Where to stay

The inner city between the Basilica and the river, with Vörösmarty tér and the Christmas markets on the doorstep. Central, busy and pricier.

Elegant streets around Parliament and Szabadság tér. Quieter at night and close to the Danube trams.

Cobbled lanes on the Buda hill with views over Pest. Romantic and calm, but steep and a bus ride from most dining.

The Buda riverside below the castle, with Parliament views across the water and the M2 at Batthyány tér.

Grand boulevard hotels near the Opera and Oktogon, with the M1 underneath. Good for City Park and Széchenyi.

Lively streets of cafés and courtyards. Great for food, but bar noise runs late; families should ask for a quiet room.

Leafy streets of 19th-century mansions behind the National Museum. Good value and near the halal kitchens of District VIII.