Symi’s colorful harbor beckons with a mesmerizing collection of neoclassical mansions tumbling down hillsides to crystal-clear waters. This enchanting Dodecanese island offers an intimate escape where the best hotels in Symi blend seamlessly with the island’s architectural heritage.
- Best Overall:1900 Hotel – Historic harbor mansion with just 4 suites
- For Beach:Niriides Hotel Apartments – Beachfront paradise in tranquil bay
- For Families:Pedi Beach Hotel – Safe shallow waters & family rooms
- For Couples:Amalthea Luxury Suites – Adults-only seaside sanctuary
- Budget Pick:Kokona – Stylish value in the heart of town
Symi floats like a jewel in the southeastern Aegean, part of the Dodecanese archipelago just north of Rhodes and tantalizingly close to the Turkish coast. This small island (population: 3,000) punches above its weight with stunning architecture – pastel-hued mansions cascade down amphitheater-like hills, a legacy of the island’s prosperous sponge-diving past.
Today, a thriving expat community has lovingly restored many of these 19th-century gems, transforming them into some of Greece’s most characterful accommodations.
Reaching Symi island requires a journey that’s part of the adventure. While direct ferries from Piraeus take 12-14 hours, most visitors fly to Rhodes or Kos (45 minutes from Athens), then hop on a quick 30-90 minute ferry. There’s no airport on Symi, preserving its peaceful, untouched character. Always check Ferryhopper for current schedules and Booking.com Flights for the best connections via Rhodes or Kos.
Getting around Symi is refreshingly simple. Most attractions cluster in the main town and harbor area, making walking the preferred mode of transport. Two local buses serve outlying areas (call ahead to arrange), or rent a car for 1-2 days to explore hidden beaches within a 15-20 minute drive. Many visitors rely on the island’s taxi boats for beach hopping – just remember to arrange your return pickup with the captain.
RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:
🛏️ Booking.com has the most available rooms and villas in Symi & other Greek islands
⛴️ Ferryhopper for ferry tickets and timetables to all Greek islands
🎫 Get Your Guide for the best tours in Symi and Greek islands
🚗 Rentalcars for car rentals throughout Greece
✈️ Booking.com Flights for all flights to Greek islands
🚕 Book Your Driver for safe, certified taxi transfers
Best Hotels in Symi: Complete Reviews
1. Amalthea Luxury Suites
Address: Nimborios, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Couples seeking ultimate privacy and romance
Location: Nimborio (Emporios), 3 km from Symi Town
Why stay: Just 4 exclusive suites, private hot tubs, beachfront bliss
What sets Amalthea apart is its commitment to tranquility. No crowds, no noise – just the gentle Mediterranean waves and panoramic sea views. Welcome baskets filled with local wine and fresh fruits greet every guest, while concierge services arrange everything from private boat rentals to romantic dinner reservations. The property embraces upscale simplicity, creating an atmosphere where couples can truly disconnect and reconnect.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, in-room minibar and kettle, private beach area with sun loungers, concierge service, adults-only environment
Pros: Quiet seaside village location, elegant suites with hot tubs and terraces, personalized intimate service, steps from swimming
Cons: 3 km from Symi Town (requires short drive or boat taxi), limited on-site facilities (no restaurant or pool)
2. Opera House Hotel
Perfect for: Families and couples wanting resort amenities with local charm
Location: Yialos, Symi Town (hillside above harbor)
Why stay: Rare swimming pool, spa services, walkable to everything
Opera House Hotel masterfully combines traditional island architecture with modern resort comforts on a gentle slope above Symi’s main harbor. Recently renovated rooms and apartments shine with bright, spacious interiors featuring classic Symiot design touches and balconies overlooking the quaint town below. Families gravitate toward the apartment-style units with kitchenettes, while couples appreciate the serene gardens and intimate pool area – a true rarity on water-scarce Symi.
The property goes beyond basic accommodation with thoughtful amenities including a small wellness spa for post-exploration pampering and Kavos restaurant serving fresh Greek dishes. Despite being so close to Gialos harbor (restaurants, shops, and taxi boats are all within a short stroll), the hotel maintains a tucked-away tranquility. Evening options abound – wander down to waterfront tavernas or enjoy a nightcap on your balcony watching the town lights twinkle below.Amenities: Swimming pool with sun terrace, on-site restaurant and bar, spa services, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, complimentary port transfers
Pros: Short walk to harbor and restaurants, lovely garden setting with pool, spacious renovated rooms, friendly family-run service
Cons: Uphill walk from harbor (challenging for mobility issues), no direct sea views, small pool (more for cooling off than swimming)
3. Pedi Beach Hotel
Address: Pedi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Families with children and beach-loving couples
Location: Pedi Bay, 4 km from Symi Town
Why stay: Steps from safe swimming, all-inclusive dining, peaceful bay setting
Nestled at the head of picturesque Pedi Bay, this charming hotel delivers the quintessential Greek beach holiday. The setting reads like a postcard – crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by rugged hills with a sprinkling of traditional tavernas dotting the shoreline. Pedi Beach Hotel sits literally steps from a small pebble beach where calm, shallow waters create an ideal playground for families.
The relaxed, old-school vibe permeates every aspect of your stay. All rooms feature balconies with either sea or mountain views, while genuinely pleasant staff ensure comfort without fuss. Days begin with generous breakfast buffets (don’t miss the honey pancakes and thick Greek yogurt) served on the sea-facing terrace, often ending with sunset cocktails as golden light bathes the surrounding hills. The hotel’s free shuttle to Symi Town keeps you connected, though many guests find little reason to leave this tranquil haven.Amenities: Beachfront access with free sunbeds and umbrellas, on-site Greek restaurant & bar, breakfast and dinner buffets, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 front desk, free shuttle service
Pros: Idyllic waterfront location in quiet cove, warm attentive staff, easy access to town and beaches, fresh local cuisine on-site
Cons: 4 km from Symi Town nightlife, small pebble beach (water shoes recommended), simple furnishings (comfortable but not luxury)
4. The Old Markets
Perfect for: History buffs and couples seeking boutique luxury
Location: Kali Strata steps, between harbor and upper town
Why stay: Living museum atmosphere, curated antiques, exclusive adult retreat
Step back in time at The Old Markets, where 19th-century merchant shops have been transformed into Symi’s most characterful boutique hotel. Each stone-built suite tells its own story through carefully curated antiques, fine art, and plush furnishings that evoke the island’s prosperous trading past. Imagine sleeping under timber ceilings on a four-poster bed, with views stretching across the harbor or into the sun-dappled courtyard.
Romance infuses every corner, from gourmet breakfasts served in the historic courtyard to evening cocktails in what was once a spice store. The intimate scale – just a handful of suites – ensures personalized service, with massage and beauty treatments arranged on request for private spa-like indulgence. Located partway up the famous Kali Strata staircase, The Old Markets offers a peaceful perch above Yialos while keeping harbor cafes just a 5-10 minute walk away.Amenities: Historic courtyard for dining, honesty bar/lounge, concierge services, in-room spa treatments, free Wi-Fi, complimentary arrival/departure shuttle
Pros: Unique heritage setting with museum-quality decor, personalized high-end service, quiet atmosphere, scenic harbor views
Cons: Access involves steep steps, not suitable for children, limited rooms (books quickly), premium pricing reflects exclusivity
5. Grace Hotel & Studios
Address: Ano Symi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic hospitality
Location: Gialos, 4-minute walk from harbor
Why stay: No steep climbs, genuine family warmth, excellent value
Grace Hotel & Studios embodies authentic Greek island hospitality in a convenient central location. This family-run guesthouse sits tucked in a quiet lane just minutes from Symi’s main harbor, offering peace without the exhausting climbs that characterize many island accommodations. Simple, traditionally styled rooms feature whitewashed walls, wooden shutters, and homey touches that create instant comfort.
Many rooms boast balconies overlooking either the azure Aegean or Symi’s castle-crowned hillside – perfect perches for morning coffee. Modern conveniences include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges, while some studios add kitchenettes for self-catering flexibility. The flower-filled courtyard transforms breakfast into a delightful ritual under shady pergolas. Owner Yannis and family go above and beyond, meeting ferry arrivals, sharing insider tips, and creating an atmosphere where everyone feels like returning friends.Amenities: Air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and TV, balconies with sea/castle views, courtyard breakfast area, free port shuttle, 24-hour front desk
Pros: Excellent central location without steep stairs, friendly helpful owners, traditional charm with modern comforts, great value
Cons: Basic room decor, no pool or restaurant (many nearby), guesthouse rather than hotel experience
6. 1900 Hotel
Address: Ano Symi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Luxury travelers and architecture enthusiasts
Location: Akti Navarchou Ioannou, harborfront
Why stay: Just 4 suites, rooftop terrace paradise, living heritage
Experience Symi’s golden age at 1900 Hotel, a meticulously restored 19th-century neoclassical mansion that once belonged to the prestigious Mastoridis family. Original stone walls, soaring painted ceilings, and vintage furnishings transport guests back in time, while modern luxuries ensure contemporary comfort. With only four suites in the entire property, exclusivity and privacy come standard.
Each individually designed suite blends nostalgic charm with plush amenities – think rain showers, premium bedding, and balconies or tall windows framing unobstructed harbor views. The rooftop terrace steals the show, furnished with cushioned loungers and a rustic dining table where panoramic vistas of colorful houses and bobbing boats create magical sunset moments. The self-serve honesty bar and all-day refreshment corner (complete with homemade cakes) foster a private villa atmosphere that attracts discerning couples and solo travelers seeking inspiration.Amenities: Exclusive roof terrace, courtyard garden, honesty bar, concierge service, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, adults-only ambiance
Pros: Gorgeously restored historic mansion, only 4 suites ensures privacy, stunning harbor views, exceptional personalized service
Cons: Limited availability requires early booking, no children allowed, no on-site restaurant (breakfast provided, dining nearby)
7. Limani Life
Address: Yialos, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Tech-savvy couples and small groups
Location: Yialos waterfront
Why stay: Harbor balconies in every room, self check-in convenience, prime location
Limani Life brings contemporary boutique style to the heart of Symi’s harbor with six sleek rooms that celebrate “limani” (harbor) life. Each airy, minimalist space features premium touches – king-size beds with luxury linens, rainfall showers, Nespresso machines, and chic coastal decor. The real showstopper? Private balconies or terraces overlooking Symi’s postcard-perfect port, where you can watch boats glide by from your lounge chair.
Innovation meets hospitality through the keycode entry system – no traditional front desk means 24-hour access flexibility, though owners remain readily available via phone or WhatsApp. The tranquil, adult-oriented atmosphere (children over 16 welcome) caters to couples and friends, while certain rooms connect via shared terraces for small groups. With Gialos’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops literally at your doorstep, Limani Life suits travelers who appreciate stylish simplicity and want to live like sophisticated locals.Amenities: Harbor-view balconies, free Wi-Fi, espresso machines and minibars, keycode self check-in, daily housekeeping, transfer assistance
Pros: Phenomenal port views, brand-new stylish interiors, prime waterfront location, privacy with self check-in
Cons: No on-site dining, age restrictions for children, limited facilities (focuses on room experience)
8. Marea Apartments
Address: Pitini, Ano Symi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Families and long-stay travelers
Location: Pitini area, 10-minute uphill walk from harbor
Why stay: Home-away-from-home comfort, kitchen facilities, peaceful setting
Marea Apartments delivers exactly what families and extended-stay visitors need – spacious, self-sufficient accommodations in a tranquil residential neighborhood. Each clean, comfortable unit comes with fully equipped kitchenettes, dining areas, and air conditioning, allowing you to cook with fresh local ingredients and maintain your own rhythms. Some apartments feature sea-view balconies perfect for morning coffee while gazing at pastel houses tumbling toward the blue bay.
The peaceful Pitini location means you’ll experience authentic local life away from tourist crowds, yet Nos Beach and Pedi Beach remain just a short drive or scenic walk away. Hosts earn consistent praise for their warm hospitality, greeting guests at the port and sharing valuable insider tips. With apartments accommodating 3-5 people comfortably, Marea offers exceptional value for families wanting to immerse themselves in Symi’s slow island rhythms over a week or more.Amenities: Fully equipped kitchenettes, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private balconies or garden terrace, baby cots available, washing machine access
Pros: Spacious apartments with cooking facilities, quiet local neighborhood, great for families, friendly helpful owners
Cons: Uphill location with steps from harbor, no pool or restaurant, limited housekeeping (independent living style)
9. Nireus Hotel
Address: AKTH GENNHMATA, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Travelers wanting to be in the heart of the action
Location: Yialos waterfront
Why stay: Prime harbor position, swim from the hotel, lively atmosphere
A beloved landmark on the Gialos waterfront, Nireus Hotel occupies an enviable position in a striking neoclassical building painted in Symi’s signature pastels. The hotel’s 37 rooms offer front-row seats to harbor life, with many featuring balconies where morning sun sparkles on the Aegean. The ground-floor restaurant and bar spills onto a sunny terrace – perfect for breakfast people-watching or romantic lantern-lit dinners.
What sets Nireus apart is its unique swimming setup – the hotel utilizes the landing stage out front as a mini beach, complete with sunbeds and ladder access for refreshing dips just steps from your room. Inside, simple classic decor meets modern comforts like air conditioning and mini-fridges. The staff, led by the hospitable Sevasti, excel at arranging everything from restaurant recommendations to ferry transfers. For those who want to experience Symi’s vibrant harbor life while enjoying the gentle lullaby of waves at night, Nireus delivers an authentic front-line experience.Amenities: Waterfront terrace restaurant & bar, 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms with TV, sea swimming platform, breakfast buffet
Pros: Exceptional harbor-front location, swim directly from hotel, on-site seafood restaurant, recently renovated rooms
Cons: Some back rooms lack views, potential harbor noise on lower floors, no pool, stairs to upper floors (no elevator)
10. Niriides Hotel Apartments
Address: Σύμη, Emporios 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Families and couples craving beachfront tranquility
Location: Nimborio Bay, 2 km from Symi Town
Why stay: Direct beach access, spacious apartments, on-site taverna
For a secluded seaside escape, Niriides Hotel Apartments delivers tranquil perfection in Nimborio Bay. This family-run aparthotel sits so close to the water you can practically dip your toes from the garden. Each spacious apartment features self-contained comfort with kitchenettes, dining areas, and one or two bedrooms – ideal for families or those wanting extra space. Simple breezy decor with cool tile floors and furnished terraces opens onto either lush gardens or direct sea views.
Days unfold with a wonderfully lazy rhythm: breakfast on the sea-view terrace (homemade jams, fresh pastries, thick Greek yogurt with honey), afternoon lounging on beachfront sunbeds, and crystal-clear swimming in the calm bay. The on-site taverna serves authentic Greek cuisine, eliminating the need to leave your serene spot. While Symi’s harbor lies about 1.2 miles away (accessible by boat taxi or scenic walk), many guests find this peaceful isolation is exactly what they’re seeking.Amenities: Beachfront with free sunbeds, Greek taverna and bar, fully equipped kitchenettes, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, complimentary port shuttle
Pros: Step-out beach access, roomy apartments with kitchens, peaceful atmosphere, convenient on-site dining
Cons: Distance from town requires transport, limited nearby attractions, pebbly beach (not sandy)
11. Kaminos Boutique Hotel
Address: Gyalos, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Couples and families wanting boutique style with resort perks
Location: Katirli area, behind Yialos Harbor
Why stay: Spacious designer suites, pool access at sister property, quiet yet central
Kaminos Boutique Hotel transforms a former sponge factory area into a chic all-suites hideaway just behind Symi’s bustling harbor. The impressively spacious accommodations range from junior to elite suites, each showcasing its own design theme with high-end amenities – plush beds, sleek bathrooms (some with hydromassage tubs), fully equipped kitchenettes, and private terraces. The decor marries trendy boutique flair with traditional Symiot touches for a fresh yet cozy ambiance.
Couples gravitate toward the Elite Suite with its two terraces and jacuzzi for starlit soaks, while families appreciate larger suites sleeping four comfortably. A unique perk: guests enjoy full access to the adjacent Iapetos Village hotel’s pool and gardens, including breakfast service. This clever arrangement provides boutique seclusion with resort-style facilities just across the street. Located a mere 2-minute walk from the harborfront yet elevated enough for privacy, Kaminos offers the perfect blend of accessibility and tranquility.Amenities: Large apartment-style suites with kitchens, pool/garden access at sister hotel, daily breakfast at Iapetos, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, in-room safes
Pros: Ideal quiet location near harbor, spacious designer suites, use of partner hotel facilities, friendly staff
Cons: No on-site pool/restaurant (1-minute walk), no direct sea views, limited suites require early booking
12. Kokona
Address: Aigialós, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Value-conscious couples and small families
Location: Gialos, behind main square
Why stay: Boutique style without premium prices, super central, personalized service
Hotel Kokona proves that style doesn’t require sacrificing your budget. This charming family-run property occupies a freshly renovated traditional building in Symi Town’s heart, delivering chic small hotel aesthetics with thoughtful design touches. Clean contemporary rooms feature soft color palettes, designer light fixtures, and surprisingly luxurious bathrooms – unexpected delights in this price category.
With only 10 rooms, the atmosphere remains cozy and personal. Owners often chat with guests over the homemade breakfast spread of flaky pastries and made-to-order omelets served in the sunny dining area. Each room includes air conditioning, mini-fridges, and quality mattresses, with some offering private terraces for evening relaxation. The location couldn’t be more convenient – bakeries, shops, and tavernas lie at your doorstep, while the ferry quay is a short stroll away. Yet the quiet back street ensures peaceful nights.Amenities: Air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi and satellite TV, daily breakfast with local products, courtyard seating, in-room fridge and kettle, luggage storage
Pros: Fantastic central location, modern clean rooms with boutique decor, personalized family service, excellent value
Cons: No sea views (inland location), limited facilities (no pool/bar), only 10 rooms (books quickly in season)
13. Thêa Apartments
Address: Akti Navarchou Ioannou, Simi 856 00, Greece
Perfect for: Couples celebrating special occasions
Location: Agialos, hillside above harbor
Why stay: Symi’s best views, just 5 exclusive suites, heritage elegance
Thêa Apartments (meaning “view” in Greek) lives up to its name spectacularly. This boutique property occupies a lovingly restored 1913 mansion perched above the harbor, where neoclassical elegance meets contemporary luxury. Just five suites ensure exclusivity, each uniquely decorated with classical elements like vaulted ceilings and antique furnishings balanced by modern comforts.
Every suite features a private patio or balcony showcasing Symi’s postcard harbor – imagine sipping wine as sunset paints the pastel houses golden. Inside, plush beds, spacious living areas, and select kitchenettes or mezzanine lofts create residential comfort. The attentive hosts arrange porter assistance from the port and can stock suites with breakfast goodies or deliver fresh bread each morning. While there’s no restaurant, the harbor’s tavernas and cafes lie just 5 minutes down the steps. For honeymoons, anniversaries, or any occasion demanding romance and privacy, Thêa delivers the ultimate Symi dream.Amenities: Private balconies with harbor views, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, some kitchenettes, welcome basket, daily housekeeping, in-room services by arrangement
Pros: Stunning views from every suite, elegant spacious interiors, only 5 units ensures privacy, highly personalized service
Cons: Hillside location requires stair climbing, no restaurant/pool, premium pricing, books far in advance
ESSENTIAL SYMI INFORMATION
- Best Area to Stay: Symi town and harbor for restaurants, nightlife, and authentic atmosphere. See All Hotels in Symi Town
- Best Overall Hotel:1900 Hotel – Historic luxury in a restored mansion
- Best Villa:Royal Villa Pedi – Private villa with pool
- How many days needed: Minimum 5 days to truly unwind and experience Symi’s peaceful rhythm – this is an off-the-beaten-path destination perfect for doing nothing
- Getting around: Most attractions are walkable in town. Rent a car for 1-2 days to explore beaches, or use taxi boats for beach hopping
