Farewell to the Iconic Budapest Körszálló: The End of an Era

The Final Goodbye

The Körszálló, also known as Hotel Budapest, has officially closed its doors, marking the end of an era for one of Budapest’s most emblematic landmarks. The 64-meter-tall cylindrical structure, which opened on New Year’s Eve in 1967, has been a beloved fixture in the city’s skyline for over half a century.

The Last Guest Departs

On January 16, 2025, the last guest departed from the historic building, leaving behind a legacy of memories and nostalgia. In its final days, hotel staff and guests bid farewell in a bittersweet atmosphere, cherishing the panoramic views and unique experiences the Körszálló offered.

A Nostalgic Reflection

Balázs Klemm, CEO of Hotel & More Group, the building’s last operator, reflected on the closure: “Although the hotel’s doors have closed forever, its memory will live on in the hearts of Budapest residents and tourists.”

Pandemic and Transformation

The Körszálló’s journey took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic. After a 15-month closure, Danubius Hotels Group leased the property to Hotel & More Group in September 2021. The new operators repurposed the hotel as a dormitory and corporate worker accommodation, adapting to the changing hospitality landscape.

Changing Ownership

In May 2024, ownership of the Körszálló changed hands once again when Danubius Hotels sold the property to Market Asset Management Plc. This transition sparked speculation about the building’s future, with reports in October 2024 suggesting that the 19-story tower, designed by renowned architect György Szrogh, might be demolished due to structural concerns.

An Uncertain Future

Plans for the Körszálló’s future remain uncertain. While there have been discussions about rebuilding the tower in nearly its original form with interior modifications, including converting the 280 hotel rooms into 47 apartments, no final decision has been made. The building’s status as a locally protected structure in Budapest’s 2nd district adds complexity to any potential redevelopment plans.

A Lasting Legacy

As Budapest bids farewell to this architectural icon, the Körszálló’s legacy as a symbol of modernist design and urban history remains firmly etched in the city’s identity. While its future hangs in the balance, the memories it has created over the past 58 years will continue to resonate with those who experienced its unique charm and place in Budapest’s rich tapestry.

Image source: Danubius Hotels