Symi

The Symi viewpoint offers an unparalleled panoramic vista over the picturesque harbor of Gialos and the upper town of Chorio above it. You'll witness characteristic neoclassical mansions, terraced gracefully into the hillsides and glowing in vibrant hues. This architecture bears witness to the island's former prosperity, significantly shaped by the sponge trade and shipping during the 19th century. From here, you can survey the entire bay and appreciate the island's rich historical fabric, blending harmoniously into the Aegean Sea. The ascent to the viewpoint, often via the renowned Kali Strata with its hundreds of steps, is already part of the experience, constantly revealing new perspectives. Our tip: Visit the viewpoint in the late afternoon to capture the golden glow of the setting sun on the brightly colored houses. For an unobstructed photograph, we recommend an early morning visit before the day-trippers arrive.

Giala is a small pebble bay on the north coast of Symi, west of Gialos between the harbour and Emporios Bay. Steep rocky slopes frame the beach; the water is clear and ideal for snorkelling. There's no infrastructure; bring your own water and sun protection.

The square is named after May 8, 1945, the day on which General Otto Wagener, commander of the German troops in the Dodecanese, signed the surrender to British officers on Symi. This marked the end of the German occupation of the island group. The anniversary is observed annually on Symi with a celebration. The square is situated on the slope above the bay, offering views over the houses of Symi.

Lapathos lies in the bay of Agios Vasilios on Symi's west, away from any road. You reach the beach on foot via a hiking trail of around 1.5 hours; the final stretch descends steeply to the water. Excursion boats visit the bay, but with no jetty, you'll swim the last part. There's no infrastructure; bring your own water and sun protection.

Plaka is a small swimming spot on Symi's north coast, northwest of Gialos harbour, en route to Emporios. The seabed is pebbles and rock; the water deepens quickly. No facilities like sunbeds or tavernas are available. Reach it from Gialos on foot along the coast or by water taxi.

The viewpoint lies in the upper town Chorio at the top of the Kali Strata. From here, you overlook Gialos harbour and the slopes with neoclassical houses in ochre, pink, and blue, which were built in the 19th century with money from sponge diving and shipbuilding. On foot, it's about 20 minutes from the harbour via the approximately 500 steps of the Kali Strata.