Business travelers and large tourist and school groups, in particular those from Europe, are frequent guests at the Hotel Budapest. The building -- a cylindrical concrete tower set atop a rectangular lobby -- looks as if it hasn’t changed since its construction in the '70s, both inside and out. Brown and gray institutional carpeting line hallways that enjoy spectacular views of the city and nearby Buda hills; a few brown vinyl armchairs sit here and there in hallways lined by wood-veneer doors. The atmosphere is dated and budget.

Old apartment buildings, some shops, and a hospital all sit nearby the Hotel Budapest. Though the rooms have been reported as quiet by many guests, there is the occasional sound of an ambulance siren. While the immediately surrounding area doesn’t offer a wealth of eateries, there are several bus and tram lines that stop immediately across the street from the hotel and give direct access to downtown, including the castle district (15 minutes), as well as the airport (an hour and a half, two transfers necessary).

Teal wall-to-wall carpeting and peach bedspreads join with veneer wood wall paneling for a supremely dated look in these simple rooms. Bathrooms, small, with tiny sinks, zero ledge space, and lined with pink tiles, have shower/tub combos; many have been more recently updated than the sleeping areas. All rooms have air-conditioning, hairdryer, TV with cable channels, telephone, minibar, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms have a safe deposit box. Larger rooms feature a separate living area behind a pocket door.

The lobby restaurant, with its parquet wood floors, glass chandeliers, and red cushioned, stackable chairs, is consistent in aesthetics with the rest of the building; the cuisine skews towards Hungarian specialties and has received mixed reviews from guests. There is a good amount of meeting space with some audiovisual capabilities, and a parking lot is in front of the hotel. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.