Bold and beautiful are the two words that come to mind when I think back to my stay at Budapest’s Boscolo Hotel. This epic establishment stands tall in the centre of the Hungarian capital, moments away from all the main attractions and sites. The building glows majestically, a historic palace of luxury and indulgence.
Any visitor will first be struck by Boscolo’s grand exterior, but inside the grandeur continues with impressive marble and bronze decor. There is a vintage elegance about the hotel which embodies the soul and prestige of Budapest. Known particularly for the amazing New York Cafe, once called the ‘most wonderful café in the world’, it is a work of art now restored to its former glory. The building originally belonged to the wealthy New York Life Insurance Company. Back then the downstairs cafe was a popular hangout for Budapest’s literati and young starlets; playwrights and actors enjoyed using the space as a work and play cafe, even threatening to throw away the keys so the place would always remain open. We ate breakfast in the cafe and I cannot deny its allure, it is a stunning hall and a real asset to the hotel.
We were situated on the fourth floor in a spectacular junior suite. With enough room and facilities to provide every comfort, we were tempted not to leave the room all weekend. The sub-zero temperatures outside feel like a distant memory when you step back inside this palace. Our room, better described as an apartment, was decorated in muted beiges and creams, a relaxed but luxurious environment. The materials were all soft and indulgent, big proper curtains draping the windows and a plush sofa against one wall. There was plenty of space for hanging gowns and shirts in the cupboards and a professional desk available for those needing it. I was delighted to spot the Nespresso machine which I used frequently, and room service efficiently zoomed upstairs with hot frothy milk for my morning cappuccino. Thanks to the huge heavy curtains and super soft bed, it was easy to get a good night’s kip, not so easy however to get up.
The bathroom was an exquisite parlour of prettiness. I spent a great deal of time soaking in the jacuzzi sized bath, preening in the expansive mirrors and refreshing in the giant power shower. My only slight quibble: the towels weren’t very soft, and after such an enjoyable soak, a soft robe to wrap myself in would have been ideal. Toiletries at Boscolo come from the fashionable Etro brand, cute little bottles of every possible soap and scrub, and I was particularly grateful for the relaxing bath salts included in the range.
We couldn’t have dreamed of a more marvellous place to stay, the Boscolo offers the very best accommodation in Budapest, practically perfect in every way.
More information and book here.