The 6 best hotels in Budapest

Posted: 28-3-24 | March 28, 2024

I didn’t know what to expect when I visited Budapest for the first time. I thought it would be a boring, boring city because of its communist past.

Luckily I was wrong.

Once under the radar, Budapest has become increasingly popular thanks to its affordability and vibrant nightlife. The city also has photogenic architecture and a rich history, making it a good choice for anyone visiting Europe.

I have been visiting the city for over ten years and have always had a great time. I love the city so much that I used to give tours here!

Obviously I have stayed in countless hotels over the years. Here is my list of the best hotels in Budapest:

1. Bohem Kunsthotel

Staying here feels like staying in an art gallery. This four-star hotel has a very retro design. I especially love the art in the lounge and rooms (there are many unique photos and murals). The hotel is also close to the river, as well as the popular pedestrian shopping street Váci utca.

The beds are comfortable and the rooms have plenty of sockets, as well as an electric kettle, air conditioning, minibar, desk and flat-screen TV. The rooms are not large, but do have a lot of natural light through the large windows. The breakfast is great and has lots of options (including a freshly squeezed orange juice machine) and the showers are super powerful too. Overall, it’s a solid mid-range choice in the heart of the city.

2. Matilda Palace

Centrally located in the popular District V, this luxurious five-star hotel looks like a palace. The ornate Belle Epoque complex features an extensive breakfast spread, a large gym, a sauna and several restaurants. There’s even a nightclub on site. It is a huge property and you will feel like royalty when you stay here.

The rooms are opulent and combine historic charm with modern design. There are stylish chairs and soft velvet sofas, comfortable beds with thick mattresses and a large bathroom with beautiful tiles. Decorated in light and neutral tones, the rooms also have air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, desks and tea/coffee making facilities. If you want to let off steam, this hotel will not disappoint you.

3. Monastery boutique hotel

Set in a 300-year-old abbey, this 4-star hotel features original brick and stone walls in many of the rooms (as well as in the restaurant area, which looks really cool). The decor is simple and minimalist, with a relaxing light palette. The breakfast is delicious, with fresh pastries, fruit, yogurt, eggs, vegetables and lots of fresh bread. The hotel is close to the Fisherman’s Bastion and Castle Hill, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.

The beds are comfortable and the rooms are light and airy, with plenty of natural light. The bathrooms are spacious, with towel warmers and showers with good water pressure. There are also desks, kettles and flat-screen TVs in every room. Overall, it’s an elegant property in a convenient location with a price that won’t break the bank.

4. Mirage Medic Hotel

Located in District VI on the Pest side of the city, this 4-star hotel is housed in a huge, palatial 19th-century mansion. The rooms may feel a bit dated, but they are clean, spacious and the beds are comfortable. The rooms also have a desk, flat screen TV and kettle and the water pressure in the showers is also good. There is also a simple, complimentary breakfast every morning with bread, coffee and cereal. It’s not luxurious, but it’s included in the price, which I appreciate.

The hotel also offers holistic healing programs, such as herbal medicine and acupuncture. The main draw, however, is how close this hotel is to Széchenyi, the most popular thermal spa in Budapest. It is only a short 7 minute walk.

5. Tramp Grand’Or

Located in the Jewish Quarter, this modern aparthotel features spacious rooms with balconies and kitchens, ideal for families or travelers who want to prepare their own meals. There are sofas and flat screen TVs (with Netflix), a dining table if you want to eat in, and a washing machine. The rooms have comfortable beds and the overall design is stylish but minimal, with lots of light tones and color accents. The bathrooms are not large, but they are clean and the showers have good water pressure. A simple breakfast is also offered every morning (with vegetarian options). Overall, it’s a comfortable, simple place near the Synagogue on Dohany Street that you should definitely visit.

6. Anantara NY Palace

This is a huge luxury five star hotel. It has a lavish interior and a palatial lobby with huge ornate pillars and a high ceiling that looks like it belongs in Versailles. The property features an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and large fitness center. I especially love the hotel’s historic 20th century café (it’s a beautiful coffeehouse). As a guest you can enjoy an extraordinary breakfast here before the café opens to the public every day. There is also an elegant bar with live piano music and excellent drinks.

The rooms are large and airy, with lots of dark colors and a sleek, stately decor. Each room has super comfortable beds, desks and sofas, a minibar and a flat-screen TV. The bathrooms are also huge, with beautiful tiles and marble, huge bathtubs and a separate walk-in shower. It will be difficult to find a more luxurious hotel in the city.

Budapest is an eclectic, vibrant city with great ruin bars, stunning architecture and a growing foodie scene. Make sure you choose one of the above hotels for your stay. Doing so will ensure you have a great visit, regardless of whether you are on a budget or looking to do something adventurous.

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