Mitsis Petit Palais

We have just returned from this hotel in Rhodes. I think the most important thing to say is that there is currently an epidemic of gastroenteritis in Rhodes - as confirmed by the doctor we needed to see for IV fluids, having caught the bug. If you are travelling to the area, then you need to be aware that it is very present at the moment - both amongst tourists and locals - info from the Doctor, shops etc. The hotel acknowledge that they know about it but don't inform you - several staff told us they were aware. Despite this, the hand sanitiser stations were often empty and there was nobody asking you to sanitise hands before going into the restaurant. The door handles were visibly dirty and the lift also but we never saw them being cleaned. Having lost two days of a short (and expensive stay), we were told on checkout that they do not tell people to sanitise hands as they should know the risks following Covid. Luckily I still had some anti bacterial wipes that I managed to give to an unsuspecting elderly couple who were unaware but wondered why there was a man at reception on checking in asking for the nearest hospital for him and his family. All in all it's not a 4 star hotel. Far from it. The location is great - really close to visit all the sites. Most of the staff were really nice and helpful. They did change our room following early feedback but being unwell I didn't really look properly at the new "better room" offering. The fridge cupboard door was rotten as was the sixth floor wooden balcony (trip and you would literally be a goner). Taped up plugs etc. Beach area is utterly horrendous - rubbish strewn. 4* - not in a million years and they really need to consider basic hygiene and health and safety as a matter of importance. My husband is still unwell and I'm pretty worried about the poor elderly couple who are still there. At their age nasty bugs can be dangerous. I personally believe that it is not ok to be aware of an illness that is circulating and not tell people or do anything to try to reduce the risks. It's not difficult and not expensive. To be honest, I would expect it to be part of a decent operator's regular cleaning and health and safety schedule. I've only given this a 2 star as there are some really decent and kind people working there. I would be really upset if anybody tries to defend this review. Time would be better spent filling the sanitisers and having a full health and safety review of the premises for the benefit of future customers.

My wife and I have recently returned from a wonderful 5-night stay at this lovely hotel; our second visit this year having previously been in April and over the years proceeding. We are big Mitsis hotel fans having stayed at many of the Mitsis hotels in Greece including the Selection Hotels. However, although this is a much smaller 4* hotel, there is something rather special about this place that draws us back time after time. Here is our review:

Hotel building. It is important to recognise when booking this accommodation that this is a city hotel set in the heart of Rhodes town – it is not a beach facing hotel although the private beach is only a 10-minute walk away. The hotel faces onto the Mitsis Grand Hotel which is currently undergoing huge renovation and is due for completion in 2028. The Petit Palais is not a new building but kept in immaculate condition throughout.

Room. We were allocated a lovely room on the fourth floor overlooking the Grand Hotel but with a side sea view. The room was big with plenty of storage space, fridge, flat screen tv and air con. The king size bed was incredibly comfortable. The bathroom had an over-the-bath shower which was fine and the toiletries were of a very high standard. The room was cleaned daily with fresh towels provided.

Reception. 24-hour staff always friendly and ready to help with any questions you might have. Thanks to Julia, John, Ilias, Aldo and Alexandro.

Inside bar and area. There are two sections to the inside bar, a cosy and very comfortable seating and table area near to the bar and then an atrium area facing onto the road which attracts the sunshine. Drinks are served at the bar by an amazing team. Spirit alcohols are local although branded drinks can be purchased. There is a cocktail menu and from 4pm each day delicious cakes and teas are available in this area.

Restaurant. There is one restaurant offering a buffet style menu. The choice is very good providing a wide selection of both hot and cold food. I did hear one British person commenting on the variety of the food with not ever dish being to their taste. I do think it’s important to recognise that this hotel caters for several people from different countries who’s taste in food is vastly different from what the British eat. I believe that the hotel does an amazing job in trying to provide a balanced menu that caters for all the guests and I would defy anyone from not being able to find something that they would enjoy. There is always pasta and freshly made pizza at both lunchtime and dinner. The staff in the restaurant are incredible and cannot do enough to help. Thanks to Ersi, Fabiola, Alexandra and of course Nektarios on the pizza station.

Outdoor pool and bar. The hotel provides an enclosed area at the rear of the premises with a small pool, sunbeds and an elevated section with table seating and a bar. During the daytime you can enjoy freshly made crepes, hot dogs, skin-on-fries and popcorn as well as a fully stocked bar. Thanks to Michael, Vioteta and Komissa for such wonderful service. During the summer months evening entertainment is shown in this area.

However, and as many other guests have alluded to, is what makes this hotel so special are the amazing staff. All are so incredibly friendly and willing to help with many we now consider to be our friends and with whom we are in regular contact with. I want to express our very sincere thank to Margarita Kypraiou the Front Office Manager for all her help and support in arranging us airport transfers, a lovely room and being there for us throughout our stay and finally, our thanks to the hotel General Manager Mr Alex Chatziliamis again for his continued help and support. You sir, and your amazing team are a credit to the Mitsis group of companies and in doing so, wish you all well and look forward to seeing you all again in 2027.

Would I recommend this hotel? Without doubt but considering the description of the hotel, it’s location and the facilities it has to offer. If you are looking for a place to relax, enjoy great food with exemplary service but with the opportunity to explore Rhodes town and it’s surrounding areas then look no further – this hotel is perfect!