Lido by Phoenicia

The hotel is in the center of Bucharest and has uniquely decorated rooms. There's an impressive library at reception, though I'm not sure if guests are allowed to read the books. It also offers a gym and massage services, and breakfast ranges from English to continental. A usable version of the disused pool would be a great addition. I wonder whether the owner has considered its return on investment.

I found the location very practical. Bus stops are nearby, and the old town is walkable without being right in the noisiest area. There are also good restaurants, pharmacies, and convenience stores around. I'd stay again for the room, hotel service, and location, but I'd think about having breakfast elsewhere. I had a very good Christmas stay at Lido Hotel, though there are a few things to know. Reception was excellent: friendly, kind staff spoke good English, making check-in easy. The vintage décor is distinctive and well preserved, with modern touches that give the hotel character without making it feel dated. My room was clean and well prepared. The firm mattress was comfortable and I slept well, but the very thin pillows gave little support for my neck or posture. The restaurant was a strong point for lunch or dinner, with very good food and the convenience of an on-site option on busy or late days. Breakfast was mixed. The selection was adequate but limited: cucumber, tomatoes, olives and sweet peppers; ham, cheese including feta, salami and salads; plus sausages, fried eggs that were often warm to cool, boiled eggs, scrambled eggs, mushrooms, and something like spring rolls. There was sliced bread and small ciabatta or baguette-style breads, butter croissants and, depending on the day, a dessert. Cereal was available, but the bowls were wet on every morning I chose it. Breakfast also got stressful after about 8:30, when the area became crowded, tables filled up, and there could be a short wait for a seat. Staff seemed overwhelmed clearing tables and replenishing food at the same time. Some tables had no salt and pepper, and the single basic commercial toaster caused a queue when many people wanted toasted bread. Drinks were another weak point: machine coffee was quite bitter and lacked flavor, while the "orange juice" tasted more like diluted squash than actual juice. I'd recommend the hotel itself, but not breakfast if you care about a high-quality morning meal.

Hotel Lido by Phoenicia has an elegant atmosphere, with plenty of history and style. Breakfast each morning had a good variety of fresh options, and the lobby bar was a lovely place for a relaxed evening drink. The location is excellent, right in the city center and a short walk from the Old Town, the Romanian Athenaeum, and lots of restaurants and cafés. Even so, my room was quiet and peaceful. It was spotless, beautifully decorated with classic Art Deco charm and modern comfort, and the bathroom had everything I needed. The bed was incredibly comfortable. Staff welcomed me professionally, and check-in was quick and easy. I spent a few nights here recently, and the stay exceeded my expectations. I'd happily come back and recommend it to anyone visiting Bucharest for work or leisure.

I slept well in a room at the back, where it was quiet despite the busy road out front. The Old Town is about a 15-minute walk, and there are plenty of sights nearby. The hotel has a comfortable feel and very welcoming staff. It was once grand and still has old-world charm, though a few areas could use a fresh coat of paint. The room was clean and comfortable, and I came away with a very good impression.