The amphitheatrical view of traditional stone houses, painted in all colours but mostly in ochre and terracotta, with red tiled roofs and cute little balconies with railings set up the peculiarity of Symi. The entrance of the horseshoe-shaped port is dominated by Roloi, a clock tower. Right in front of it there is the statue of the fisher boy, Michalaki (= little Michael) which seems to be welcoming the visitors to the island. The two sides of the port are joined together by a gorgeous stony little bridge which the locals call kaldirimi. The churches, the square and the Naval Museum of Symi are the main attractions on this side. The latter lends an insight to the naval tradition of the island and boasts, amongst else, exhibits representing the evolution of sponge fishing through the years.
There is a stony stairway of 500 steps leading to the upper part of the town. The locals call it Kali Strata, which means "good way" what else could be called such a wonderful walkway under the trees with the satisfying view over Gialos? Some awesome churches, with their unique gravel yards, fill the streets of Chorio with beauty. In the central square some enjoy their meal while others chat with friends over coffee.
One of the island's most famous landmarks of religious and historical value is the monastery of the Archangel Michael Panormitis on the southwest coast. Built in the early 18th century,it overlooks the bay bearing its name, in an awesome setting combining mountain and sea. What is more, it is dominated by the imposing built-in-1905 bell tower. During the summer months, the monks accommodate visitors in the cells of the monastery for a token charge.
There is no lack of beautiful beaches on the island. Tourists love the fact that many of them are off the beaten track and reachable only by (taxi) boat. Some of them are sandy, some of them are pebbly, some of them are situated on small islets around Symi (Agia Marina, Agios Emilianos, Nimos, Sesklia) but all of them are bathed by crystal clear water. Here are some names: Nos, Toli, Agios Georgios, Agios Nikolaos, Nanou, Marathounta, Faneromeni, Agios Vassilios, Nimporios, and Maroni. Ask the locals which of them offer food and drink facilities.