Buckle up for a whirlwind tour of the Four Seasons Budapest Gresham Palace, not just any hotel, but one crowned the world’s best by Condé Nast. In this hotel review, I’ll dish out the scoop on what makes this Art Nouveau gem the crème de la crème of luxury stays.
Expect insider peeks at opulent rooms, first-class service, and dining that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. Let’s dive into the grand elegance of Budapest’s pride – no party shoes required.
The Four Seasons Budapest History
I’ll start with the obvious: its intricate design. The Gresham Palace is a true architectural marvel and a testimony to Budapest’s vibrant history. Built in 1906, this grandiose building was the brainchild of the British Gresham Life Assurance Company, symbolizing the pinnacle of elegance and wealth.
Originally built in 1906 as an emblem of elegance and opulence for the renowned British Gresham Life Assurance Company, this magnificent structure witnessed tumultuous times and remarkable transformations.
Art Nouveau
Through the ages, Gresham Palace has seen its share of highs and lows, standing tall amidst the city’s ever-changing tides. Its roots are deeply embedded in the Art Nouveau movement, with the design mastery of Hungarian architects Zsigmond Quittner and József Vágó adding to its allure.
Originally envisioned as a haven for the affluent, it offered plush apartments with top-tier comforts and breathtaking views of the Danube and Buda Castle. It’s not just a building; it’s a piece of living history, with every wall and window telling a story of luxury and resilience.
The Heart motif of the Four Seasons Budapest Hotel
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace holds a romantic secret at its core: the enchanting heart motif. This whimsical design element is more than just decor; it’s a love story, whispered through the halls of Gresham Palace.
Legend has it that the hearts were inspired by a passionate affair between Countess Irma Szechenyi and Sir Thomas Gresham, an English gentleman.
In a grand romantic gesture, Sir Thomas gifted Irma a heart-shaped pendant, a symbol of his love that left such a mark on her, she wished for these hearts to be woven into the very fabric of the palace built for Sir Thomas’ company.
Destruction & Reopening
Fast forward to WWII, and Budapest faced its darkest hours. The once-glorious Gresham Palace wasn’t spared, suffering extensive damage, especially during the harrowing Battle of Budapest.
But, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Four Seasons breathed new life into these historic walls. In 2004, a century after its initial glory, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace reopened, restored to its former splendor, ready to tell its heart-filled story to a new generation of visitors.
Budapest’s Beating Heart: My 5th District Retreat
Plotting my getaway to Europe’s crowned jewel, I zeroed in on Budapest’s 5th district—think ‘posh central’ with a side of historical charm.
Waltzing into the Four Seasons Budapest, it felt like stepping into a time capsule wrapped in luxury. This place isn’t just a stone’s throw from the must-sees—it’s a deep dive into the city’s soul.
Right outside, the Danube flows by, with the Széchenyi Chain Bridge straddling its banks like a sentinel of stories old. It stitches Buda to Pest, two halves of a city rich in whispers of yore.
Perched in my Gresham Palace window-nook, the view is nothing short of a live-action history book. Castle Hill, St. Stephen’s, and the Parliament Building stand tall, a panoramic tableau that’s just, well, ‘Wow!
Things to do around the Four Seasons Budapest
Within walking distance of the Gresham Palace Budapest, you can explore numerous attractions and activities. You can stroll along the Danube Promenade and enjoy picturesque views of the Danube River and the iconic Chain Bridge.
Visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, one of Budapest’s most magnificent landmarks. Explore the historic Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion for a taste of medieval architecture and breathtaking panoramas.
Take a leisurely walk to St. Stephen’s Basilica, an impressive neo-classical church housing religious artifacts and a panoramic deck with city views.
Lastly, indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment at Vörösmarty Square and the famous Váci Street.
Opera House
The Gresham Palace Budapest is approximately 1.5 kilometers (about 0.9 miles) from the Hungarian State Opera House. It took me 15 minutes to walk to visit the opera in heels. Both the opera and the hotel are situated in the central area of Budapest. Bonus points for easy walking!
Spa & Treatment Rooms
If you know and love the Hungarian Skincare brand Omorovicza, you are in for a treat! The Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace offer full body treatments using the brands signature Hungarian Moor Mud – delightful!
Another big win for me is Eminence. I’ve been obsessed with their fresh face masks for years, so I couldn’t get over myself when I found out they actually offer an Eminence Stone Crop Signature Body Treatment at the hotel.
Besides their incredible treatments, the hotel has a fitness centre, spa and indoor swimming pool.
Dining at the Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace
As is usually the case in Budapest, the hotel hosts a great abundance of world class culinary experiences. Food is a central focus for the hotel, with more than enough choices to keep you from leaving the hotel!
Yes, there are incredible restaurants and bars outside of the hotel, but if you fancy a night in, here are my top choices within the hotel.
Kollázs: My top choice for fine dining in the hotel. I’m not over exaggerating when I say the French toast was one of the best desserts I have ever had.
Muzsa: A great afternoon tea or dinner option, accompanied by live music. The cocktails are delicious, too. If you get the chance, try “the Mauve”. Finger Licking Good is an understatement.
In-room dining: Imagine a top notch breakfast in bed overlooking the river front. From fresh green juices to cottage cheese Hungarian crepes, everything we tried was absolutely delicious.
Guest Room details
Guest rooms range from deluxe rooms to riverfront suites, with sweeping views of the Danube River. I stayed in the Danube- river view room, which I would recommend for couples in search of something extra special. We also got the opportunity to enjoy the Royal suite that overlooks The Danube, the Chain Bridge, the Buda Hills, the Royal Castle, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. If you want to see the hotel in video, click HERE.
How many rooms does the Four Seasons Budapest have?
With 160 exquisite rooms and 19 suites spread over five floors, this hotel promises an unrivaled stay in Hungary’s capital. Each room offers an enchanting view of the city’s historic charm, blending timeless elegance with modern amenities to ensure your visit is nothing short of spectacular.
BOOK HERE | The Four Seasons Budapest Hotel Gresham Palace
Is it worth staying at Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace?
Staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace is an experience like no other. Between you and I, it’s the best hotel I have ever stayed at period. From unparalleled service to exquisite amenities and deliciously prepared meals, every detail of your stay ensures a luxurious retreat.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation in Hungary’s capital city, this timeless hotel provides comfortable accommodations that embody both modern sophistication and European charm.
With its convenient location, attentive staff, and iconic architecture, the Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace is one destination you won’t want to miss out on.
In my blog post Best Place to Stay in Budapest, Hungary: The Ultimate Hotel Guide, I list all of the best hotels per district and area.
Contact the Four Seasons Budapest here: Four Seasons Budapest email
Disclaimer: I stayed at this property as a guest of the Four Seasons Hotel Budapest Gresham Palace. All opinions and photos are my own and I truly cannot recommend this hotel enough! Thus far, this is my favorite hotel stay in Budapest, and Europe in general!
Are you planning a trip to Budapest? Make sure you check out these guides:
A Guide to Szechenyi Baths in Budapest, Hungary
St. Stephen’s Basilica: a must-visit in Budapest
Visiting World’s Most Beautiful Cafe, New York Café Budapest
Exploring the Ervin Szabo Library in Budapest
Best Things To Do in Budapest, Hungary
Budapest Fisherman’s Bastion: In-dept Guide
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