Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites

In Erzsebetvaros's up-and-coming, but still mostly residential, district, Bo33 Hotel Family & Suites is a modern property that opened in 2015. The design is fresh and streamlined, catering largely to tourist couples who prefer the removed location for its lower rates. The open lobby has a reception desk that doubles as a bar, club chairs and sofas next to a free coffee station, and a glass-walled play area for kids. Off the lobby is a breakfast space with monochrome dining sets, and a wall of windows that overlook an outdoor terrace. A small top-floor wellness area is a welcome addition, though guests generally spend their days off-site. The hotel is quiet and relaxed, offering a peaceful alternative to downtown properties.

The hotel benefits from the peace and quiet of its residential location, set in the Erzsebetvaros neighborhood that was formerly Pest's Jewish Quarter. Trams and buses run from the Wesselenyi utca / Erzsebet korut station, a five-minute walk away, and the 74 trolley bus from Almassy (a three-minute walk) takes 20 minutes to reach the Thermal Baths. Nearby metro stations include Blaha Lujza (an eight-minute walk) and Vorosmarty utca (a 12-minute walk) and journeys by bus or metro take 20 to 30 minutes to reach Buda Castle, Heroes' Square, the State Opera House, and Chain Bridge. It's about a 30-minute walk to the river. Arena Plaza shopping mall is a 20-minute walk or bus ride, while Andrassy Avenue and the bars and restaurants of Kiraly Street are a 10-minute walk. Closer are New York Cafe and Gong Cafe 2, just a five-minute walk from the hotel. A Spar supermarket is just as close. Budapest Airport is a half-hour drive or an hour via public transport.

Contemporary, air-conditioned rooms are large and well-equipped, if lacking in character. Blond-wood furnishings, circle-print carpets, striped satin-effect bedspreads in brown hues, and brown-leather headboards are a bit dull. However, red or purple tufted armchairs, fake orchid plants, and pieces of artwork add some personality. Amenities are excellent, consisting of desks, Nespresso machines with free daily replaced pods , kettles, minibars, USB charging points, and flat-screen TVs. Wardrobes with safes and free Wi-Fi are also provided. Deluxe Rooms and above add furnished balconies overlooking surrounding buildings, iPod docks, bathrobes and slippers, and DVD players. Executive Rooms have two-person tables and kitchenettes with full ovens, electric burners, and mini-fridges. Bright white-tiled bathrooms have curved shower/tub combos in lower-category rooms and walk-in rainfall showers in upgraded units. Hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, and quality toiletries are supplied.

All rates include a popular buffet breakfast with Champagne, cooked eggs, bacon and sausages, and a beloved chocolate fountain. Cold items include smoked salmon, meat and cheese platters, and salads, alongside cereals, fresh-baked breads and pastries, and fruit. The 24-hour Lobby Bar has free coffee, lemonade, and pastries, and sells snacks and beverages. Guests also receive a free welcome drink on arrival. The top-floor spa is small but a lovely addition for a hotel of this pearl rating, outfitted with saunas, hot tub, and massage treatment room. A tiny gym has just a handful of machines, and an outdoor terrace with pleasant city views has a few loungers. A meeting room has a 40-person capacity, and a kids' play space in the lobby has a PlayStation, TV, and computer. Underground parking is available for a fee, and the hotel can organize car and bicycle rentals. Wi-Fi is free throughout.