The DNA: For first-time visitors, Budapest will astound. It defines grand. All old-European splendour with its humbling monuments kept impeccably pristine. Bisected by the River Danube, Buda and Pest retain distinct essence – Pest its modern heart with the famously eclectic Jewish Quarter and its ‘ruin pubs’; Buda to the west, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Hungary with its staggering historical landmarks. Situated here on the west bank of the Danube – close to the neo-Romanesque Fisherman’s Bastion, the unforgettable Buda Castle and the Citadella atop Gellért Hill – is Baltazár; a contemporary boutique hotel with style to match its surrounds. A family-owned property with 11 rooms and suites, each with a feel of Buda’s grandeur coupled with a hint of Pest’s bohemian spirit.

Decorated with a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces, artwork throughout the hotel is inspired by pop culture icons such as Vivienne Westwood; Keith Haring; Andy Warhol; and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Bathrooms feature handcrafted local limestone, L’Occitane amenities and Hans Grohe rain showers, making for a fine sanctuary after a day treading the cobbled stones of the encircling historical area and its wealth of landmarks. 

Guests enter through a small reception area with a red banquette running the length of one wall, a bar along the other and a discreet check-in desk. Baltazár is a project that the term ’boutique’ was coined for; a place for guests to relax and disconnect, to truly feel at home. Be that in the bedroom, its charming public area over a coffee or glass of wine, or at the adjoining Baltazár Grill, where Josper-grilled meat and fish is served in a warm, friendly and understated space where that fusion of classic and contemporary styles spills over from the bedrooms.

Seen: WeHeart

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 11 rooms & suites (25-60m2) (269-646 sq ft) • bathroom amenities: L’Occitane • parking possible nearby (charged) • pets allowed • 24-hour front desk