The Aro Palace hotel in Brasov has signed a franchise agreement with Hyatt under which, after what the hotel is calling an “extensive renovation operation” to meet Hyatt Regency standards, it will become the first Hyatt-branded hotel in Romania.
“We have reached a significant moment in our development strategy,” said Aro Palace SA CEO Attila Joos. “Building on the changes our company has undergone since 2023, and with the strong support of our dedicated team, we are now ready to focus on this investment, which will enhance the guest experience through extensive renovations, blending the historic charm of the property with the refined luxury and renowned quality of Hyatt services.”
Hyatt Vice President of Development Takuya Aoyama shared Joos’s enthusiasm. “We are excited to bring Hyatt Regency to this property in collaboration with Aro Palace S.A.,” he said. “The hotel has been an important part of Brasov’s history and we look forward to serving both the community local as well as foreign guests, in a truly unique place. We are confident that Romania’s medieval cities and stunning natural landscapes will contribute to the growth of our World of Hyatt member base and lead to further expansion of Hyatt in the country.”
“Aro Palace will be the first home for Hyatt in Romania, and I am glad that this home is in Brasov,” added Aoyama in a LinkedIn post. “Brașov is home to my family, and I look forward to working together with our partners to promote this wonderful city! I would like to thank Aro Palace SA, Transilvania Investments and winsed.swiss Romania for choosing Hyatt as their partner.”
The Aro Palace Hotel Brasov, which was designed by Horia Creanga, the nephew of prominent Romanian author Ion Creanga, opened in 1939, and was underwent substantial renovations in 2005 to bring up to a 5-star standard. The name of the hotel comes from Asigurarea ROmaneasca (or “Romanian Insurance”), the company which provided the money to finance the building’s construction before WWII.
Renovation of the Aro Palace hotel is scheduled to start in early 2026 and will include all areas of the building. The historic wing is expected to undergo a total transformation into an executive-standard area, and a total of 250 rooms and suites, along with spa facilities, bars, and business lounges will be upgraded to meet international Hyatt standards, while preserving the hotel’s unique architectural and cultural heritage.
The hotel will remain operational throughout the renovation process.