Bucharest is a medieval city that sprang to life in the mid-15th century. It is not only the capital of Romania, but also its cultural, financial and industrial center. The city was heavily damaged during World War II, but bounced back. Many of its medieval buildings were destroyed and were replaced with high-rise buildings, including luxury hotels. Many historic landmarks, including the 17th century Stavropoleos Monastery, remain and share space with newer landmarks, including the Communists’ Palace of Parliament. Luckily for you, many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of the best places to stay in Bucharest.
8. Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest[SEE MAP]
The Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest has been hosting guests in a French-inspired building since 1914. When it was constructed, it was the first major building in Bucharest made from armored (reinforced) concrete. The hotel has had a turbulent history, surviving through World War II bombings (it was a popular spy hangout during the war), an earthquake and the 1989 revolution. Today, the hotel is restored and updated. Public areas favor a traditional luxury atmosphere, while its 272 guest rooms are more modern.
7. Hotel Radisson Blu Bucharest[SEE MAP]
There’s nothing traditional about the Hotel Radisson Blu Bucharest, with its stunning modern designs both inside and out. With 487 rooms, it is the largest five-star hotel in Bucharest. Within walking distance to major landmarks, it also is home to Romania’s largest casino. It also has the largest fitness center, the World Class Health Academy, in the country. You can attend a spinning class or opt for a relaxing massage in its spa. If you want to stay longer than a few days, the hotel offers apartments.
6. Hotel Christina[SEE MAP]
If you’re looking to enjoy traditional Romanian food and spirits, Hotel Christina may be the answer to your prayers. Each weekday evening, the hotel presents an all-you-can-eat dinner event featuring local dishes and at least 10 local wines. The hotel is small, with only 24 rooms spread over six floors, but each features an in-room spa. The rooms feature modern designs, predominantly white with touches of vibrant colors in drapes, upholstery and bed covers.
5. JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel[SEE MAP]
If you travel with your dog (or cat), you know that finding a luxury hotel that allows them is, indeed, a luxury. Yet the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel allows you to bring two pets of any size; all you need to do is pay a non-refundable fee. With 403 rooms and a casino, the hotel is located within walking distance of major attractions. The JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel gets mixed reviews from guests: high marks for location and cleanliness, low marks for being overpriced for what you get.
4. InterContinental Bucharest[SEE MAP]
Normally, we usually don’t like to look down on things, but it’s OK if you’re staying at InterContinental Bucharest. This 24-floor high rise offers stunning views of Bucharest. Each of its 283 rooms offers panoramic views of the city, with luxury rooms having balconies to better enjoy the view. You can also be just as stunned from the rooftop health club terrace. When it opened in 1971, it was the first five-star hotel and second tallest building in the city.
3. Rembrandt Hotel[SEE MAP]
If you like to shop, the Rembrandt Hotel is the place to stay. The hotel is close to major shopping centers and department stores. It’s also close to nightlife, parks and major landmarks, including city hall and the national theatre. If you get tired of seeing Bucharest’s fantastic sights, you can relax in front of a roaring fire in the hotel’s library. The Rembrandt Hotel sports a homey, comfortable atmosphere, with wooden floors and a spiral staircase.
2. Epoque Hotel[SEE MAP]
Travelers who want more space than a standard guest room may like the Epoque Hotel. It’s an all-suites hotel within walking distance to Bucharest’s top attractions. The 45 suites are decorated in Neo-Romanian style that was popular in the 1900s; upper tier suites have terraces and kitchenettes. U.S. News rated this luxury property as the best hotel in Romania because of its friendly staff and full-service spa. The hotel also offers free self-parking, something that is rare in major European cities.
1. Novotel Bucharest City Centre[SEE MAP]
The Novotel Bucharest City Centre is simply stunning on a perfect day with the blue sky and white clouds reflected in this modern glass building. The glass rises from behind a more traditional white stone front in this 516-room hotel. The public areas feature ultra-modern furnishings, which contrast with the medieval architecture found just a few steps away in Old Town. The convenient location earns this four-star high marks from guests. The spa contains a hammam or Turkish bath to relax after a day’s touring.
