Bucharest is a city of contrasts, where old architecture coexists with contemporary skyscrapers. Over the decades, Romania's capital has witnessed spectacular transformations, and its iconic hotels have played a key role in defining the city's elegant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. These hotels are not just places to stay, but true architectural and historical landmarks, places where fascinating stories have been written and remarkable personalities have stayed.

1. Hotel Capsa 

📍 Address: Calea Victoriei 36, Bucharest
A name synonymous with luxury and prestige, Hotel Capsa was inaugurated in 1886 by the famous confectioner Grigore Capșa, setting an unrivaled standard of refinement. During the inter-war period, it became a favorite haunt of the Romanian aristocracy and intellectual elite, providing an elegant setting for high-caliber meetings and debates. Among its guests were King Carol I, Mihai Eminescu and Caragiale. Today, the hotel retains its aristocratic charm, offering an authentic foray into the Bucharest of yesteryear.

2. Athénée Palace Hotel 

📍 Address: 1-3 Episcopiei Street, Bucharest
Built in 1914, Athénée Palace is a symbol of refinement and diplomacy. In the inter-war period, it became the epicenter of social and political life, frequented by diplomats, spies and foreign journalists. It was known as the place to "overhear the most interesting conversations", and during the Second World War, it was a strategic point for international intelligence services. Over the years, the hotel has hosted world-famous personalities such as Sir Winston Churchill and Yehudi Menuhin. Recently refurbished and integrated into the Hilton chain, the Athénée Palace retains its classic aura and remains one of the most popular hotels in Bucharest.

3. Grand Hotel Continental 

📍 Address: Calea Victoriei 56, Bucharest
In the heart of Bucharest, the Grand Hotel Continental has an impressive history dating back to 1886. The building, designed in a neoclassical style, has always been a benchmark of luxury and high-class hospitality. Over the years, nobles, artists and famous writers have passed through here, attracted by the impeccable service and distinguished atmosphere. Recent renovations have kept the original design elements intact, and the sumptuous, classically decorated interior offers a veritable journey back in time to Bucharest's golden age.

4. Hotel Lido - by Phoenicia

📍 Address: 5-7 Magheru Boulevard, Bucharest
Built in 1930 by architect Ernest Doneaud, Hotel Lido was a symbol of modernity and innovation. Equipped with a heated swimming pool, a first for inter-war Bucharest, this hotel quickly attracted the personalities of the time, becoming an iconic venue for social gatherings and elite events. After a period of decline and closure, the Lido has recently reopened, reviving the elegance and charm of inter-war Bucharest in a modern reinterpretation of classic luxury.

5. Grand Hotel Bucharest (former Hotel Intercontinental)

📍 Address: 4 Nicolae Balcescu Boulevard, Bucharest
Opened in 1971, the Intercontinental Bucharest was Romania's first skyscraper and one of the most modern hotels in Eastern Europe at the time. Designed to offer spectacular views over the city, the hotel quickly became a symbol of contemporary Bucharest. Strategically located in University Square, it witnessed the 1989 Revolution, when its rooms offered a direct view of the protests. Today, the hotel retains its status as an architectural landmark and remains one of the most prestigious places to stay in the capital.