Hotel Grodek

Hidden away in Krakow’s Old Town, Hotel Grodek is a charming boutique property with an intimate atmosphere. Though it opened in 2007, its history dates back to medieval times as a municipal court, a home, church, and a convent. The building now adjoins a convent of Dominican nuns at the end of a private cul-de-sac. As a member of the Historical Hotels Association, it proudly displays its past in exhibits of artifacts found during excavations done during the course of the building’s renovations. Today, it’s an elegant, but homey property with only 23 rooms. It’s even hosted notable figures like Polish presidents and the Grand Master of the Maltese Order as guests. Unfortunately, despite it's five-pearl claims, the lack of many features and the homey style aren't exactly deserving of luxury status.

Interiors are elegant, with a touch of historic and homey charm. The lobby features stone floors and velour green antique chairs providing seating by a white stone fireplace. Antique paintings and photos of Krakow grace the walls of rooms and carpeted hallways. Though there is an accessible elevator, the stone and wooden staircases with wrought iron railings are especially lovely. The hotel bar has a similar cozy and inviting vibe, situated in an old fashioned library with wood paneled walls, shelves of books, leather couches, antique chairs, and a cozy fireplace. By contrast, the restaurant is far more modern, with wooden floors, glass ceilings, upholstered modern chairs, and crisp white linens topping tables. Tribal wall drawings and paintings go along with the Oceanian cuisine served here, though it does look a bit out of place. Overall, it’s a charming property that attracts couples of high esteem drawn to its secluded nature and proximity to the Old Town and attractions. 

Hotel Grodek adjoins a medieval convent of Dominican nuns at the end of a quiet, secluded cul-de-sac in Krakow’s Old Town -- a fantastic central location close to most tourist sights. The main square is just a five-minute walk away, where guests will find St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower, and many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Wawel Royal Castle is a 15-minute walk away, while Kazimierz, the historic Jewish District, is about 15 to 20 minutes away on foot. Krakow Glowny, the main train station, can be reached in 11 minutes on foot, while Balice International Airport is a 20- to 25-minute drive, or a 20-minute train ride.

The traditionally elegant rooms are not as striking as might be expected for a hotel making luxury claims, but they are clean, have historic charm, and are stocked with perks. Each room is individually decorated, but all have colorful walls -- often a tasteful forest green or dark salmon -- carpeted floors, antique wooden pieces, floral bedding, and antique art pieces on the walls. Electric kettles, air-conditioning, safes, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flat-screen TVs are offered in every room. Upgraded rooms like the Apartments include a separate sitting room. Though the rooms are lovely, they aren’t overly spacious and don’t offer views because of the secluded location. Bathrooms are particularly sleek, with white tiles, large black marble counter tops, and often more than one sink. Shower/tub combos, heated towel racks, robes, hairdryers, and toiletries are provided. 

Features here are a bit limited, but there is a lovely on-site restaurant, Ambasada Pacyfiku. Somewhat curiously, it offers Australian and Oceanian cuisine -- one of the few of its kind in Poland -- though most guests prefer the Polish staples that are on the menu. Guests can take their meals in the dining room or on the rooftop terrace. Though it doesn’t provide lunch, the restaurant does offer room service with limited hours. A large and varied breakfast buffet is included in rates. There’s also a charming old-fashioned bar that serves drinks in a cozy library setting. 

A small wellness area has saunas and showers. Business guests can take advantage of three fully-equipped meeting spaces, a public computer, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Parking is available at a nearby sister hotel for a daily fee. Pets are welcome at this property.