Hungary’s largest hotel operator, Danubius Hotels, is expanding its international brand presence after signing a franchise agreement with Radisson Hotel Group, adding the Radisson Individuals brand to its portfolio.
Under the agreement, the recently renovated Hotel Erzsébet City Center Budapest will operate under the Radisson Individuals brand from the end of summer. The 126-room property brings the company’s portfolio of 16 hotels across Hungary and the region to five brands.
A strategic partnership rather than a traditional takeover
Unlike conventional hotel conversions, Radisson Individuals operates as a “soft brand” model, allowing hotels to maintain their own identity while benefiting from Radisson’s global booking infrastructure, marketing channels, technology platforms and international customer base.
Radisson Individuals was launched as a platform for independent hotels and regional chains seeking global exposure without abandoning their individual identity. The brand has expanded rapidly, surpassing 100 hotels operating or under development worldwide by 2025.
Budapest remains a key battleground for international hospitality brands
Radisson Hotel Group has been expanding its Budapest footprint in recent years, including the opening of Radisson Hotel Budapest BudaPart, the first upscale Radisson-branded hotel in Hungary, in 2023.
The international company also introduced the luxury-focused Radisson Collection Hotel, Basilica Budapest in 2025, marking the Radisson Collection brand’s entry into the Hungarian market.
Danubius strengthens multi-brand strategy
Danubius Hotels has built its position as one of Hungary’s most established hotel groups, with a portfolio covering city hotels, wellness properties and resort destinations. Hotel Erzsébet City Center is located in central Budapest, close to Váci Street and the Danube Promenade.