The Perfect Budapest Weekend Itinerary
From the massive stone bridges to the gold ceilings of the opera house, a trip to Budapest is bound to feel over the top. The city itself has this luxurious feeling to it that can’t be found anywhere else, but to be honest, with the right set of activities and locations, you can upscale your trip and turn it into a luxury Budapest itinerary.
The secret to that high-end itinerary is knowing where to go, and while you can visit the standard tourist spots, remember that you can do it in style.
Arrival and Setting the Stage at the Gresham Palace
The first thing you need to take care of is accommodation, and for an upscale weekend itinerary, there’s no better place than the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace. Also, don’t forget to arrange a private driver who can take you there.
Now, this isn’t just a hotel; besides being an architectural masterpiece, it also has a premier location right at the foot of the Chain Bridge. It’s impossible not to be amazed and not to feel the weight of the past here. The lobby features millions of tiny mosaic tiles and a chandelier that looks like it belongs in a palace because, well, it does.
The best part by far is the views you get of the Danube, some of the best ones of the city. I highly recommend that you book in advance a suite that’s facing the river, from there you will be able to watch the lights of the Buda Castle.
The service at the hotel is world-class; they can and will handle any request you have, even last-minute tour bookings or rentals.
Visiting the RANGER SPORT Shooting Range
After you’re done checking the hotel, rest and take a shower because an adrenaline rush is waiting for you at a shooting range in Budapest. Not just any range, though. You must head to RANGER SPORT. This is the largest shooting academy in this part of Europe, and they know exactly how to do it right.
You can choose a wide range of packages that can let you try different iconic gear, like an AK-47, an AR-15, or even a Winchester 1866. The best part is that the instructors are actual experts and speak English; not only that, but the environment is controlled and really professional.
The range also offers hotel pick-ups and tour-like services, as well as options for groups. It is a great way to have an interesting evening or just test your own focus and aim.
Checking Fashion on Andrassy Avenue
Even if you’re not into fashion, a visit to Andrassy Avenue is a MUST. You see, the city of Budapest has a long history of craftsmanship, especially in leather and tailoring, and this popular avenue is the center of it.
The place is often called the “Champs-Élysées of Budapest,” since it’s lined with trees and beautiful mansions. It has this “upscale” vibe that some places where the rich and famous live have.
Here you will find big names like Louis Vuitton and Gucci, but the real gems are the local stores. For example, I recommend that you stop by a high-end boutique for a pair of handmade Vass shoes. These are world-famous thanks to their quality and traditional construction.
Now, if you have the time, visiting a master tailor for a custom shirt or suit is a great idea. Plus, checking out the shops near the Opera House is a great way to explore the city without the rush of the crowds.
Conclusion
Budapest is not only an ancient city filled with bars and old buildings, but it’s a city that can surprise you if you look a little deeper, more personal and upscale. From the moment you arrive, the hotel you choose, as well as the activity you try, there is sure to be a way to make it luxurious in Budapest.
