HOTEL INSIDER: A Stay at The Old Markets, Symi
Housed in a historic building overlooking Symi’s picture-perfect harbour, The Old Markets‘ moniker is earned through centuries of history. Formerly the agora where trades took place, the rooms – once market stalls – have been thoughtfully converted into luxury accommodations, each with unique touches. The rooftop dining space overlooking the harbour is the pièce de résistance with panoramic views that will make you want to stay forever.
DESTINATION: SYMI ??
Symi is one of those gems that you may not have even known existed. It’s a tiny island that packs a punch with its colorful harbour, stunning vistas, upmarket offerings and laid back vibe. There’s a huge repeat clientele that visit Symi year after year, and you’ll probably want to be part of that very group after your first encounter. Enjoy lunch on the waterfront, skip around on water taxis or take a ride out on a day trip exploring Symi by boat. This tiny sun-drenched isle is straight out of a technicolor dream.
The Old Markets is a place that’s just as much about the common spaces and views as it is about the rooms. There are the original Agora rooms, four luxe rooms and one suite that were converted from old market stalls. There’s also the Captain’s Mansion, which houses two suites and three rooms. We stayed in the former, in the Venetian Room, Arabian Room, and Alexandrian Room, situated right beneath the rooftop deck. The suite is spacious with stunning views but the rooms left us just as impressed: comfortable beds and amenities by Korres, plus nice touches like Turkish towels and a beach bag for use.
Being a small property, The Old Markets really focuses on providing one meal – breakfast – and they do it exceptionally well. Your morning meal is included in the stay and it’s truly divine, with hot and cold specialties overlooking the Aegean. We all sat down and were greeted with coffee or tea, orange juice, croissants and pain au chocolate, along with bread and butter before even getting to the main event. Beyond breakfast, the rooftop is home to an honor bar where you can whip up your own cocktail and add it to your tab if a bartender isn’t there to assist with crafting your drink of choice. During sunset, the resort manager greeted us on the rooftop and adeptly prepared a slew of cocktails so we could enjoy the vistas with a pre-dinner drink. It hardly gets more perfect.
Planning your getaway to Symi + the Dodecanese? Here’s some inspiration for your trip:
- Two Days in Symi
- Exploring Symi by Boat
- Exploring Rhodes Old Town
- Two Days in Lindos
- The Beginner’s Guide to Symi (Pause the Moment)
- The Best Things to See and Do on Symi (The Culture Trip)
?? Book a Stay at the Old Markets in Symi
Number of Rooms: 7 rooms + 3 suites
Cost Per Night: From €190/night (closed November – April)
Must-Try Eats & Drinks: Breakfast on the rooftop is spectacular – the Agora breakfast with fresh avocado is fabulous.
Hotel Highlights: The rooftop deck for breakfast and pre-dinner drinks is the perfect place for a luxurious moment. Ask Frances to whip up a cocktail or enjoy the make-your-own option!
Worth the Investment? Absolutely. Historic and stunning with personalized service.
