Hotel Esplanade : legendary hospitality and gourmet dining in Zagreb

"Easily recognisable by its neo-Classical façade with rectangular capitals set on imposing yet delicate Greek-inspired columns, this luxury landmark sits between the Botanical Garden and Strossmayer Park just minutes from the historic centre, and feels especially enchanting over the Christmas holidays when the city glows with gas lanterns and dazzling lights. Just as in the 1920s, it blends classic Middle European style with practical, contemporary comforts, delivering the quintessential Esplanade welcome through personalised bespoke facilities, Art Deco touches, and elegant guestrooms with marble bathrooms, soft bedlinen, goose-down pillows, and hi-tech gadgets providing excellent connectivity. A backdrop to numerous movies—and said to have been Orson Welles’ favourite—it has earned prestigious international awards including Best Luxury Design and Best Heritage Hotel, and today adds a spa and a ballroom crowned by a beautiful domed ceiling. Its enviably tranquil location makes most of Zagreb’s famous monuments walkable without needing a taxi, and as a member of the exclusive Tablet Hotels Plus group it remains a timeless base pairing heritage with modern ease." - Matteo Morichini