From Rhodes: Symi Island and Panormitis Monastery Day Trip

A Practical and Authentic Day Trip to Symi from Rhodes

If you’re visiting Rhodes and craving a taste of authentic Greek island life, a day trip to Symi offers a delightful mix of stunning scenery, cultural sights, and charming villages. This tour, operated by Kariba Travel, takes you across the sea on a comfortable ferry, giving you the chance to explore two of the Dodecanese’s most beloved spots in a single day. From the sacred calm of the Panormitis Monastery to the vibrant streets of Symi, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with leisure.

We particularly love the scenic boat ride on the NIKOLAOS X, which is not just comfortable but also fast enough to maximize your time on land. The visit to the Panormitis Monastery is a highlight, especially if you’re interested in religious art and architecture, and the three-and-a-half hours at Symi give you enough time to wander through its colorful streets, soak in the lively harbor atmosphere, or relax on the small organized beach.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule is quite tight—ferry times and durations are fixed, and weather can sometimes impact swimming or sightseeing. This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Symi without the hassle of planning transportation or a multi-day stay. It’s perfect for those who value good value, authentic scenery, and cultural visits, but might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more leisurely pace.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride on a comfortable, fast ferry with stunning views of the Aegean
• Visit to the Panormitis Monastery, a spiritual and architectural highlight
• Colorful, traditional Symi town with a lively harbor, perfect for exploring at your own pace
• Opportunity to swim at Nymporio Bay (mid-June to September, on Saturdays)
• All-in-one day trip including hotel pickup and drop-off in Rhodes
• Good value for money considering included ferry tickets, guided notes, and free time

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Symi Day Trip

The Starting Point: Convenient Hotel Pickups

The tour begins with pickups from around 38 locations in Rhodes, including major hotels, resorts, and even some city spots like the National Theater. This wide range of pickup points makes it easier for travelers to join without complicated transfers. The guide or driver, who speaks English, will greet you at your hotel, easing the transition to the boat.

The Ferry Ride: Fast and Comfortable

Once aboard the NIKOLAOS X, you’ll enjoy a roughly 75-minute cruise across the Aegean. The ferry boasts three decks, a snack bar, and bathrooms, offering a comfortable space to relax, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery. We love how this ride sets the tone—nothing beats cruising past islands with the wind in your hair and the smell of salt in the air.

Visiting Panormitis Monastery: A Glimpse into Greek Orthodoxy

Approaching the monastery is a spectacle in itself. Overlooking the bay, the Panormitis Monastery was built in the late 18th century and is a treasure trove of religious art and architecture. The highlight here is the miraculous silver-plated icon of Archangel Michael, housed inside the main church built in 1783. The bell tower, blending Baroque and Renaissance styles, is impressive and makes for great photos.

During your one-hour visit, you’ll have the chance to explore the museum, which houses religious artifacts and icons, and grab a drink at the waterside café. The setting, with church bells ringing, creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. Reviewers mention that the monastery is a “worthwhile visit,” even if it’s become somewhat commercialized, reflecting its importance as a pilgrimage site.

More Great Tours Nearby

Free Time in Symi: Colorful Streets and Relaxation

After the monastery, you’ll hop back on the ferry for a one-hour cruise to Symi, the island’s main town. Once ashore, you’ll have approximately 3.5 hours to explore. Symi is a photographer’s delight—every corner is painted in shades of pastel, with bright houses, neoclassical buildings, and red-tiled roofs.

We loved the way the harbor is filled with fishing boats, private yachts, and sailboats, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “The scenery was beautiful—the traditional houses, the folk shops, and the sponge stalls,” which are a Symi specialty. You’ll find opportunities to purchase sea sponges, oils, honey, spices, and herbs—a perfect souvenir collection.

Optional Swim at Nymporio Bay

From mid-June to the end of September, on Saturdays, there’s a chance to stop at Nymporio Bay for a swim. The small, organized beach has sunbeds, so if you’re looking to cool off and enjoy the blue waters, pack your swimwear.

Lunch and Leisure

Symi’s coastline offers a variety of sea-view restaurants serving fresh seafood, and the gentle sound of waves provides a calming backdrop. You can choose to relax on the beach, wander into the backstreets, or enjoy a leisurely lunch—probably the best value for money on this trip, given the stunning scenery and authentic vibe.

Returning to Rhodes

The return ferry trip lasts about 75 minutes, giving you time to reflect on your day, snap some final photos, or just unwind. The bus or guide will drop you back at your hotel or designated pickup point, leaving you with a full but manageable day of exploration.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, hassle-free way to experience Symi’s highlights without needing to arrange their own transportation. It’s perfect for those interested in cultural sights, scenic boat rides, and authentic Greek island charm. It also suits travelers who enjoy a bit of free time to wander, relax, and shop at their own pace.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness, the ferry’s stability and duration might be important to consider. Also, since the tour does involve walking on uneven or cobbled streets, those with mobility issues should assess whether it’s suitable.

Final Thoughts

This Symi day trip offers a good balance of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and leisure. The included ferry ride alone is worth it, as it sets a relaxed, maritime tone for the entire day. The visit to Panormitis Monastery adds a spiritual dimension, and the free time in Symi provides a genuine glimpse of traditional island life.

While the schedule is tight, the experience delivers excellent value, especially considering the transportation, guided notes, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. It’s a memorable way to add an authentic Greek island experience to your Rhodes holiday without overextending yourself.

If you’re after a combination of culture, coastal scenery, and local flavor, this trip is a smart pick. Just bring comfortable shoes, your camera, and an appetite for Greek island charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Rhodes to Symi lasts approximately 75 minutes each way.

Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour price does not include meals or drinks. You’ll want to bring cash for snacks, beverages, or souvenirs.

Is there a specific time for pickup?
Pickup times depend on your accommodation, and the exact schedule is provided when you book.

Can I swim at Nymporio Bay?
Yes, from mid-June to the end of September, on Saturdays, there’s an optional swim stop at Nymporio Bay.

How much free time do we have in Symi?
You’ll have roughly 3.5 hours to explore the town, relax on the beach, or enjoy a meal.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the ferry ride and walking involved. It’s best for children comfortable with boat trips and walking.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, a towel if swimming, and cash for personal expenses.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, primarily due to the nature of the boat and the town’s cobblestone streets.

How many people are typically on the ferry?
The ferry accommodates about 420 passengers across three decks, so expect a lively but manageable group size.

What is the cost of the tour?
While the exact price isn’t specified, it’s a full-day experience that includes ferry tickets and transportation, offering good value for the features included.

To sum it up, this day trip to Symi from Rhodes offers a well-paced, authentic slice of Greek island life with beautiful scenery, cultural sights, and leisure time. It’s especially suited for those wanting a hassle-free experience that combines sightseeing with relaxation. Whether you’re captivated by the colorful town, the historic monastery, or simply the chance to cruise the Aegean, this tour makes for a memorable addition to your Greek holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: