by Angela Fairhurst
Budapest is the capital and most populous city in Hungary. Known as the “Pearl of the Danube” it has many iconic sites – the 19th century Chain bridge, Buda Castle, Hungarian Parliament, Heroes Square and Széchenyi Thermal Baths.
One hotel typifying the dignity and culture of the city is the historic Corinthia Hotel Budapest. Originally built for visitors to the 1896 Millennium Exhibition, the house was known as the Grand Hotel Royal became a hub for the elite of 19th century society.
The hotel has undergone extensive modifications throughout the 20th century and was restored and reopened in the 21st century as the Corinthia. Rumor has it that the Corinthia Budapest was one of the hotels Wes Anderson used as inspiration for his 2014 film Hotel Budapest.
Located in the heart of the city, near metro and tram stops, the hotel remains the epitome of glamour and romance, retaining the grandiose historical features such at the sweeping staircase and the stunning six-story atrium.
There are 438 well-appointed guest rooms and suites in the 6-floor structure, plus 26 serviced apartments.
The hotel has four restaurants, 1 bar and 1 music club including Rickshaw, Brasserie and Atrium serving international and Hungarian dishes, Bock Bistro for Hungarian-inspired dishes fused with Spanish tapas, and Caviar & Bull from celebrity chef Marvi Gauci serving Maltese cuisine.
Executive Club access has its privileges, with a comfortable space on the second floor to relax, look out the street facing windows and enjoy breakfast and cocktail hour.
The original Royal Spa was given an extensive facelift and comes complete with a dedicated fitness room, saunas, steam bath and Jacuzzi, relaxation areas, a 15-meter indoor heated swimming pool, and an extensive menu of ESPA treatments.
