Overview
Raffles Europejski Warsaw stands as a distinguished landmark on Warsaw’s Royal Route, blending 21st-century luxury with the grandeur of its original neoclassical architecture. Opened in 1857 and meticulously restored, the hotel is celebrated for its rich artistic heritage, housing a collection of 500 modern and contemporary artworks by over 120 artists. Managed by Raffles Hotels & Resorts, the property offers 106 art-filled rooms and suites, acclaimed dining, and a spa inspired by global traditions. Its location places guests steps from the Polish National Opera, the Presidential Palace, and the historic Old Town, making it a cultural and social hub in the Polish capital.
Why this grade
Raffles Europejski Warsaw (Raffles) earns a two-star EMPTYJET grade — one of 210 two-star houses on Earth, among just 777 starred hotels; seat 85 of 210. The case for that placement is clear in guest and industry recognition: an EMPTYJET Consensus of 95/100 and the honour Best in Country — N°1 house in Poland. External endorsement arrives in the MICHELIN Guide with Two Keys.
History
Raffles Europejski Warsaw first opened its doors on January 1, 1857, conceived by the Polish-Italian architect Enrico Marconi. Over its long history, the hotel has played a significant role in Warsaw’s social and cultural life. Severely damaged during the Warsaw Uprising in December 1944 and January 1945, the building was painstakingly restored and reopened as the Orbis Hotel Europejski in 1962, offering 260 rooms and 13 suites. After a major renovation from 2013 to 2017, the hotel reopened in May 2018 under the Raffles flag, with 106 rooms and a renewed commitment to luxury and artistry. Throughout the 20th century, the hotel established itself as a creative and artistic hub for the city, a legacy that continues today.
Architecture & interiors
The hotel’s original neoclassical structure was designed by Enrico Marconi, a Polish-Italian architect renowned for his contributions to Warsaw’s cityscape. The most recent restoration, led by Boris Kudlička between 2013 and 2017, preserved the building’s historic grandeur while introducing contemporary luxury. Interiors are a blend of 21st-century design and original architectural elements, with art-filled spaces, handcrafted furniture, and luxurious fabrics. The hotel’s public areas and guest rooms are adorned with a curated collection of approximately 500 modern and contemporary artworks by 120 artists, managed by Lukasz Godlewski. This collection serves as an affectionate homage to Poland’s artistic heritage and is available for private tours. The Europejski Grill’s interior, designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio, reflects Polish craftsmanship with elegant blue-and-white ceramic plates, while the Long Bar features Art Deco inspiration and a ten-metre marble counter.
Rooms & suites
Following its 2018 reopening, Raffles Europejski Warsaw offers 106 rooms and suites, each designed as a contemporary, art-filled sanctuary. Interiors feature handcrafted furniture and luxurious fabrics, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to both comfort and artistry. The Prestige Suite, highlighted in the hotel’s immersive art retreat experience, exemplifies the property’s dedication to luxury accommodation. All rooms benefit from the legendary Raffles Butler service, available 24 hours a day, ensuring attentive and personalised care throughout each stay.
Dining
Europejski Grill
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Europejski Grill, is helmed by Executive Chef René Guttzeit. The menu reinterprets Polish culinary heritage through a modern European lens, offering contemporary takes on Polish and international classics crafted from the finest local ingredients. The restaurant’s interior, designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán Studio, showcases Polish craftsmanship with elegant blue-and-white ceramic plates. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining on the terrace, which overlooks Piłsudski Square and features Mediterranean flavours, seasonal dishes, and a Josper grill for charcoal-finished fish, meat, and seafood. The terrace is designed for sharing, with generous compositions and a convivial atmosphere.
Long Bar
Inspired by the original Raffles Long Bar, this Art Deco-style cocktail bar features a ten-metre marble counter and serves cocktails and small plates. The signature Warsaw Sling cocktail pays homage to Raffles heritage while incorporating local flavours. The bar is open late into the night, providing a lively social setting.
Humidor
An intimate 16-seat cigar lounge, Humidor offers a cosy ambience reminiscent of a traditional gentleman’s club, complete with leather chairs and parquet flooring. The lounge specialises in single malts, Cognacs, and Armagnacs, catering to connoisseurs in a refined setting.
Lourse Warszawa
Founded in 1821 by Swiss confectioner Laurent Lourse, Lourse Warszawa is a historic patisserie located at Krakowskie Przedmieście 13. It combines tradition with contemporary pastry artistry, offering cakes and pastries, including a signature gluten-free chocolate sponge with toasted nuts and house-made plum jam.
Spa & wellness
The Raffles Spa offers a comprehensive wellness experience, drawing inspiration from Asian, Middle Eastern, and European traditions. Facilities include six treatment rooms, a VIP couples room, an indoor pool, steam room, sauna, experience showers, and an ice fountain. Treatments utilise products from Aromatherapy Associates and Sisley, ensuring a high standard of care. The spa operates daily from 7:00am to 10:00pm, while the fitness area is accessible 24 hours a day.
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Service & reputation
Raffles Europejski Warsaw is renowned for its attentive and personalised service, anchored by the legendary Raffles Butler service available 24/7. These consistently high scores underscore the property’s commitment to guest satisfaction and hospitality excellence.
Location & setting
Situated at Krakowskie Przedmieście 13, Raffles Europejski Warsaw occupies a prestigious address on the Royal Route, close to the Old Town, Polish National Opera, and Presidential Palace. This central location places guests within easy reach of Warsaw’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, reinforcing the hotel’s role as a social and artistic hub in the city.
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The EMPTYJET verdict
Raffles Europejski Warsaw is a compelling choice for travellers seeking a blend of historic grandeur, contemporary luxury, and cultural immersion in the Polish capital. Its dual MICHELIN Keys, acclaimed art collection, and consistently high guest ratings make it particularly suited to those who value both heritage and modern comforts. The hotel’s central location, refined dining, and attentive butler service ensure a memorable stay for business and leisure guests alike, especially those with an appreciation for art, history, and culinary excellence.
Good to know
The typical nightly rate at Raffles Europejski Warsaw is about US$740. The hotel offers accessible rooms and limousine transfers for airport and city travel. Event venues and meeting rooms with state-of-the-art equipment are available for private functions and business gatherings.






