets that are otherwise inaccessible, providing a true Greek island-hopping experience.

Wander through Symi Town (Gialos) with its impressive neoclassical architecture and climb the 500-step Kali Strata to reach the upper town of Chorio for panoramic views across the harbor. Don't miss Panormitis Monastery on the island's southwest coast, an important pilgrimage site housing miraculous icons. Beach lovers should take a water taxi to Agios Nikolaos or Nanou Beach for crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Savor local specialties like Symi shrimp, tiny yet flavorful crustaceans unique to the waters around the island, paired with local wine at a waterfront taverna. The abandoned village of Micro Chorio offers a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the island's past.

Once one of Greece's wealthiest islands, Symi built its fortune on sponge diving and shipbuilding in the 19th century, with many of the elegant mansions dating from this prosperous era. The island's name derives from the nymph Syme in Greek mythology, who was said to have married Poseidon, god of the sea. Remarkably, Symi has no natural source of freshwater and historically relied on an extensive system of cisterns to collect rainwater. The island's traditional festivals feature unique customs including 'koukoumarosyrti,' where locals dress in costumes and parade through streets with songs and theatrical performances.