Where to stay in Kymi: The best areas and 17 accommodations

Kymi is located in eastern Evia, built on a hillside with views of the Aegean Sea, and is known for both its history and its port, from where ferry boats depart for Skyros. The distance from Athens is approximately 160 km via Halkida, a journey of about two and a half hours, and the town retains a quieter, more authentic character compared to more touristy areas of the island.

The historic centre of Kymi, also known as Ano Kymi (Upper Kymi), features stone houses, narrow streets, and squares with sea views, while Kymi Beach (Paralia Kymis), a few kilometres further down, is home to the port, tavernas, and an organised sandy beach. Around the town, villages like Taxiarches and Kalamos preserve tradition and offer quieter accommodation amidst nature.

In this guide, you'll discover which areas suit your holiday, from the historic centre to the beach and surrounding villages, and find 17 accommodation suggestions, from traditional mansions to small apartments and hotels.

What to see and do in Kymi

Kymi has a long history dating back to antiquity, when its inhabitants founded colonies in Italy, including Cumae in Campania. The present-day town preserves elements of this tradition in its architecture, with 19th-century mansions reminiscent of eras of economic prosperity thanks to shipping. A stroll through the alleys of Ano Kymi is enough to understand why the area is considered one of the most picturesque settlements in Evia.

In the town centre, the Kymi Folklore Museum operates, one of the richest folklore museums in the country, with exhibits covering the daily life, clothing, and maritime tradition of the area. Just outside the town is also the house where Dr. Georgios Papanikolaou, known for his contribution to medicine, was born, an element that the local community particularly honours.

The beaches around Kymi vary quite a lot. Kymi Beach (Paralia Kymis) is the most organised, with tavernas and easy access from the port, while further south, Platanias and Kalamos have a more relaxed, natural feel. The coastline here does not have the reputation of other parts of Evia, which makes it ideal for those seeking less crowded sandy beaches.

In terms of gastronomy, the area is famous for its honey and local products from the surrounding villages, while at the port of Paralia you'll find fish tavernas with fresh fish. In Ano Kymi, there are also small coffee shops and restaurants with sea views, ideal for an evening meal after a day of exploring.

Getting around the area is mainly by car, as the distances between Ano Kymi, Paralia, and the surrounding villages are a few kilometres. From the port of Paralia Kymis, ferry boats depart for Skyros, a journey of about an hour and a half, making the area a transit point for those who want to combine the two islands on one trip.

The best time to visit is from May to October, when temperatures allow for swimming and excursions to the surrounding villages are more enjoyable. In autumn, the area takes on a special colour due to the vegetation around the gorges and streams, which also attracts those who prefer hiking over the beach.

Finally, it's worth combining your visit with a trip to the surrounding mountain villages, such as Taxiarches with its famous mansion and Kalamos, where life moves at a slower pace and local products, especially honey, are part of the daily life of the residents.

The best areas for accommodation in Kymi

1. Ano Kymi (historic centre), Ideal for those who want architecture, history and sea views

Ano Kymi is the historic centre of the town, built on a hillside with panoramic views of the Aegean. Here you will find most of the mansions, the Folklore Museum, and the oldest coffee shops, while the narrow streets offer a pleasant stroll at any time of day. Staying here suits those who want to experience the authentic atmosphere of the town, with easy access to restaurants and shops, although for the beach, a short drive or walk is needed, as the distance is a few kilometres downhill.

Advantages:

• Historic atmosphere and architecture
• Sea views
• Close to museums and coffee shops

Disadvantages:

• Requires travel to the beach
• Fewer accommodation options

Recommended accommodations:

1. Archontiko Kymis Boutique Hotel
An old mansion converted into a boutique hotel, with carefully designed rooms and traditional decorative elements. A good choice for those who want to stay amidst the historic atmosphere of Ano Kymi.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

2. Kymi Palace
A hotel in the town centre, with comfortable rooms and easy access to shops and restaurants. Suitable for couples and families looking for a practical base for exploration.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

3. Hercules casa
A small accommodation with a friendly, family atmosphere, suitable for a short stay in the centre of Kymi. Simple rooms with basic amenities for those seeking an economical solution.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

4. The Beekeeper's Apartment
An apartment inspired by the local tradition of beekeeping, with comfortable space and a small kitchen. A good choice for those who want independence and a more personal accommodation experience.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

5. EL Casa Cumae
A house with sea and town views, ideal for couples or small families who want space and tranquility within Ano Kymi.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

6. Traditional house in the centre of Kymi
A traditional house in the heart of the town, with stone elements and simple, warm decor. Suitable for those who want to stay within walking distance of attractions.

• Average cost: approximately 68€ per night

7. Arianas apartment
A small apartment with a practical layout, suitable for couples or solo travellers who want an economical base in the centre of Kymi.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

2. Kymi Beach (Paralia Kymis), A good choice for those who want the sea and easy access to the ferry for Skyros

Paralia Kymis is the coastal settlement below Ano Kymi, with the port from which ferry boats depart for Skyros. Here you will find an organised sandy beach, fish tavernas, and small shops, ideal for those who want to combine the sea with immediate access to food and basic services. The area is livelier in summer, especially at times when ships arrive or depart, but generally maintains a relaxed pace compared to more touristy destinations in Evia.

Advantages:

• Direct access to the beach
• Close to the port for Skyros
• Fish tavernas and shops

Disadvantages:

• Busier during ferry times
• Less historical atmosphere than Ano Kymi

Recommended accommodations:

8. Corali Hotel
A hotel near the beach and port, with comfortable rooms for couples and families. A practical choice for those travelling by ferry to or from Skyros.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

9. Sterna Suites
Suites with more space, suitable for families or groups who want independence near the beach. A good base for day trips to the surrounding villages.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

10. Θέα - View Appartments
Apartments with sea views, ideal for those who want to wake up to the sound of the waves. Simple, functional layout for small families or couples.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

11. appart Κύμη
A small apartment near the beach, suitable for a short stay before or after the ferry to Skyros. An economical option with basic amenities.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

3. Taxiarches and mountain villages, For those who want tradition, tranquillity and nature

Taxiarches, a few kilometres from Kymi, is known for its impressive mansion and picturesque square with plane trees, while around it are forested slopes ideal for hiking. Staying in this area suits those seeking a slower pace, away from the sea but close to nature, with easy access to both Kymi and other mountain villages of eastern Evia. Accommodation options are fewer, but offer a different, more authentic experience.

Advantages:

• Traditional atmosphere
• Good spot for hiking
• Quiet environment

Disadvantages:

• Distance from the sea
• Few accommodation and dining options

Recommended accommodations:

12. Archontiko Taxiarches Kymi Evia
A traditional mansion in Taxiarches, with stone elements and a quiet courtyard. Ideal for those who want to stay amidst nature, with easy access to trails and surrounding villages.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

13. Ankypy Studios
Studios with a simple layout, suitable for couples who want a quiet base near the mountain villages of the area, away from the bustle of the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

14. Hotel Steni
A hotel with traditional aesthetics, a good choice for those who want to combine staying in the mountains with short excursions to Kymi and its beaches.

• Average cost: approximately 58€ per night

4. Kalamos, A quiet village near natural beaches

Kalamos is located south of Kymi and is known for its natural, less organised beach, which attracts those who want to avoid the crowds of more popular spots. The village maintains a relaxed pace, with a few accommodations and tavernas, ideal for quiet family holidays or for couples who want simplicity. The distance from Kymi is short by car, so it remains easy to combine the two areas within the same day.

Advantages:

• Natural, quiet beach
• Relaxed pace of life
• Close to Kymi

Disadvantages:

• Few accommodation options
• Limited nightlife

Recommended accommodations:

15. Tota Marinou
Simple accommodation in Kalamos, near the village's natural beach. A good choice for those who want quiet holidays away from the town's hustle and bustle.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

16. Tota Marinou
A second accommodation unit in the same area, with a similar philosophy of simplicity and tranquility, suitable for couples or small families.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

17. Vagia's Home
A house with a family atmosphere, near Kalamos beach, ideal for those seeking relaxed holidays with simple accommodation and contact with nature.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

Practical tips before booking

• Plan around the ferry schedule. If you intend to also go to Skyros, check the ferry times from Paralia Kymis before booking accommodation.
• Stay in Ano Kymi for atmosphere. The historic centre offers better views and architecture, if you don't mind a short journey to the beach.
• Car for the villages. Taxiarches and Kalamos are not easily accessible without your own transport.
• Try local honey. The surrounding villages produce renowned honey, a good excuse for small purchases during your stroll.
• Visit the Folklore Museum. It provides a good insight into the history and daily life of the area before you head to the beaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Kymi from Athens?

The road distance is approximately 160 km via Halkida, with the journey taking about two and a half hours.

Which area is best if I want to take the ferry to Skyros?

Paralia Kymis, as it is right next to the port from where ferries depart for the island.

Is it worth staying in Ano Kymi instead of the beach?

Yes, if you're interested in the historic atmosphere and the views, although you'll need a short journey to reach the sea.

Are there natural, less touristy beaches near Kymi?

Kalamos and Platanias offer a quieter, natural alternative to the organised Paralia Kymis.

Do I need a car in the Kymi area?

It is very useful, especially if you want to visit Taxiarches, Kalamos or other mountain villages around the town.

When is the ideal time to visit Kymi?

From May to October, with autumn offering a special landscape for those interested in hiking in the surrounding gorges.

Conclusion

If you want history and architecture, Ano Kymi is the best base, while for direct access to the sea and the ferry to Skyros, Paralia Kymis is more suitable. Those seeking tradition and nature will find Taxiarches comfortable, while Kalamos offers quiet, more natural beaches for relaxed holidays. Kymi generally suits travellers who want a combination of history, sea, and a relaxed pace, away from the more crowded destinations of Evia.

See also our guides for where to stay in Methoni and accommodation in Palea Epidavros.