Tiny Greek island with hidden beaches could be your next summer vacation spot

No, it's not Santorini or Mykonos but it is an island in Dodecanese Sea

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A view of the tiny island, called Symi, in Greece. — Unsplash
A view of the tiny island, called Symi, in Greece. — Unsplash

A tiny island, called Symi, in Greece, is often overlooked in favour of the more popular Santorini and Mykonos — but not for much longer as British airlines Jet2 has launched new flights to the island in the Dodecanese Sea this summer.

The airline has launched flights and package holidays to Symi, an island deemed "relatively undiscovered" by Jet2from London Stansted, East Midlands, and Birmingham, with an overnight stay at Rhodes, before departing for the island the following morning, The Sun reported.

The Greek tourist board calls it a "fairytale-like island," adding: "While approaching the port of Symi, one has the overwhelming feeling of entering a perfectly painted image of a scenic traditional village."

Upon arrival, the main town of Symi, with the same name as the island, is located in two parts: Gialos and Chorio, both accessible via a five-minute bus ride.

This image shows a speedboat docked at Symis harbourfront. — Unsplash
This image shows a speedboat docked at Symi's harbourfront. — Unsplash

Tourists often visit the harbourfront, where colourful houses with Italian influences are found, as they were the dominant culture for nearly a century after their rule.

The area offers numerous restaurants and bars, with fried prawns being the most popular dish.

This image shows a serving of lachanondolmades, a Greek dish. — Akis Petretzikis
This image shows a serving of lachanondolmades, a Greek dish. — Akis Petretzikis

Other popular dishes include "lachanondolmades", stuffed vine leaves with cabbage, and Akoumia Symiaka, similar to doughnuts, which are also available.

The Monastery of Panormitis, a 15th-century white-washed monastery, is a popular post-lunch walk attraction on the south side of the island. Beachgoers can also visit Ped, a small seaside village, or the Kastro (meaning castle) ruins for the best views.

The Monastery of Panormitis is a popular post-lunch walk attraction on the south side of the island. — Manos Going
The Monastery of Panormitis is a popular post-lunch walk attraction on the south side of the island. — Manos Going

Originally designed to pretext the islands from pirates, it fell into ruins in 1522, with tourists now visiting its remains from the top of the hill.

The island offers a serene escape from crowds during the off-season but is vibrant during the summer months with the Symi Festival, which features music, dancing, and live shows, and the Symi International Film Festival.

There are no big resorts on the island, with small bed-and-breakfast and hotels instead.