Rethymnon, Greece Hotel Rooms at the Independent

Backpacking, we opted for this place because of the kitchenette and cheap rate. We were more than pleased, the people at the front desk were super friendly and spoke english quite well. Although this isn't a requirement for us it was a nice change to not have to use hand signals and whatnot to check in or ask questions. The room was very spacious, it had a coffee maker, fridge and two burners with pots/cutlery/etc. First bathtub we have seen here in greece so no water on the floor after showering! Since it is the low season we're pretty sure they gave us the best room, top floor on the corner had an upper loft and big balcony. Seemed like they genuinely wanted us to have a nice stay, which we did. Lots of places to eat and grocery stores around, can see the water from the location. I would recommend any of my friends or family to stay here.

It's hard to think of an original comment as so many guests before us have said what a wonderful time they had because of the attentive and friendly service. We stayed two weeks and our experience was just as expected. It's a charming hotel, located in the middle of the old town, and is in easy reach of shops, beach, tavernas and bus station. Our thanks to Athina and all her team who made us feel so welcome and ensured our stay enjoyable.

Lovely spot for hotel. Walking distance to the old town, the fort, marina & the town's beaches. Very helpful staff. Quiet & restful.

Beautifully appointed and run with unvarying attention to our pleasure and comfort by people whose friendliness was matched by their consideration and courtesy.

This is one of the most memorable hotels I have ever stayed in. We had a bit of confusion finding the reception due the maze of narrow streets, but were eventually greeted warmly and courteously by the duty manager. Then we were led to the beautiful courtyard for a complimentary 'welcome' drink. Our first impression was very good and we were made to feel very special by staff who obviously cared about making sure we were relaxed and at ease. Our room was exactly as we imagined from the photos - very unique, spacious and comfortable. The only issue with the Green Room is that it does not have a proper window (only a small one looking into the courtyard which you have to crouch down to see out of), but this is due to the design of the building. Breakfast was of the 'a la carte' variety, and one of the best things about this hotel. It includes traditional things like omlettes, bacon, yogurts, fruits etc but also local breakfast dishes. Everything is freshly made to order, and with the Avli being one of the most highly rated restaurants in Rethymno, it is of a very good quality. Be prepared to spend up to an hour enjoying the substantial breakfast - it will set you up for the day! The location is just about as good as you can get. You are literally yards from the historic centre of Rethymno (Rimondi Fountain) and 2 minutes walk from the harbour. The is a supermarket around the corner as well. Our whole experience was fantastic and we would highly recommend the Avli Lounge.

Very comfortable ,excellent staff ,location perfect

Our first stay in Old Town Rethymnon. Nicely appointed rooms, recommend a suite which provides a separate sitting room. One draw back is that the parking/and bus depot is about a five minute walk to the hotel (cars are not allowed in the old city center) and the hotel does not offer a means of pick-up/drop-off to and from the hotel (a golf cart might be nice0...so travel light!!! Did not offer wireless as stated in hotel info.

My wife and me booked this renovated apartment and stayed at the sea view room for three days. When we took the last coach from Heraklion to Rethymno, we got off the coach at the wrong station very late at night. We borrowed a mobile phone from a local and phoned Karen, and then she picked us up and sent us to the apartment. Even though it was very late, she thoroughly explained everything in the room and recommended many good places such as restaurants and shops to us. The room was truly amazing and decorated with lots of lovely detail, the roof garden was a real bonus and we had our breakfast every day at there. The location of this apartment is in the middle of the old town of Rethymno, where most of decent shops and restaurants located. The first restaurant in Rethymno we went to which is described by Karen as her favourite was absolutely sensational. We tried every restaurant recommended by Karen and none of them let us down. As a wine lover, I used to find difficult to find some great local wine with a reasonable price from the places I been to, Karen made this really easy this time. I bought four bottles of Greek wine from a local wine shop recommended by her and so far we have tried one of them and we absolutely loved it. During our three days at Casa Maistra Residence at Rethymno, Karen was really helpful and informative. We really enjoyed our stay at her apartment and we really regretted that we should book few more days and stay longer at Rethymno.

Clean, quiet, good location - would go there again.

This hotel made our Greece experience even better! Hotel staff were great and very helpful!