Aria Hotel Budapest

While Budapest is a beribboned gift with bustling markets and ancient riches at Christmas time, the real reasons to visit this treasure of a city year round are a passion for music and a quest for luxury. Interior designer Varró – born and raised in “The Pearl of the Danube” – has transformed a 19th-century bank building into a dream destination in collaboration with architect Zsolt Szecsi.

A member of the upscale Library Hotel Collection, the Aria Hotel Budapest opened in March 2015. While some of the deluxe suite rates may soar to a high note, the starting room rate is 233 euros (or about $257 at press time).

It’s hard to say what will capture your heart first: its musical theme, its chic pops of color, its rooftop bar, its secluded spa or its cherished city landscape.

This luxury boutique hotel has four wings, each celebrating a musical genre – classical, opera, contemporary and jazz – through decor, art and sound. Featured artists include Irving Berlin, Bob Dylan, James Brown, Hungarian Bela Bartok, Maria Callas, Bach, Beethoven, the Beatles and Michael Jackson. Inside the hotel’s 49 guestrooms, you’ll find caricatures of musicians drawn by Josef Blecha and an iPad loaded with a playlist related to the wing in which your room is located. Furthermore, the High Note SkyBar offers a stunning view of the beautiful city as you savor a sip, while the Harmony Spa provides steam baths with eucalyptus.

“This is the best place for all music lovers in the world,” states Varró. You will even find pianokey floor tiles and a glamorous, glass-walled staircase. Also, don’t miss Varró’s favorite spots: “I find inspiration in every corner of my city – Andrassy Avenue and the surrounding area with beautiful old mansions, Cafe Gerbeaud during Christmas time, or a stroll through the heart of Budapest.” Now that is solid gold.Like what you see? Get it first with a subscription to ASPIRE Metro Magazine