The Old Markets

What a wonderfully authentic place to stay situated on the Kali Strata. We were met at the Port having travelled from our home in Kalymnos. The stay was perfect, a lovely room with a great breakfast each morning. All of the staff were excellent and we plan to visit again in the future.

Excellent location in beautiful Symi harbor! Around 3 flights of slow and winding stairs about from the harbor, this hotel is quiet but close to all you could want. The owner was very kind and helpful and met us at our ferry. He also carried our two suitcases for us up to the hotel and down when we checked out. Breakfast was also great and the pastries were excellent. Try the croissants! Our room was the smallest one, the Arabian room, and faced the street. I was worried about noise but it was not an issue and quiet at night. The room was a bit tight but had clever under the bed storage for our two suitcases. It was one room though so please do not book this room if you need any kind of privacy in the bathroom! The sinks and mirror provide a screen to the shower, toilet, and bidet but there is no blocking sounds. We were here two nights and it was totally fine but some couples may not be okay with that. Also, please note there is no hotel pool! Some sites mention one but it is a private pool for one of the rooms. You’d only have access if you book that room. I highly recommend this hotel and make sure to check out Agora next door if you are interested in fine dining!

Our first trip to Greece will be the first of many! The Old Markets is a beautiful environment and totally relaxing. 5 mins walk down the steps to the harbour (with the water taxis to the extraordinary beaches and the fantastic Poseidon round-the-island boat tour) and 15 minutes to the top of Kali Strata and restaurants at the top of the hill (The Secret Garden and Kali Strata). It’s a VERY short transfer from the Sebeco ferry terminal and Daniel met us on arrival and made sure our bags were spirited to our room. The staff are absolutely welcoming and put you at your ease most gracefully. To be ultra-critical, a little more variety at Breakfast would enhance longer stays but what is on offer is lovely (especially the Symi Omlette). Don’t expect champagne as it says on the website. However, we had a 10 days stay, full of superlatives, and would strongly encourage anyone to stay. Thank you Carlo and Team. We will be back!