How to Go Symi from Bodrum: The Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Meta Description: Planning to visit the charming island of Symi from Bodrum? Discover how to go Symi from Bodrum in 2025 with ferry options, visa details, travel tips, and more. Fast, clear, and updated guide!
Introduction: Why Symi and Bodrum Are the Perfect Combo
Symi, a picturesque Greek island near the Turkish coast, is a must-see for travelers in the Aegean region. With its pastel-colored neoclassical houses, tranquil harbor, and relaxed atmosphere, Symi is the perfect day-trip or overnight escape. If you’re in Bodrum and wondering how to go Symi from Bodrum, this guide provides everything you need—from ferry routes to travel tips.
In 2025, visiting Greek islands like Symi from Turkey has become increasingly popular thanks to improved ferry services and visa-on-arrival agreements. Here’s your ultimate travel plan.
1. How to Go Symi from Bodrum in 2025
The most efficient way to go Symi from Bodrum is by ferry. While there is no direct Bodrum to Symi ferry route as of now, travelers can reach Symi via a short transfer through Rhodes, the largest island in the Dodecanese.
Travel Route:
- Bodrum → Rhodes (via fast catamaran)
- Rhodes → Symi (via local ferry or catamaran)
This two-leg journey is the fastest and most scenic option for travelers asking how to go Symi from Bodrum.
2. Step-by-Step Ferry Route: Bodrum to Symi
Bodrum to Rhodes
The first leg of the journey starts with a ferry from Bodrum to Rhodes, operated by several companies including Tesla Travel, Bodrum Express Lines, and Yesil Marmaris Lines. Travel time ranges between 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Departure Port: Bodrum Cruise Port
- Arrival Port: Rhodes Mandraki or Commercial Port
- Ferry Types: High-speed catamarans and regular ferries
- Schedule (April–October): Daily morning departures
- Passport/Visa: Passport required, Schengen visa or Greek visa-on-arrival for eligible nationalities
Rhodes to Symi
Once in Rhodes, travelers can catch a connecting ferry to Symi. This leg takes approximately 1–1.5 hours depending on the ferry.
- Departure Port: Rhodes Mandraki Port
- Operators: Dodekanisos Seaways, Sea Dreams, and ANES Ferries
- Frequency: Multiple daily ferries (especially in summer)
- Booking: Can be done online or at the Rhodes port kiosk
For those asking how to go Symi from Bodrum, this combination is reliable and widely used by day-trippers and island-hoppers alike.
3. Visa Requirements When Traveling from Bodrum to Symi
Understanding the visa requirements is essential. Since you’re entering the Schengen Area (Greece) from Turkey, here’s what to know:
- EU/Schengen Nationals: No visa needed
- UK/US/Canadian Nationals: Short-stay Schengen visa required
- Turkish Citizens: Need a valid Schengen visa or can use Greece’s visa-on-arrival program (available only to certain nationalities with cruise/ferry bookings)
- Visa-on-Arrival Program: Usually facilitated by travel agencies like Tesla Travel when booking ferry tickets
Always check updated visa requirements and eligibility before planning how to go Symi from Bodrum.
4. How Much Does It Cost to Travel from Bodrum to Symi?
While prices may vary depending on the season, the total cost from Bodrum to Symi typically includes:
- Bodrum to Rhodes ferry: €45–€60 one-way
- Rhodes to Symi ferry: €10–€20 one-way
- Visa-on-arrival (if applicable): €60–€80
You can expect to spend around €130–€150 round-trip including all fees. Booking a combined package through a travel agency like Tesla Travel Agency in Bodrum can save time and money.
5. Best Time to Travel from Bodrum to Symi
The ferry services between Bodrum, Rhodes, and Symi run seasonally from April to October, with July and August being peak months. For smoother travel and fewer crowds:
- Best Time: May, June, September
- Weather: Ideal for walking tours, beach days, and photography
- Avoid: National holidays and weekends if you want to skip the tourist rush
Understanding the seasonal schedules is crucial when planning how to go Symi from Bodrum efficiently.
6. Tips for a Smooth Journey to Symi from Bodrum
- Book Tickets Early: Especially in high season
- Use Reputable Operators: Tesla Travel, Dodekanisos Seaways
- Check Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months
- Pack Light: Especially for day-trips
- Carry Euros: Greek ports and shops prefer cash
Travelers often ask not only how to go Symi from Bodrum, but how to do it stress-free—and the above tips help ensure that.
7. What to Do in Symi
After discovering how to go Symi from Bodrum, here’s what you can look forward to:
1. Explore Gialos Harbor
A postcard-perfect harbor lined with pastel buildings, cafes, and boutiques.
2. Visit the Monastery of Archangel Michael Panormitis
Located in the southern part of the island, this 18th-century monastery is a must-see.
3. Discover Hidden Beaches
Agios Georgios Dysalonas and Nanou Beach are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
4. Enjoy Greek Cuisine
Try local seafood, mezedes, and Symi shrimp—small but packed with flavor.
Once you’ve solved how to go Symi from Bodrum, the island offers plenty to make the journey worthwhile.
8. Can You Return to Bodrum the Same Day?
Yes, same-day round-trips are possible but require early departures and precise coordination.
Example Itinerary:
- Depart Bodrum: 08:00
- Arrive Rhodes: ~10:30
- Depart Rhodes to Symi: 12:00
- Explore Symi (3–4 hours)
- Return to Rhodes: 17:00
- Depart Rhodes to Bodrum: 18:30
- Back in Bodrum: ~21:00
If you’re searching how to go Symi from Bodrum for a day trip, this is the most efficient plan.
9. Booking Options and Trusted Travel Agencies
You can book your journey online or via licensed travel agencies in Bodrum:
- Tesla Travel Agency Bodrum – Known for organizing Greek Island trips, visa support, and all-in-one packages.
- Online platforms: Ferryhopper, Direct Ferries
- At the Port: Possible but not recommended in peak season
When figuring out how to go Symi from Bodrum, using a travel agency often adds convenience and local insight.
10. Internal Linking Opportunities
To enhance your travel planning beyond how to go Symi from Bodrum, explore our other guides:
- Bodrum to Rhodes Ferry Guide
- How to Get Greek Island Visa from Turkey
- Top 10 Things to Do in Symi
- Daily Boat Tours in Bodrum
- Dental Treatments in Bodrum for Island Visitors
Conclusion: Your Symi Adventure Starts from Bodrum
Traveling from Bodrum to Symi is not only feasible but also a memorable Aegean journey. With clear ferry routes, flexible ticketing, and scenic views, your day-trip or extended visit to this Greek gem is just a booking away. Now that you know how to go Symi from Bodrum, it’s time to plan your itinerary and set sail!
For up-to-date ferry schedules, visa information, or custom packages, contact Tesla Travel Agency Bodrum—your expert partner in connecting Turkey with the Greek Islands.
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