Recently updated on March 23rd, 2026 at 07:36 am
Budapest swept me off my feet.
Last week, together with my hubby, I spent a whirlwind few days in Budapest, the dazzling capital of Hungary.
And although history was my favorite subject in school, I have to admit I didn’t actually realize that Budapest is divided into two distinct sides — Buda and Pest — each with its own unique character, atmosphere, and charm.
Where We Stayed
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest
This Art Nouveau icon completely stole my heart. The indoor pool is stunning, a perfect place to start your days with laps or recharge after exploring.
But the real must? A Danube River View room or suite. Waking up to the river (and that view of Buda Castle) is something I’ll never forget. Trust me, it’s worth it.
A Sunset I’ll Never Forget
Our absolute highlight was a private sunset Venetian speedboat tour arranged by the incredible Four Seasons concierge.
Glass of bubbly in hand, wind in our hair, cruising along the Danube as the sky turned gold….. it was breathtaking.
The captain even adjusted the route — starting at the “end” — so we would reach the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building just as the sun dipped and the lights began to sparkle. Seeing it glow against the darkening sky from the water? Pure magic.
Matild, A Luxury Collection Hotel
Matild is stunning, glamorous, and unapologetically dramatic. One of my favorite moments? The complimentary Secrets of Mixology experience at the rooftop bar, The Duchess — such a fun and unexpected touch.
It turned out to be a relaxed introduction to Hungarian wines and spirits, mostly tasting and sipping (no shaking or stirring required!), while casually socialising with the other couples beside us.
The building itself is a masterpiece, and you truly feel part of Budapest’s storied past while wrapped in modern luxury.
Site Visits & Opera Dreams
We also toured:
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Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – architectural drama at its finest.
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W Budapest – perfectly located right across from the iconic Hungarian State Opera House.
At W, I loved the bold design and especially the Black Swan Penthouse Suite (we toured this one!). There’s also the White Swan Penthouse Suite, similar but in white.
The first thing you see upon entering the Black Swan Penthouse Suite at W Budapest is the striking in-suite bar — and what an entrance it makes. Bold, beautifully designed, and perfectly positioned as the heart of the space, it immediately sets the tone for the suite: glamorous, social, and just a little bit theatrical.
I remember looking at my husband and saying, “We need a bar like this in our living room.” It’s that kind of statement piece — not just functional, but a true design moment that invites you to pour a drink, sit down, and stay awhile.
For opera lovers, their Night at the Opera Offer is such a dream:
Night at the Opera Offer at W Budapest
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Entrance tickets with a private box for two
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A guided tour of the Opera House before the performance
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A welcome amenity waiting in your room
If you adore culture with a touch of glam, this is it.
Exploring Buda
We took the funicular up to Buda Castle, and the views were simply incredible. The architecture, the sweeping panorama over the Danube. Budapest truly knows how to impress.
A Few Honest Notes
Shopping isn’t quite on par with Prague or other European capitals. Expect plenty of chimney cake shops, souvenir shops, and Thai massage salons. This was a quick visit focused primarily on hotel experiences, so we may have missed a few shopping streets.
But here’s the thing: Budapest deserves time.
Next Visit
Next visit? At least three nights, ideally in spring or September, when the weather is warm enough to linger by the river, explore slowly, and soak in more of the café culture.
When we return — and we absolutely will — I already have a little list. Oh, and The St. Regis Budapest will be open by then, and maybe Mandarin Oriental as well.
- First stop: The Duchess Rooftop at Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, this time properly outdoors. In February, we enjoyed it from inside because of the winter weather, but I can only imagine how magical the terrace must feel on a warm spring or September evening, cocktail in hand, overlooking the city lights.
- I’d also love to linger on the terrace at W Budapest, such a chic setting, especially with the Opera House just across the street. It’s the kind of spot where you dress up a little and stay longer than planned.
- And next time, I’m timing our visit for the first Thursday of the month at the MÚZSA bar at Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace. Their elegant bar transforms into a stage for an unforgettable ballet evening. Artemisz, MÚZSA’s celebrated ballerina, takes centre stage, accompanied by the mesmerizing violin melodies of Rewod.
Bookings
If you’re dreaming of Budapest, as part of our STARS of Marriott, Hyatt Privé, and Four Seasons Preferred Partner programs, we’re able to offer exclusive perks like daily breakfast, hotel credits, VIP status, and more at these beautiful properties.
Ilonka Molijn – van Ginkel
Creator & Founder of Sophibee
Luxury Travel Advisor Sophibee & 360 Private Travel
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