Aria Hotel Budapest

“Without music, life would be a mistake.” ― Friedrich Nietzsche

Located in the heart of Budapest on the Pest side of the Danube River, every detail of the Aria Hotel is rooted in music.  It’s evident the moment you walk in the door. True, Dorothy was told that following the yellow brick road was the way to go. But while staying in the exquisitely designed Aria Hotel, following the piano keys as they wind their way across the lobby floor is the way to go. The keys lead to an exceptional Bogányi piano. It’s one of only three in the world designed by Hungarian pianist Gergely Bogányi and it’s the main attraction in a lobby which is appropriately dubbed the Music Garden. Each evening at the wine and cheese hour (which, of course, I didn’t miss) local entertainers tickle the ivories as the lights twinkle through the glass SkyDome above the courtyard.

Sleeping with the Band

Aria’s 49 musically themed guestrooms and suites are divided into four wings: Opera, Classical, Jazz and Contemporary. Each room and suite features caricatures by internationally acclaimed artist Joseph Blecha to celebrate the world’s greatest musical legends such as Maria Callas, Count Basie, Bob Dylan, James Brown and Hungary’s own Franz Liszt. I was fortunate to score a few nights with the Rolling Stones in the contemporary wing. With a caricature of Mick Jagger above my headboard and a stainless-steel guitar on the mantel, I wasn’t sure whether I should sleep or dance. Ultimately, I did a bit of both and I also carved out some time to soak in the luxurious bathtub while the perfectly curated musical selections streamed from the entertainment center.

Refresh in Perfect Harmony

Be sure to take time to rejuvenate while staying at Aria with a visit to the Harmony Spa. The intensity of your massage or body scrub is cleverly determined by your choice of musical genre. The Classical Lovers treatments are as soft as an adagio. There’s a medium intensity concerto for the Jazz Lovers. Opera Lovers are treated to a soft sonata. And for the Contemporary Lovers—get ready for a treatment as intense as rock opera. All spa products are 100% natural and derived from Hungarian thermal water, natural herbs and vitamin extracts. The music continues with a playlist curated to your personal taste. Harmony also includes a fitness center, pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam baths.

The Culinary Experience

There’s a legend about the goats that supply goat cheese for the Aria Hotel Budapest. Supposedly they only listen to jazz. During my visit I couldn’t find anyone who would confirm or deny this legend. But I can confirm the goat cheese was the best I’ve ever tasted, so I do hope they continue the musical therapy.

Breakfast is served in the Music Garden where an extensive selection of house-made breads, meats and cheeses, including that spectacular goat cheese are served. Hot entrees are also available to order. I highly recommend a goat cheese omelet—I told you it was the best!

The newest dining experience at Aria is Liszt Restaurant named for one of Hungary’s favorite composers, Franz Liszt. House made sourdough bread lays the foundation for the flavors offered on the seasonal menu. Everything is locally sourced and served in four courses: The Prelude, Symphony, Concerto and Encore with each course building on the one prior … a crescendo for the Finale perhaps?

Up on the Roof

A highlight of any visit to Aria is time spent in the High Note SkyBar. With the only year-round rooftop indoor/outdoor bar, it has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists. The 360-degree views overlooking St. Stephen’s Basilica and the city are magical. Bartenders pair the sweet and savory bar menu entrees with artfully created cocktails that are beautifully presented (surprised?).

Each year during the cooler months, the bar staff develops a cocktail theme. During my visit, the theme was Hollywood films. We were greeted by a flood of “paparazzi” and a red carpet upon exiting the elevator. Our Hollywood-worthy entrance was followed by inventive cocktails inspired by movies like Goldfinger, Dracula, Some Like it Hot & even Harry Potter.  I’m not sure what they’ll come up with this year, but I’m sure it will be spectacular.

Life at the Aria Hotel Budapest is not a mistake; it’s magically lyrical … as it should be!