Best Hotel Bets in Budapest

Best Splurge Hotel: The magnificent Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, V. Roosevelt tér 5-6 (tel. 1/268-6000), has gained the reputation as Hungary's foremost hotel. The workmanship of the recreated Art Nouveau architecture is breathtaking. Guests get the royal treatment, with customer care that will enamor you for a long time.

Best for a Romantic Getaway: After entering the Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal, VII. Erzsébet krt. 43-49 (tel. 1/479-4000), you will not want to leave the sumptuous building and there's no need to do so with its pool, spa, and restaurants.

Best for Families: The accommodations at Charles Apartment House, I. Hegyalja út 23 (tel. 1/212-9169), are comfortable and clean flats with fully equipped kitchens in a Buda-side apartment building.

Best Moderately Priced Hotel: The jazzy Cotton House Hotel, VI. Jókai u. 26 (tel. 1/354-2600), conveniently located near the Opera House and Liszt Ferenc tér, will soothe the blues away.

Best Budget Hotel: The accommodations at Medosz, VI. Jókai tér 9 (tel. 1/374-3001) are comfortable and clean and close to Oktogon and Liszt Ferenc tér.

Best Bed and Breakfast: Without humility, I have to say it is my own BudaBaB, VII. Akácfa u. 18 (tel. 1/267-5240), where English is the first language, and which is perfectly located to start your touring or shopping expeditions within easy walking distance of public transportation just two blocks away.