Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

The hotel offers a truly luxurious urban escape, renowned for its historic elegance and a location that places guests at the heart of the city. Its signature feature is its rich heritage, originally built to accommodate passengers of the Orient Express, and it continues to exude a timeless charm, celebrating its 100-year anniversary. Guests consistently praise the hotel's spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and the excellent service provided by the staff. The great dining experiences and central location are also frequently highlighted. It is ideal for sightseers and business travelers due to its proximity to key attractions and conference facilities. Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway with its old-world glamour, while families appreciate the large rooms and accommodating service. To enhance your stay, consider requesting orthopedic pillows if you prefer a firmer sleep surface, and be aware that occasional events might lead to some noise, though the hotel generally handles such situations well.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's well-maintained facilities, though some wish for a swimming pool, which is not available. The fitness center is generally well-regarded, with many appreciating the inclusion of a sauna and steam rooms for relaxation after a busy day. While the hotel provides free Wi-Fi, some guests have noted occasional signal issues in certain rooms. A common point of feedback is the absence of an in-room coffee maker or kettle, which many guests expect in a luxury establishment, though some rooms do offer an Illy espresso amenity. The hotel's valet parking service receives praise for its efficiency and the helpfulness of the staff. The bar and lounge area are popular spots, described as vibrant and offering excellent cocktails, making them ideal for unwinding. Additionally, the hotel boasts impressive ballroom and conference facilities, which are frequently used for events.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its cleanliness and the overall comfort of its rooms. Guests frequently highlight the spacious rooms and the exceptionally comfortable beds, often described as huge and ensuring a restful night's sleep. The high ceilings and classic decor contribute to an elegant ambiance, with many rooms featuring opening windows for fresh air. While most guests find the bathrooms to be spacious and well-appointed, some have noted that the shower areas can be surprisingly small or that fixtures appear a bit dated. Despite its central location, rooms are generally considered quiet, with effective soundproofing minimizing street noise. Minor issues occasionally mentioned include an outdated TV or the rare occurrence of pests, though staff are typically responsive in addressing such concerns. The provision of quality toiletries is also a positive point for many.

Dining & Food Quality
Dining experiences at the hotel are a significant highlight for many guests, particularly the breakfast, which is consistently described as excellent and superb. It features a plentiful buffet with a rich selection of fresh and high-quality options, complemented by a la carte choices served in a beautiful setting. Guests often praise the variety and quality of the breakfast offerings, with specific mentions of delicious eggs, pastries, and local delicacies. The hotel's main restaurant, Zinfandel's, receives high acclaim for its refined, flavorful, and beautifully presented dishes, often noted for its Michelin rating. The more casual Bistro also offers a good menu selection, and the bar is popular for its excellent cocktails and quality bar food, including a highly recommended Club Sandwich. Room service is noted for its quality, speed, and efficiency, and the hotel's famous Štrukli dish is a must-try for many.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major advantage, placing guests directly in the heart of the city. It is exceptionally convenient for exploring, being within easy walking distance of the main square, the old town, and numerous shopping and dining options. Its proximity to the main train station is a key feature, as the hotel was originally built to accommodate Orient Express passengers, making it ideal for those traveling by rail. Public transportation, including trams, is readily accessible right outside the hotel, providing easy connections throughout the city. While the location is highly praised for its convenience and safety, guests should be aware that parking is available but can be quite expensive, whether opting for valet or self-parking. Despite some occasional street noise, the overall accessibility and central positioning are highly valued by visitors.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff and service consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, with guests frequently highlighting their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Many commend the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay, often described as welcoming and genuinely caring. The concierge service is particularly praised for being knowledgeable, helpful, and efficient in making reservations and providing local recommendations. Housekeeping is noted for its efficiency and for maintaining immaculate room conditions. While the vast majority of reviews celebrate the exceptional service, a few isolated comments mention instances of staff being perceived as cold, inattentive, or slow in certain areas like the bar or breakfast reception. However, these are rare exceptions to an otherwise consistently high standard of service.

Additional Information
Beyond its core offerings, the hotel is celebrated for its profound historic significance, often noted for its 100-year anniversary and its original purpose of accommodating Orient Express travelers, which imbues it with a unique old-world charm. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, with guests appreciating thoughtful touches like plush beds and complimentary treats provided for their furry companions. A unique and highly praised aspect of the hotel's offerings are the special candlelight concerts and other events hosted in its beautiful settings, such as the ballroom. These musical experiences, ranging from classical quartets to tribute performances, are frequently described as magical and unforgettable, adding an extraordinary dimension to a stay or visit. These distinct features contribute to the hotel's reputation as a memorable and culturally rich destination.