Stunning PHOTOS: New hotel to open this autumn in the city centre of Hungary’s second-largest city

The international Handwritten Collection hotel brand is preparing to launch its first property in Hungary this autumn, unveiling a redesigned Hotel Lycium in Debrecen. With a fresh look and distinctive design, the new hotel promises to elevate the city’s hospitality scene. Here’s what you need to know about the new property.

New hotel opens in Debrecen

After extensive renovations, Hotel Lycium, located in the heart of Debrecen’s city centre, will reopen this autumn, marking a new chapter in the city’s tourism landscape. Developed under the international Handwritten Collection brand, the new hotel blends modern design with local cultural traditions while also strengthening its role in conference tourism.

The renovation has transformed the interior spaces into a stylish, personalised environment, with every element aimed at enhancing the guest experience. Both rooms and public areas showcase elegant materials and carefully chosen furnishings.

Cozy interiors, restaurant, and bar terrace

“The Handwritten Collection hotel in Debrecen perfectly embodies the brand’s spirit—stylish and deeply personal. Every detail—from the concept’s artistic inspiration to the meticulous selection of materials and room design—ensures guests not only observe but truly immerse themselves in the culture,” said Gábor Demény, General Manager of Hotel Lycium, in a press release.

The hotel will reopen with 88 rooms and four suites, along with an on-site restaurant, bar, and five conference rooms. A highlight is the interior design by Krisztina Fülöp, lead designer at Komp Design, who created a harmonious, relaxing atmosphere through the coordinated use of colours and materials.

“The cosy interiors, restaurant, and bar terrace provide a welcoming space for guests to meet, converse, and unwind. Feel at home—you’ve come to the right place.” – Gábor Demény, General Manager

Prime location

The hotel sits in a vibrant cultural and business hub. The Kölcsey Centre—hosting conferences, exhibitions, and concerts—is just steps away, while the nearby MODEM Centre for Modern and Contemporary Arts showcases both Hungarian and international works. A short stroll leads to the Déri Museum and the Reformed College Museum, home to historical and ethnographic collections.

Debrecen’s main train station is a five-minute drive, or roughly a 15-minute tram ride, from the hotel. The city centre is served by multiple tram lines, with the nearest stop just a two-minute walk away. Debrecen International Airport is reachable by car in 15 minutes or by bus in around 40 minutes.

Tourism in Debrecen hits an all-time high

Debrecen’s tourism sector has soared in 2024, with a 19% year-on-year increase in overnight stays. The city’s growing economic momentum is expected to boost tourism further in the coming years.

“Debrecen has become part of the global economic network—major economic powers from the U.S. to Europe and the Far East all have interests here,” said Mayor László Papp.

The expansion of hotel capacity and renovation of existing properties are key drivers of this growth. Modern, stylish, and unique accommodations such as the revamped Hotel Lycium are elevating the tourist experience and enhancing Debrecen’s appeal in both conference tourism and business travel.

Read also:

• Inside Budapest’s Kempinski Hotel Corvinus presidential suite: the highest level of luxury – pictures, VIDEO
• New 4-star superior Budapest hotel opened near the Chain Bridge

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