Review: Moxy Belgrade
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During a short layover of less than 24 hours in Belgrade, I was looking for a comfortable and well-located base that would allow me to get a glimpse of the city. I chose Moxy Belgrade, a modern and dynamic brand from the Marriott Bonvoy group, which seemed to offer the right balance of comfort, style, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Moxy hotels are renowned for their young, trendy, and relaxed approach. Targeting a clientele seeking a vibrant stay that combines comfort and style, Moxy stands out with its energetic atmosphere and modern design. It’s not just a place to sleep but rather a spot to gather, work, or even simply relax, all in a friendly atmosphere. Each establishment offers open spaces that are often lively and infused with a strong dose of personality.
So it was with keen interest that I chose this brand for my short layover, expecting a practical and fun experience. Here’s what I thought!
Booking
Belgrade is home to three Marriott Bonvoy hotels in its city center, and for my short stay I opted for the Moxy Belgrade. Having booked in summer, I was pleasantly surprised by the competitiveness of the rates, especially for the hotel’s central location, which allows easy access to the city’s main attractions.
The standard room was offered at an average rate of around 116 euros per night, a rather attractive price for a well-located hotel. If you prefer to use Marriott Bonvoy points, the standard room could be booked for around 14,000 points per night.
Arrival
Location
The Moxy Belgrade enjoys a strategic location in the heart of the city center, just steps away from Knez Mihailova Street, one of the city’s main thoroughfares, ideal for shopping and cultural exploration.
The hotel is also close to the Kalemegdan Fortress, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Danube. If you enjoy exploring local life, the Skadarlija district, with its traditional restaurants and bohemian atmosphere, is just a few minutes’ walk away. Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is about 20-25 minutes away by car or 30-40 minutes by public transport.
Registration and Common Areas
Check-in was smooth, quick, and efficient. Despite my Titanium status with Marriott, I didn’t get an upgrade, probably due to limited availability. However, this didn’t matter much because, at Moxy hotels, almost all the rooms are identical, so there’s not really a difference in comfort compared to more luxurious hotels that offer spacious and customized suites.
From the moment you arrive, you immediately feel the unique atmosphere of a Moxy. The reception is colourful, lively, and dynamic. The exterior of Moxy Belgrade, although charming, shows some signs of wear, but inside, the energy is palpable.
The communal space truly represents the brand’s signature, with large windows letting in natural light and an eye-catching design. There’s a foosball table for those looking to have fun, comfortable sofas, and large tables with multiple power outlets for those who want to work or relax. The sound ambiance in the common areas, with dynamic and upbeat music, further adds to the energetic vibe of the place.
A fun little touch: A giant plush toy, ready to offer a hug, sits somewhere in the space, adding a quirky and playful element to the atmosphere. The hotel is filled with plants that add a hint of greenery and freshness.
The large common areas feel almost like a modern, slightly quirky version of home, with scattered books, cushions of all shapes, mismatched yet comfortable chairs, and a warm atmosphere. You feel good here, like you’re at home, but in a more fun and dynamic environment.
Room
The standard « Drama Queen » room is relatively compact at 18 square meters, but it optimizes the space in a functional way and remains comfortable for a short stay. Like most Moxy hotels, the furnishings are minimalist, and there is no dresser to store belongings. Clothes are simply hung in an open area, a choice that favors practicality.
We had a queen-size bed, and once again, those funky pillows add a touch of personality to the room. In terms of decor, the minimalist and modern style perfectly matches the hotel’s lively atmosphere.
A large Smart TV completes the setup, offering plenty of options to unwind after a busy day.
The bathroom is elegant, featuring white tiles and a rain shower. The white stone countertop adds a touch of sophistication.
The backlighting, subtle yet stylish, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in the room. Everything is very clean and well-maintained, providing a sense of comfort and freshness.
Restaurant
Gastro Bar Park
The Gastro Bar Park, although primarily designed to offer an all-day dining experience, was the perfect spot for us to have breakfast. The buffet is simple yet well-stocked, making it ideal for starting the day off right.
There’s a nice selection of hot dishes, including scrambled eggs, puff pastries, chicken and pork, as well as cold options like cereals, pastries, cold meats, cheeses, vegetables and yogurt. There’s also a coffee and juice station, a nice little extra for those in need of a morning boost.
The atmosphere is reminiscent of a cafeteria, where everyone serves themselves at their own pace with a tray to put together their plate. It’s simple and unpretentious, yet completely satisfying. A convenient spot, perfect for starting the day on a positive note.
Other Services
Gym
The hotel also has a fitness room, well-equipped with modern machines and accessible to guests 24 hours a day, for those who want to stay active during their stay. Unfortunately, I didn’t try it out, but it could be a good asset for travellers motivated to keep up their training.
Around the Hotel
When we arrived in the late afternoon, we decided to take advantage of the daylight to explore the surrounding area. We went for a 10 km jog, which allowed us to discover a beautiful part of Belgrade. We passed through several iconic neighbourhoods, including the Kalemegdan fortress, offering stunning views of the city and river, as well as the Zapadni area and the Vračar plateau, renowned for their architecture and lively atmosphere.
We also strolled through the picturesque streets of Stari Grad (the old town center). Skirting the parks, we visited Karađorđević Park, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings.
In the evening, we chose a magnificent restaurant with a spectacular view of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. The weather was ideal, and the sunset made the experience even more memorable.
All in all, although our stay was short, it was rich in discoveries and enjoyable moments.
Overall Impression
For a short stay in Belgrade, the Moxy Belgrade proved to be a wise choice. The hotel perfectly embodies what it promises: a practical yet lively experience, without unnecessary frills. The location is ideal for exploring the city on foot, and the room, though small, is functional and comfortable, with a touch of youthful, modern style that adds to its charm.
The hotel’s warm, dynamic atmosphere contrasts pleasantly with the simplicity of the rooms. The vibrant, welcoming communal space invites you to relax or be productive, and you quickly feel at home, but in a refreshingly original setting. I didn’t miss the absence of ostentatious luxury; on the contrary, I appreciated this relaxed, unpretentious approach, perfectly suited to the nature of my stay.
While the breakfast was simple and unsurprising, it was nevertheless sufficient to get the day off to a good start. As for the fitness room option, although untested, it seems a good addition for those looking to stay active during their stay.
In short, the Moxy Belgrade is an excellent compromise for those who want to enjoy the city without breaking the bank, while benefiting from a modern setting and a friendly experience. If you’re looking for a hotel that combines comfort, central location and a dose of fun, this establishment will meet your expectations without excessive pretension.
Earning Marriott Bonvoy Points
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