Few cities in Europe weave history, elegance, and warmth together quite like Budapest. With its wide boulevards, intricate architecture, and the Danube cutting gracefully through the middle, the city feels cinematic in every sense. Perhaps it’s no surprise then that Wes Anderson is said to have drawn inspiration from the Corinthia Hotel for his cult classic, The Grand Budapest Hotel. Walking through its grand hallways, you immediately understand why.
A First Impression of Grandeur
The Corinthia Hotel Budapest is a masterclass in how to balance old-world charm with modern luxury. Its exteriors are grand and historic, echoing the city’s rich architectural heritage, while its interiors strike a more contemporary note—clean, understated, and welcoming.
I stayed in a junior suite, and what struck me most wasn’t just the generous size (a rarity in Europe), but the thoughtful details that make the space feel indulgent without being fussy. The décor leaned toward the simple, but the showstopper for me was the walk-in closet—a little luxury that never fails to make you feel at home.
Details that Delight
The bathrooms carried the same quiet elegance, stocked with ESPA products—a signature across Corinthia properties. It’s the kind of touch that makes your morning routine feel like part of the wellness experience.
And then there were the bedtime chocolates. Every evening, a small plate of homemade chocolates with fruit fillings was left on the bedside table, accompanied by a note card explaining the health benefits of that night’s chosen fruit. A tiny gesture, but one that added an almost whimsical layer of care to the stay.
Mornings Done Right
Though the hotel offers breakfast in the lobby and access to the lounge, I opted for room service each day. Early mornings meant ease was key, and there was something special about starting the day with a tray of warm pastries and fresh coffee while looking out over the city.
One thing Hungary does exceptionally well? Homemade butter. Paired with flaky croissants from the pastry basket, it became my daily indulgence—simple, yet unforgettable.
Dining at Corinthia
Food at Corinthia is not just a service; it’s an experience. The hotel offers several restaurants and bars, each with its own personality:
- Sky Lounge: Perfect for a drink with sweeping views over the city.
- Rickshaw: Serving Asian flavors in an elegant, intimate setting.
- Caviar & Bull: The place to indulge. Don’t miss the beef tartare or their addictive homemade truffle butter.
- Bock Bistro: For a more relaxed, local dining experience.
It’s rare to find a hotel that excels across such varied culinary offerings, but Corinthia manages to do just that.
The Royal Spa Experience
Even if you aren’t a guest of the hotel, the Royal Spa is worth a visit. Once a Turkish hammam, it has been lovingly restored into a wellness sanctuary that feels steeped in history while offering modern luxury.
The 15-meter swimming pool is undeniably the highlight—ornate, atmospheric, and the kind of space you want to linger in for hours. Treatments use ESPA products, and during my stay I indulged in both a full-body massage and a foot massage. Both left me feeling completely reset, the perfect antidote to long days of sightseeing.
Location and Service
In a city where everything feels close yet sprawling, Corinthia’s central location is one of its biggest advantages. From here, it’s easy to explore both sides of the Danube without worrying about lengthy commutes.
But if there’s one element that truly sets the Corinthia apart, it’s the service. The staff are not just professional, but genuinely warm—helpful without being intrusive, and always ready with thoughtful suggestions. That sense of attentiveness turns a stay from pleasant into memorable.
Final Thoughts
With rooms starting at €300 per night, the Corinthia Hotel Budapest offers an experience that feels worth every cent. From its historic design to its thoughtful touches, from the world-class spa to its culinary highlights, it embodies everything a grand European hotel should be: elegant, welcoming, and unforgettable.
And while the whispers of Wes Anderson’s inspiration may add a layer of mystique, the truth is this hotel doesn’t need cinematic ties to feel magical. Its beauty and service stand on their own. Whether you’re visiting Budapest for its history, its architecture, or simply for a luxurious escape, the Corinthia is the kind of place that makes the city itself feel even more extraordinary.
