Things to see and do Symi

Among the most beautiful walks, we recommend the one that reaches the monastery of Agios Emilianos from Horio. It is a 4-hour one-way hike, of moderate difficulty but which can be long and strenuous on hot days, especially since it is difficult to spot each other and it is therefore necessary to avoid unnecessary detours. We advise you to walk to the monastery and then arrange a return trip by the excursion boats that you will find in the port of Gialos. The trail is not easy to find even if efforts are made to improve the markings. From the heights of Horio, pass the Paraskevi church and reach the town of Xissos by taking the secondary road that leaves the paved road on the right. At the exit of the village from above (do not go down towards Kato Xissos, the lower part of the village), locate the red markers. The trail begins there and continues up the hillside. The trail is divided at the height of an abandoned village. Continue on your left at the red arrows. The path then leads you to a monastery where you can rest for a few moments in the shade of beautiful trees. In the distance you will see the Agios Emilianos monastery. From there, the path descends steeply to the sea and is relatively well marked. If in doubt with secondary trails, keep to your right and avoid paths crossed by a row of stones. The arrival in the bay of Agios Emilianos is magnificent.

It is possible to swim in the port of Gialos at the Tsati bar, if you drink, and only during the day. Beyond the shipyard, continuing on the road to Nimborios, there are steps down to large rocks where you can swim in crystal-clear waters. Otherwise, beautiful beaches are accessible by taxi boat from Gialos :

The beach of Aghios Georgios, perhaps the most beautiful in Symi, is surrounded by impressive white cliffs. As there are no tavernas, umbrellas or deckchairs, this beach is relatively unspoilt and there is a good chance that you will find yourself there on your own. The water is turquoise with maximum sunshine at the beginning of the day. Quite quickly at the end of the day, the sun hides to the west, behind the cliffs.

Beyond that, Nanou beach offers clear waters, surrounded by cliffs and pine trees. It's perfect for diving. Provide sandals for walking on the pebbles. You can eat, have a coffee or take a break in the shade of the unique tavern which also rents deckchairs and parasols. A few trees also offer shade provided they are there early enough to find a spot in high season!

Toli is a pretty pebble beach on the north-west coast, also accessible by road. A few parasols and deckchairs are provided free of charge by the very pleasant Dafne tavern, overlooking it. You can buy particularly tasty thyme honey there. The terrace offers exceptional views and is ideal for admiring the sunset.

Located in Horio, more specifically in the Agios Athanasios district, this interesting museum is housed in beautiful ^18th- and ^19th-century villas, whose magnificent pebble-mosaic courtyards and cool gardens can also be visited. The permanent exhibition traces Symi's history from prehistoric times to the maritime splendor of the ^19th century. The whole is magnificent and touching, in the image of the pearl of the Dodecanese.