Graffit Gallery Hotel

For the dates I stayed, this was the most expensive standard room in the area, and I wouldn’t recommend spending that money here if you expect five-star service, rooms, and security. The beds felt like two-star hotel beds, without pillow tops, and the sheets made me sweat. Rooms also don’t all match the photos, so check that the one shown is the one you’ll get. I looked up Bulgaria’s rules for five-star hotels; without listing every mismatch, I’d say this place is three stars at best, not five. Service was mediocre. When my bathrobe got wet, I asked for a replacement and was told they couldn’t provide one until the next day because I’d checked in that day. I was also refused complimentary water. Those are just a couple of examples of the staff’s lack of training and the low service level.

The main problem was the club downstairs. From our third-floor room, we could hear every beat of the DJ until 4 a.m., so getting any sleep was impossible. Breakfast was OK, and the pool could have been cleaned better. Underground parking was handy at 25 leva a day. Graffiti Hotel Varna is centrally located, and the rooms were clean and comfortable. The front desk could have explained more, though: we weren’t told where breakfast or the pool were, or what their hours were. It was a decent stay, but not a good fit for anyone wanting peace and quiet, and I don’t think it was worth the price.

There was no hot water on Valentine's Day, and the rest of the time the hotel and room smelled of acetone. That was a big letdown for a place considered one of the best hotels in the city.

The breakfast at the beautifully designed Red Canapé restaurant was a highlight, and I liked the unusual layout of the room, especially the see-through bathroom. It was also a very quiet stay. Still, the outdated furniture, small TV, and simple beds took away from the experience. There wasn’t a lobby or bar where you could relax, either. It didn’t ultimately feel like a five-star hotel.