PHOTOS: 100th birthday party for Zagreb’s iconic Hotel Esplanade

(Photo: Mario Poje)

One of Zagreb’s most iconic landmarks, Hotel Esplanade, marked its 100th anniversary on Thursday evening with a celebration on its famed Oleander Terrace.

The event brought together dignitaries, ambassadors, partners, celebrities and media representatives in honour of a century of excellence, elegance and heritage.

Built in 1925 to accommodate travellers from the legendary Orient Express, Hotel Esplanade has grown into a global symbol of refined hospitality, renowned for its art deco design, timeless architecture and impeccable service.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

Over the decades, it has welcomed royalty, world leaders, Hollywood stars and cultural icons, cementing its place at the heart of Zagreb’s social and cultural scene.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

The centenary celebration was much more than a glamorous party,  it was a carefully curated tribute to the hotel’s history, present and future.

Directed by Krešimir-Tadija Kapulica and brought to life with spectacular production, the evening offered a multisensory experience of music, art, gastronomy and theatrical flair.

(Photo: Mario Poje)

(Photo: Goran Jakus)

The event was hosted by popular TV presenter Iva Šulentić and featured opening speeches from long-serving General Manager Ivica Max Krizmanić, Zagreb Tourist Board Director Martina Bienenfeld, Mayor Tomislav Tomašević and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

(Photo: Mario Poje)

“This celebration is not just about marking a century of existence,” said Krizmanić. “It is a tribute to everyone who helped shape this hotel into a symbol of Zagreb, Croatia and European hospitality. Our goal is to remain proud guardians of tradition while embracing innovation at the heart of the capital.”

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

Martina Bienenfeld added, “Zagreb would not be the same without Esplanade. Its influence extends far beyond tourism. It defines the city’s image as a sophisticated and culturally rich destination.”

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

Minister of Tourism and Sport Tonči Glavina described the anniversary as a milestone for the whole country. “Esplanade has become an international ambassador of Croatian hospitality. It reflects excellence, authenticity and global standards.”

Many familiar faces graced the evening, including Zdenka Kovačiček, Tony Cetinski, Miro Ungar, Luka Peroš, Mia Begović, Mila Elegović, Ida Prester, and Mate Granić, to name just a few.

(Photo: Mario Poje)

Guests were treated to a lavish culinary offering prepared by celebrated head chef Ana Grgić Tomić and her team.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

The gourmet spread included foie gras, truffle-infused dishes, caviar, marinated tuna, poached oysters, beef tartare, signature Esplanade štrukli and an array of decadent desserts. Premium French champagne flowed freely, accompanied by top-shelf whisky, gin, cognac and Cuban cigars.

(Photo: Mario Poje)

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

A standout moment of the evening was a nostalgic musical and theatrical performance led by actors from Zagreb’s Komedija Theatre. Dino Antonić and the band Dnevnik Velikog Perice performed classic chansons and old favourites, transporting the audience back to Esplanade’s golden ballroom era.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

The highlight of the programme was a cabaret show titled Cabaret Orient Express, directed by the legendary Miro Ungar with choreography and costume design by Magdalena Matijević.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

Spread across two stages and enhanced by dramatic lighting and projections, the show featured standout portrayals of Edith Piaf, Josephine Baker and the beloved character Gospon Fulir.

(Photo: Bruno Fantulin)

As a surprise finale, opera soprano Tamara Rađenović took to the hotel’s majestic balcony and delivered a breathtaking performance of Neka cijeli ovaj svijet by Alfi Kabiljo.

The illuminated façade of the Esplanade served as a magical stage for the London-based artist, whose international success from New York to Tokyo marks her as part of a new generation of Esplanade’s distinguished guests.

Following the formal programme, DJ Jurki and Urbani Eventi brought modern beats to the terrace, keeping guests dancing late into the night.

As Esplanade steps into its second century, it remains a place where tradition meets innovation – a living icon of Zagreb’s luxurious, cultural and cosmopolitan spirit.