Grand Hotel Bucharest

The first skyscraper to be built in Bucharest (from 1968-71), this is still the tallest hotel in the city (complete with a swimming pool and – during the summer, sun terrace - on the top floor). The Grand Hotel Bucharest was the first major five-star hotel to open in Romania, built at a time when the country was starting to look west: the first guests - American tourists - were brought to the city on the first PanAm flight to land in Bucharest. Fully renovated a number of times since then, today it is one of the city's most recognisable buildings, and something of a legend and icon. The rooms here all boast big balconies with great views of the city, there is first class dining in the building, and the management is commendably hands-on. The Club Lounge on the 21st floor offers great views of Bucharest, cocktails, meeting rooms, internet, a library and an all-round exclusive atmosphere.