What is Zinar Castle?

Zinar Castle is a Selected hotel located in Krakow, Poland. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Zinar Castle have?

Zinar Castle has been awarded Selected by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Zinar Castle located?

Zinar Castle is located in Krakow, Poland, in the Europe region.

What makes a Selected hotel special?

Selected hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Zinar Castle?

You can view more details and booking information for Zinar Castle through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Zinar Castle | Selected in Krakow, Poland

Name: Zinar Castle
Address: Krakow, Europe, Poland
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Zinar Castle

Zinar Castle, Krakow: A Michelin Key Selected Retreat Blending History with Modern Luxury

Zinar Castle, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property in Krakow, Poland, consistently earns high praise from guests, with an impressive overall rating averaging around 9.4 out of 10 across various platforms. Guests frequently describe their stays as "wonderful," "superb," and "exceptional," highlighting a truly "fairytale" experience.

Key Highlights

Guests are particularly enchanted by the castle's unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury, set amidst the serene beauty of the Wolski Forest. The attentive and friendly staff consistently receive accolades for their warm hospitality and personalized service. The stunning panoramic views of Krakow, the Vistula River, and even the distant Tatra Mountains are a major draw, providing a picturesque backdrop to the stay. The hotel's modern and intimate spa, along with its excellent dining options, also contribute significantly to the positive guest experience.

Room Quality

Zinar Castle offers a diverse array of comfortable and elegantly designed rooms, ranging from cozy 20 square meter "Comfort Plus" rooms to expansive "Apartment Tower Premium" suites of 100 square meters. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with luxurious amenities such as plush bathrobes, a hairdryer, satellite/cable TV, a mini-bar, and complimentary bottled water. Many rooms feature king-size beds, Smart TVs, and some even boast freestanding bathtubs with captivating views. While the interiors are generally described as modern and stylish, incorporating contemporary workmanship and pieces by celebrated Polish artists, some guests have noted that the modern refurbishment might slightly diminish a sense of traditional character.

Dining Experience

The culinary heart of Zinar Castle is the U Ziyad restaurant, a two-level establishment renowned for its international cuisine and 35-year tradition. The menu features high-quality ingredients, including Polish beef, lamb, steaks, seafood, and fresh fish, often prepared with oriental Kurdish influences. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining on the terraces and arcades, which offer breathtaking garden, city, and mountain views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Breakfast is a highlight for many, served buffet-style with additional à la carte options, and is frequently described as "ample," "excellent," and "delicious."

Service & Staff

The service at Zinar Castle is consistently highlighted as exceptional. Guests frequently commend the staff for being attentive, warm, friendly, professional, and genuinely welcoming. Many reviews mention staff members going "above and beyond" to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay, providing personalized service and helpful recommendations.

Location & Accessibility

Nestled on a quiet forest hilltop in Kraków Olszanica, Zinar Castle offers a tranquil escape with spectacular views, yet remains conveniently accessible to the city's main attractions. It is approximately a 15-minute drive from Krakow's historic Old Town, including Wawel Castle and Main Market Square, and a similar distance from John Paul II International Kraków–Balice Airport. Public transportation, specifically the Olszanica bus stop, is within walking distance, providing connections to the wider Krakow region. For added convenience, the hotel offers airport transfer services, a shuttle service, and car hire.

Value & Pricing

Zinar Castle is generally considered to offer good value for money, with a strong rating of 9.0 for value on Booking.com. Typical prices for an overnight stay for two people start around €140, translating to approximately US$177-228, with breakfast often an optional extra.

Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms have surfaced. A few guests have expressed that the modern refurbishment, while elegant, might lead to a slight lack of traditional character in the rooms. One guest reported issues with specific pillow requests, found the spa's massage offerings to be more relaxing than therapeutic, and was underwhelmed by the taste of the à la carte breakfast, suggesting it prioritized presentation over flavor. Another comment indicated a desire for more designated sitting areas for reading or games and a sauna, despite the hotel offering spa services and an indoor pool.