Significant birthdays deserve grand celebrations, and in 2025, the legendary Zagreb Hotel Esplanade will celebrate its remarkable 100 years. It is a whole century of radiant elegance, unforgettable stories, and its presence in the very heart of Zagreb and its events. Since its opening in 1925, when it hosted travelers of the famous Orient Express, the Hotel Esplanade has been a symbol of this city. As stated in the announcement, it has survived wars, earthquakes, political upheavals, and a pandemic, remaining steadfast and impeccably elegant throughout.
On the occasion of this great jubilee, the hotel’s general manager, Ivica Max Krizmanić, who has been inseparably linked to Esplanade for over three decades, emphasizes that being at the helm of Hotel Esplanade at the moment it celebrates a hundred years of existence is an immense honor but also a great responsibility.
– Esplanade is a symbol of the times, a space where history, glamour, and human warmth meet. Over the decades, we have created something more than just top-notch service – we have created a sense of home for every guest, whether they are world stars, royal families, or dear people who return to us year after year. What I am particularly proud of is our team, the people who day by day, with dedication and passion, create experiences that exceed expectations. Their professionalism, as well as their sincere service and hospitality, are the foundation of our success. Esplanade will continue to be a place where elegance meets accessibility, and luxury comes with a smile, said Krizmanić.
Rich story of the hotel
Built in the golden age of travel and ceremoniously opened on April 22, 1925, Esplanade was designed as the perfect resting station for travelers of the Orient Express, the legendary train that connected Paris, Venice, and Istanbul. This romantic place reflected the spirit of the era known as Belle Époque, and quickly became a symbol of luxury, glamour, and significant encounters.
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Esplanade, however, does not rely solely on its past but continuously introduces new ideas and concepts. From the opening of the impressive ice rink on the Oleander terrace to the magical Advent event Fooling Around, this hotel remains an indispensable part of city life.
After a major renovation in 2004, Hotel Esplanade expertly preserved its historical charm, blending neoclassical and Art Deco elements with modern luxury. Its halls have been graced by Josephine Baker, Orson Welles, Sophia Loren, Tina Turner, Sting, and even Depeche Mode. Kings, queens, and world leaders have also stayed here, each with interesting anecdotes that contribute to the rich story of the hotel.
An unforgettable moment was when a Saudi prince arrived with an entourage so large that the hotel staff had to provide them with 40 of the latest bicycles for a city tour, as well as a spectacular performance with dinner at Medvedgrad, and when the legendary Ennio Morricone held a rehearsal with the orchestra in the magnificent Emerald Hall, creating a musical moment to remember. These are just some of the many stories that are part of the unique legacy of Hotel Esplanade, filled with glamorous celebrations, eccentric guests, and, of course, a dose of intrigue.
Some of the best stories are related to the hotel’s gastronomy, which has been its hallmark since day one. Queen Elizabeth II. enjoyed the Dalmatian fish delicacy so much that she personally gifted the chef a gold coin, while Cambodian Prince Norodom Sihanouk, delighted with his meal, presented the head chef with a gold dessert set.
