Hotel Aristos, Zagreb – Review

Hotel Aristos is an appealing choice for the business traveller to Zagreb. Located firmly in the industrial district close to the city`s airport, it recognises its main client group and caters for them accordingly. It does it well.

Complimentary extras are chosen with consideration for the business traveller in mind, with wi-fi connection in every room and further internet access in the business suite. The hotel boasts seven conference rooms for those needing to meet for business, and complimentary gym access to de-stress afterwards. Further relaxation is offered in the Wellness and Spa center, offering everything from body scrubs and massages to jacuzzis and pedicures. These treatments are reasonably priced, and on our visit seemed popular with guests.

The reception area of the hotel is large and open, with cool marble floors and air-conditioning to escape from the heat outside (37 degrees on our visit). Walls are adorned with artwork by local artists- a nice touch in an otherwise functional area. Comfortable sofas in the small bar provide a space to rest with a juice or a coffee, with a good selection on offer. The décor is muted and elegant, creating a feeling of space and light which is particularly welcome in the height of summer.

The Croatian art theme continues as you move upstairs, with a diverse range of pastels, oils and prints jostling for wall space in the corridors. The Hotel room was pleasant; particular features included an oversize bed so comfortable we overslept and missed breakfast, and a spotlessly clean and modern bathroom. Complimentary accessories in the bathroom seem carefully chosen for the forgetful business traveller- shaving kits, toothbrushes, and cleansing kits are all provided.

Hotel staff spoke very good English and provided us with a wonderful coffee on the outside terrace, which compensated for the lack of breakfast! Buses into Zagreb run regularly and provide a route to the cultural heart of this beautiful city. Zagreb itself is a city often overlooked by the tourists heading for the popular Dalmatian coast. Yet it is certainly worth a visit- its tree-lined boulevards open onto airy squares where locals while away the hours over coffee. The recent opening of a well-received Museum of Contemporary Art puts this city firmly on the cultural map and should ensure that whether visiting for business or pleasure, Zagreb is set to become the destination of choice for the discerning traveller.