The first stop is the little scenic bay, home to the Holy Monastery of Archangel Michael of PANORMITIS. As you approach the Monastery, you will hear Church bells ringing, warmly welcoming all the pilgrims, explorers, holidaymakers & curious travellers. The Holy Monastery is a treasury of the Greek-Orthodox culture. The contemporary church was built in 1783 and hosts the miraculous all silver-plated icon of Archangel Michael. The main architectural feature of the Monastery is it's impressive bell tower, a mixture of Baroque and Renaissance styles. The monastery also houses two museums with a large collection of ecclesiastical art, icons, ship model offerings and important objects of the island's folk culture. Admire the 18th c. wall paintings, light a candle for good luck and walk around to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this holy place.

The ship will pass by the famed St. George bay so you can make nice photos of the small church at the bottom of the imposing cliff. Every SATURDAY, stop for a quick 20 min swim (from mid-June to end-September)

Approaching Symi, you will be amazed by its picturesque shore! Beautiful mansions, authentic fishermen boats, private yachts & sailboats, dozens of restaurants & folk and art shops, stalls with sponges and wooden carvings! Feel the authentic atmosphere, have a casual walk through the port or get the FUN TRAIN for a great drive through Gialos, go for a swim or enjoy a nice meal in one of the many sea-front taverns! It is difficult to soak up the atmosphere and experience the local culture in just a few hours, but the little island and it's people are so generous that, no doubt, Symi will leave a mark on your traveler's experience.