Port information & tips for Symi (Dodecanese)
Symi is a picturesque jewel of the Dodecanese and stands out as one of the most photogenic harbors in the entire Aegean. The island welcomes visitors with a breathtaking backdrop of pastel-colored, neoclassical mansions that nestle like an amphitheater around the deep blue bay, exuding an exclusive and relaxed atmosphere. Highlights in the immediate vicinity include the magnificent Kali Strata with its over 500 steps to the upper town of Chorio, the charming harbor promenade Gialos, and the historic church of Megali Panagia. Cruise ships usually dock directly at the quay of Gialos or use the anchorage in front of the bay with a tender service to the central pier. Thanks to the central location, the town center, traditional tavernas, and boutiques are just a few steps away from the gangway.
Symi, a picturesque island in the Dodecanese, is primarily reached from the DACH region by plane followed by a ferry crossing. The port of Symi, known as Gyalos, is centrally located and welcomes cruise ships and smaller boats amidst its characteristic neoclassical architecture.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Rhodes (RHO), also known as Diagoras Airport, which is served by direct flights from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The airport is located approximately 33 kilometers from Symi. Due to the necessary ferry crossing to Symi, we recommend arriving in Rhodes at least one day before your scheduled embarkation to reach the port stress-free and to allow for any flight delays.
Ferry & Transfer
From Rhodes Airport (RHO), you can easily reach the main port of Rhodes Town, Mandraki Harbour, by taxi in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, public buses are available, taking around 20 minutes to get to the port. Several ferries operated by Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and Sebeco Lines run daily from Mandraki Harbour to Symi. The crossing takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. The average cost for a foot passenger crossing is approximately 75 €.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to international flights to Rhodes and the subsequent ferry crossing to Symi, booking a pre-cruise hotel in Rhodes is highly recommended. Staying overnight in Rhodes Town allows for a relaxed journey to the ferry terminal the next day and also offers the opportunity to explore the historic city before your cruise experience begins. Many hotels near the port also offer convenient transfer options.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
Symi, a picturesque island in the Dodecanese, is primarily reached from the DACH region by plane followed by a ferry crossing. The port of Symi, known as Gyalos, is centrally located and welcomes cruise ships and smaller boats amidst its characteristic neoclassical architecture.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Rhodes (RHO), also known as Diagoras Airport, which is served by direct flights from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The airport is located approximately 33 kilometers from Symi. Due to the necessary ferry crossing to Symi, we recommend arriving in Rhodes at least one day before your scheduled embarkation to reach the port stress-free and to allow for any flight delays.
Ferry & Transfer
From Rhodes Airport (RHO), you can easily reach the main port of Rhodes Town, Mandraki Harbour, by taxi in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, public buses are available, taking around 20 minutes to get to the port. Several ferries operated by Blue Star Ferries, Dodekanisos Seaways, and Sebeco Lines run daily from Mandraki Harbour to Symi. The crossing takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the ferry company and type of vessel. The average cost for a foot passenger crossing is approximately 75 €.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to international flights to Rhodes and the subsequent ferry crossing to Symi, booking a pre-cruise hotel in Rhodes is highly recommended. Staying overnight in Rhodes Town allows for a relaxed journey to the ferry terminal the next day and also offers the opportunity to explore the historic city before your cruise experience begins. Many hotels near the port also offer convenient transfer options.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents usually include a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the voyage: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times may change at short notice.
The picturesque port of Symi is located right in the heart of the island's capital, Gialos, allowing travelers an easy arrival directly at the center of the action. Thanks to the central location, the charming alleys and sights are directly accessible.
On Foot
Since the pier is located directly in the harbor basin of Gialos, you can easily reach the famous pastel-colored houses as well as numerous cafés and shops within a few minutes on foot. A walk along the waterfront promenade leads you directly into the lively core of the town and to the historic staircases of the old town.
Water Taxis
The typical water taxis start directly at the harbor front and take you quickly to the surrounding bays as well as secluded beaches such as Nanou or St. George. These boats operate regularly and also offer a wonderful perspective of Symi's impressive architecture from the sea.
Island Bus & Taxi
Near the port, you will find the central taxi rank and the stop for the local island bus. The bus connects Gialos at short intervals with the higher-altitude mountain village of Chorio and the bay of Pedi, allowing you to explore the island flexibly and comfortably.
To make the most of your time on the picturesque island of Symi, we recommend exploring the neoclassical harbor in combination with the island's historical treasures.
Gialos
The main town of Gialos impresses with its rows of pastel-colored houses and, thanks to the numerous boutiques and cafes along the waterfront promenade, offers the perfect starting point for a relaxed stroll in the immediate vicinity of the harbor.
Chorio & Kali Strata
The ascent via the magnificent Kali Strata staircase leads directly into the heart of the traditional district of Chorio, which enchants visitors with its narrow streets and a spectacular view over the Aegean Sea.
Panormitis Monastery
Located in the south, the Monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis is an important spiritual center and, thanks to its idyllic location in a deep blue bay and its artistic architecture, a highlight for culturally interested travelers.
Kali Strata & Chorio
The Kali Strata is the historic stone boulevard that leads you directly from the harbor basin in Gialos up to the picturesque upper village of Chorio. The ascent via the approximately five hundred wide steps is worthwhile for cruise guests thanks to the spectacular panoramic views of the pastel-colored sea of houses and the vast Aegean Sea. Once at the top, you can enjoy a wonderfully authentic atmosphere in Chorio away from the busy quays and also find charming cafes for a refreshment among villas steeped in history. Ideally, start your climb in the early morning to take advantage of the milder temperatures and return to the ship in good time for a relaxed stroll along the harbor promenade.
The way back to the picturesque harbor of Gialos is straightforward thanks to the town's compact structure and offers you wonderful views of the colorful facades until your departure.
Water Taxis and Excursion Boats
The popular water taxis bring you directly back to the central harbor promenade of Gialos from the surrounding beaches such as St. Nicholas, Agia Marina, or Nanou. The boats dock at the quay near the cruise berths and, thanks to their regular frequency, allow for a relaxed return journey by sea.
Local Bus and Taxis
The central taxi rank and the island bus stop are clearly visible at the harbor basin near the prominent clock tower (Roloi). The bus reliably connects the mountain village of Chorio and the bay of Pedi with the harbor, ensuring that you reach the pier comfortably and on time.
On Foot
Within the port town of Gialos, you can easily reach the docks via the level waterfront promenade, which passes by the most important sights. If you are exploring the higher-altitude Chorio, the wide stone staircase Kali Strata leads you directly down to the harbor basin, where the clock tower, visible from afar, serves as an ideal orientation guide for the way back to the ship.
