Location/Arrival/Check-in

I was not sure what to expect when I booked the Crowne Plaza Verona because its location was well outside of the City Center. We arrived after a long day of driving and easily found parking in front of the hotel.  Part of a multifunctional complex designed by Italian architect Mario Bellini, the architecture of the Crowne Plaza is quite modern and absolutely stunning!

The lobby was bright and well lit and we were greeted warmly by the front desk staff. Check in was smooth and we were upgraded to a king from a standard twin because of my Platinum status. The hotel is definitely well suited for business as it is located in the exhibition area of Verona and is close to the fairgrounds, trade center, and Veronafiere. Although the website notes it is within the center of Verona, the hotel is actually located about 4km from City Center. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle bus which must be booked ahead of time which will take you to City Center. The only downside of this is that the last return of the evening is around 8 pm and if that is missed it would be necessary to taxi back.

Room/Suite

I cannot speak highly enough of the room that we were given! It was a king room and located on the front of the hotel, but we were never bothered by either street noise or light. The bed is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable hotel beds I have ever slept in with luxurious, crisp linens.  The windows could be opened for fresh air – which is always a plus for me – and the blackout curtains worked quite well in keeping out the morning sun. Rooms are air-conditioned with self-operating controls, and also have a tea/coffee maker and a flat-screen TV with satellite and pay-per-view channels. The wifi offered is free for IHG loyalty club members; however, there still seems to be a cost for non-members. The room also contained a minibar which was well stocked and included a free bottle of mineral water.

Bathroom

The bathroom was spacious and luxurious with a separate bathtub and large walk-in shower with both a rain shower and handheld showerhead. So many hotels are switching to shower only bathrooms but for me, there is nothing better than a relaxing hot tub bath after a long day of travel or sightseeing. The bathroom amenities included shampoo and conditioner along bath salts and a loofah. Other bath amenities included ample supplies of cotton swabs, shower cap, and sewing kit. There was even a scale and heated towel rack.

Facilities

Although I did not have time to use it, the hotel has a great little fitness room, small indoor jetted lap pool and rooftop deck with a stunning view of the city. The business center is located on the ground floor adjacent to reception and contains several computers, printers and a fax machine.

Bellini’s Bar (named after the architect) is also located on the ground floor and offers sandwiches and light snacks including high-quality wines, and both domestic and international beers. While we did enjoy an evening aperitvo after our journey, we did not use the on-site restaurant. Breakfast was not included in our rate.

Cost & Summary

While the regular room rate for a King room will cost anywhere from 105 to 130 EUR, I booked the room for 20,000 IHG points. The Points and Cash rate is 15000 points and $40 or 10000 points and $70.