The Grand Hotel Royal, now known as the Corinthia Budapest, boasts a rich history that intertwines with the very fabric of Budapest itself.
A Grand Opening for a Grand City (1896):
In 1896, on the very day the spectacular "Millennium Exhibition" opened, celebrating 1,000 years of Hungary, the Grand Hotel Royal debuted. It was a symbol of modernity and luxury, catering to the elite of the time. The hotel's impressive scale was evident from the start – 350 rooms, a significant portion with private bathrooms (a rarity then) and hot and cold running water throughout. It offered the latest in convenience – telephones in all rooms, allowing both local and long-distance calls.
The hotel's location was prime – situated near all the major theaters and attractions, ensuring guests were at the heart of the action. Beyond the plush accommodations, the Grand Hotel Royal offered a complete experience. A first-class restaurant, cafe, pastry shop, and even a ticket office, bank, money changer, post office, and telegraph office were all conveniently located within the hotel.
A New Chapter Begins (2002):
After extensive renovations, the Grand Hotel Royal reopened its doors in 2002. The reopening ceremony in 2003, attended by the Hungarian and Maltese presidents, was a grand affair, featuring a gala dinner in the meticulously restored grand ballroom. This event echoed the hotel's former glory and was seen as a significant milestone in Budapest's ongoing revival.
Accolades and Awards (2003-2006):
Under new leadership throughout the 2000s, the Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal (as it was now called) continued to impress. In 2003, it was voted the "Best Five Star Hotel in Hungary," followed by the prestigious title of "Best Hotel Architecture in Europe" in 2004. The hotel's commitment to excellence continued, securing further accolades like "Best Five Star Hotel" and "Best Hotel Conference Facilities" within Budapest. The hotel's Rickshaw Restaurant & Sushi Bar even earned recognition as the "Best East-Asian Restaurant" in the city.
A Return to Grandeur (2006):
The icing on the cake came in 2006 with the reopening of the Royal Spa, originally established in 1886. The spa was meticulously restored to its former splendor while incorporating the latest cutting-edge facilities. This addition solidified the Corinthia Budapest's position as a luxurious haven for guests seeking a complete wellness experience.
