To a Land Unknown 

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There are various options available when it comes to accommodation in Symi. We chose to stay in the most wonderful spot, located out of the main town; a beautiful 2km coastal road leads to Ponente. Located on Nimborio bay, our hosts Efti and her husband Philiomon warmly welcomed us. We were blown away by the accommodation and facilities available, every detail has been thought through and we recommend booking directly with them. This is a self-catering stay, which we really enjoyed for the nights we felt like chilling at home and embracing the tranquility of this location. 



Symi - a true gem of the Greek Isles.

Ponente

Kali Strata is a historic stone staircase connecting the port of Gialos to the old town of Chorio on Symi Island, Greece. Lined with neoclassical mansions, the staircase offers stunning views of the harbor and the Aegean Sea. It is a popular attraction for visitors, blending the island's history with scenic beauty.

We went here for lunch. Staff were friendly and super quick. We had the pita bread with dips, greek salad and the sea bass. All were very delicious! The restaurant has a really nice atmosphere. We even got some complementary yogurt with honey! We recommend coming here.

Take a walk up the hill overlooking Symi harbour and you will find this delightful restaurant.  The menu has local Aegean and Greek dishes and family and authentic feel.  I enjoyed the Rhodian salad, Ouzo, Octopus risotto and tiramisu. Highly recommend going around sundown (although you can’t see a sunset but the lighting is amazing).

We came by this place on our way to see the windmills. Has a great view, recommend to see during sunset! The food was lovely and thoroughly enjoyed each dish. For starters we had Feta Tempura; which was great, crispy and tangy with a Rodian Salad which was also different; explanation: it’s a baked aubergine topped with feta, bread crumps and a type of nut; if you’re into unusual salads that aren’t leaves; you’ll love this. For my main I had a lamb shank with orzo pasta; was pretty amazed by the presentation and also the texture was just right; I DID like the fact the lamb was already deconstructed (because I’m lazy!). Lastly we finished with a Tiramisu, nothing extraordinary but a really well made dessert that hit my sweet spot! Portion size was great too! Overall the food along with the ambience was great and felt very authentic. The staff were also very attentive and polite. The climb is definitely worth it! Don’t be lazy by taking taxi!!! Brave the climb! (If you’re able).

Kali Strata Restaurant

Panormitis Monastery is a prominent Greek Orthodox monastery located on the island of Symi in the Dodecanese, Greece. It is dedicated to Archangel Michael, the island's patron saint, and is renowned for its beautiful waterfront location. The monastery, dating back to the 18th century, attracts both pilgrims and tourists due to its religious significance and stunning architecture. Inside, it houses a revered icon of Archangel Michael, believed to possess miraculous powers. The monastery also features a small museum, library, and frescoes. It remains a major religious and cultural site in the region.

A nice place to visit while you are in the Island. They have cafetaria, ice cream comes Handy in summer, place to stay and of course, a place to pray.
It is very well maintain and care for.

Panormitis Monastery is one of the most famous landmarks on the island of Symi in Greece. Dedicated to the Archangel Michael, the monastery is a significant religious site for Orthodox Christians.
The complex features a beautiful bell tower, a prominent church, and various buildings that house the monks and visiting pilgrims. The architecture is a blend of Byzantine and traditional Greek styles.

Nice church in a lovely location on Symi (look out for turtles swimming in the bay). The museum is nice. Nothing much but only a couple of Euros to look round.

Holy Monastery of the Taxiarch Michael Panormitis

Toli Beach is a quiet, unspoiled beach on the western side of Symi Island, Greece, known for its clear waters and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by rocky hills, the beach has a mix of pebbles and sand, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. Toli Beach also has a small taverna, offering local cuisine and fresh seafood to visitors.

Beautiful beach with free sun-beds offered by the Dafne Taverna.
During the afternoon you can even see dolphins.

Beautiful cove with adjoining tavern where you can eat discreetly!!!

The restaurant above the beach is nice - the beach itself isn’t that great but the view is nice.

Toli Beach

"Ο Φούρνος Του Πανορμίτη Πρατήριο Γιαλού" is a well-known bakery located in Gialos, Symi, offering a variety of traditional Greek baked goods. Famous for its fresh bread, pastries, and sweets, it provides visitors with authentic local flavors. The bakery is a favorite stop for both locals and tourists, known for its warm service and delicious, homemade treats.

I loved this little bakery away from the tourist path. Get here early for the fresh croissants, but if you miss me them you will be more than happy with the spinach and cheese pies. And the local cookies and cakes, which you won’t be able to resist. Good coffee too!

Lovely bakery with a range of baked goods. Unsurprisingly, the greek baked goods were far superior to the french styled goods. Although croissants were still good. Not very expensive.

Lovely local bakery with sweet and savoury options. Very reasonably priced.

Ο Φούρνος Του Πανορμίτη Πρατήριο Γιαλού

Eva's Cocktail Bar is a popular spot in Gialos, Symi, known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative cocktails. Nestled by the harbor, it offers beautiful views of the sea, making it a perfect place to unwind in the evening. The bar is well-loved for its friendly service, vibrant ambiance, and expertly crafted drinks.

Stopped by for a few cocktails after dinner and we were blown away! Some of the best cocktails I’ve had in a while, and for a great price. Service was great, and you can tell the place is run with passion. Highly recommend for a drink!

I told her there was an ant in the drink. Even though I asked her to check your kitchen, she said no. I think she thought I didn't want to pay the bill. but really ants came out of the drink and a few of them seem to be broken into pieces. she did not receive the fee but insistently claims that there are no ants. she didn't bother to go and check.

Loved this place so much, both for my evening cocktail and my morning coffee. Fabulous selection of bottles, including the best gin selection I’ve found in the Dodecanese islands. My G&T was inventive and delicious, and I learned a lot about the up and coming Greek gin labels. Returned in the morning because the covered patio sofas are a great place to chill with a coffee too.

We would highly recommend the Poseidon boat tour. This tour circumnavigates the entire Island, stopping at idyllic swimming & snorkelling spots and offers a phenomenal lunch included, along with drinks throughout the day. This costs €60 per person and is 100% the best €60 you’ll spend. Weather dependent, the tour leaves at 10:30 daily, from the main harbour and returns at 17:30.

We would recommend getting to the boat between 09:45 & 10:00 to ensure you get a good spot on the boat. 

Wow! The trip was absolutely amazing! Really great atmosphere and lots of time to enjoy swimming/snorkeling near Plati and at the beach in Pserimos.
We also saw dolphins, Mike is an excellent dolphin whisperer ;)
The entire crew was exceptional!
An awesome day out, would recommend!

Definitely a highlight of the holiday, had so much fun on this trip, drinks were great perfect if you want to chill out or go to the front of the boat later on in the day and have a boogie. Saw some dolphins too which was awesome, such a great day out.

Only negative we had was the quality of the food on the first island (part of the package), it was very underwhelming. Other than that, would highly recommend!

We tried this tour with my wife, it was a great activity for as!
Transfer from and to our hotel was included.
The staff was very kind! You can have awesome and cheap cocktails onboard.
The ship may be full but this is doesn’t matter as the price is very low and include a lunch in Vathy, Kalymnos.
You have low time on Vathy & Pserimos but this is normal and enough to get a taste of this wonderful destinations!
You also have the chance to jump and swim around the ship and is pretty amazing experience! I suggest this activity to anyone who wants a full day trip!

Poseidon Boat Tour

Marathounda Beach, also known as "Goat Beach," is a tranquil, pebbly beach on Symi Island, Greece, famous for its crystal-clear waters and the friendly goats that roam freely. Nestled in a scenic cove, it offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors seeking relaxation and natural beauty. The beach is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and its unique wildlife charm.

Marathounta S.A.

West

The Panormitis Bakery Gialos Station

Private coastal retreat for a relaxing outdoor experience

Enjoy a full-day relaxing outdoor experience in a private setting, perfect for unwinding and exploring the scenic Nimborio bay.

West

TALU

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