Centuries of Distinguished Guests at Hotel Esplanade Zagreb: From Soccer Star David Beckham to Former President Richard Nixon
Party Central: Hotel Esplanade in Zagreb
Steeped in glamour and history, Hotel Esplanade in Zagreb, Croatia remains the epitome of class and sophistication, even after a century. Its impressive list of guests is nothing short of legendary - from Shakira to David Beckham, this art deco masterpiece continues to attract A-listers.
Back in the day, Hotel Esplanade was the go-to spot for the who's who of the world. Politicians like Richard Nixon and Nikita Khrushchev rubbed shoulders with the glamourous Elizabeth Taylor, Orson Welles, and Alfred Hitchcock in its iconic bar. Hollywood royalty, theatre greats, and international cinema icons like Sophia Loren and Tina Turner graced its halls. Musicians such as Sting and Depeche Mode added their own unique energy to its vibrant atmosphere[1][4].
The hotel's allure extended beyond its lush interiors. It was the one and only casino permitted in Communist Yugoslavia, attracting big names like Robert Mitchum, Pierce Brosnan, and Kate Beckinsale. These stars also immortalized their connection to the hotel by featuring in films shot on site[1][4].
Hotel Esplanade was cleverly positioned near the Croatian capital's main railway station to welcome passengers aboard the Orient Express, the legendary train journey between Paris and Istanbul. The hotel's timeless beauty continues to captivate travelers, making it a must-visit for those seeking a touch of old world elegance[1][4].
- Nikita Khrushchev crossed paths with celebrated figures like Elizabeth Taylor and Orson Welles during Hotel Esplanade's heyday, an era marked by entertainment, celebrities, and style.
- In the Balkans, during the hotel's prime, Hollywood icons such as Sophia Loren and Tina Turner, along with musicians like Sting and Depeche Mode, were regular faces in the Hotel Esplanade's iconic bar.
- Khrushchev, Brosnan, and Beckinsale were among the celebrities who found themselves enticed by Hotel Esplanade's allure, not only as a luxurious retreat but also as the sole permitted casino within Communist Yugoslavia.
