Direct Ferry Route from Datça to Symi
Reaching the island of Symi in Greece's Dodecanese from Muğla's Datça peninsula is much easier starting in the summer of 2026. Thanks to the direct ferry route launched by Mavi Transfer on June 1, 2026, this journey—which previously required a transfer via Marmaris—can now be made directly from Datça. In this guide, you will find details about the new route, visa and passport requirements, places to visit in Symi, and a practical day-trip itinerary.
Journey Time and Route Information
The nautical distance between Datça Pier and Symi Port is approximately 28 kilometers. Traveling on a modern high-speed catamaran takes an average of 45 minutes. Since the southern tip of the Datça peninsula is one of the closest Turkish shores to Symi, this route is one of the shortest gateways to the Dodecanese. For up-to-date schedules and tickets, you can check the Datça - Symi ferry schedules page.
Tickets and Reservations
Tickets can be purchased through Mavi Transfer's official website (mavitransfer.com) and by calling +90 252 275 02 04. During the summer season, especially on weekends and public holidays, booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Visa and Passport
Symi is part of Greece's Schengen area. A Schengen visa is mandatory for Turkish citizens, and passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. It is advisable to confirm before your trip whether the visa on arrival (express visa) program, occasionally implemented for the Greek islands, is valid for that season. For more information on the visa process, you can visit the Symi Island visa information page.
Places to Visit in Symi
Symi is a tranquil and elegant island famous for its neoclassical architecture and pastel-colored house facades. Key stops include:
- Yialos (Port): The harbor area, a favorite among photography enthusiasts, where colorful houses are lined up like an amphitheater.
- Chorio (Upper Village): The island's historic upper settlement with a castle and narrow streets; climb the Kali Strata steps for the view.
- Panormitis Monastery: A magnificent Orthodox monastery in the south of the island, frequently visited by sailors.
- Bays: Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear coves like Nimborios and Agios Nikolaos.
Datça - Symi Day Trip Itinerary
Take the morning ferry from Datça and arrive in Symi in about 45 minutes. First, have breakfast at Yialos port and explore the colorful houses, then head up to Chorio to see the castle and the panoramic views. In the afternoon, cool off in a bay and taste fresh seafood. Before returning to Datça on the evening's final ferry, be sure to confirm your return departure time in advance.
Travel Tips
- Ensure your Schengen visa is ready before your travel date.
- The summer sun is strong; bring a hat, sunglasses, and water.
- Accommodation in Symi can be limited; if you plan to stay overnight, book well in advance.
- For an alternative route, check out the Marmaris - Symi ferry route, and for other islands, explore the Turkey-Greek Islands Ferry Guide 2026.
