Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik

Still bearing its original name -- Grand Hotel Imperial -- on its handsome facade, the upscale Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik still retains plenty of its original stately features. The property consists principally of the grand, late-19th-century mansion that's complete with elegant arches, long wood-shuttered windows, and wrought-iron balconies, plus a private villa built in 1913. In line with the corporate chain, interiors are rather generic, featuring neutral-tone furniture and uninspired yellow or blue-carpeted hallways. Portraits and paintings of ships that allude to the the city's maritime heritage add some character. The ambience is conservative and old-fashioned, while still maintaining a friendly and welcoming vibe that attracts predominantly well-heeled -- and senior -- tourists. 

This hotel is perched on a hill just on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik's Old Town. The Pile Gate -- that marks the entry to the ancient and picturesque part of the city -- is a two-minute walk away. Inside, the Old Town is home to gorgeous churches and fountains that date back as far as the 13th century, as well as plenty of appealing cafes and restaurants. There are also a couple of sandy beaches just a five-minute walk away. The Mount Srdj Ropeway -- where guests can take a cable car to the top of the mountain for gorgeous views -- is within a 10-minute walk (bring water for the walk as it can be very hot in summer). Dubrovnik Cilipi International Airport is about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. On-site parking is available, though it's pricey.

The hotel's 147 rooms are decorated in a slightly more modern style than the public areas of the hotel, with contemporary furniture and warm Mediterranean tones. However, the decor is generic and the blue patterned carpet and bed runners, plus yellow-orange walls aren't as high-end as one would expect of a four-pearl property. Still, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and iPod docks are standard in all rooms, though non-Hilton HHonors members will have to pay for Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are well-maintained, with shower/tub combos, marble countertops, wall-mounted hairdryers, and Peter Thomas Roth toiletries. Rooms are divided between the original mansion and the villa opposite. Some upgraded rooms have lovely sea views. 

The hotel has all the typical features of an upscale hotel, starting with the all-day Porat Restaurant. It serves a decent buffet breakfast and contemporary Mediterranean-style cooking for lunch and dinner; weekly specials include barbecues and all-you-can-eat buffets. Extending from the restaurant, there is a terrace bar offering local wines and light alfresco dining. Additionally, there's a bar in the lobby.

A spa features an indoor, glass-ceilinged pool, as well as sauna, steam room, small but adequate gym, and a menu of massage treatments. A club lounge is available for Executive Room and Suite guests, and includes free breakfast, drinks, and snacks. There is also a fee for Wi-Fi, expect for Hilton HHonors members. A business center and multiple meeting or event spaces are available.