Symi port was once bustling with local sponge trade, however now is a popular tourist destination, with many tavernas and shops lining the pretty harbour.
Surrounding hillsides are covered with immaculately painted houses, a truly spectacular sight.
Most boats (although not all, it is worth checking beforehand) also stop at the other side of the island to visit the monastery of Panormitis, a huge working monastery with a couple of quaint museums and an impressive pebble mosaic (chocklaki) coutyard floor. Outside of the monastery walls, there is a taverna, bakery and small beach.