Brody House Apartments

Often dubbed the Paris of the East, Budapest definitely gives its rival a run for its money. It is filled to the brim with architectural splendour, wide boulevards, and elaborate bridges that connect the two sides of the city – Buda and Pest. Although it is often likened to other European cities, Budapest boasts a decidedly unique identity. Its prosperous past inherited from the Austro-Hungarian era, its vibrant culture, and its explosive mix of contemporary culture and age-old history give it a flair like no other place, plus there is the legendary thermal baths tradition which adds a heavy dose of luxury to the equation.

For an unforgettable stay, I checked into the Brody House Apartments in the centre of the city. Nestled away in Pest, the liveliest side of the city with its ruin bars, design cafes, and nouveau restaurants, the apartments are just a stone’s throw from many of Budapest’s main attractions and monuments, including the ornate Opera House and the famous Andrassy Avenue.

Like Budapest itself, the Brody House Apartments have their own unique personality. With six fully-equipped apartments, they are the perfect place to base yourself whether you’re a business traveller, a history-seeker, or simply on holiday with the family.

Inside, the décor is a mix of textured materials, high-tech design, and bold colours. White walls rub carefree shoulders with abstract furniture and shabby chic knickknacks, whilst pared back wooden floors span the entire apartment. The eye-catching combination of old and new reflects the ambiance of Budapest, bringing together its colourful past with its modern-day standing. Then there’s the worldly influence, which showcases Budapest’s multicultural side; Asian-inspired headboards hang over Egyptian cotton beds, feature walls and desks resemble Warhol comics, and heavyset shelving units are piled high with rustic, old suitcases.

Back on the streets there is lots to explore. Nearby, the hill of Buda looms over the city, accessed by a funicular that opens up incredible views of the Danube. Fisherman’s Bastion can also be found perched on top of this hill, rising up like a laced fortress from a fairytale. For food lovers, there’s the Grand Central Market, set inside a magnificent hall designed by Gustave Eiffel at the turn of the 20th Century. Here, you can pick up some flavourful delights, including foie gras, dried mushrooms, truffles, and a selection of wines, which can be enjoyed in the luxurious confines of the Brody House apartment kitchens.

After lunch, wander through the halls of the Museum of Fine Arts, or kick back and relax in the Szechenyi thermal baths (somewhere I spent a considerable amount of my trip!).

Budapest is a cultural gem, still rugged around the edges, but with a shiny personality hidden away beneath every layer. As well as providing a colourful haven in the middle of the city, the Brody House Apartments also offer guests an exhibitions pass for museums and arty events. It places heavy emphasis on the creative side of the city, supporting local artists and giving them a platform to showcase their work – perfect for a culture lover like myself, and perfect for blending in with the local, creative life.