It’s not uncommon to see folks staring up at the remarkable chandelier at the Four Seasons Budapest, but it is uncommon to have passersby on the street come in just to grab an iPhone shot of this remarkable centerpiece. Gresham Palace is that kind of place — a historic property with a reputation that precedes it, for good reason.

© Four Seasons Budapest

Built in 1906 as apartments, the Art Deco gem was restored to pay homage to its history along with modern touches. The fairy tale-like exterior hugging the banks of the Pest side of the river features a breathtaking, soaring, glass and wrought iron birdcage ceiling in the lobby; colorful stained glass and mosaic tiles; and rotating local art and flower arrangements reminiscent of a refined Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory for adults.

It’s easy to get a sweet treat at Kollázs, where a pastry case and coffee bar portend just a hint at the delights inside. The casual brasserie and bar offer great views of the Chain Bridge, in addition to a daily breakfast spread with Hungarian specialty pastries, fresh fruits and honeys, a cheese plate and charcuterie — and even more on the weekends with poached eggs, pancakes and real maple syrup. The spread is matched only by the excellent service, and wait staff pride themselves on not only remembering whether you take your coffee black or prefer cappuccino, but also on delivering it with the most sincere pleasantries.

The same goes for the front desk, where hospitality professionals like Laszlo will not only check you in but let you know about all of the hotel’s goings-on — and he should know, having been there for more than a decade. The former Four Seasons bartender will cheerfully recommend his Hungarian version of an espresso martini and caipirinha before showing you to your room.

The guestrooms offer a delightfully light-filled and spacious oasis featuring a full marble bathroom, dark wood, cream tones and tasteful Art Deco flourishes like diamond-framed mirrors that reflect delicate patterned wall borders and clever light fixtures. When the building was constructed 110 years ago, it would have been hard to imagine all the modern conveniences that now await, including speedy WiFi and convenient outlets for 110 and 220 voltage, perfect for the international or business traveler.

No matter what the reason for your visit, the spa showers, hot tub and more are worth checking out upstairs. Grab a cup of coffee, herbal tea, fruit and a lounge chair alongside the lap pool and gaze out at the skyline, or hit up the sauna and work up a sweat. You’ll be ready for a restful night’s sleep on one of the just-right beds, or to go out and enjoy Budapest’s nightlife until all hours of the morning.

Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

Széchenyi István tér 5, 1051 Budapest, Hungary
tel 36 1 268 6000