The Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard stands out among Bucharest’s accommodations due to its deep historical significance and architectural splendour. On 24 March 2025, after several years of renovation and restoration, it welcomed new guests who will surely be captivated by its ambience.

General Manager Jean Pierre Mifsud, cutting the ceremonial red ribbon on 24 March 2025.

The hotel features a striking façade complemented by the newly renovated Ballroom, now the primary dining area. Guests will surely appreciate the grand staircase and the modern design that pays refined homage to the building’s remarkable past.

The Grand Hotel du Boulevard has a captivating history. Jacques Herdan, who owned a prosperous bread factory, acquired the property in 1865 and opened the Hotel Herdan in 1873. The establishment quickly gained a reputation for excellence by hosting a prestigious art exhibition that displayed works by renowned artists such as Lucas Cranach, Titian, Tintoretto, and Fragonard.

In 1877, the hotel was rebranded to its current name, the Grand Hotel du Boulevard. It became known as the Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard following a management agreement on March 5, 2018, between Corinthia Hotels and the owners, NIRO Investment Group, which entrusted the hotel’s operations to Corinthia. Over the years, this iconic hotel has maintained its elegance and charm, making it a significant landmark in the city.

As one of Bucharest’s oldest hotels, the Grand Hotel du Boulevard showcases the architectural talent of Romanian architect Alexandru Orăscu (1817-1894). Renowned for his Neoclassical and Renaissance-revival styles, Orăscu refined his skills in Berlin and Munich before making notable contributions to urban development, including the ‘City Plan’ for Bucharest in 1893. He held several prestigious positions throughout his distinguished career, including Minister of Culture and Public Instruction in 1876. His architectural and cultural achievements were honoured with a postage stamp issued in 1967.

The Grand Hotel du Boulevard was groundbreaking for its era. It was the first hotel in Bucharest to provide in-room water service. By 1904, it had also installed electric lighting throughout the premises and introduced elevator service, greatly improving guest comfort and convenience. The hotel garnered acclaim for its quality, winning gold medals at the 1906 Milan Exhibition and the 1911 Turin Exhibition.

The hotel’s history showcases considerable challenges, as it has fulfilled various roles throughout time, notably serving as the German military headquarters in Romania from 1941 to 1944 and later as a government building from 1950 to 1974.

Nestled in Bucharest, Romania’s cultural capital, the hotel offers convenient access to theatres and music venues, including the Opera House and the George Enescu Philharmonia. The city is abundant with cultural heritage, housing prominent institutions such as the National Museum of Art and the Romanian Peasant Museum. It is also home to the three largest libraries in Romania, making it a haven for culture enthusiasts.

The hotel exudes luxury and mirrors the historical importance of Boulevard Elizabeta, which is named in honour of Queen Elizabeta of Romania (1843-1916), the wife of King Carol I. Crowned in 1881, she was a strong advocate for women’s education, established charities such as the National Society for the Blind. She became the first royal patron of the Romanian Red Cross. As a prolific writer under the pseudonym Carmen Sylva, she produced numerous literary works and excelled as a musician and artist. Notably, she supported republican ideals and shared her honest reflections in her diaries. Her passing in 1916 marked the end of an era, but her legacy endures.

 

The hotel’s renovation was executed with a firm commitment to preserving its historical features, facilitated through collaboration with local authorities. Previously, in fair repair, the hotel’s layout primarily consisted of office spaces, requiring innovative redesign of public areas. While significant structural changes were limited by its Grade A status, substantial reinforcements were made, and open spaces were created to enhance the hotel’s grandeur. Delays in renovation were primarily due to challenges associated with its historical monument designation, evolving design concepts, and disruptions related to the pandemic.

 

The hotel boasts three luxurious signature suites situated at the vibrant intersection of Elisabeta Boulevard and Calea Victoriei, ensuring guests a lavish experience in the heart of Bucharest.

Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard features two distinctive restaurants and a bar, each offering unique dining experiences. The Sass Restaurant & Lounge, inspired by the renowned Sass Café in Monaco, is famed for its vibrant atmosphere and celebrity clientele. Located in the historic ballroom, the Boulevard 73 restaurant specialises in sophisticated French-Romanian farm-to-table cuisine. Additionally, the Heritage Bar provides a cosy, welcoming space for guests to unwind.

The hotel offers extensive personalised services, highlighted by a custom concierge program that tailors unique local experiences through the Corinthia Experiences tour. Partnerships with cultural institutions, like the Athenee Theatre, grant guests exclusive access to premium concert seating. Additionally, top-tier transportation options elevate the guest experience, combining convenience with luxury throughout their visit.

 

The hotel’s spa collaborates with esteemed brands Wild Smith and 111 Skin, known for their high-quality products and services. Its spa features two treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, an experience shower, and an ice fountain. The gym is available to guests around the clock, and there is also a partnership with Miriam Quevedo for beauty salon services.

Families are warmly invited to stay, as the city offers numerous attractions for families.

I spoke to Jean Pierre Mifsud, General Manager of Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard. He is an amiable and highly professional gentleman with years of experience. He has been Cotrinhia’s man in Bucharest since the project began and has meticulously overseen the progress of all the work. He informed me that due to the boutique nature of the hotel, they would not actively promote conferences and weddings; however, any special occasion at the Corinthia is sure to be unforgettable. 

Jean Pierre Mifsud

 

How would he measure feedback? “We have established systems for collecting feedback, but given our 30-suite boutique hotel setup, I prefer to gather it personally from our guests, as I believe that provides the most valuable insights.”

“All our suites embody comfort and elegance within a contemporary design, while much of the hotel retains its historic charm,” added Jean Pierre with evident pride. 

Do you have any signature suites? “Yes, the signature suites are located at the corner of the hotel, and the Grand Deluxe suites are on the central facade. Both offer unique perspectives.”

I was interested in learning from Jean Pierre about any upcoming plans for developing or expanding the Corinthia brand in Romania. “As Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels Ltd, mentioned in a recent interview, we maintain a robust partnership with the NIRO Group and do not dismiss the possibility of future developments that align with our brand vision.”

Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard combines historic grandeur with modern luxury, positioning itself as a truly unique and inviting destination in Bucharest.

I foresee a bright future for the hotel and for Jean Pierre Mifsud, who will undoubtedly add this establishment as another achievement to his impressive portfolio.