Symi

Symi holidays

A relatively undiscovered Dodecanese island, elegant Symi’s a postcard pin-up. Italian-flair runs through its pastel-hued port, while hidden beaches and mesmerisingly blue waters make it a natural beauty. A holiday here’s all about embracing the true Greek experience and relaxing in the sunshine. Tuck into the island’s famous fried shrimp in a local taverna, swim in tranquil bays and nurse a glass of ouzo at sunset.  

Popular Symi Island Holiday Resorts

Symi Island resorts

Pedi

Tucked into a valley on the north coast of Symi, this sleepy little village is a peaceful holiday spot.

Symi Town

Heart-stealing Symi Town is the island’s capital and epicentre of life here. Formed around a natural harbour, the resort’s Italian heritage is etched into the architecture, with pastel-coloured houses spilling down to the waterfront.

Emporios

Nestled on the north coast of Symi, you’ll find the blissful retreat of Emporios. This laidback fishing village has an untouched feel to it and is the perfect place to soak up authentic Greece.

Niriides Hotel & Apartments
from
£688pp
Based on
  • London Stansted, Mon 14 Oct 2024
  • 7 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
  • 2 Adults, 0 Children

Niriides Hotel & Apartments

Emporios, Symi

Our rating

Based on 114 reviews

  • New for Summer 2024
  • Perfect for couples
  • Hillside location
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Incredible sea views
Pedi Beach Hotel
from
£863pp
Based on
  • London Stansted, Mon 06 Oct 2025
  • 7 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
  • 2 Adults, 0 Children

Pedi Beach Hotel

Pedi, Symi

plus

Our rating

Based on 478 reviews

  • New for Summer 2024
  • Perfect for relaxing
  • Traditional Greek style
  • Stunning views
  • Friendly atmosphere
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Language

Greek

Currency

Euro

Time difference

+2hrs

Cost of a beer

£3.80

Three-course meal

£42.70

Flight times

4.5hrs


See the star of the show 

It’s no secret that Symi’s port is a showstopper. Colourful neoclassical mansions burst into view, rising from the harbour, where yachts glint in the sun and locals sell sponges. From the quayside, venture into the backstreets and you’ll find they’re teeming with chic boutiques and pretty restaurants.  


Discover the island 

The best way to see Symi is by boat. Take a water taxi to the secluded shores that embellish the island, most topped with pebbles. For a patch carpeted in sand, make a beeline for St Nicholas’ Beach. Beyond the coast, explore the footpaths that wind through dense forest and past tiny monasteries. 

Beaches

For the widest stretch of the softest sand, head to Aghios Nikolaos. Nearby, you’ll find the place to go for cute seafront tavernas serving fish fresh from the Mediterranean. Laid-back stretches offering the coolest water sports will entice families, but if you want to dance on the sands, make for the Malia seafront.

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Agia Marina Beach 

Agia Marina Beach 

Pedi, Symi

Enjoy a day in the sun at this secluded bay. Hop in a water taxi from Symi Town’s port and cruise through the glittering sea to get here. There are sun loungers to laze on and amazing azure waters to swim in!
Emporios Beach

Emporios Beach

Emporios, Symi

Welcome to beach paradise! This remote spot has got relaxation written all over it, so grab your fave book and settle down on a lounger. From this sand-and-shingle shore, you can take in the stunning views...

Sights

A trip to ancient palace complexes is a must in Crete. The ruins are thought to be part of Europe’s oldest city, while the region’s also home to some impressive and fascinating medieval castles. If you’re looking to dig up some history, the resorts all have something to gawp at.

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Horio

Horio

Symi

Embrace Symi’s history with a trip up to the Old Town, Horio, which resides above the harbour. It’s only reached by a beautiful 500-step path, lined with stunning neoclassical mansions. Once...
Panormitis Monastery 

Panormitis Monastery 

Symi

Take a day trip to the south side of the island to visit this spectacular monastery. Framed by a pine forest, Panormitis Monastery is an 18th-century gem, with a pretty chapel and baroque bell tower to explore....

Eating and drinking

Traditional Cretan food is fresh and rustic – think hearty lamb pasties and olive oil-rich salads. Being an island, the seafood is second to none and is served fresh from the net in many of the seaside tavernas. Raki is the local tipple and tastes a bit like Italian grappa. It’s strong stuff, so be warned!

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Meraklis

Meraklis

Emporios, Symi

Tucked in the backstreets of Symi Town, this is a taverna straight out of the Greek rulebook. Blue and white furnishings, warm service, locals tucking into dishes – yep, it’s got it all. You can...
Tholos

Tholos

Emporios, Symi

Restaurants don’t get more romantic than this! Set on the harbourfront right by the water’s edge, Tholos is a charming taverna serving up fresh fish, lemony beef and classic Greek staples like...

Shopping

Crete’s famous for its leather goods and you’ll find plenty of boutiques and markets all over the island. Keep an eye out for ceramics and silver, too – in some shops you can watch the craftspeople as they create their wares. Foodies will want to take home the local olive oil and honey.

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