As a rule, whenever I see an exceedingly long queue of tourists somewhere, I take a long breath, realise that whatever it is they are queuing for is probably not worth the hassle and devise a plan B. Except when it’s the queue in front of Gelarto Rosa, in which case I take a long breath and devise a plan A, say banana chocolate and peach sorbet, and a plan B, perhaps the lavender white chocolate and mango. That’s also my top tip: go for a sweet and intense milk based flavour alongside a sourer sorbet, a combo which balances itself out very nicely.
While many other ice cream parlours have come and gone, and some chains have locations of varying quality, Gelarto Rosa’s little shop by Saint Stephen’s Basilica remains a staple, for locals and tourists alike. Although, as mentioned above, there is always a queue during high ice cream season, it moves fairly fast, especially taking into consideration that the ice creams come in a very Instagram friendly handmade rose shape, with three available sizes: the small has two flavours, the medium three and the large one, four. There are always around two dozen flavours on offer, with the classical options of vanilla or chocolate featured alongside more daring experiments such as basil lemon sorbet or Oreo. Low calorie options, made with xylitol, are also available and are basically indistinguishable from their ‘full blooded’ counterparts, making Gelarto Rosa safe for your diet as well.
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At this spot, you may find the events of some of the well-known members of the local underground scene playing some funky sets or having an exhibition.
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Muzikum Bisztró, near the National Museum, serves a great 2-3 course lunch menu affordably.
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Their gin-based signature cocktail is my absolute number one. It's called “Ramos Gin Fizz” and it’s pure magic in a glass. It never, ever disappoints.
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I love starting my day here with my personal favorite, the "Don Corleone" bagel. They offer a wide selection of bagel types, some served hot & others cold.
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Ligeti Bolt, a zero-waste pioneer in Budapest, offers grains, snacks, and more for refill. Shop eco-friendly, bring your jars, and embrace a conscious lifestyle!
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The "Hungarian Treasury" in Budapest is a building I show to all my guests. Its secessionist art nouveau style is reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí...
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The true star of Vivina’s brunch menu is the porridge—comforting, nourishing, and served with fresh berries and toasted nuts, it’s one of the best porridges in town!
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"Lion's Locker" in Budapest is a cute family-run cafe where I can stay all day. The staff is all wonderful - and they know how to make almond milk foam!
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"Arán Bakery Budapest" fuels my dreams with sourdough bread like my grandmother made it and delicious cinnamon rolls...
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"Sport Bisztró" in Budapest is a pleasantly familiar, well-oiled haunt that sticks to the proverb 'healthy mind in a healthy body!' Great sports bar, too.
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"Nos a Hely" is a pop-up vintage shop in Hungary - they have a carefully curated selection of vintage porcelain and other local items. Great for gifts!
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170 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 170 Insider Tips from our local Spotters