Anantara New York Palace Budapest

If what you’re looking for is Hungarian opulence, this is the hotel for you. Everything about New York Palace drips with 19th-century luxury, from the beautiful exterior to the intricate gilded decoration of the New York Cafe. However, touches of modernity keep the hotel grounded in the present day, as can be seen in the bright and airy central courtyard.

All the rooms feature this striking blend of old and new, with antique-style furniture offset by playfully contemporary design touches. Most rooms are very spacious and all are supremely comfortable, with great beds and beautiful marble bathrooms.

A highlight of the hotel is the New York Cafe, a decadent example of Belle Epoque decoration that has been called “the most beautiful cafe in the world”. Both the hotel bar and the breakfast room offer similarly grand surroundings, and the breakfast itself is incredible.

There is a beautiful sauna and indoor pool, with a small and basic gym attached.

The gay-friendly hotel is located in District VII, the heart of Budapest’s legendary nightlife. Simpla Kert, one of the city’s most famous “ruin bars”, is less than 10 minutes away from the hotel, as are many other great venues. If you’re looking for something more hardcore, Hungary’s largest cruise bar, Coxx, is just a five-minute walk from your hotel room.