Budapest: A City Guide for Tourists

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and bustling streets. It is a city of contrasts, where ancient monuments stand tall beside modern bars and clubs. It is also a city of culture, with plenty of museums and galleries to explore. Whether you are looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful walk by the river, Budapest has something for everyone.

This city guide will help you discover the best places to visit in Budapest. From iconic monuments to hidden gems, this guide will show you the best of what Budapest has to offer. It will provide you with information on the city’s history, culture, and attractions, as well as suggesting some of the best tours and activities to enjoy in the city.

History of Budapest

Budapest is the capital of Hungary and one of the oldest cities in Central Europe. It was founded in 1873, when the cities of Buda, Pest, and Óbuda were united. Its rich history dates back even further to the Roman Empire, when it was a major trading post at the crossroads of Europe. Over the centuries, it has been an important center of commerce, art, and culture.

Today, Budapest is a thriving metropolis with a population of over 1.7 million people. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque architecture, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. With its stunning views of the Danube River and its numerous cultural attractions, Budapest is a great place to experience the best of Europe.

What to See in Budapest

Budapest is full of iconic landmarks and attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-see sights in the city:

Buda Castle

Buda Castle is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Located in Buda’s Castle District, it was originally built in the 13th century as a fortress for kings and queens. Today, it houses several museums, galleries, and attractions such as the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. It’s also home to some of Budapest’s best views of the Danube River and Pest’s skyline.

Chain Bridge

The Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city. It was built in 1849 to connect Buda and Pest across the Danube River. It is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and a popular spot for romantic strolls. At night, its spectacular lights make it an even more magical sight.

Heroes’ Square

Heroes’ Square is one of Budapest’s most iconic squares. Located at the end of Andrássy Avenue, it is home to several important monuments such as the Millennium Monument, which commemorates Hungary’s 1000th anniversary. It is also the site of two important museums: the Fine Arts Museum and the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture.

St Stephen’s Basilica

St Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most iconic churches. Built in 1851 in Neo-Classical style, it is named after Hungary’s first Christian king, Stephen I. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and artwork as well as a relic containing a fragment of St Stephen’s mummified right hand.

Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is one of Budapest’s oldest and most iconic buildings. Built in 1897 on the banks of the Danube River, it is now one of Europe’s largest indoor markets and home to over 100 stalls selling everything from Hungarian specialties to souvenirs. It’s a great place to explore Hungarian culture and sample some delicious local delicacies.

Popular Tours & Activities

Budapest offers plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when visiting the city:

Cruise along the Danube River

A cruise along the Danube River is one of the best ways to experience Budapest’s stunning beauty. You will cruise along the river and see some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks such as Chain Bridge, Buda Castle and St Stephen’s Basilica. As you sail along you will get to admire the magnificent views of both Buda and Pest’s skyline. This tour typically lasts around 1-2 hours and can be booked here.

Budapest City Walking Tour

For those who want to get a better understanding of Budapest’s rich history and culture, there’s no better way than joining a walking tour. This tour will take you around some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks such as Heroes’ Square, St Stephen’s Basilica and the Chain Bridge. You will also get to explore some hidden gems such as hidden courtyards and cobbled streets that are not on many tourist maps. This tour typically lasts around 3 hours and can be booked here.

Where to Eat in Budapest

Budapest has numerous restaurants that serve up delicious dishes from all over the world. From traditional Hungarian cuisine to international fare, there’s something for everyone in Budapest’s culinary scene. Here are some top places to eat in Budapest:

Klassz Restaurant

Klassz Restaurant serves up delicious Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist. Located in an old palace in downtown Budapest, this restaurant has an elegant atmosphere that makes it perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. They serve up classic Hungarian dishes such as Goulash soup, paprika chicken and strudel as well as some delicious desserts like Dobos cake and Esterházy cake.

New York Cafe

The New York Cafe is one of Budapest’s most iconic restaurants. Located inside an old palace, it offers an elegant atmosphere with high ceilings and lavish decor. They serve up classic Hungarian dishes such as Chicken Paprikash and Goulash Soup as well as international fare like burgers and steaks. They also have an extensive wine list with wines from all over the world.

Onyx Restaurant

Onyx Restaurant is one of Budapest’s top fine dining establishments. Located in an old mansion on Andrássy Avenue, this restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with exquisite decor and attentive staff. They serve up delicious dishes that are inspired by both Hungarian and European cuisine, using fresh ingredients from local markets. They also have an extensive wine list with wines from all over Europe.

Where to Stay in Budapest

When it comes to accommodation in Budapest, there are plenty of options available ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some top places to stay in Budapest:

Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

The Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace is one of Budapest’s most luxurious hotels located on the banks of the Danube River in Budapest’s castle district. The hotel offers stunning views of both Buda Castle and Pest’s skyline from its rooms and suites which feature modern furnishings and marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities such as an indoor pool, spa treatments and a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up traditional Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist.

Lanchid 19 Design Hotel

Located on the banks of the Danube River, Lanchid 19 Design Hotel offers modern accommodation in an iconic building that dates back to 1885. The rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. Guests can also enjoy access to an indoor pool, sauna and fitness center as well as a restaurant serving up international cuisine with spectacular views over the river.

Continental Hotel Zara

Continental Hotel Zara is a modern hotel located in downtown Budapest near many attractions such as Andrássy Avenue and Heroes’ Square. The rooms here are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access as well as complimentary breakfast every morning. Guests can also enjoy access to a fitness center and sauna as well as a restaurant serving up traditional Hungarian dishes with a modern twist.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful stroll by the river, Budapest has something for everyone. With its stunning views of the Danube River, iconic landmarks such as Buda Castle and Chain Bridge, vibrant nightlife scene, delicious cuisine and numerous cultural attractions, it is easy to see why so many people visit this beautiful city every year. With this guide you should have no problem finding the best places to visit in Budapest during your stay!