Budapest: Queen of the Danube

Although initially not on the top of my travel list, Budapest surprised me in many ways and earned its place as one of my favorite European destinations. Commonly known as the queen of the Danube, Budapest is most famous for its beautiful architecture, historical thermal baths, thrilling night life and delicious cuisine. Finally, you’ll find that the city is also a lot more affordable than many of its western and even central European counterparts.

 

Buda Castle and Castle Hill

A good place to start your day is at the Buda Castle District which is also home to many of Budapest‘s most important medieval monuments and museums,  such as the Hungarian National Library, the Budapest Historic Museum and the National Library. It is best reached by taking the funicular.

The most spectacular is the Buda castle. Although badly damaged in World War II, much of the exterior has been restored, although thanks to communist cost cutting, it remains a far cry from its pre-war splendor. Also located on Castle Hill is Matthias Church, where Austrian emperor Francis Josef and his wife Elizabeth (popularly known as Sissi) were crowned Hungarian king and queen in the late 19th century.

If you have time, I recommend that you visit the Hospital in the Rock, a 10km stretch of interconnected tunnels beneath Castle Hill which were transformed into a hospital during World War II and later into a nuclear bunker.

 

The Fisherman’s Bastion

Probably my favorite place in all of Budapest, this site located behind Matthias Church on Buda Castle Hill presents stunning views over the city and is one of the best photo spots in town. Built in a Neo-Ghotic style in the late 1800s to celebrate the 1000 year anniversary of the founding of Hungary, it is best visited early in the morning when crowds are thin and you can fully take it the views if the city, river and parliament below.

 

Gellert Hill

Standing 140 meters, Gellert hill provides a panoramic view of the Danube and the city. The hill was named after the Saint Gellert who was thrown to death from the hill.

 

Hungarian Parliament

This iconic building is the largest building in Budapest and the third largest parliament in the world. Guided tours which last 45 minutes are available and are the only way to visit the interior of the building. Be sure to book your tickets online ahead of time as only a very limited number of same-day tickets are sold at the ticket counter.

 

Saint Stephen‘s Basilica

A popular attraction due to its impressive architecture and the beauty of its interior. Named after Saint Stephen, Hungary’s holy king was the founder of the Hungarian state. After he died, his right hand was found intact and now is on display there in a dim glass case. You can enjoy 360 degree views of the city from the top of the church.

 

Chain bridge

This 380meter long bridge connects the Buda and Pest sides of the city. During World War II, the bridge was badly damaged. Make time to walk along the chain bridge for beautiful views of Budapest including the Castle District and the Hungarian parliament.

 

Hungarian State Opera House

This is well known as the finest theater in the world since its establishment in 1884. It housed numerous influential artists, including composer Gustav Mahler. Aside from its musical prowess, the breathtaking architecture of the building is unbelievable! You have to see it to truly understand the beauty of those vaulted ceilings, wide staircases, and marble columns which are covered with the paintings of Apollo and the nine muses.

 

Relax at the Thermal Baths

Relaxing in spas is a common pastime for the locals of Budapest. Built atop more than a hundred springs, the city features countless bath houses which are popular with both locals and tourists alike. The most popular are the Szechenyi and Gellert baths. Be sure to bring your own towel and swimming cap.

• Szechenyi Baths: With its gorgeous Neo baroque architecture, Szechenyi is the largest medicinal bath in Europe and also the most photographed. It is home to indoor and outdoor pools as well as a sauna and steam rooms.
• Gellert Baths: Gellert features a total of eight pools there which were created somewhere between 1912 and 1918. The building was built in the Art Nouveau style and features stained glass windows and mosaic walls throughout.

 

The Great Synagogue

Know also as the Dohany street synagogue, it is the largest synagogue in Europe and second largest in the world.

 

The Vajdahunyad castle

Built in 1896 for the Millenial Exhibition in the City Park of Budapest, this castle features copies of several landmark buildings from different parts the Kingdom of Hungary. While there isn’t much to do within the building, the surrounding park is beautiful and is worth a stop if you plan on visiting Szechenyi Bath or Budapest Zoo which are located next door.

 

Heroes Square

The largest and most popular square in the city, the Millennium monument at its center honors the seven chieftains of the Hungarian tribes who conquered Hungary. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Hall of Arts are also both located at Heroes Square.

 

Budapest Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the world dating back to 1820, it is home to more than 1000 animal species. With more than a million of visitors per year, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions of the city.

 

Party in a Ruin pub

For a very unique experience, don’t miss Budapest’s ruin bars. These are abandoned buildings in downtown Pest turned into pubs by locals. If you are short on time, head to the most famous and oldest one, the Szimpla Kert.

 

Coffee at New York Cafe

Named the most beautiful cafe in the world, the place will leave you speechless. Located in the Boscolo hotel, it is best to make a reservation if you’re going for lunch or dinner, otherwise expect a wait in the afternoon as the café also gets packed for afternoon tea.

 

Café Gerbeaud

This is one of the greatest and most popular coffee houses in this place. Founded in 1858, it has a Rococo interior and serves scrumptious classic Hungarian specialties, pastries and coffee.

 

Where to shop

Vaci Utca

The most renowned pedestrian shopping street in Budapest is great for an afternoon stroll with the most prominent shops, restaurants and cafes.

Andrassy avenue

Budapest most famous boulevard is a UNESCO world heritage listed street lined with expensive shops, embassies and beautiful villas. It is 2.3 km long and leads up to Heroes square.

Central Market Hall

This is a three-floor market which was established in the 19th century and features countless local vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and all sorts of delicacies. Do pass by for a good selection of Hungarian souvenirs and to pick up some of Hungary’s best known culinary export, paprika!