About this activity
Explore Symi Island on a captivating cruise, visiting the charming port town of Gialos and the historic Panormitis Monastery with the revered Icon of Archangel Michael.
- Discover Gialos, the capital of Symi Island, renowned for its neoclassical design
- Visit the Panormitis Monastery
- Learn about the history and culture of the island
Full description
You will have a cruise to another Greek island of Dodecanese – Symi! During this fabulous boat trip on Aegean you will enjoy the beauty of the western coast of Rhodes and see its neighbor – Turkey coastal line.
CAPITAL SYMI
Together with our guide, you will walk in the port area of Gialos, getting to know its history and the specificities of the architecture of this port town.
Also, you will have a chance to get acquainted with the interesting citizens of the island – who are very good at what they do. Originally, Symi inhabitants lived off what the sea gave them. But after the Phoenician arrival, shipbuilding became the main occupation which provided a good income from the sales of the ships. It was considered that the ships manufactured in Symi were the most high-speed and safe ones.
With the acceptance of Christianity, one of the best artistic schools of icon painting was opened here. Besides that, citizens of Symi are famous for their ability to deep dive, holding their breath for a long period of time for sponge mining.
The island endured not only a rise but also a fall. Today it lives in its habitual rhythm; the locals are occupied in mining sponges which were recognized by world scientists as the best ones due to their biological content.
In your free time, you can try the local delicacy – Symi shrimps in one of the restaurants of Gialos and have time to swim.
PANORMITIS MONASTERY
This monastery has a special place in life of the Greeks. Being the orthodox, they carefully keep their heritage but at the same time do not hide it from the people but opposite, give an opportunity for everyone to find Spiritual Joy, by touching the Wonderworking Icon of Archangel Michael which placed in Byzantine church built in 18 century.
Our professional guide will tell you the story of creation of the Icon and the monastery existence already in early Christian period.
On the monastery territory there are two museums: ethnographic and church. Numerous gifts brought from all over the world, letters addressed to Archangel Michael, monastery possessions – all these fully reveal special significance of the Saint.
After 1 hour in the Monastery you come back to your boat and for the return to Rhodes.
What's Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Boat tickets
- Qualified guide
- Meal
- Entrance fees to the museums (optional)
Meeting And Pickup
Pick-up and drop-off at hotel entrances or meeting points are within a short walking distance. Confirmation of the exact departure time will be received the evening before the tour.
Important information
- What to bring with you: Comfortable shoes, Swimwear, Hat, Towel, Sunscreen, Water, Beachwear, Cash.
- Infants must sit with their parents on the bus and will not have their own seats.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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