Live out your Bridgerton dream in Budapest: 9+1 spots for your Regency ramble

1. Budatétény Rose Garden

Imagine strolling through the Bridgertons' sprawling estate with the Sharma family. While Budapest's rose gardens, including the Budatétény Rose Garden, are waiting for a full bloom (peaking in June), they still offer a delightful Regency experience. Neatly manicured bushes and charmingly arching branches create a romantic ambience, perfect for a stroll and a spot of daydreaming. Even if the roses haven't reached their fragrant zenith, the gardens capture the essence of the Bridgerton world.

2. Tea party at Múzsa

Indulge in a truly Bridgerton-esque experience with a luxurious afternoon tea at Múzsa. While it may not be the most economical option, it certainly delivers on Regency-inspired grandeur. Every Sunday from 3-6 pm, Múzsa hosts a live musical English tea party. Savour exquisite jewel-toned cakes, dainty finger sandwiches, and classic scones with cream and lemon. The pièce de résistance? Your tea service will be presented on a special Herendi china set – the same used at Buckingham Palace and the Four Seasons Gresham Palace! Feel like royalty as you sip your tea and immerse yourself in the Bridgerton world.

3. Hungarian Bride

Bridgerton is all about the pursuit of love, the societal pressures of marriage, and the stories that unfold. While the Hungarian Bride exhibition at the National Museum delves into a more serious exploration of women and marriage over 500 years, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of love and its connection to societal expectations. Imagine wandering through the exhibits and uncovering romantic or even quirky tales of love and marriage from different eras. For a touch of Bridgerton flair, head to the snow-white room dedicated to wedding fashion. Here, you'll witness a stunning display of bridal gowns through the ages, including empire-waist styles that mirror the silhouettes favoured in the series.

4. Hild Villa

Step back in time to the early 19th century and discover the Hild Villa on Budakeszi út. While perhaps not as opulent as the estates frequented by characters like Cressida Cowper, this neoclassical gem exudes a charm that wouldn't be out of place in the Bridgerton world. Built by József Hild, one of Hungary's most celebrated architects, the villa served as his personal residence. Though it changed hands several times throughout history, it has recently undergone a beautiful restoration. Today, the villa boasts manicured gardens and serves as the home of the Hungarian Academy of Arts Research Institute of Art Theory and Methodology.

5. Kőrössy Villa

The Bridgerton era is primarily Regency, which predates the Art Nouveau style of the Kőrössy Villa on Városligeti fasor. However, we can't resist including this architectural gem for its unique flair. We like to imagine the Kőrössy Villa as the whimsical estate of the extravagant and perhaps a touch eccentric, but undeniably likeable Featheringtons. The villa's ornate lace-like facade, Zsolnay china, and light-filled glass windows create a visually stunning space that could easily house the Featheringtons' flamboyant personalities. Guided tours are available online, offering a chance to peek inside this architectural masterpiece.

6. City Park

Budapest's City Park, recently revamped, offers a quintessential setting that wouldn't be out of place in a Bridgerton story (or any classic English romance for that matter). As season three premieres, the boating lake will be open, providing the perfect opportunity to channel your inner Kate Sharma. Imagine a gallant Anthony dashing to your rescue as you disembark (though hopefully without jealousy!). Straw hat picnics amidst the park's idyllic scenery could complete the romantic experience.

7. Gerbeaud Café

Imagine sipping tea and indulging in delectable pastries alongside the Bridgertons at Gerbeaud Café. This historic establishment, renowned as one of Hungary's oldest cafes and confectioneries, boasts an elegant ambience that would perfectly fit into the series. Soaring high ceilings and a beautifully appointed interior create a sophisticated setting. Here, Empress Elisabeth (Sissi) of Austria was once a regular patron, so you'd certainly be in good company! Bridgerton fans, take note! Gerbeaud used to play a significant role in social life. It was one of the first cafes where proper ladies could venture out, making it a prime location for social gatherings and perhaps even a spot of matchmaking.

8. Aranypinty

Step into the heart of Budapest's captivating Palace Quarter and discover Aranypinty, a breakfast bar perfectly suited to the Bridgerton world. Nestled amidst stunning architecture, Aranypinty offers a delightful breakfast or early lunch experience. Their set menus are a perfect complement to the regal atmosphere. Picture this: You delicately savour a flaky croissant and sip champagne, perhaps awaiting a visit from the wise and witty Lady Danbury, ready to dispense advice on navigating the intricacies of love.

9. ELTE Botanical Gardens

The lush gardens and vibrant flora are a recurring theme in Bridgerton, often serving as a backdrop for pivotal conversations. Whether it's the blossoming romance between Daphne and Simon or the simmering tension between Anthony and Kate, nature plays a significant role in the series. Enter the ELTE Botanical Gardens, a hidden gem in Budapest. This charming, albeit compact, garden offers a delightful escape with its tranquil ponds, enchanting palm groves, and even a weekend castle adorned with wild grapes, once the residence of Antal Festetics. Imagine strolling through these idyllic grounds and engaging in your own Bridgerton-inspired conversations. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty provide the perfect setting for heartfelt exchanges and the possibility of budding love stories.

+1 Royal Palace of Gödöllő

Bridgerton's portrayal of aristocratic life often depicts grand city palaces complemented by sprawling country estates. The series is no exception, showcasing the Bridgerton family's luxurious country retreat in season two. While not technically within Budapest, the Royal Palace of Gödöllő offers a taste of Bridgerton-esque grandeur. The former residence of the Grassalkovich family is easily accessible by HÉV train. Although the Baroque architectural style differs slightly from the Regency period seen in the series, the castle's vast gardens provide a sense of freedom and connection to nature that mirrors the rural escapes enjoyed by Bridgerton characters. Plus, Gödöllő's opulence, while perhaps more exaggerated on screen, evokes the luxurious lifestyle of the aristocracy.

(Cover photo: Hirling Bálint – We Love Budapest)