It is no surprise that Budapest is such a popular destination, with its grand display of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau buildings.
The beauty of Budapest is that you can not only admire its elegant architecture, you can actually live in it. Many hotels occupy classic buildings or, at the very least, draw inspiration from Hungary's rich history.
Consider staying at the following Budapest hotels, ranging from luxury to budget, when you travel here:
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LUXURY
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace
This Four Seasons consistently earns top marks in international travel magazines, and for good reason. It not only delivers five-star luxury in a prime location (overlooking the Danube at the foot of the Chain Bridge), but the building itself is an Art Nouveau masterpiece.
Built in 1906, the property has been beautifully restored, right down to the last Zsolnay tile. More than a quarter of the hotel's 179 rooms look out over the Danube.
The rooftop spa features an infinity pool and offers treatments using products made with mineral-rich thermal water from Omorovicza, a local company. The lobby bar serves excellent cocktails, while the adjoining Gresham Cafe presents a menu that blends modern Hungarian and Italian cuisine.
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, Szechenyi Istvan Square 5 - 6, Budapest 1051 Hungary; +36 (1) 268 6000
From $802 per night
Corinthia Hotel
When the Corinthia first opened on the bustling Erzsebet Boulevard in 1896, it was the city's most opulent hotel, beloved by celebrities and royalty alike. It has been beautifully restored, and its more than 400 rooms (with marble bathrooms) make a welcome retreat after a day of exploring.
The adjoining Royal Spa, with a 15-meter pool along with several saunas and steam rooms, dates back to 1886.
The breakfast buffet is superb, and be sure to book ahead if you plan to dine at the nearby Bock Bisztro.
Corinthia Hotel Budapest, Erzsebet Avenue 43 - 49, Budapest H-1073 Hungary; +36 (1) 479 4000
From $216 per night
Aria Hotel Budapest
Music lovers should pay this hotel special attention. The design of this luxurious boutique hotel was inspired by music. Here you will find four wings, Classical, Jazz, Opera, and Contemporary, with music of the matching genre drifting through the air.
Various rooms and suites are dedicated to figures from the world of music, including Maria Callas, Count Basie, James Brown, and, of course, Hungary's own Franz Liszt.
The Aria also has a spa where you can bring your body into harmony, complete with a jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and much more.
Aria Hotel Budapest, Hercegprimas Street 5, Budapest H-1051, Hungary; +36 1 445 4055
From $665 per night
MID-RANGE
Baltazar Hotel
The small, 11-room Baltazar, set in the Castle District, makes a big impression.
Every room is unique, colorful, and decorated with vintage furniture and quirky touches (a Keith Haring theme in one, for instance, and a playful take on "Girl with a Pearl Earring" in another). The bathrooms feature rain showers and use handmade local limestone.
Although you may find it hard to leave your room, the ground-floor restaurant and wine bar are, thankfully, just a few steps away.
The family that owns this hotel and restaurant also runs several other popular Budapest eateries. Ask for a room with a balcony, where you can enjoy a quiet view of the Castle District street.
Baltazar Budapest, Orszaghaz Street 31, Budapest 1014 Hungary; +36 (1) 300 7051
From $341 per night
Brody House
Brody House is more than just a supremely cool boutique hotel in the up-and-coming Palace District. It is also a creative hub focused on showcasing and supporting local artists, designers, writers, musicians, and other creative people.
The 11 rooms are one of a kind, each designed by a different artist and showcasing Brody's signature "rough luxury" style, with much of the furniture and decor crafted from reclaimed materials.
Be sure to check out the calendar of events held at Brody House and its new venue, Brody Studios.
Brody House, Brody Sandor Street 10, Budapest 1088 Hungary; +36 (1) 266 1211
BUDGET
Hotel Palazzo Zichy
Once the 19th-century palace of Hungarian nobleman Count Nandor Zichy, the Palazzo Zichy was transformed into a hotel in 2009.
The hotel blends elements of its royal past with contemporary design in the rooms. The breakfast buffet offers a generous spread and includes hot dishes, salmon, cold appetizers, and even sparkling wine.
The hotel is within walking distance of tourist attractions, including the Hungarian National Museum.
Hotel Palazzo Zichy, Budapest, Pal Lorinc Square 2, 1088 Hungary; +36 1 235 4000
Zara Continental
Located in the Jewish Quarter, the Zara was an elegant bathhouse in a previous life.
The 272-room hotel features Art Deco touches throughout and offers excellent amenities for both business travelers (including a business center and conference rooms) and tourists.
Highlights include the rooftop garden and pool (closed from November through March), while the surrounding streets are full of quirky bars, shops, and small cafes.
Continental Hotel Zara Budapest, Dohany Street 42 - 44, Budapest 1074 Hungary; +36 (1) 815 1000
Some of these hotels are located within easy reach of Budapest's main attractions, including the Parliament, Margaret Island, and the fashionable Andrassy Avenue.
