Meet You at W: The historic Drechsler Palace Budapest Is Now Home To First W in Hungary

W Hotels Worldwide has made its debut in Hungary with the opening of W Budapest.

Nestled within the iconic Drechsler Palace, a former Institute of Ballet, this new addition marks the brand’s first venture into the Hungarian luxury hospitality market. W Budapest aims to be a pulsating center in the city, offering innovative design, diverse gastronomy, and a socially driven atmosphere that resonates with Budapest’s cosmopolitan vibe.

Situated on Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its upscale shopping, W Budapest features 151 stylish guestrooms and suites, along with three distinctive dining concepts. Each element of the hotel draws inspiration from Budapest’s rich history, cultural creativity, and inclusive nature.

The interior design of W Budapest is the result of meticulous work by Bowler James Brindley from London and Bánáti + Hartvig from Hungary.

These design firms have thoughtfully restored and reimagined Drechsler Palace, incorporating elements that pay homage to its past as a popular café, social hub, and ballet academy. The concept cleverly showcases the duality of Buda and Pest, the two sides of Budapest, with playful juxtapositions throughout the public spaces and guestrooms. The design narrative unfolds through the use of soft layering, metallic meshing, and carefully selected color palettes, creating spaces that reveal new dimensions upon each visit.

In addition to its historical influences, W Budapest draws inspiration from the grand French Renaissance architectural style prevalent in the city.

Contemporary interpretations of this aesthetic are evident in the green, coral, and deep blue color schemes, as well as the incorporation of Zsolnay-inspired tiles, stained glass features, and jewelry-inspired light fixtures. The hotel also pays tribute to Budapest’s vibrant cultural scene, including its love for chess and deep connection to ballet. Subtle nods to these artistic expressions can be found in the bespoke chess-piece lamps, monochrome tiled marble flooring, and lighting fixtures that evoke the grace and fluidity of dance. Notably, the interior concept also draws inspiration from renowned Hungarian figures such as Harry Houdini and Zsa Zsa Gabor, adding nostalgic touches of Hollywood glamour through the use of mirrors and optical illusions.

The distinct design narratives extend to the 151 guestrooms, including 45 suites. The fifth floor embraces the Palace’s original roof design, showcasing a unique wooden-centric style. Furthermore, the hotel’s connection to ballet is evident in the all-black Extreme WOW suite and the all-white WOW suite, both of which pay homage to the iconic ballet, Swan Lake.

W Budapest brings a fresh culinary experience to the city, featuring three imaginative dining concepts.

Nightingale by Beefbar, overseen by renowned restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi, offers an approachable fusion of Asian cuisine and Beefbar’s signature meat dishes. The restaurant’s sociable menu of small plates encourages sharing and showcases flavors such as chipotle-dressed carpaccio, yellowtail sashimi with yuzu truffle sauce, and the indulgent Miss Bao, featuring caramelized banana and dark chocolate sauce. Nightingale by Beefbar’s bar complements the dining experience with a range of creative cocktails, including the Nightingale Boulevardie and Budapest Calling.

For a more exclusive and secretive experience, Society25 awaits guests in the hotel’s basement. This speakeasy draws inspiration from the clandestine gatherings and intellectual conversations of bygone eras. Society25 offers a carefully curated menu of bespoke cocktails that pay homage to Budapest’s history, notable figures, and architectural marvels. From The Illusionist, named after the legendary Houdini, to Geranium, inspired by Drechsler Palace, Society25 provides an intimate and socially liberating atmosphere.

Located on the ground floor, W Lounge serves as the social epicenter of the hotel.

Seamlessly integrated with Nightingale restaurant, this space caters to diverse needs, ranging from business meetings to vibrant nightlife. Against the backdrop of electrifying DJ performances, guests can savor signature cocktails and shareable plates. The W Lounge effortlessly transitions from day to night, capturing the dynamic energy of Budapest.

W Budapest also caters to meetings and events, offering several versatile spaces, including the grand Great Room and two Studio Rooms designed for business meetings and intimate gatherings.

The hotel’s programming seeks to engage guests with Budapest’s vibrant culture and its influential personalities. Noteworthy initiatives include FACES OF BUDAPEST, a series of roundtable discussions celebrating inspiring individuals who shape the city. Additionally, W RE(TREAT) offers in-person and virtual yoga classes curated exclusively for W Budapest guests by local expert Annamaria Kaptay. Music curator Dávid Ráday brings the sounds of the city to life through musical explorations paired with cocktails and bites during SUNSET SESSIONS, THE WARM-UP, and AFTERDARK.

Adjacent to the secret speakeasy, W Budapest’s AWAY Spa provides a tranquil haven for relaxation.

Hidden doors reveal serene spaces adorned with mirrors and water features, evoking a sense of infinite calm. Inspired by Budapest’s renowned thermal baths, the WET pool takes center stage with its traditional tiles and gold mesh, creating an enticing oasis. The AWAY® Spa offers a range of luxurious treatments and features five treatment rooms. Guests can also indulge in express treatments from the ‘Quick Fix’ menu, ideal for those seeking a quick rejuvenation before exploring Budapest’s lively nightlife. The FIT fitness center hosts daily fitness and wellbeing classes, complemented by a state-of-the-art gym.