If you are coming to this magical island alone, don’t worry, there is plenty to do! Symi is the perfect place to spend a full day and/or night leisurely exploring. Whether you have arrived via ferry services from Dodekanisos Seaways or Blue Star Ferries, everything is within a minutes’ walk. You won’t have to rush around to see everything since it’s a tiny Greek Island. Here are the top things to do in Symi for solo travelers.
A Short List of Things to Do in Symi Solo
#1. Explore Symi Town | Get Directions
Symi is one of the most picturesque places I have ever visited. You can spend an hour or so just strolling through the town and browsing in the local shops.
There are several cafes and restaurants along the way for when you need a refreshing drink or snack.
One of the best things to do in Symi solo is take photos! The town is also very photogenic. I spent hours just taking photos and soaking up the atmosphere.
#2. Water Taxi Boat Trips | Get Directions
The water taxi boat trips are the best way to get to some of the island’s incredible beaches.
Why not make a half-day trip to any of these beaches: Nimporio, Lapathos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Nanou, or Marathounta.
#3. Relax At The Beach | Get Directions
The Rhodes to Symi travel guide is meant to include a bit of relaxing. Coming from Rhodes, I was a bit tired.
Also, Symi is going to be much HOTTER than roads. I couldn’t believe the heat and felt the need to be in the water as much as possible.
If you are looking for a beach close by the port, I would recommend Sarah’s Beach. I used this beach because of its proximity to the town center. Use the water taxis to reach the islands’ more beautiful beaches.
#4. Panormitis Monastery | Get Directions
Sadly I didn’t make time to visit the Panormitis Monastery. It is something I would do when returning to Symi! Since it’s located on the other side of the island, you need to budget for more time. I was way too interested in lying on the beach to make arrangements to go.
#5. Eat Local Food
I travel to eat good food, and it really is as simple as that! The local food in Symi is all about seafood! When reading my travel guides, you can count on great restaurant recommendations. If I didn’t care for a place, I leave it off my suggestions. I don’t waste my time writing a bad review; I only include the places I love. Book your dinner reservation with confidence per my top picks!
When it’s a small island, like Symi, often, I don’t have a long list of recommendations. And that proves true here with my short must-try restaurant’s list. I was also only here for 1-day full day/night, so not a lot of time.
Things to Do in Symi Solo | Where to Eat
All these restaurants below are within a 10 minutes walk from the ferry port.
Breakfast
Elpida Cafeneio | Get Directions
If your accommodations don’t offer breakfast, I suggest finding a cafe along the water. Above is one of many located in the main town square. Enjoy a coffee and cake on gaze out into the Aegean Sea.
Lunch / Dinner
THOLOS RESTAURANT – GET DIRECTIONS
MAKE RESERVATIONS! You will want to make reservations if you plan to eat here. This restaurant not only has the best food, but it also has the best ambiance. I would recommend coming at sunset. It’s lovely! The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful.
TAVERNA O MERAKLIS – GET DIRECTIONS
I visited here for lunch, and there was no need for a reservation. If you are visiting in high season, I would recommend it. If you are vegan/vegetarian, you will find many options! Try the zucchini fritters!
Petalo | Get Directions
Five-star dining with an unforgettable view of the Aegean Sea. Sadly, when I visited this restaurant was temporarily closed. You will want to be sure to MAKE RESERVATIONS.
I can’t say enough how much I love visiting Greece. When traveling solo, as I do most of the time, safety is everything. In Greece I also feel welcome and safe.
#6. Stay The Night in Symi, Greece
One of the best things to do in Symi solo is to find incredible accommodations. Because you are worth it! Symi is a VERY small island! You won’t find large chain hotels when searching. Instead, you will see small guest houses and Airbnb-like accommodations. I much prefer these more quaint and charming places over the stock standard hotel.
Many of these available accommodations are within a minute’s walk from the ferry port! I found that to be very convenient. If you do need a taxi, you can find them at the ferry port waiting for people to arrive.
Splurge Hotels in Symi, Greece
*Prices range up from $236 per night. Prices vary seasonally.
Royal Villa Pedi
This is a luxury whole house that sleeps, 12 people. It is truly a rare find! If you are considering this place, you should book immediately, it is often always booked in the high season. Located 1.5 kilometers from the ferry port.
This property has a private swimming pool, a Blu-ray player, a full kitchen with a dishwasher, a large living room, a dining area, 5 bedrooms, and 4 bathrooms with a shower and a bath. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a DVD player are provided. Free WIFI
Platanos Cottage
A charming private cottage with 4 colorful guest rooms. The property features are a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a full kitchen including a microwave, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms with a shower. It sleeps up to 8 people. Free WIFI
Platanos Cottage is located 1.9 km from Nimborio Beach and 600 m away from Symi Port.
Mid-Range Hotels in Symi, Greece
*Prices range from $59 to $177 per night. Prices vary seasonally.
Kleanthi Kostas Studios
When it comes to accommodations on this Rhodes To Symi Greece travel guide, stay here. The unit has the most incredible view of this idyllic island! Waking up here and enjoying coffee on the balcony was an extraordinary moment for me. The unit has a mini kitchen, private bathroom, air conditioning, and a comfortable bed. However, you must be in shape to climb the stairs. There are approximately 80 stairs to reach the studio. Free WIFI
Nikolitsi Studios– This charming studio is located 100 m from the beach! Just an 8-minute walk from the port. Enjoy the sun terrace overlooking the sea!
Air-conditioned and kitchenette equipped with a fridge. The unit also has a private bathroom. Free WIFI
Symi Nautilus Luxury Suites
Highly rated and a great deal for the value. These suites are conveniently located in the center of town. Enjoy the sun terrace and views of the ocean. Some rooms are available with fully equipped kitchens.
Budget Hotel in Symi, Greece
*Prices range up to $59 per night. Prices vary seasonally.
Ritzi Apartment
This apartment includes air-conditioning and a balcony! Enjoy city and mountain views from Ritzi Apartment! Saint Nicholas Beach is only 2.9 km away.
The unit has a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a fridge and an oven, a washing machine, a private bathroom! Free Wifi
Athina Studios
Athina Studios is located 200 m from Symi Port. Select units have a terrace and/or balcony. All units have a fully equipped kitchen and a coffee machine. Free Wifi
If you are looking to explore another one of the Greek Islands, I recommend checking out Corfu! Find out more for Solo Trips to Greece !
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