Radisson Blu Beke Hotel, Budapest

Built in 1913, the property houses a modern hotel in a historic shell -- resulting in a mix of styles. There are some original features, such as the beautiful stained-glass windows and frescoes created by Hungarian artist Jeno Haranghy. And gold pillars and a huge glass dome dominate the lobby. But the hallways are dull and dated, with pre-fab ceilings and clunky leather couches, as are the restaurant and bar, with their old-fashioned furniture. Tourists and business travelers make up most of the clientele here.

The Radisson Blu Beke is located between Oktogon and Nyugati Palyaudvar metro stations -- both are within a five-minute walk. There are lots of restaurants near the hotel, and a Costa Coffee and Starbucks are next door. Many of Budapest’s top sights are within walking distance -- Kossuth Lajos Square and the Parliament building are a 15-minute walk away, as is the Museum of Ethnography. For shopping, the large West End City Center mall is within a 10-minute walk, and the pretty gardens of Szabadsag Ter are within a 15-minute walk. For evening entertainment, the Comedy Theater and the Budapest Jazz Club are within a 10- to 15-minute walk. 

The guest rooms are spacious but have a uniform “chain” look that feels dated. Royal-blue carpets and neutral walls with white trim provide the backdrop for standard laminate furniture. Beige-and-white tile bathrooms are utilitarian and dated, with shower/tub combos and basic toiletries.  All rooms have air-conditioning, minibars, laptop-size safes, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Higher-end rooms have Nespresso machines, and Suites have separate bedrooms and sitting areas. Be aware that some rooms get street noise, and it might be best to ask for a room that doesn't face the street when booking.

The Radisson's restaurant serves Hungarian and Mediterranean specialties and offers live music in the evenings. By contrast, the bar/cafe is a more casual spot where guests can sample a slice of Gundel cake. A full buffet breakfast -- not included in all room rates -- offers plenty of choice, but there's often a queue at the egg and omelet station. The indoor pool, spa, treatment rooms, thermal-water therapies, and a sauna give plenty of spots to unwind and soak or sweat out the day's stresses. Although there is no fitness center, there are two exercise bikes parked by the pool area. Guests can also rent bikes to pedal around outside (for a fee). The hotel has free Wi-Fi throughout, and a meeting room and conference space for up to 250 people. On-site parking is available for a daily fee.