American tycoon David Rockefeller, Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti, have been guests of the landmark hotel which offers stunning views over the capital and proximity to architectural marvels- and is set to undergo an extensive refurbishment project.
Situated in the University Square, right next to the National Theatre, and within walking distance from the Old Town, the property itself, has an interesting history, this one dating back to the communist era.
Hear “Communist –era” and you may picture some brutalist communist architecture. And, indeed, outside, the building is dominated by the sharp, weird angles. But there is also plenty of grandeur, serenity, and jaw-dropping lush décor to be found—if you know where to look.
One step inside a generously sized and bright lobby of Grand Hotel Bucharest, and I felt the special ambience and luxury of the first five-star hotel in the city.
The hotel was built between 1968-1971 with a height of 88 meters and 23 floors. It had officially opened its doors as Intercontinental Hotel Bucharest being the first luxurious hotel in the city.
From January 1, 2022 the property has renamed to Grand Hotel Bucharest, at the same time undergoing an extensive renovation and modernization project total investment of €21 million.
Some of the hotel’s rooms have already received modern makeovers, but what I really loved was that the new management retained their beautiful core and authentic ethos and essence.
I stayed in an Imperial Suite on the 19th Floor. The suite was super spacious with 240 sq.m area of ensuite bedrooms, a grand living room, large dining area, and featured a lush decor.
The suite felt more like a luxurious and permanent check-in reserved for royalty and high rollers. Crystal dangled and sparkled from chandeliers, walls of the room were covered with a fabric, getting the soft feeling of the place, and there was gold, everywhere—from the furniture to framed mirrors, it accented everything.
Showcasing antique furniture, the modern LCD t.v. was set on top of an antique cabinet, wiring the place for the 21st century. I adored the opulent, main suite, which featured Steinway grand piano, and elegant upholstered chairs, the kind you could see see in Parisian luxury boutiques. But, what I really enjoyed was a celeb-worthy sleep, which the royal suite didn’t fail to provide.
The plush, marble bathroom with dressing room was my favorite kind—it featured private sauna, Jacuzzi, separate shower and a deep soaking tub. Robes, slippers, L’Occitane amenities…all provided.
But what made my stay in the hotel unforgettable, were spectacular views of Bucharest from Imperial Suite’s double balcony.
Taking in views of the city centre, we were planning our itinerary for a day. We realized that the hotel is situated just moments from Bucharest’s popular tourist attractions.
Best of all, 10 min walk we reached Old City area where cool cafes, wine bars, bookstores, and shops were thriving.
I’m not surprised that with its central location, amenities and service, Grand Hotel Bucharest has won the prestigious awards, and welcomed famous guests, and royals.
I will always have a soft spot in my heart for this standing tall, dominating city skyline hotel, Grand Hotel Bucharest.
