Hotel Monopol Wroclaw

Class: Deluxe

Style: Cutting edge

Rooms: 121

The Monopol is located only 450 metres from the Rynek, Wroclaw's main square, which rivals Krakow's in terms of size and pageantry. The 5-star Hotel Monopol Wrocław dates from 1903 and has ever since been a favourite of artists and business people alike. Actress Marlene Dietrich stayed at the Monopol during her visits to Wroclaw.

New owner the Likus Group got the Monopol a face-lift but kept the neobaroque cupola and balustrades on the exterior but tossed out the old worn carpets and chintz curtains. The new look is starkly contemporary. Black marble lines the walls of the lobby; the staircases are polished sandstone.

The air-conditioned rooms of the Monopol Wrocław feature a stylish interior design with wooden floors. Each has a flat-screen satellite TV, work desk and minibar. The bathroom includes a shower, bath, bathrobe and hairdryer. Free WiFi available.

A fitness centre, sauna and steam bath and indoor swimming pool are among the many wellness facilities that the hotel offers. A selection of massages is also offered.

The hotel has two restaurants. One focuses on Polish dishes, and the other serves Italian food. In the mornings a breakfast buffet is available. There are two bars.

The Monopol’s is only a three minute walk away from the Old Town. It features such landmarks as St. Elizabeth’s Church, which has an observation deck that offers scenic views of the area. Wrocław Główny Railway Station is only 1.2 km away. Ostrów Tumski, on which the Wrocław Cathedral is located, is about 1.4 km from the hotel.