From Rhodes: Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery Day Trip

Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Rhodes to the charming island of Symi and the renowned Panormitis Monastery. At just $50.03 per person, this excursion promises scenic ferry rides, exploration of Symi’s pastel-hued houses, and a visit to the silver-plated icon at the Panormitis Monastery. Indulge in local seafood cuisine while taking in breathtaking sea views. This tranquil island getaway offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Dodecanese region. With convenient hotel pickups and a day filled with natural beauty and historical significance, this trip is an opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the Aegean Sea.

Good To Know

• This day trip from Rhodes explores the natural beauty of Symi Island and the historic Panormitis Monastery, with pickup from various locations and a ferry ride.
• The itinerary includes a 75-minute ferry ride to Panormitis Monastery, 1 hour to explore it, 3.5 hours in Symi town, and a 75-minute return ferry.
• Highlights of the trip include the colorful houses of Symi, visiting the silver-plated icon at Panormitis Monastery, and seasonal swimming at Nymporio bay.
• Inclusions cover hotel pickup and drop-off, boat tickets, and free time to explore Panormitis Monastery and Symi town at your own pace.
• Practical tips suggest wearing comfortable shoes, packing a towel and sunscreen, and carrying cash for personal expenses and souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The day trip from Rhodes to Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery is priced from $50.03 per person.

This full-day excursion lasts for approximately 1 day, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can opt for the "reserve now & pay later" option.

The trip includes pickup from various locations around Rhodes and a ferry ride to Panormitis Monastery and the island of Symi.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Symi, visit the Panormitis Monastery, and enjoy local seafood at sea view restaurants.

Itinerary and Transportation

Pickup locations for the day trip include Rhodes Town Hall, Kremasti, Rhodes Town Port, Faliraki, and Ialysos.

The ferry ride to Panormitis Monastery takes 75 minutes, followed by a 1-hour journey to Symi Island. After visiting the Panormitis Monastery for 1 hour, travelers will have 3.5 hours to explore Symi.

The return ferry ride to Rhodes is also 75 minutes. Drop-off locations are Kremasti, Faliraki, Ialysos, Rhodes Town Hall, and Rhodes Town Port.

The ferry has a capacity of 420 passengers, spanning 3 decks, and includes a snack bar and bathroom facilities.

Highlights and Activities

Visitors often delight in experiencing the natural beauty of Symi Island, a picturesque destination known for its colorful houses and traditional architecture.

One of the highlights is a visit to the Panormitis Monastery, home to a renowned silver-plated icon. Depending on the season, travelers can also enjoy a swim at the lovely Nymporio bay on Saturdays.

The charming streets and local shops in Symi provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovering unique souvenirs.

Seafood lovers will appreciate the delectable offerings at the island’s seaside restaurants, which offer stunning views.

With ample free time on the itinerary, visitors can truly enjoy the island’s tranquil atmosphere and authentic character.

Amenities and Inclusions

Included in the day trip package are hotel pickup and drop-off services, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventures.

The boat ticket is provided, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the ferry rides to and from Symi Island.

During your time on the island, you’ll have free time to explore the Panormitis Monastery and the charming town of Symi at your own pace.

A map of Symi with useful information is also included to help guide your explorations.

The ferry itself can accommodate up to 420 passengers across its three decks and offers a snack bar and bathroom facilities for your convenience.

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Important Information and Recommendations

While the day trip to Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery is an enjoyable experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers. The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, so those with mobility issues should take note.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, towel, and sunscreen to protect against the Mediterranean sun. Photography isn’t allowed inside the monastery, so guests should keep that in mind.

Plus, swimming at Nymporio bay is only possible during the summer months on Saturdays. Lastly, it’s recommended to carry cash for personal expenses, as the duration of visits may vary depending on weather conditions and season.

Exploring Panormitis Monastery

The day trip to Symi Island also includes a visit to the renowned Panormitis Monastery, a sacred site of great importance in Greek Orthodoxy.

Located on the southern tip of Symi, the monastery houses a silver-plated icon of the Archangel Michael, the island’s patron saint. Visitors can explore the serene complex, admiring the Byzantine architecture and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding bay.

While photography isn’t allowed inside the monastery, travelers can still capture the essence of this spiritual haven through their senses. The stop at Panormitis provides an opportunity to take in the island’s rich cultural heritage and connect with the devotional traditions that have endured for centuries.

Discovering Symi Island

Exploring Symi Island, the jewel of the Dodecanese archipelago, offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical charm. This colorful town boasts pastel-hued houses cascading down the hillsides, traditional boutiques, and seafood tavernas with stunning sea views. Visitors can stroll through the island’s quaint streets, explore its hilltop monastery, and even enjoy a refreshing swim at the nearby Nymporio bay during the summer months. The table below provides a glimpse into the highlights and activities that make Symi Island a must-visit destination.

Highlights	Activities
Colorful houses	Explore the town
Traditional shops	Visit Nymporio bay
Seafood restaurants	Hike to the monastery
Panormitis Monastery	Soak in the scenic vistas
Scenic natural beauty	Relax at the beach

Practical Tips for the Day Trip

Preparing for a day trip to Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery requires some practical considerations.

Wear comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and bring a towel and sunscreen. Photography isn’t allowed inside the monastery, so leave your camera behind.

Those seeking a swim should pack their swimwear, as Nymporio bay is only accessible on Saturdays during the summer season. Carry some cash for personal expenses and souvenirs.

Keep in mind that the duration of the visits may vary depending on weather conditions and the season.

With proper planning, travelers can make the most of their day exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting Greek island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

While a private tour option is not explicitly mentioned, the trip allows for customized pickup locations and flexible scheduling. Travelers can likely arrange a private tour by contacting the tour provider directly.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the day trip. However, there’s a snack bar on the ferry if they’d prefer to purchase refreshments during the journey.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, the tour offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, while seniors aged 65 and above get a 20% discount on the regular ticket price.

Can I Book the Trip in a Language Other Than English?

The day trip to Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery can be booked in multiple languages, including English, Greek, German, and Italian. Customers should check the available language options when making their reservation.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time in Symi Island?

There’s no option to extend the time in Symi Island on this day trip. The itinerary provides 3.5 hours to explore Symi, which is the standard duration for this tour from Rhodes.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Rhodes to Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery offers an affordable and unforgettable experience. Travelers can explore the stunning natural beauty of Symi, with its charming pastel-hued houses and quaint streets, and visit the renowned Panormitis Monastery. The convenient hotel pickups, scenic ferry ride, and delicious local seafood make this a must-do excursion for anyone visiting the Rhodes area.

You can check availability for your dates here: