Bicycle Rentals on Symi island

Symi rewards you the moment you leave the harbour. Picture freewheeling down from Chorio into the pastel mansions of Gialos, or pedalling the flat coastal stretch to Pedi Bay for a swim among working fishing boats. This is an island built for two wheels — small enough to feel entirely yours by the end of a day.

Symi's road network is refreshingly compact: essentially one route stringing together Gialos, Chorio, Pedi and, further south, Panormitis. Distances between highlights rarely exceed 10 km, gradients are steep but short, and traffic thins out fast once you're past the harbour. A car feels oversized here, and a bicycle lets you reach bays and viewpoints that boat taxis and long walks otherwise guard.

Top 10 things to see in Symi by bike

1. Gialos harbour (Yialos) — the neoclassical waterfront where every ride naturally begins and ends, and where the ferries and hydrofoils dock.
2. Kali Strata & Chorio (Ano Symi) — the old upper town, reached by a looping climb above the harbour, with windmills, a clock tower and sweeping bay views.
3. Pedi Bay — a short, mostly flat ride to a working fishing bay lined with tavernas and a swimmable beach.
4. Nimborios Beach — a quiet pebble beach a few kilometres out, an easy out-and-back along the coast road.
5. Moni Taxiarchis Panormitis — Symi's most important monastery, at the island's southern tip, a longer haul along the one real cross-island road and worth every pedal stroke for its dramatic bay setting.
6. Agios Nikolaos Beach — a small beach near Pedi with a taverna, reachable by bike or a short walk from the road's end.
7. Nos Beach — the closest swim spot to Gialos, perfect for a quick dip before or after exploring.
8. Marathounta Beach — a more remote pebble cove down a rougher stretch of road, ideal if you want fewer crowds.
9. Agia Marina islet and chapel — a tiny tied islet near Pedi topped with a hilltop chapel, an easy detour off the main road.
10. Symi Town clock tower area — a landmark viewpoint over the harbour, a natural stop on the loop between Gialos and Chorio.

What do you need to rent a bike in Symi?

No licence is required to hire a bicycle in Greece, so this is one of the simplest rentals on the island. There's generally no strict minimum age either, though operators may ask that younger riders be accompanied. A deposit is common, usually held on a credit card, and since no driving licence is involved, you won't need an International Driving Permit for this vehicle.

How much does it cost to rent a bike in Symi?

Expect to pay around 3-6 EUR per day in low season, rising to roughly 8-15 EUR per day in high season. E-bikes and multi-gear touring models, where available, typically run 12-20 EUR per day given Symi's steep gradients.

• Prices climb through spring and peak in July-August, the busiest and most expensive months.
• November through March is cheapest, though many island rental shops close for winter entirely.

When to book a rental bike in Symi?

High season runs July-August, when demand and prices both peak and the midday heat can make steep climbs tough going. Low season stretches November-March, with the lowest prices but limited shop availability. For the best balance of pleasant riding weather, open shops and fair prices, aim for May-June or September-October.

Local traffic rules in Symi

Greece drives on the right. Cycling doesn't require a licence or insurance, but do ride defensively on the narrow, occasionally steep and gravel-strewn sections of Symi's roads, especially near blind bends. Stick to speeds that suit the terrain — the same 50 km/h built-up-area limit applies to all road users, though on a bike you'll rarely approach it — and avoid alcohol before riding, since local roads offer little margin for error. If you want to rent a bike in Symi, just use the search form at the top of the page. Have a nice trip!

Types of bikes available

On our website you can rent the following types of bicycles: classic bikes, tandems, road bikes, carbon, cyclocross, touring, trekking, hybrid, mountain bikes (MTB), cruisers, comfort, city, commuter, urban, Dutch bikes, lady, bike for kids, folding, tricycles with three wheels, bikes with basket, with gears, with suspension, with rear rack, fat-tire bikes, electric bicycles.

Models of bicycles available

On our website you can hire a bike of the following manufacturers: Avanti, Batavus, Bianchi, Trek, Cannondale, Cube, Diamant, Felt, Scott, Gazelle, Genesis, Giant, GT Bicycles, Ideal, K2, Diamondback, Schwinn, Jamis, Raleigh, Kona, Kross, Merida, Mongoose, Next, Orbea, Órbita, Murray, Roadmaster, Rocky, Miele, Rover, Shimano, Vélo, Specialized.

Which insurance is provided with my rental bicycle?

Bicycle rentals typically come with basic cover for third-party damage, but theft and damage terms vary from one provider to another. Some include simple loss or damage protection in the price, while others cover it through your deposit; always check the exact terms on the booking page before you confirm.

Extra services available

When you make a reservation of a bicycle you also can order the following extra services and equipment: helmet, GPS navigation, clip pedals, side cases, rear rack, basket, light, gloves, speedometer, individual guide or tour, full insurance, one-way rental, or delivery to the address of your choice.

Why use BikesBooking.com?

• Find the best deals for bicycle hire in the city;
• Compare prices of bicycle rental companies;
• Read reviews of previous customers;
• Reserve a bicycle online with the Best Price Guarantee!

Most of our local bicycle rentals have many years of experience and will provide you with a well-kept bike, lock, basket and friendly service. The number of companies we work with is increasing every day, so if you want to rent a bicycle, just use the search form at the top of the page. Have a nice trip!