I have stayed in this hotel 6 times since 2004. My criteria for this choice initially were:
1. Direct access to the beach
2. Within 30 min drive from Thessaloniki and within 1 hour trip by bus
3. Outdoor pool
4. Options for eating out in local taverns.
If you are seeking for all these at the same time, this hotel delivers. For night life or virgin sea better go for some other place.
I agree that the hotel is overrated, not 4* for sure. But, considering value for the price, I can say it is completely worth the money! Seriously, do you expect a 4* property to cost 75 Euro/night for a standard room?
Now that the hotel has got its new owners, maybe something is going to be improved but I guess they can do nothing about the room/bathroom size. Those are really small with tired furniture. Balconies are quite large though, with really great view. TV sets are absolutely outdated, but there is free WI-FI all over the hotel. Still the rooms look cosy and clean.
Public areas are quite convenient.
The hotel has 2 elevators, one is suitable for blind people. All the areas have easy access for disabled guests. There is a spacious lounge with very cosy sofas and chairs on the first floor.
Pool/poolbar area is surrounded by a live hedge so guests have their privacy. The pool is not large but clean. Outdoor furniture, again, needs replacement. The beach is sandy, cleaned regularly, has free sunbeds/umbrellas. The sea is okay, you can find better in Greece for sure, but not in 30 min from the big city.
The breakfast were mentioned as "poor" but I wouldn't say so. Again, if you consider this hotel as a good 3* and not 4*, the continental breakfast is just nice: eggs/omelette, bacon/sausages, cheeze, ham, feta cheese, cereals, bran, dried and canned fruits, several sorts of jam, honey, pasterized juices; homemade croissants and fresh watermelons.
Food quality in the restaurant and bar, unfortunately, went down this year and is not worth the price anymore. There are plenty local taverns in 10 min walk with great choice of Greek food.
As for the hotel staff, I , ve been getting along with them during these years. Upon my first arrival I found the front desk guy somewhat arrogant and unfriendly, but after all the issue was resolved. Nowadays I cannot say anything bad about the staff.
- Hotel Galaxias Beach