National Geographic Traveller published its latest edition of the 'European Cities Collection', which includes a list of the 50 best hotels and resorts in Europe. Two Hungarian hotels were ranked among the crème the la crème; the Baltazár Boutique Hotel and the Bagatelle Gardenhouse.
Baltazár Boutique Hotel
Baltazár is located in the historical centre of Budapest, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Castle District. That means that culture and history surround it; prestigious museums (such as the Hungarian National Gallery) and famous landmarks (such as the Fisherman's Bastion or the Matthias Church) are at arm's length. The hotel offers 11 uniquely designed rooms and suites, a casual yet luxurious atmosphere and a romantic, cobblestoned terrace.
The hotel is also a grill restaurant and wine bar. Its restaurant Baltazár Grill, also recommended in the Michelin Guide, serves gourmet street food, sharing plates and dishes fresh from the charcoal grill. It also offers an extensive wine selection from the Carpathian Basin.
Bagatelle Gardenhouse
The other hotel on the list is the Bagatelle Gardenhouse, nestled in the hills of Budapest's 12th district. If you have ever been to Villa Bagatelle, one of our favourite breakfast spots, you only need to go next door to find it. After half a decade of neglect, the same owners gave the building a second life as a hotel. It is now full of charm, elegance, and a home-away-from-home feel. It offers 6 gorgeous rooms, all accessorised with handpicked ceramics, artwork, design furniture and the owners' personal touch. However, design and art are coupled with a sustainable approach. The cherry on top is that the breakfast comes from the neighbouring Villa Bagatelle.