A Fashion Designer’s Stylish Guide to Budapest

When she was growing up in Budapest’s Castle District, Sandra Sándor spent time in her mother’s atelier, often serving as the fit model for children’s wear. A London College of Fashion graduate, Sándor launched her own label in 2005—calling it Nanushka, after her childhood nickname—and later established a store in the Hungarian capital.

Her brand’s distinctive style marries impeccable craftsmanship with modernist functionality and a commitment to sustainable production. (Exhibit A: a vegan-leather puffer jacket.) Much of Sándor’s inspiration springs from Budapest itself. “Eastern and Western European influences come together in a blend of history, culture, and architecture,” she says.

Városliget

“[City Park] is home to major landmarks like Heroes’ Square, Vajdahunyad Castle, and Széchenyi Thermal Bath. A lake turns into an ice rink in winter. One of my favourite additions is the House of Music [museum and concert hall]. Some of my happiest moments have been spent in the park with my son, Samu.”

Írók Boltja

“One of Budapest’s most iconic literary bookshops. I’ve been loving shopping for books lately, especially as sources of inspiration for new collections.”

Omorovicza

“[This spa is] so relaxing and one of the most tranquil places in Budapest. A pro tip is to try their Daily Vitamin C serum; it’s an instant boost that makes your skin look refreshed and gives an incredible glow.”

Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest

“The incredible views from the rooms, the perfect outdoor terrace at [Michelin-recommended] KOLLÁZS in the summer, and the impeccable cocktails at [Asian-​inspired] MÚZSA are all such a treat.”

Fausto’s

“Some of the best Italian food I’ve had outside of Italy, [like] the mezzaluna [stuffed half-moon-shaped pasta] with duck, pumpkin, and walnut.”

Déryné Bistro

“A Budapest institution where the walls could tell a hundred stories. In summer, sit on the patio. And don’t skip the túrógombóc [cottage cheese dumplings].”

Cabrio

Tucked into one of my favourite residential squares in the city centre, it’s where the best Hungarian and European natural wines meet fresh, local ingredients. Barnag’s 2022 Kékfrankos is a classic, but the 2023 Barnag Diszkó is ideal for a lighter meal or to share with friends in the late afternoon.”

Espresso Embassy

“You can spend the whole day [here] drinking coffee and people watching. I always have a flat white with oat milk in the winter.”

Amikor Galéria

“It emphasizes characterful, high-quality objects alongside vintage furniture, ceramics, paintings, and home décor. It feels more like a curated design warehouse than a traditional gallery, appealing to anyone looking for pieces that tell stories for generations.”

Salt Bakery

“This is an extension of the Michelin-starred Salt restaurant. I feel as if they’ve taken all the classic Hungarian recipes and elevated them, like pogácsa [cheesy scones] and kakaós csiga [spiral-shaped chocolate rolls].”