Panorama Hotel

Panorama Hotel sits in the Vagia area of Parikia, on the quieter side of the capital, and gives you a pool and garden at a price that is usually reasonable for the island. According to the property page it is about five minutes' walk from Livadia Beach, roughly ten minutes from the Archaeological Museum and the Church of a Hundred Doors, and about fourteen minutes from the port. That is close enough to reach everything on foot, but far enough from the harbour road to feel calmer at night. Rooms are standard singles, doubles, twins and triples, each with a furnished balcony, air conditioning, free WiFi, a safe, a refrigerator and a desk. The facilities are what lift the stay: an outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, a poolside bar, a terrace, a coffee shop and a garden, plus a restaurant and a free breakfast buffet. Free self parking is helpful if you have a rental car, and the hotel also lists bike rentals, a ferry terminal shuttle, express check-out and multilingual staff.

Think of Panorama as a pool-and-balcony base for people who want to be in Parikia but do not want to live on the promenade. After a morning at the beach, you can return for a swim and a drink by the pool, then walk into town for dinner. The shuttle to the ferry terminal makes arrivals and departures easy, which is useful if you are island-hopping with luggage. Pets are allowed with restrictions, which is unusual in a hotel of this class.

Rooms are described as standard in size, so travellers who want extra space or a sea view should ask what is available before booking. The room list on the property page shows only standard singles, doubles and triples, so families may need to book two rooms. Breakfast is a buffet and is free, which gives a good start to a day of sightseeing.

Who is it for? Couples, families and friends who want a hotel with a pool, a breakfast buffet and easy access to both the beach and the old town. It also suits visitors using public buses, because Parikia is the main transport hub. It is less suited to travellers who want a luxury spa or a secluded retreat. Expect friendly, practical service rather than boutique design. Confirm opening dates and pool hours, and ask about parking if you arrive late in the evening. Prices rise in July and August, so book early.