The Best Hotels from Which to Explore Bucharest

Stoll along the Dâmbovița River on your next trip to Bucharest, the capital of Romania
Stoll along the Dâmbovița River on your next trip to Bucharest, the capital of Romania | © Eric Nathan / Alamy Stock Photo
Iuliana Marchian

Known as Little Paris at the beginning of the 20th century, Bucharest features a genuine mix of cultural influences and a multifarious identity – marked by the totalitarian heritage of the recent past and the bustling, cosmopolitan lifestyle of today. Want the best tip to explore the capital’s rich and controversial history? You will need a hotel that is in the middle of everything, so check out this list of the best hotels in Bucharest.

Epoque Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

A bed with a light blue bedspread and wood flooring in a hotel room at Epoque Hotel
Courtesy of Epoque Hotel

An exclusive retreat in the heart of the city, the only Relais & Chateaux Hotel in Romania stands next to one of the oldest gardens of Bucharest, the Cișmigiu Gardens. Rest your head comfortably in the sophisticated suites in a historic Neo-Romanian style, with plush rooms and a distinctive mansard roof. And don’t miss the indoor heated swimming pool, plus a ritzy spa with its menu of pampering therapies. An upscale French restaurant, a grand lounge and a seasonal terrace are perfect for long evenings.

Hotel Capitol

Hotel

The grand stone facade and wrought-iron balcony at Hotel Capitol
Courtesy of Hotel Capitol / Expedia

One of the city’s most sophisticated and prestigious landmarks, this glorious lodging dates back to 1901 and has eclectic facades, wrought-iron details, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It overlooks Calea Victoriei – the oldest and most famous avenue in Bucharest, dating back to the late 1600s. With modern and up-to-date fittings, this polished hotel carefully preserves its history and long tradition. The elegant restaurant features plush decor and high ceilings, and every Thursday, you are invited to dine exclusively on traditional Romanian dishes.

Europa Royale Bucharest

Hotel

A bed in a hotel room at Europa Royale, with a view of a ornate church dome from the window
Courtesy of Europa Royale / Expedia

Situated on the oldest street in Bucharest, this ultra-central hotel combines the city’s tempestuous history with modern energy. The 19th-century building houses unfussy rooms with fresh brown-and-beige designs and stylish bright apartments with sweeping views of the vibrant cityscape. The indoor garden with its glass atrium is a neck-craning novelty, creating an intimate atmosphere. A gourmet experience designed by chef Alex Cătănoiu is the perfect add-on to your culinary experience – reinterpreted local recipes mixed with the taste of Mediterranean dishes.

Grand Boutique Hotel

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

A double bed, couch, heavy drapes, desk and chair in an elegant hotel room at Grand Boutique Hotel
Courtesy of Grand Boutique Hotel / Expedia

In a leafy neighbourhood close to the historic centre and University Square, this stately hotel feels like a journey back into a grander century, housed as it is in a mansion-like building dating back to 1893. Marble columns and a carved wooden staircase flag up the prestige of this historic affair. Elegant rooms feature authentic details, period furnishings, and the decadent luxury of a classic era, with no compromise to modern comfort. Give yourself time for some culinary indulgence: delicious homemade breakfast omelettes, before espresso, sitting in the garden (also the perfect spot for cocktails).

Lido by Phoenicia

Hotel

Colourful velvet chairs in the dining area at Lido by Phoenicia
Courtesy of Lido by Phoenicia / Expedia

Sitting on one of the main downtown thoroughfares, Lido is a part of Phoenicia Hotels and staying here means easy access to the main attractions. If you’re into art deco, this is no doubt the place you should stay. You will feel as if you’re living in an art gallery – with all the comforts of a premium, exquisite hotel. Luxuriously furnished rooms combine modernity with the elegance of interwar Bucharest, creating a space of luxury, opulence and good taste.

Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel

Hotel

The exterior of Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel, with balconies on the front wall
Courtesy of Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel / Expedia

This refined hotel opens up to the banks of the Dâmbovița, delivering super-modern comfort in a newly built monument building with charming landmarks an easy walk away. The interior features classic decor with an exuberant twist, yet remains functional with surprising ornaments, warm colours, and refined textures. The best ways to spend an evening is in one of the numerous stylish cafes in this old city neighbourhood, or Manuc’s Inn (a venue for hungry travellers since the Middle Ages).

InterContinental Bucharest

Hotel

Black sun loungers on a wide balcony at InterContinental Bucharest overlooking the city on a clear, sunny day.
Courtesy of InterContinental Bucharest / Expedia

Romania’s Leading Hotel, as awarded by the World Travel Awards in 2019, the InterContinental is set in a high-rise tower offering modern luxury and unforgettable views in the heart of Bucharest. The rooms with balconies have ample views of the Palace of Parliament – the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. A perfect add-on is the rooftop health club’s terrace and the fitness center with spa amenities and an indoor pool. Dining ranges from the Modigliani Restaurant, the Intermezzo Bar with piano and stylish classical décor, and the Corso brasserie with a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Sarroglia

Boutique Hotel

A bed, TV and seating in a modern hotel room at Sarroglia, with wood flooring
Courtesy of Sarroglia / Expedia

Here’s a hip, contemporary hotel with a rooftop terrace delivering skyline views and a hot tub. It’s in one of the interwar-built neighborhoods of the capital, a 15-minute walk to the old town. With trendy, modern rooms and retro-style furnishings, Sarroglia also has a spacious lounge displaying a fine art collection, where artists and art lovers get to mingle. A Japanese restaurant with outdoor seating on-site makes surprisingly-good ZenSushi dishes – something quite unique for Romania.

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