Symi Town - Gialos | Rhodes Guide

MUST-VISIT

PICTURESQUE

HERITAGE

Gialos, the main town of Symi Island, is one of the most picturesque ports in all of Greece. With its colorful neoclassical mansions climbing the hillsides and fishing boats gently bobbing in the crystal-clear water, arriving at Gialos feels like stepping into a postcard. The blend of architectural elegance and island charm gives this small town a unique and unforgettable character.

Arriving at Symi feels like stepping into a postcard

Symi Town Gialos – One of the most picturesque harbors in all of Greece

The natural harbor of Gialos, capital and main port town, is the heart and soul of Symi. When you arrive by boat—whether on a ferry or a day cruise—Gialos is the first place you see and where most visitors spend their time. You can easily explore it on foot—ideal for a relaxed walk from landmark to landmark, pausing in shaded cafés or browsing seaside shops.

From here, you can easily reach:
Chorio (Ano Symi) – the old town above Gialos, accessible via the scenic Kali Strata staircase
NOS beach – just 650 meters (about 0.4 miles) north of Gialos Harbor, taking roughly 5 minutes along the coast past the Clock Tower and old shipyards
Pedi Bay – about 2.5 km south, reachable by taxi, boat, or footpath
Panormitis Monastery is located on the southwestern coast, about 20 km by road or boat.