Budapest may be known as one of Europe’s more affordable capital cities to visit, but that doesn’t mean Hungary’s most famous destination doesn’t have plenty of upscale offerings. And, with pandemic-weary travelers increasingly looking for ways to upgrade their trips, now is an ideal time for clients to explore the city’s luxurious side.
Stay at Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
The five-star Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest is conveniently located downtown, a short walk from the Danube River and other city highlights, including Fashion Street, the newly reopened opera house and Hungarian Parliament.
Kempinski Hotel Corvinus is in a prime location.
Credit: 2022 Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
Refined, recently refurbished guestrooms and suites feel comfortable yet contemporary, with desirable amenities such as deep bathtubs and scenic city views (some rooms look out at the Budapest Eye Ferris wheel, which is just across the street from the property). Other standout features of the hotel include a luxury spa with an indoor pool; the relaxing Living Room, a coffeehouse-like space just off the lobby; and several restaurants, including a Nobu outlet and ES Bisztro, serving seasonally driven Hungarian-Viennese fare.
Upscale Restaurants Around Budapest
After sightseeing in Heroes’ Square or visiting the Museum of Fine Arts, send clients for lunch at Robinson restaurant, located in nearby City Park. With a scenic location on the park’s lake, the restaurant features a charming atmosphere and dishes ranging from beautifully presented Hungarian classics (including the hortobagyi palacsinta, a crepe-like pancake filled with chicken and doused in paprika-spiced sauce) to charcoal oven-baked meats and fish.
Michelin-recommended Stand25 Bisztro, meanwhile, is an excellent choice for dinner, with an open kitchen and refined, yet approachable, bistro-style cuisine that centers around seasonal, local products. It offers both a three-course menu and a la carte options.
What Luxury Travelers Should Do in Budapest
Of course, no trip to Budapest would be complete without a visit to the city’s iconic bathhouses. While there are many to choose from, Szechenyi is one of the largest and most-visited options, offering 21 indoor and outdoor pools, plus saunas, steam rooms and wellness treatments. Gellert is another top recommendation thanks to its mineral water-filled thermal baths and striking art nouveau spaces. (Private experiences can also be arranged at both bathhouses for a more upscale, exclusive visit.)
Rokusfalvy’s tasting room has an Old World atmosphere.
Credit: 2022 Kelly RosenfeldFor more interactive fun, clients can take a private cooking class at Borganika, located in the Klauzal Square Market Hall. Hands-on, chef-led lessons in a professional cooking space introduce clients to local cuisine before they dine on their delicious creations.
And, if travelers want to take a quick break from city life, a half-hour drive to the west will bring them to Etyek, one of Hungary’s 22 wine regions. Local wineries in the area are producing delicious, unpretentious wines that can be tasted in scenic environments. Those looking for a sleek, modern ambiance will love Etyeki Kuria, while those seeking a more classic Old World style will find it at Rokusfalvy Etyek (which also has an excellent restaurant, called Rokusfalvy Fogado, near its tasting room).
