23 February, 2018
Budapest might be a centuries-old European capital, but behind the façades of the baroque, neo-classical and art-nouveau buildings, you'll find a city that buzzes with a youthful atmosphere, where you're just as likely to stumble across hip bars, innovative restaurants and cutting-edge designers as you are museums, galleries and Turkish baths.
Check into Hotel Rum and you'll get your an inkling that first impressions aren't everything. Tucked away down a narrow lane just a short stroll from the town centre, the hotel blends in among the apartment block in the surrounding streets. Concealed behind a townhouse exterior (and grand wooden doors that open before you at the press of a button) is a bold, modern boutique hotel that blends the creativity of Budapest-based designers and architects with lingering characteristics from the original building, including an oh-so-Instagrammable spiral staircase.
Each of hotel 40 rooms are uniquely designed, with quirky touches like ceiling mirrors, arty light fixtures and oversized headboards differing from room to room, while high ceilings and industrial decor are a consistent theme throughout. Four different room sizes ensure options for every budget and taste, the largest of which can accommodate up to three guests. Over-packers will appreciate the ample space for wardrobe unpacking provided by stylish metal-framed shelving, and larger rooms feature Nespresso machines.
A hot and cold buffet selection is available up at the hotel's rooftop bar, Top Rum.
Head down to the hotel's colourful Urban Tiger restaurant where you'll find inventive fare and creative cocktails in a vibrant, moodily lit space. Currently the menu focuses on Asian-fusion dishes, but soon you'll be able to feast on traditional Hungarian eats given a modern twist.
For the moment you'll have to be content with the cocktails on offer at Urban Tiger, but work is currently underway on a slick rooftop bar with sweeping views over the city, set to open in summer 2018.
Plenty to keep you busy, including the city's iconic chain bridge, the impressive Great Market Hall filled with delicious local produce and street food, and a metro stop for when you want to head further afield.
If you're a traditionalist who prefers your hotels to have every facility under the sun, Hotel Rum might not suit, but for urban explorers who retreat back to their hotel room only for long showers, a nightcap and a luxurious night's sleep before heading out and doing it all again, this boutique accommodation ticks all the boxes.
