To the point
Here's my review of The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection from the Marriott chain. "Relive the Grandeur" is the motto of this five-star Bucharest hotel.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection was originally a bank. The 19th-century building once housed Marmorosch Blank Bank Palace, Romania’s largest bank. When it was transformed into a hotel, they kept a few elements that remind us of this “belle époque”.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Location
Located in old Bucharest, it’s easily accessible from Henri-Coandă International Airport by bus (783). It’s also surrounded by metro and bus stations for getting around the city. It’s conveniently located for the city’s tourist attractions.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Booking
I booked the Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection, three months before my arrival. The price in points and cash was then almost equal to the valuation given by Milesopedia: 25,000 points against $225. I chose to pay in cash, with my Marriott BonvoyMD American ExpressMD* Card. From the time I booked to my arrival at the hotel, there had been nothing but price and points increases for this hotel. I also used two nights of suite upgrades (obtained thanks to my Elite status) for my stay.
Earning Marriott Bonvoy Points
The best way to earn Marriott Bonvoy points for free stays at over 8,000 hotels worldwide is to have the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card (and/or the Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card).
In addition to the exceptional welcome bonus of each of these two cards, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar on all your purchases and 5 points per dollar at any of the Marriott establishments. On top of that, every year, you’ll receive a free hotel night certificate (worth 35,000 points) and 15 Elite Night Credits toward your Marriott Bonvoy status.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Hotel details
Here is some information about the hotel:
| Restaurants | Yes | USB sockets in the room | Yes |
| Accepts animals | Yes, for an additional fee. | Smart TV | No |
| Mobile card | Yes | Shower/Bath | Showers in standard rooms and both in some suites. |
| Balcony | Yes (some suites) | Accessible for people with reduced mobility | |
| Parking | Off-site (25 euro per day) | Executive Lounge | Yes |
| Gym | Yes | Breakfast included | No (yes for platinum members and higher) |
| Pools and Spas | Yes | Room with kitchenette | No |
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Check-in
Two days before my arrival, I was told that my suite upgrades had been approved, to a Heritage room. I checked in online, so when I arrived, all I had to do was hand over my passport and my Marriott BonvoyMD American ExpressMD* Card for room payment and future expenses. Check-in was quick and easy. I was briefed on the benefits of my Platinum status and offered a glass of champagne, before being shown to my room. I had read a few negative reviews of the reception staff before my arrival, but I had nothing to complain about. They were polite and professional.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Lobby
As mentioned, The Marmorosch was a bank in its day, and you’ll notice it with its chic front and majestic building in a neo-Romanesque style inspired by Byzantine and Gothic influences. Anything to satisfy the era of rich banks!
As soon as you walk through the doors, you’re in another world. In front of me, a grand white marble staircase, and on either side of the door, spaces with red velvet sofas, tables and large round mirrors. This is also where you can access the hotel’s secret jewel, The Vault.
They had the good idea of installing an elevator for people with reduced mobility, thus facilitating their access to the reception area.
The reception area is located at the end of the staircase and comprises three counters: two for reception and one for the concierge.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Heritage Room
Built over six floors, The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection, boasts over 217 rooms and suites. I was assigned Heritage room 103, located on the second floor (on the same level as reception).
Even before entering the room, I’m impressed by the imposing wooden door. And that won’t be the only thing that takes my breath away in this room, but also in this hotel.
As soon as you walk through the door, you realize that wood is everywhere. In fact, it’s the centerpiece of the room. It can be found in herringbone parquet, but is also used at the base of walls as a covering. But the display of wood doesn’t stop there, it extends to the huge wooden closet, adorned with a mirror in the center, to a large open wooden cabinet (the purpose of which I’ve never understood) and also to a huge glass cupboard at the back of the room.
As for the back cupboard, originally there were two (one on each side of the wall), but they had the great idea of using one of them as a doorway to the bathroom.
The bedroom has a huge bed, topped by an off-white leather headboard and a bed bench made from the same materials. Two small round bedside tables complete the furnishings.
A coffee table and leather armchair are next to the desk, which is topped by a large TV. The desk is large enough for you to work in peace and quiet.
The room has a huge ceiling and, above all, two large windows that provide natural light during the day.
Come on, let’s pass the closet and head for the pièce de résistance: the bathroom!
It’s made entirely of marble! The floor, the walls, the large shower, the vanity… absolutely everything! There’s also a large, deep bath, ideal for relaxing after sightseeing. A large window completes the space.
I forgot, but before I arrived in the room, the staff had placed a basket filled with fresh fruit on the desk, a greatly appreciated.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Bars and restaurants
Just behind the reception desks, there’s a huge hall with restaurants and bars.
In this majestic space, on the left, you’ll find the Blank restaurant, offering international cuisine with a French twist. The price is reasonable for this type of restaurant and the food is more than satisfactory. The service provided by the staff is very courteous and professional.
In the center is what the staff call “the lounge”. – but which isn’t really a lounge at all. The Marmorosch Lounge is a convivial space with velvet armchairs and sofas. Its luxurious decor, overlooked by an immense glass ceiling, is simply magical. At the far end, the large bar offers tasty cocktails, local beers and even a bistro menu.
To the right, MBB Coffee Corner takes root. A small, intimate place where you can enjoy your coffee and pastries in complete tranquillity. It’s very friendly and convivial. What’s more, it’s here – from Thursday to Sunday between 3 and 6 p.m. – that you can enjoy afternoon tea the British way.
Behind the bar, a large room is reserved for buffet breakfasts. These breakfasts are well-stocked and very varied. There’s even a chef on hand to prepare the eggs your way. The attentive staff will make sure you have everything you need. Note that lunch is free for platinum members and above.
There is no lounge at this hotel.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - The Vault
I promise you, if you don’t set foot in the Vault, you’ll be missing out on a unique experience! A visit to the Vault will make your stay in Bucharest a memorable one!
The Vault is simply the former vault of the Marmorosch Blank bank! The vault was said to contain confidential state documents and national treasures…
Access is via a passage to the right of the hotel entrance. You enter the Vault through its original armored door, and that’s where the magic happens.
In the center, a bar with two mixologists, who will make you, on request, an Old Fashioned, a Pancho Villa, or even a very good Rainmaker! Along the walls, armchairs and tables welcome customers. And at the far end, two large wrought-iron staircases lead up to the walkway that circles the vault. In this passage, you’ll find the drawer chests of private individuals, some of which still hold secrets; it’s up to you to discover them.
Under the stairs is a small room that can be reserved for special occasions. At the time of my visit, it was occupied by a small group.
Take note that given the popularity of this venue and the limited space, the Vault is often packed, so if you’re lucky enough to get there when it opens (6 p.m.), you’ll really appreciate the place.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Services
Gym and swimming pool
The gym is located on level -1. Despite the lack of light, it is very well equipped and will appeal to everyone.
The very small swimming pool is located on the same level as the gym. Despite its small size, it is appreciated after a good walk in the city. A few deckchairs are available.
Other
Adjacent to the pool, the Balance Spa offers relaxing massages, facials and much more in an enchanting setting.
Four conference and banqueting rooms are available. With their pretty names of great cities like Istanbul, Vienna, Paris or even New York.
Are you a collector? Here’s a unique opportunity to bring home a piece – of gold – engraved with your name. It’s made on site! You’ll be part of Marmorosch history.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you about a culinary attraction located just behind The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection: the Caru’ cu Bere, literally the beer wagon!
This restaurant, which is a must in the city, is less than five minutes from the hotel. Let’s face it: we don’t go there for the food, which in my Review is quite ordinary, but rather for the atmosphere, the beer and of course for its breathtaking architecture, both inside and out. In summer, it’s best to book in advance, as it’s often fully booked.
The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection - Overall impression
This hotel is a pearl of Bucharest! It was an exceptional experience for me. The staff, despite the cold appearance, were very friendly and above all very attentive to the customer’s needs. The hotel offer exceeded my expectations, both in terms of rooms and catering. The Vault probably contributed to my total appreciation of this hotel, too. Honestly, I couldn’t choose between the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel and this one, but I must admit that if I had to return to Bucharest, The Marmorosch would surely be my ultimate choice.
Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
