Budapest is the capital of Hungary. It is a combination of Buda and Pest, the two parts of the city, with the Danube separating them while also connecting them. The central area around the river is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the historical buildings, the financial centers, and the 40 universities, Budapest is home to the third-largest Parliament building in the world. It is a lively city filled with restaurants, bars, and all kinds of entertainment. For this reason, the Hungarian capital is a very popular destination among young tourists.
When to visit Budapest
The best seasons to visit Budapest are autumn and spring when the weather is mild and the city is not overcrowded. During these periods, hotel prices are lower and there are many tourist-friendly festivals to attend. However, winter is also a good time to visit: it is cold but festive, with charming Christmas markets to explore.
Just 40 minutes outside the city, Budapest’s airport accepts both low-cost and full-service flights from all over the world. For maximum security and comfort, book your airport transfer in advance.
If you are already in Europe, an efficient, fast, and environmentally friendly way of travelling to Budapest is by train. Inside the city, there are many means of transportation available for getting around: buses, trams, trolleybuses, the metro, and riverboats
What to see in Budapest
1) Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is a notable landmark of Budapest and a major tourist attraction. It was built in 1902 and has been the largest building in Hungary ever since. It has 691 rooms, 10 courtyards, 29 staircases, 13 elevators, and a floor area of 18,000 sqm. It is inspired by the Palace of Westminster and built in the Neo-Gothic style. Don’t miss the walk to the Danube bank to the left of the Parliament to see the “Shoes on the Bank of the Danube” memorial, dedicated to the victims of the Shoah. Forty meters of iron shoes commemorate the thousands of Jews who were shot on the riverbank after being forced to remove their shoes.
2) Heroes’ square
Heroes’ Square is one of the largest squares in Budapest, featuring the statue complex of the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars and the Memorial of the Heroes. It is home to several museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, and hosts many political events. Visitors can see the 40-meter column topped with the statue of the Archangel Gabriel. Today, you can see many young people skateboarding around the square.
3) Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a 2.5-km-long island in the center of the Danube. It has many parks, pools, tennis courts, and recreational areas. It also has a zoo, the Japanese Garden, the UNESCO-protected Music Fountain and Water Tower, an open-air theatre, and hotels. Before being named after Saint Margaret in the 14th century, the island was called the Island of Rabbits because it served as a royal hunting reserve. The island is connected to the city by Margaret Bridge. It is indisputably my favorite place in the city.
4) Buda Castle & Castle Hill
Castle Hill is a district packed with historical sites. Buda Castle is a historic castle and palace complex that once served as the residence of the Hungarian kings, formerly known as the Royal Palace. It now houses the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The complex is located on the southern tip of Castle Hill and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The courts and courtyards of the castle are open daily and are often used for festivals. Be sure to visit Fisherman’s Bastion for one of the finest panoramic views of the city, and enjoy a serene walk around Buda Castle Hill. It is definitely one of my favourite parts of Budapest.
5) Szechenyi Thermal Baths
Széchenyi Thermal Bath was built in 1913 and is known for its medicinal natural hot springs, numerous pools, ten saunas, massage therapies, and other treatments. The baths are located in City Park, the largest green park in Budapest, where the Neo-Baroque complex was constructed. The famous pool parties, known as “sparties,” take place there. I have participated in one of these parties, but to be honest, I didn’t enjoy it much. The main reason is that they can be quite dirty, with plastic bottles and other debris floating on the surface of the water.
6) River Danube
Why not take a 1–2-hour cruise on the Danube River while you are in Budapest? It will allow you to admire the city’s fascinating historical sites, even at night. The Danube is the second-longest river in Europe, after the Volga River, flowing through ten countries. It originates in Germany and empties into the Black Sea. The scenic curve of the river near Budapest is known as the Danube Bend. There are several bridges over the Danube in Budapest, with the most famous being the Széchenyi Chain Bridge.
7) St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is the largest church in Budapest and is dedicated to its first king, Saint Stephen of Hungary. It houses his mummified right hand, known as the Holy Right. The basilica can accommodate up to 8,500 people at a time. Around the church, there are several cafés and bistros where you can enjoy a refreshment.
8) Szechenyi Chain Bridge
The bridge that connects Buda and Pest is the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. It was the first permanent bridge across the Danube in Hungary, completed in 1849. It later became a symbol of progress, national awakening, and the connection between East and West. It has also been featured in many films and music videos.
9) The Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum is housed in a neoclassical building designed by the architect Mihály Pollack. The stairs, along with its eight pillars that support the pediment, creates an interesting facade. Inside, visitors can admire artifacts ranging from prehistory to contemporary Hungary. After visiting its chambers, sit for a while on the steps to rest and plan your next move!
#10. Ruin Pubs
The abandoned buildings of the once flourishing Jew community in Budapest’s 7th district have become one of the best bar-hopping points for all travelers. Thrift shop décor, picnic tables, and positive vibes, are the best recipe for a fun nightlife. It has now become trendy even during the day. Don’t omit to go and visit the cute coffeehouses, wine bars, bakeries, and restaurants for a break from your trip. Ι found this concept successful, exactly because of its originality. It is certainly a much better option than visiting an impersonal club.
