March 25, 2025 | By Anita Jain Shah

The first thing that greets you in Symi isn’t the colourful mansions or the bustling harbour—it’s the sight of the Panormitis Monastery, standing majestically against the turquoise sea. As our boat pulled in from Rhodes in the morning, the monastery’s bell rang softly, a centuries-old tradition that welcomes every arriving vessel.

This tiny island in the Dodecanese, just an hour’s ferry ride from Rhodes, is everything I love about Greece without the tourist stampede. No massive resorts, no all-you-can-eat buffets—just authentic island life, served up with a side of effortless elegance.

A Sacred Start: Panormitis Monastery & The Floating Messages
Our first stop was Panormitis Monastery, the spiritual heart of Symi. Dedicated to Archangel Michael, the patron saint of sailors, this 18th-century monastery stands grandly against the sea, its whitewashed bell tower visible from miles away. Inside, the gold-adorned icons and flickering candles add a sense of deep serenity.

One of the most fascinating traditions here? Messages from around the world mysteriously float to Symi’s shores—tiny wooden boats, bottles, and handwritten notes sent across the sea, carrying prayers and wishes. The monastery’s small museum showcases an astonishing collection of these objects, proof of the island’s mystical allure. It’s also said that if you light a candle here for someone who is unwell, they will be healed. Whether legend or miracle, the faith here feels tangible.

A Meal to Remember
With the sea air sharpening our appetite, we headed to Panormio Cafe Restaurant, just a few blocks from the monastery—the only eatery in the vicinity. Tucked away in a quiet spot, this humble tavern serves up dishes that capture the simplicity and richness of Symi’s culinary heritage.

We ordered Symi shrimp, a local delicacy—tiny, crispy, deep-fried shrimp eaten whole, shell and all. Lightly salted and bursting with umami, they paired beautifully with a cold glass of Assyrtiko wine. For the vegetarians among us, the restaurant kindly prepared a seasonal vegetable platter, fresh salads, and local cheeses, ensuring everyone had a taste of Symi’s flavours.

To end the meal, we indulged in local ice cream, rich and creamy with Mediterranean flavours like honey, fig, and mastiha. A sweet finale before continuing our island adventure.

A Drive Through the Mountains & The Sponge Legacy
After lunch, we drove across Symi Island for a good 30-35 minutes, winding through rugged mountains that hold their own myths and legends. The scenery was breathtaking—monasteries perched on rocky cliffs, abandoned stone houses whispering stories of the past, and panoramic views of the endless Aegean.

Arriving at the other side of Symi, we explored its famous sponge shops. Once the sponge-diving capital of the world, the island still thrives on this centuries-old trade. Local shopkeepers proudly display stacks of soft, honeycomb-like natural sponges, each hand-harvested from the deep. I grabbed one, already imagining how my showers back home would feel just a bit more luxurious.

We also attended a sponge workshop, where a local expert explained the different types of natural sponges and their unique properties. Some were prized for their ultra-soft texture, perfect for skincare, while others were known for their exfoliating benefits. Interestingly, sponges from these waters have been used for centuries not only in daily bathing rituals but also for medicinal purposes—believed to aid in circulation and even heal minor skin ailments. The history of sponge diving here dates back to ancient times, when divers risked their lives to harvest these underwater treasures without modern equipment. It was a glimpse into a fading yet fiercely preserved tradition, one that still shapes Symi’s identity today.

Waterfront Loungers & A Swim Like No Other
A slow stroll through the charming alleys of Symi led us to the waterfront, where we rented a few loungers right by the water. Best part? The rental came with complimentary Greek coffee—thick, syrupy, and served with a side of pure relaxation.

Here’s the thing about Symi—you don’t need a beach to swim. Locals do it the Symiot way: find a flat rock, kick off your sandals, and plunge straight into the deep, crystal-clear Aegean. I followed their lead, diving in at Pedi Bay, where the water was so clear I could see tiny fish darting between the rocks below me. No sand, no crowds—just the sea, the sun, and pure bliss.

Sailing Into the Sunset
By late afternoon, it was time to board our boat back to Rhodes. As we pulled away, the golden-hour light bathed Symi in a dreamlike glow. The pastel houses shimmered against the cliffs, and the water turned into a molten mirror of the sky. We watched the sun dip below the horizon from the deck—easily one of the most magical moments of the trip.

Symi is an island where history, beauty, and an unhurried way of life blend seamlessly. No mega-yachts. No five-star chains. Just a timeless, effortless charm that lingers long after you leave.

And as we sailed toward Rhodes, one thought stuck with me: Some places don’t need to be discovered by the world. They’re perfect just as they are.