Kimpton debuts its first hotel in the heart of Budapest
- Kaitlyn Nicholas
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
Kimpton BEM Budapest has officially debuted as the brand’s first boutique luxury hotel in Hungary, marking a new chapter for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Central Europe. Set within a restored 19th-century mansion on the Buda side (west) of the Danube River, the 127-room property opens with interiors by Dutch designer Marcel Wanders and a collection of culinary, cultural, and wellness experiences.
Located near the UNESCO-listed Castle District, the hotel provides close access to landmarks such as the Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and Chain Bridge, alongside the city’s celebrated Turkish baths. Its design draws inspiration from Hungarian folklore and mythology, weaving in motifs like poppies, tulips, and the legendary fairy tale of the Golden Stag and Turul Bird. Wanders’ signature imaginative approach is seen in details such as upside-down egg-shaped reception desks, a glass atrium with a central Golden Stag, and an eclectic mix of global collectibles.
Among the accommodations are 11 suites, highlighted by the Cosmos and Observatory Suites, which can be adjoined to create a 120-square-meter residence with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, dining area, and kitchenette. The Observatory Suite also connects to an 82-square-meter furnished rooftop terrace designed for stargazing and private gatherings.
Dining is led by three distinct venues. AGOS, the signature restaurant under Executive Chef Attila Feher, offers Mediterranean cuisine infused with Hungarian flair, with dishes such as smoky tuna carpaccio with grilled strawberry and venison wellington with mushroom duxelles and juniper glaze. Fennen, the rooftop garden bar, creates an intimate escape with aged rum, Japanese whiskey, and Cuban cigars set against panoramic views. At street level, Bar Huso takes inspiration from the Danube’s beluga sturgeon, presenting Hungarian wines, inventive cocktails, and weekend DJ sets in a convivial atmosphere.
The hotel also introduces a range of event venues, from the Turul Chamber and Golden Stag Corner to the grand BEM Ballroom, accommodating up to 120 guests. A wellness area features a 24/7 fitness center, hot tub, and steam room, while Kimpton brand signatures such as complimentary yoga mats, loaner bicycles, and pet-friendly amenities extend the experience.
Kimpton BEM Budapest joins the brand’s growing European portfolio, which includes Kimpton Fitzroy London, Kimpton Vividora Barcelona, and Kimpton St. Honoré Paris, underscoring the continued expansion of Kimpton’s boutique luxury presence across the continent.
