The Best Hotels in Symi, Greece, for Every Traveller

The rather grandly named Opera House Hotel is actually a low-rise guesthouse located a short stroll from Symi town centre – though, like a diminutive soprano, it’s more than capable of belting out an aria or two (here, in the form of its punchy Crayola-coloured buildings). Rooms range from simple doubles with balconies overlooking the garden to family-friendly suites with small kitchens. The sun-dappled garden makes for a lovely place to take breakfast, or unwind with a drink after a day’s exploring. Set on a gentle step-free slope, it’s easy to access on foot or by car.

Built in traditional island style, this colourful holiday complex sits just steps from Pedi cove’s picturesque beach. All apartments open onto furnished terraces where you can gaze over the neighbouring bay and surrounding valleys. Family-friendly suites sport extra loft levels, while all come with simple cooking facilities, too. There’s a supermarket a few minutes’ walk away, and a lovely beachfront taverna closer still.

Set in the heart of town, these characterful lodgings were once the harbour’s old marketplace and main meeting spot. The original structure of this Symi hotel has been carefully restored, the shop units converted into individually styled studios. Many rooms lead onto balconies with lovely views of the harbour, too. You can start your day with a champagne breakfast, which runs until late, while cocktails are served every evening on the terrace.

If it’s a waterfront setting you’re after, you’ll find it at the Pedi Beach Hotel in Symi. This eye-catching bayfront hotel directly overlooks the scenic cove of Pedi, with enviable sea views from many of its smartly finished rooms. You can enjoy daily breakfast and dinner, and the hotel has a traditional-style tavern for lunch with bay views. Afternoon siestas come easy, too: it’s the only hotel on the island with a private section of beach, complete with umbrellas and sunbeds.

Occupying a brightly painted Neoclassical mansion typical of the town, Symi Center Hotel, as the name suggests, is right in the heart of it all. Jaunty maritime-themed decor and artworks add to the cheerful vibe in the rooms, some of which open onto sunny balconies with lovely views. The family-run hotel offers local breakfast items and a shared kitchen where you can prepare it. You’re also just a short stroll from numerous quaint island restaurants that line the bustling harbourfront.

One of the more luxurious hotels in Symi town, Iapetos Hotel comprises a cluster of traditionally styled townhouses, centred on gardens brimming with exotic flora. Quarters range from double rooms to whole maisonettes sleeping up to seven guests. Wake up to the smell of bread, freshly baked in the on-site bakery, before a relaxing day lounging around the hotel pool or exploring the city right on your doorstep.

Nimborios is one of the island’s more remote and serene seaside settlements, and Emporio sits on a hillside overlooking its scenic bay. Life’s pace doesn’t get more leisurely than here, and this pretty hotel is all about tranquil relaxation. There’s a choice of five rooms and a cottage, each uniquely styled, with dreamy views over the water. Bluetooth speakers and Nespresso machines come as standard, too, and the wifi comes with an opt-out option if you want to properly disconnect.

While the outside is classic Venetian-style mansion, an update has given the interiors of Hotel Kokona a calmingly contemporary mix of neutral tones and modern comforts. Rooms either overlook a peaceful courtyard or extend to balconies with superb views over Symi town. Its central location puts all the harbourfront within a few minutes’ walk, and when you’re ready to turn in for the night, quality Coco-Mat mattresses and pillows aid a good night’s sleep.

Set about halfway along the 500-step street that connects the harbour and residential districts, it’s no mystery where this hotel in Symi gets its name. The mansion is brimming with wonderfully evocative curios and antiques that lend the place charm. It’s the whole upper floor that guests book, with tall ceilings and lovely views out to the harbour. And if you’d rather not have to climb the steps, taxis can stop above the street for an easy walk down.