Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest: Where History, Luxury & Riverfront Beauty Meet
Curated By
Rosalind Ng
Curator’s statement
Four Seasons Gresham Palace is one of those hotels that takes your breath away the moment you arrive. Set right at the edge of the Danube River with postcard-perfect views of the Chain Bridge and Buda Castle, it blends historic charm with modern, relaxed luxury in the best possible way. I felt instantly at home here—thanks to the warm service, incredible location, and thoughtful touches that made my stay feel special from beginning to end. This is a place where Budapest truly comes alive just steps from your door.
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View of hotel from inside halls
Four Seasons Gresham Palace is more than a hotel—it’s a piece of Budapest’s history. Sitting inside a 120-year-old art-nouveau palace, the building has lived many lives: a public library, a once-abandoned structure after WWII damage, and now, after a six-year restoration, one of the most iconic hotels in Europe. It proudly reopened as the city’s first luxury hotel in 2004 and remains Budapest’s only Forbes 5-Star property, as well as a recent addition to the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List (2024). The moment you walk in, the soaring glass ceilings, mosaic tiles, and handcrafted details remind you that you’re staying somewhere truly special.
Main lobby
But what makes Gresham Palace unforgettable—beyond its beauty—is the location. It’s perfectly set in District V, the heart of Budapest’s dining and cultural scene. You’re right at the foot of the Chain Bridge, with sweeping views of the Danube River and Buda Castle. You can walk to almost everything: the Parliament building, Vörösmarty Square, St. Stephen’s Basilica, bustling cafés, high-end shops, and the riverside promenade. If you want a hotel where you can step outside and instantly feel connected to the city, this is the one. Truly, location is everything here, and Four Seasons Gresham Palace couldn’t be in a better spot.
View from room
My stay felt incredibly memorable from the moment I checked in. For my two-night visit, I received a double upgrade—one through Virtuoso and another in celebration of my anniversary—and was welcomed into a beautiful Danube River View Room on the 4th floor. Imagine waking up every morning to glittering water, the Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle—it’s magical. The team surprised us with rose petals arranged in heart shapes on the bed and a sweet dessert treat. It was thoughtful, romantic, and such a warm way to begin our trip.
Danube River View Room with King Bed
The hotel has 179 rooms and 19 suites, with several facing the river (which I highly recommend requesting). Because the building is a protected heritage site, it has unique layouts and character-rich details. There is only one fully accessible room, located on the entry level, so travelers who need accessibility should book early. Bathrooms are stocked with luxe Diptyque amenities, adding an elevated, relaxing touch to every stay.
Presidential Suite
Dining is another highlight here. Kollázs Brasserie, included in the Michelin Guide, serves refined French cuisine and an excellent breakfast where you can enjoy both the buffet and menu items—a perk included with Virtuoso benefits. I loved tasting some of the traditional Hungarian breakfast dishes. And for drinks, Múzsa Bar is a must-visit. Their cocktail program blends Asian and Hungarian influences, creating some truly unique flavors and presentations. It’s atmospheric, stylish, and perfect for pre-dinner or late-night drinks.
Muzsa Bar
Kollazs Brasserie & Bar
The spa is where you go to truly unwind. Their menu focuses on restorative treatments designed to melt away tension and hydrate the skin—exactly what long-haul travelers need. I tried the “Touch of the Earth” two-hour body treatment, and it was absolutely incredible. My skin felt soft and glowing, and the massage portion released all the stiffness from the flight. I genuinely recommend this treatment for anyone arriving from overseas or starting their trip in Budapest—it makes such a difference.
Danube River Room bathroom
Need to know
You can’t beat this location: Step outside and you’re right by the Chain Bridge with postcard views of the Danube and Buda Castle. Walking to the city’s best attractions, cafés, and restaurants is incredibly easy from here.
River-view rooms are worth it: If you can, request a Danube-facing room. Waking up to the bridge and castle views adds something magical to the stay.
Amazing for food lovers: Breakfast at Kollázs Brasserie is included with Virtuoso benefits and lets you choose both buffet and à-la carte dishes. And don’t skip Múzsa Bar—the cocktails are some of the best in Budapest.
The spa is perfect after long flights: Their signature treatments are especially helpful for jet lag, dry skin, and travel fatigue. Book the “Touch of the Earth” if you want deep relaxation.
Heritage building charm: Since this is a protected historical palace, rooms have unique layouts—something many guests love, but definitely worth noting.
Accessibility is limited: There is only one fully accessible room due to the building’s protected design, so plan ahead if needed.
Personal touches go a long way: If you’re celebrating something special, let the hotel know—they’re wonderful at making moments feel unforgettable.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Budapest page.