Your 3-hour guided walk with an art historian begins at Vorosmarthy Square in the heart of the city. The first café on the tour is Gerbaud, which provides an insight into the ambiance of Imperial Budapest. With its exquisite interior and more than 100 years of history, it served as a central social hub for both visitors and locals during the late 19th century.

From Gerbaud you’ll take the tram along the Danube to the Central Cafe, a space so dignified that it epitomizes café house culture during the pinnacle of the Habsburg Empire’s economic and cultural power in the 19th century. The decor, the meals, the desserts, and drinks all give a sense of the atmosphere of a bygone culture.

Move onto the Museum Cafe, which has been in operation since 1885. Prominent clientele included many Members of Parliament, distinguished writers, and famous Hungarian actors. The lavish walls are covered in tiles from the world-famous Zsolnay porcelain works.

After another short walk, you’ll come to the Urania Cafe on Rakoczi street, which houses the oldest film theater in the city, and is known for lectures given by prominent intellectuals before large audiences.