Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection ★★★★★

Awarded the Sleep-friendly Hotel Award in 2018, you don’t have to worry about sleepless nights at the Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection. Everything from ear plugs to satin eye masks and neck pillows are available so you can indulge in your best sleep yet. Water, coffee and fine chocolates in your room each day will have you feeling like a king or queen, as will the extravagance of your room in general, with a high tech multimedia system, temperature control, Molton Brown amenities and the list goes on.

I would while away some time in the stunning Music Garden, the glass-enclosed courtyard buzzing with musical compositions, where every evening guests enjoy a complimentary reception of exquisite cheeses and opulent wines. The Harmony Spa was a cosy treat, with its heated bubbly pool, aromatic steam room, and even aqua bikes for some gentle exercise.

The restaurant, as the name suggests, pays homage to Ferenc Liszt, one of the world’s greatest classical pianists, while the literal word for Liszt means flour, reflecting the delicious freshly baked bread that is prepared on the premises. I sipped away at my complimentary cocktail at the Sky Bar, said to be the city’s most loved rooftop, and with the sweeping views, its easy to see why.

At night, I crawled out to the eccentric ‘ruin bars’ of the Jewish Quarter, where shabby ruins and old synagogues line the street-art splashed lanes. Start at Szimpla Kert, where ruin bar hype began. And if music is your passion, the hotel’s musical director, Kornel Magyar will connect you to magical cultural experiences in the city throughout your stay, and even suggest the perfect soundtrack from the music library that you can enjoy in your room.

My short but sweet stay in the Hungarian capital was a rich, cultural experience, especially when staying in the heart of the city centre. What’s more is if you forget your toothbrush, hair straightener, or even makeup remover, just head to the front desk and the incredible staff will be ready to assist!