Sheraton Grand Krakow

Not to be confused with the historic Grand Hotel near the Main Market Square, the Sheraton Grand is an attractive modern edifice centered around a soaring, five-story atrium. Potted trees combine with sunlight pouring through the glass roof to give this vast space an elegant courtyard feel, and the eateries in it (some complete with umbrella-topped tables) further enhance the vibe. Balcony-like hallways overlook the action, as does the club-level lounge. But, for a true alfrescoexperience, the discerning vacationers and corporate travelers who typically stay here can also retreat to the rooftop terrace, which serves up stunning city views. 

Fronted by a relatively busy road, this hotel sits on the Old Town's outer limit, near the Vistula River and Wawel Castle. You can stroll to the latter in 10 minutes; other top draws -- including the Main Market Square and Kazimierz -- can be reached on foot in 15 or less. So the hotel is popular with vacationers who wish to enjoy the historic pedestrianized zone without sacrificing easy car access. Proximity to the civic congress center, coupled with in-house business facilities, make it equally appealing to corporate types. An airport-transfer service, paid underground parking, and free bikes are all available on-site.

• 10-minute walk to Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral
• 11-minute walk to Collegium Maius (Jagiellonian University)
• 12-minute walk to the Main Market Square 
• 15-minute walk to the ICE Krakow Congress Centre
• 16-minute walk to the Kazimierz (Old Jewish Quarter)
• 17-minute walk to the Czartoryski Museum 
• 18-minute walk to St. Florian's Gate
• 15-minute drive to Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum and MOCAK 
• 21-minute drive to Krakow Glowny Railway Station
• 22-minute drive to John Paul II Krakow-Balice International Airport

Following a makeover by Alex Kravetz that was completed in early 2017, the Sheraton's reasonably spacious guest rooms boast a look that’s both contemporary and cosmopolitan. Bathed in natural light from big windows, they stylishly mix different earth tones and textures. Signature Sleep Experience beds topped with premium white linens create an added level of comfort, as do the functional work spaces, and specially commissioned works by a local artist lend an eclectic custom touch. All options have individual climate control, safes, ironing equipment, tea/coffeemakers, minibars and flat-screen satellite TVs. Matching bathrooms include shower/tub combos, illuminated vanity mirrors, cozy robes and hairdryers. Note that upper-category choices also come with extras. Club accommodations, for instance, feature more amenities -- like free Wi-Fi (those staying in Deluxe-class rooms pay for it unless they’re SPG members who booked through the hotel website) plus access to an exclusive lounge where guests enjoy free breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres, all-day beverages, and use of convenient computer stations. In addition to lounge privileges, Suites provide more square footage and separate living areas. 

Reflecting its varied clientele, this hotel has features targeted at both business and leisure travelers. A dozen fully outfitted meeting rooms overseen by an in-house planning team cater to the former. But all guests can appreciate the on-site dining options. The Olive focuses on  Mediterranean fare, while Qube Vodka Bar & Café specializes in light bites plus the titular libation, and the sporty Someplace Else pub offers a Tex-Mex alternative. The highlight, though, is the Roof Top Terrace & Lounge Bar with its retractable roof: serving an international array of dishes -- from tapas to Polish-style tenderloin -- the stunning space provides 360-degree views. Those keeping up with their exercise routines can visit the up-to-date fitness center with a well-equipped work-out area, an indoor pool, a pair of dry saunas, and massage rooms. Personal trainers can be booked for a fee. Other facilities include a reception desk with multilingual staffers and concierge capabilities, a lobby shop, a computer corner, and an underground parking garage. Dry-cleaning/laundry services and 24-hour room service round out the list of amenities. Wi-Fi is free in the public spaces (the atrium, restaurants, lounges, and meeting rooms), but be aware that Deluxe-class guests do tend to pay a fee for their connection.