From Akandia Port: Symi Island Day Trip by Ferry

Symi Island Day Trip from Akandia Port: A Detailed Look at an Enchanting Greek Escape

When it comes to exploring Greece’s Dodecanese islands, a day trip to Symi offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, traditional charm, and hassle-free travel. While I haven’t personally set sail on this tour, the reviews, itinerary details, and the vibe conveyed by the provider suggest it’s a truly worthwhile outing for anyone eager to experience one of Greece’s most picturesque islands.

What draws me most to this trip is the comfortable transportation aboard the Panagia Skiadeni, which promises a scenic and relaxing journey, and the chance to wander Symi’s narrow, colorful streets—a perfect snapshot of authentic island life. I also appreciate that the trip is organized to be hassle-free, with timely departures and convenient meeting points.

A potential consideration is that the trip is a 10-hour excursion, which means a long day of exploration and travel—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day outings. The trip’s popularity, evidenced by rave reviews like Christopher’s, points to a well-run experience, yet I’d advise travelers to check the starting times and book early, especially in high season.

Key points / Takeaways

Comfortable and scenic transport aboard the Panagia Skiadeni makes for a relaxing start and end to your day.
Authentic Symi experience with narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local tavernas for a taste of genuine island hospitality.
Easy logistics with a meeting point at Akandia Port in Rhodes and included round-trip transportation.
Stunning scenery during the ferry ride and on the island, perfect for photography and memorable views.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours and the ability to reserve now and pay later.
Ideal for those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation, natural beauty, and culture in a manageable day trip.

Exploring Symi: What to Expect from This Day Trip

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Greece

Meeting at Akandia Port: Starting the Adventure

Your day begins at Akandia Port in Rhodes, where a friendly, well-organized staff will help you check in and board the ferry. The vessel, the Panagia Skiadeni, boasts good facilities and reliable service—something that travelers like Christopher appreciate, noting “tickets waiting at the booth just before boarding” and a clean, comfortable ship. The journey itself is part of the charm, offering beautiful views of the Aegean as you sail toward Symi.

The Ferry Ride: Scenic and Relaxing

The ferry ride lasts about an hour, providing ample opportunity to snap photos of the sea and the coastline. The scenic route is often praised for its comfort and reliability, with many travelers mentioning how smooth and scenic it is. It’s an excellent chance to sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning vistas of the Greek islands.

Arrival in Symi: A Charming Welcome

Once you arrive on Symi, you’re immediately immersed in an atmosphere that feels both authentic and picturesque. The streets are narrow and winding, lined with brightly painted buildings and traditional architecture that makes wandering a delight. Unlike more commercialized islands, Symi retains a local flavor that travelers find captivating.

Exploring Symi’s Streets and Local Life

The trip’s core is the opportunity to explore at your own pace. You can stroll through alleys, discover hidden corners, or relax by the waterfront. Many visitors rave about the authentic hospitality—local tavernas serve fresh seafood and Greek specialties, and the ambiance is warm and welcoming. For those who love to capture authentic moments, the photo ops are plentiful, with colorful facades and scenic harbors.

Here's some more things to do in Greece

Authentic Food and Hospitality

Sampling Symi’s cuisine is a highlight. The seaside tavernas serve simple, delicious dishes, and being able to sit by the water while enjoying a Greek salad or fresh fish makes the experience special. This is not a touristy commercial stop but an honest taste of local life, making your meal memorable.

Free Time and Relaxation

The tour allows ample free time—a luxury in a full-day trip. You can choose to relax by the water, explore further, or simply soak in the views. Many reviews mention that the well-organized itinerary ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the friendly staff are there to help you make the most of your day.

Return Journey: Comfort and Convenience

After a few hours on Symi, you’ll board the ferry back to Rhodes. The return trip offers a different perspective of the islands and sea, and many find it the perfect wind-down after a day of exploration. The trip concludes back at Akandia Port, with everything organized to ensure an easy, seamless end to your adventure.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free day of exploring a beautiful Greek island without the hassle of planning ferries and transportation on their own. It suits those who enjoy casual wandering, sea views, and local flavor, rather than high-energy activities or guided tours with strict schedules. If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic taste of Symi and appreciate comfortable transportation, this trip is perfect.

It’s also great for families, couples, or groups seeking a manageable day trip. The private group option allows for a tailored experience, and the wheelchair accessibility ensures that more travelers can enjoy this excursion.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, the reviews suggest that this is a cost-effective way to see Symi. The included transportation, the reliability of the ferry, and the flexibility of booking make it a good value—especially considering the hassle saved and the authentic experiences gained.

For around 10 hours, you get a scenic ferry ride, free time to explore, and the chance to sample local cuisine—all organized for you. Compared to more expensive guided tours, this trip offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to enjoy Symi without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts: The Bottom Line

This Symi Island day trip from Akandia Port combines reliable transportation, authentic island charm, and picturesque scenery, making it a strong choice for those wanting a relaxed yet immersive experience. Its well-organized itinerary and friendly staff support a smooth, enjoyable day, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without the stress of logistics.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of scenic views, local flavor, and hassle-free travel, this trip checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited to those who value authentic experiences over touristy gimmicks and want a day of peaceful exploration in one of Greece’s most charming islands.

In short, with stunning scenery, friendly guides, and flexible options, this Symi day trip offers a memorable escape—one you’ll likely treasure long after returning home.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Rhodes to Symi?
The ferry ride is approximately one hour, giving you a comfortable window to enjoy the views and relax.

What is included in the price of the trip?
The price covers transportation aboard the Panagia Skiadeni, which is reliable and scenic, along with the round-trip ferry service.

Can I cancel this trip if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the trip is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for travelers with mobility needs.

What is the typical duration of free time on Symi?
Travelers usually have enough free time to explore the streets, relax at a seaside taverna, or take photos — enough to enjoy the island at a leisurely pace.

Where does the trip start and end?
It begins at Akandia Port in Rhodes and ends back at the same point, providing a seamless round-trip experience.

What kind of scenery will I see during the trip?
Expect beautiful views of the Aegean Sea during the ferry ride and charming, colorful architecture on Symi itself. Many reviews highlight the “unforgettable scenery” as a key highlight.

Is this trip suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed pace and private group options make it suitable for families, couples, and small groups looking for a manageable day out.

This day trip to Symi from Rhodes offers an authentic, scenic, and hassle-free way to enjoy one of Greece’s most charming islands. Perfect for those who want to see the real Symi without the fuss, it’s a balanced choice that combines comfort, convenience, and genuine local flavor.