Akandia Port Symi Day Trip Review: Ferry Guide

So, you’re considering a day trip from Akandia Port to Symi Island? It’s almost like stepping into a postcard, this little getaway is, and let me tell you, it’s very much something that sticks with you. I mean, the vibrant harbor, the pastel-colored buildings, the overall peaceful vibe? It’s all pretty special. This review is really meant to guide you, to make sure your trip is as fantastic as can be, offering insights and perhaps just a little recommendation that might prove helpful along the way. Is that OK?

Why Symi Island Is a Must-See

Now, why Symi Island? Why bother with that little ferry ride? Well, the island has history practically oozing from every stone. It’s almost like time slowed down just for this place. Symi has managed to preserve a very unique atmosphere, offering what is just a delightful change from the busier, more tourist-packed islands nearby. Yet the architecture alone is enough to sell you on the trip. The houses are, in some respects, like brightly colored jewels cascading down the hillside. The atmosphere is, well, genuinely charming, offering a relaxed pace, and what seems to be authentic Greek island experience. It is what I love!

A little back story perhaps? Symi actually used to be a wealthy island because of its sponge diving and shipbuilding industries. You find it hard to believe that, actually? But, you see the wealth reflected in its architecture, much of which has been carefully restored. The island is, in a way, offering that peek into the past that very few other places really can. The whole place it’s just that visually pleasing. The harborside restaurants and shops are great, too, of course. That’s all to say nothing of the clear waters perfect swimming, or the little hidden beaches just waiting to be discovered. It tends to be everything a Greek island escape should be.

Planning Your Ferry Trip from Akandia Port

So, about that ferry trip from Akandia Port? What I usually find it’s pretty straightforward, very easy, but there are certainly some important details that might just make things that bit smoother. First, booking your tickets. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, it’s often a good idea. Ferries can get very full, very fast. If you book online, you’re pretty much ensuring you have a spot, also avoiding what tends to be those potential queues at the port. What could be better?

Timetables? Double-check. Ferry schedules, in a way, they do vary, you see, depending on the time of year. Websites, such as Ferryhopper, often provide the most up-to-date info. That being said, is that just confirm directly with the ferry operator, is that to be absolutely certain, particularly if your schedule is fairly tight. The ferry from Akandia Port is that it can take around 45 minutes to an hour to reach Symi, so plan accordingly.

Finally, just that small tip: Arrive at the port very early. Arriving perhaps around 30-45 minutes prior to departure, more or less, usually, it allows for enough time to find your ferry, get settled, perhaps grab a quick coffee before setting off. I love it!

What to Do in Symi: A Day Trip Itinerary

Okay, so you’ve arrived in Symi! You’ve stepped off the ferry and are practically itching to start exploring? In fact there’s what can be done with one day, right? Symi it’s manageable, but just that little bit of planning means you see pretty much the best of it. So, let’s talk about what tends to be that itinerary.

Firstly, it almost starts with that wander around Yialos, what I like to call Symi’s main harbor. Now you might see it differently, which is cool, just for me its beauty its undeniable with colorful houses. That stroll, it’s not just a must for its beauty, but really, it’s very good for getting your bearings. Check out the local shops, maybe see something you might buy. Perhaps grab that Greek coffee at a cafe overlooking the water. Is that even a trip to Greece without Greek coffee?

Then, perhaps that walk up to the Kali Strata? It sounds intense, right? Kali Strata in fact is that stone staircase of about 500 steps that connects Yialos to Chorio, the upper town. Now I’m not trying to say it is that walk in the park, I love how the views from the top? Absolutely worth it, and along the way there are these absolutely picture-postcard spots you’ll just want to take photographs. Or you could cheat slightly! Get a bus or taxi up, then amble down. Just be sure to stay hydrated, too it’s almost like essential to do so on hotter days. Is it what they say?

Now for the afternoon? Head to one of Symi’s fantastic beaches. Nos Beach is, for me, it tends to be the closest to Yialos, very accessible. You know you’re going to have a great time at it, basically offering clear waters. Or you can hop on a boat to some of the more secluded spots, such as perhaps St. George Bay. That option requires slightly more travel, which is, if you want total relaxation, a boat trip can be well worth it.

Finally, as the day goes on, settle down in one of the harborside tavernas. Really, enjoy a very relaxing dinner, watch the sunset. Fresh seafood tends to be plentiful, you see, and so good to just sit there and savor what appears to be that peaceful atmosphere as day turns into night. Is it the Greek Dream?

Where to Eat: Local Cuisine on Symi

Let’s talk about Greek food! Eating in Symi in fact is one of the highlights of your day trip. Fresh, delicious, mostly local produce. Honestly the variety, and that overall quality, is really impressive. Which tavernas or what dishes? Well, there’s a very big choice. Should it be, as always, the seafood.

First off, seek out the local Symi shrimp, is that often served simply grilled, dressed very well with a little lemon. So good they’re actually known throughout Greece, tiny but packed with flavour. Maybe try a taverna right on the harbor front to get that freshest catch. I mean its location tends to be also very beautiful, offering that extra dimension to that eating experience.

Then? Apart from the Symi Shrimp, sample other Greek specialities. Moussaka, souvlaki, fresh Greek salads. Most tavernas offer those classic dishes, cooked very well, that usually represent really great value. If you are vegetarian or vegan, is that almost always very plentiful. Stuffed tomatoes, fresh bean stews, and many other options.

Lastly, do allow yourself just that little time to just wander and see where takes your interest. Plenty of places it almost looks appealing, so check reviews, look at menus, maybe just peek inside. A little of your research ahead, more or less, is that you won’t go too far wrong.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Right, a few tips just to help ensure your day trip to Symi is actually as amazing as it possibly can be. A few extra considerations mean no issues, more enjoyment. What isn’t there to love?

• Firstly: Wear comfortable shoes. Symi is very beautiful, yes, it does often involve a very good amount of walking. Cobbled streets and hills, you’ll see! They are calling for supportive footwear. No brainer right?
• Secondly: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Greek islands can get really hot. That sunshine can actually be intense, particularly during those peak summer months. Protecting yourself, really important to ensure comfort. And more of an enjoyment.
• Thirdly: Stay hydrated. So, as mentioned earlier, take water. Or maybe buy drinks at what may well be many cafes or shops. Greek sun really, can dehydrate you fast. You might barely notice!
• Fourthly: Take cash. Lots of smaller establishments? Maybe they prefer it or can only take it. Is it better to have those euros on hand, what with drawing money when you might need it.
• Fifthly: Learn just a few Greek words. OK so that ‘thank you’ and ‘hello’ or ‘please’. Just little efforts in the local language can enrich your interactions. Is that not very well received, every single time.
• Sixthly: Respect local customs. Symi isn’t all about preserving what seems to be it’s traditional charm. Be considerate of residents, their traditions. Act responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Symi Day Trips

Is a day trip to Symi from Akandia Port enough time to see the island?

Well, actually, yes! A day trip gives you what seems to be enough time to explore Yialos, walk around the harbor, even visit a beach. Maybe have lunch, explore that Chorio. Now, more time on the island offers the chance to see even more, of course. For a first taste of Symi’s charm? A day is adequate.

How much does the ferry from Akandia Port to Symi cost?

So, ferry prices? So, prices they do vary a bit! Time of year, the ferry company and so on. Is it a very rough estimate that it should cost somewhere in the region of €20-€40 per person for a return trip. Check directly, obviously, with ferry operators for that up-to-date pricing.

Are there organized tours to Symi from Akandia Port?

Oh, yes! You are able to find organized day tours! They often include the ferry transfer, what turns out to be a guided tour of Symi. Plus maybe a boat trip around that coastline. A tour could be good in fact if you’re after convenience. Want to learn quite a bit more about the island while saving any organizational hassle.

What is the best time of year to visit Symi?

Visiting Symi at its best? So, is it the spring or autumn? These months they usually offer lovely weather, less crowds than summertime. So, June and September I mean, usually ideal for warmer days, without too many tourists.

Can I swim at the beaches near Symi Town?

Definitely! Symi in fact has some stunning beaches very close to town. Nos Beach really, easily accessible, short walk from that harbor. Hiring a boat or even taking a water taxi that? More secluded bays. This includes the very pretty St. George Bay.