Dive into one of Budapest’s unique buildings on an exclusive walking tour right in the heart of Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) in 2026. The iconic former Ballet Institute at Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) 25 now houses the sleek W Budapest, blending old-world elegance with cutting-edge design. Perfect for anyone itching to explore the city’s heritage from a fresh angle along this famous boulevard.
From Ghost Palace to Modern Marvel
This tour lets you wander through the building’s jaw-dropping spaces while uncovering its rich backstory: how it morphed from a classic ballet hub into a world-class luxury hotel. You’ll get the inside scoop on the architectural makeover that preserved its original vibe amid all the modern upgrades. What makes it extra special? Pairing the history lesson with tastings of modern gourmet bites, turning cultural discovery into a full sensory feast. It’s not just a building—it’s a tale of art, architecture, and hospitality colliding.
The story of Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) 25 is pure magic. Commissioned by MÁV, this palace played roles as the Opera House’s French lady-in-waiting, a hub for architects, a hotspot for Pest’s bourgeois social scene, home to art societies and lavish balls, and a top workshop for Hungarian dance training. Over time, it turned into a “ghost palace,” then pulled off a Houdini-like revival to emerge as today’s luxury hotspot. The tour pulls back the curtain on this wild journey, letting you peek inside the walls of the old Ballet Institute.
Expect to explore not just the exterior but the interiors too: details of Ödön Lechner’s fairy-tale palace, the historic atmosphere fused with contemporary flair. It wraps up in the revamped spaces of the original namesake café, where stories of the past meet today’s eats and drinks.
Tastings Courtesy of W Budapest
You’ll sip a special, refreshing mocktail, plus munch on sweet and savory bites. It’s the perfect chaser to the heritage vibes.
Key Details You Need
Only folks 14 and up, please—the theme and venue call for it. We climb stairs to restricted areas; no elevator available. The first part happens outside, so dress for the weather.
Pre-registration is a must! Price: $35 per person. Tour length: 2 hours. Meet at 1061 Budapest, corner of Lázár Street (Lázár utca) and Hajós Street (Hajós utca). Ends at 1065 Budapest, Andrássy Avenue (Andrássy út) 27. Route: building interior tour.
Full 2026 Schedule
All tours titled “B for Ballet, W for W Budapest: Rebirth of an Iconic Building.”
April 11 (Sat): 10:00
April 12 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
April 18 (Sat): 12:30
April 19 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
April 26 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 2 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 3 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
May 9 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 10 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
May 16 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 17 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
May 23 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 24 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
May 30 (Sat): 10:00, 12:30
May 31 (Sun): 10:00, 12:30
Organizers reserve the right to change times and program details! Join us to witness Budapest’s cultural gems reborn—your ticket to the past and present in one epic stroll.
