Going to Budapest for a couple of nights before we leave on a river cruise. Trying to decide where to stay. Hotel or Airbnb. What neighborhood? Anything we just can't miss? Thanks!!!

We stayed at the Intercontinental, and loved, loved, loved the views of the Danube and across to the Castle. The hotel is walking distance to many sights on the level Pest side of the river, and allows views to the hilly Buda side.

If you like art nouveau architecture and decor (and if cost is not a concern) the Four Season's Gresham's Palace is incredible (at least stop in for a drink, even if you don't stay there). If your tastes and pocketbook are down the spectrum a ways, consider the Starlight Suiten hotel. No great decor or great views but the price is right and the rooms are large and very clean.

We will finish our river cruise in Budapest in late August, and are thinking of adding a day or two in Budapest. I will follow your post. Also need ideas on what to do and see if we spend a day or two there. Also, are there any remarkable things to see in the surrounding area, which may require a car rental or bus trip? Thanks

If you want a hotel and can't afford the Four Seasons (lol), the Marriott has an excellent location and river views. However, my last two trips I stayed in wonderful apartments from this outfit: Six Very Special Apartments in the Heart of Budapest

I stayed in Lieisel and Belle. Definitely stay on the Pest side - better views and more places to eat and things to do.

Well, there is a great view from the Buda side too if you stay at Hilton Budapest (Buda Castle). Great location as you can walk to all major sights in Buda.There are many resaurants around (including Jamie Oliver's) footsteps away and the Buda Castle area is just simply enchanting. Many tourists there but basically all over Budapest. For me, as a Hungarian, Budapest has changed a lot and I feel like a tourist myself when in Budapest.

We spent 9 nights at this airbnb on our second visit to Budapest: Downtown Garden Isle in urban style/Free parking. I can highly recommend these hosts and the apartment itself. Location was perfect.