Explore Symi

Have you ever dreamed of walking through a postcard?

Welcome to Symi, a stunning island in the Dodecanese, just a short sail from Rhodes. With its vibrant neoclassical mansions, crystal-clear waters, and rich layers of history.

🏛️ A Glimpse into the Past

Did you know Symi once had a population of over 22,000? That’s nearly ten times today’s number! Back in the 19th century, the island thrived thanks to sponge diving and shipbuilding. Imagine the harbor bustling with traders, sailors, and craftsmen.

But Symi’s history goes much deeper...

🏰 Under the Ottomans

After the fall of the Knights of St. John in 1522, the Ottoman Empire took over. But here’s the twist: Symi kept many of its autonomous privileges, and its golden age rolled on. Wealth poured in, and the legacy lives on in the stunning neoclassical houses stacked on the hillsides like a pastel amphitheater.

✍️ Fun fact: Under Ottoman rule, Symi was called Sömbeki. Sounds familiar?

🌍 Changing Hands: Symi in the 20th Century

Symi may be small, but in the 20th century, it changed hands five times!

Which flag flew overhead? Let’s count:

• 🇹🇷 1912: Declared independence from the Ottomans—but not for long!
• 🇮🇹 1923: Became part of Italy.
• 🇩🇪 1943: Occupied by Nazi Germany during WWII.
• 🇬🇧 1945: The Germans surrendered on Symi, with the British taking over.
• 🇬🇷 1948: Finally united with Greece!

That’s a lot of flags for one island, don’t you think?

🏖️ Symi Today

Whether you’re enjoying a freddo espresso by the harbor, watching small fishing boats drift in the breeze, or walking up to an old monastery where bells ring through the quiet, Symi feels like a place where time slows down.

In the summer, the island comes alive with visitors, especially from the UK and Italy. You’ll hear friendly voices, see cameras snapping photos, and smell grilled octopus cooking at seaside restaurants. With its beautiful views, clear water, and peaceful charm, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with Symi.

Thinking about staying longer? You wouldn’t be alone. Around 120 non-Greek people live here all year. Some have even bought and fixed up old homes. But there’s a catch—Greek law protects the island’s traditional look. So any repairs or rebuilding must follow the local style: no modern designs, just classic, colorful homes like the ones you see in the harbor.

Can you picture yourself living here one day? Or maybe just visiting... and never wanting to leave?

🧭 Ready to Explore Symi?

What will your first adventure be?

𓊍 Climb Kali Strata ?

🚌 Take a bus tour to Panormitis Monastery?

🚤 Hop on a boat to swim in the crystal-clear waters of St. George Bay?

🧽 Discover the secrets of sponge diving—the industry that built an island?

Whatever you choose, know this: on Symi, every corner has a story, and every view is worth the journey.

Let your adventure begin.