Located right by the Sopot beach, next to the famous Pier, the Grand Hotel has been admired for nearly a century for its style, elegance, and rich history. Known today as the Sofitel Grand Sopot, its story dates back to the 1920s and is inseparably tied to the history of the city and the region.
Beginnings - luxury and controversy
The Grand Hotel officially opened in 1927 as the “Kasino Hotel” – the most impressive building in Sopot at the time. The construction cost around 20 million Gdańsk gulden. Designed by architects from the Gdańsk University of Technology, the hotel was the city’s answer to the growing needs of the wealthy clientele frequenting the Sopot casino and seaside baths.
However, from the very beginning, the project was surrounded by controversy – accusations of plagiarism of a hotel in Szczawno-Zdrój and financial scandals that ended with the suicide of the city’s mayor cast a shadow over this prestigious investment. Soon, though, the hotel regained its splendor, attracting Europe’s elite – from crowned heads to industrial magnates.
Politics and Turbulent Times
In 1939, the hotel was taken over by the German military command, which directed operations against Gdynia and Hel from its halls. Adolf Hitler himself stayed there, turning it into his temporary headquarters. It was here, after the capitulation of the Hel Peninsula, that the act of surrender was signed.
At the end of World War II, the hotel was converted into a military hospital, and later became the headquarters of the Red Army. Despite being damaged, it survived the war and was soon restored to its former role as a luxury hotel – now under the name Grand Hotel.
Culture and Social Life
During the communist era, the Grand Hotel became an oasis of luxury and a symbol of Western lifestyle amid socialist Poland. Accessible mainly to foreign guests and the political elite, it was a venue for prestigious events and artistic debuts.
In 1961, the legendary Polish band Czerwone Gitary made their debut here. In later years, the hotel served as the backstage for the famous Sopot Song Festival. Films were shot here, television and radio programs were recorded, and the guest list included Marlene Dietrich, Jan Kiepura, Fidel Castro, Reza Pahlavi, and dozens of artists, politicians, and celebrities from around the world.
The Grand Hotel is a classic example of monumental resort architecture, blending Baroque and Art Deco elements. Its mansard roof, richly ornamented façades, spacious lobby, and elegant interiors still impress visitors today. Despite modern renovations, many original details remain, preserving the timeless atmosphere of prewar luxury.
Sofitel Grand Sopot, photo: promotional materials
Grand Hotel, photo: Pomorskie Ttravel/ M.Ochocki
Transformation and a New Life
In the 1990s, the hotel underwent partial restoration, and the casino was reopened – this time as a tourist attraction rather than a social hotspot. In 2006, following a comprehensive renovation, the Grand Hotel became part of the Sofitel international chain, achieving five-star status without losing its soul and historical charm.
Today, the Sofitel Grand Sopot remains one of the most prestigious hotels in Poland, hosting key figures from the region and distinguished guests from all over the world.
The Grand Hotel Today more than a Place for the Elite
The hotel is more than just a luxurious place to stay – it’s a living museum, a cultural hub, and an architectural jewel of the resort. Its preserved interiors, historic wings, green gardens, and stunning sea views make it an essential stop on any visit to Sopot.
