FAULT Travel: Aria Hotel Budapest Review

Tuesday 22nd February 2022

FAULT Magazine review Aria Hotel Budapest

(First printed in FAULT Magazine issue 31)

Words: Matthew Neale

A themed Hotel that is sophisticated, comfortable and not at all a gimmick? Sounds un- likely right? Well- we can now confidently confirm – they do exist! and Aria Hotel Budapest is a testimony to how a well-executed theme can really hit the right high notes. The Aria Hotel Budapest, a lavish 5-star hotel and spa, found in the heart of Pest, rubbing shoulders with the historic St Stephen’s Basilica and a stone’s throw away from the Danube. The theme of the Hotel and Spa? You may have guessed from the name, but if that wasn’t obvious enough, the not-so-subtle piano walkway that sweeps across the grand lobby should give you a sense of the tribute to music this hotel is. The 49 guest bedrooms that make up this hotel, are categorised into four different themed hotel wings- Jazz, contemporary, Opera and Classical. Aria Hotel Budapest has gone one step further and made each room a dedicated, shrine to an artist of that genre. We were lucky enough to stay in The Billie Holiday room. Greeted by her soulful sounds as we entered the extrava- gant room.

On arrival, there was a large platter of fresh fruit along with a roaring fire, courtesy of the Large -all the bells and whistles- tv. The room was truly magnificent, with bold colour choices and silver accents. The bathroom, however, acts as a perfect counterpoint to the extravagant bedroom, with its clean lines, marble tiles, cavernous size and all it’s up to date bathroom technology, which included heavenly underfloor heating . Not only are the rooms musically themed, but so are the hotel’s bars and restaurants, the relaxing swimming pool and even the luxury spa treatments which are centred and inspired around music. I must stress, however, that this theme never feels too loud, it always seems to stay in tune (okay, enough with the musical puns).

The rooms look out into the beautiful sun flooded atrium, which is where the hotel’s excellent free breakfast buffet is hosted along with a daily com- plimentary wine and cheese buffet in the afternoon.

An opulent experience offered by the hotel, where guests can sit back and relax after a morning of walking around the beautiful city. Enjoy a nice glass of wine, whilst being serenaded to by the live music played on an extraterrestrial piano designed by the pianist Gergely Bogányi, definitely a Lady Gaga style statement piece. The masterpiece of this hotel (and perhaps the least musical in tone), is the rooftop. The Skybar, located on the rooftop, has 360-degree views of Budapest. Truly breathtaking. Enjoy a well-crafted cocktail on the highest point of the rooftop, shaded directly by the spire of St Stephen’s Basilica. At night, watch out over the city to see all the t winkling lights, but be careful, the views at night are dangerously romantic. Definitely not for the cynical and faint-hearted. Staying at The Aria Hotel and Spa really is a unique experience.

A themed hotel to many is a scary prospect, how- ever, the eye for detail and deep understanding oftheir guest’s needs, is what makes this Hotel. The musical theme that runs throughout becomes secondary to the wonderful hospitality.

The Aria Hotel is a must experience destination, per- fect for a special occasion or to treat someone you love. we guarantee that you’ll have a memorable ex- perience and come away singing (sorry- I couldn’t resist). For more infomation and bookings, please visit