Roomer

Intercontinental Athenee Palace Bucharest

Bucharest, Romania
$180-250/ night

Book this if You want to sleep inside a spy novel while enjoying the freshest luxury renovation in Bucharest.

Why People Love It

9.3⭐721 reviews
  • The 'English Bar' is a legendary Cold War spy hangout
  • Freshly renovated rooms (2023) feel modern but retain history
  • Location is unbeatable—steps from the Romanian Athenaeum

Quick Take: A historic Grand Dame that actually feels new thanks to a massive recent overhaul, though service can sometimes lag behind the hardware.

Reviewed by @Valuable_V: I stayed here for my anniversary and it was everything! The remodeled room was super cute, the bed was huge and comfy, and waking up to that view of Athens was unreal. The staff even surprised us with champagne. If you want luxury without the stiffness, this is it.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Stunningly renovated rooms and perfect location, but the breakfast service can be chaotic.

Reality check

While the hard product is 5-star, some guests report housekeeping missing spots (dirty dishes left in halls) and inconsistent shower temperatures.

  • You appreciate Art Deco architecture and history
  • You want a walkable base for Old Town and museums
  • You need a reliable, high-end business hotel

Cleanliness & Maintenance

9.2
  • Housekeeping: Generally excellent, though occasional reports of missed dusting or slow tray removal.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. New marble, no mold reports, though some find shower temp finicky.
  • Maintenance: Top-tier. Everything is fresh from the 2023-2025 renovations.
  • Linens & towels: Crisp, high-thread-count white linens. Towels are plush.
  • Odors & scents: Fresh, expensive hotel smell. No lingering smoke or mustiness.

Sleepability™

8SILENT
SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Weddings in the ballroom
  • Ambulance sirens on Calea Victoriei (city center life)

Before you book

Good to know

  • The 'English Bar' and 'JORJ' restaurant finished renovations in June 2025—they are brand new.
  • Breakfast is not usually included and costs ~€23 per person.
  • City tax is ~€2 per person/night.

What to pack

  • Swimsuit for the indoor pool/jacuzzi
  • Smart casual clothes—locals dress well for dinner

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Junior Suite with Balcony (worth the splurge for the view)
  • Premium Corner Room (extra space and light)

Rooms to avoid

  • Rooms on low floors facing the interior courtyard if you dislike staring at walls
  • Rooms directly above the ballroom during wedding season

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I would appreciate a room on a high floor, away from the Le Diplomate ballroom to avoid event noise. A view of the Romanian Athenaeum would be ideal.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is the hotel renovated?

Yes, fully. Rooms were done in 2021-2023, and the main restaurants/spa finished in mid-2025.

Is there a club lounge?

Yes, the Club InterContinental is available. It's smaller than the old one but has a nice terrace.

Is it pet friendly?

Yes, but strict. Max 10lbs (4.5kg) and a €50 fee per stay.

How much is parking?

Self-parking is available for ~€18/day. Spaces are limited.

Is the pool open?

Yes, the indoor pool and spa are open following the 2025 renovation.

Can I walk to the Old Town?

Yes, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute walk down Calea Victoriei.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'English Bar' has a 'Room 149' cocktail named after a famous spy story—try it.

  • ✨

    Skip the hotel breakfast one day and go to 'Origo' for the best coffee in the city.

  • ✨

    The hotel has a 'New Wing' (1965) and 'Historic Wing' (1914)—ask for the Historic Wing for more character.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The hotel was a literal nest of spies in WWII; the English Bar was their office.

  • 💡The 'JORJ' restaurant has a 'Fire & Ice' concept that is surprisingly theatrical.

  • 💡Housekeeping can be a bit slow to clear room service trays from hallways.

  • 💡The jacuzzi timer is annoyingly short.

  • 💡You are right next to the 'Revolution Square'—look for the bullet holes in nearby buildings.

Local Playbook

Map

See where Intercontinental Athenee Palace Bucharest is located and what's nearby.

Key amenities & services