Budapest – A City Guide for First-Time Visitors

Situated along the Danube River, Budapest is the capital and largest city of Hungary. A city with a long and rich history, Budapest is a vibrant destination that offers visitors plenty of unique attractions and experiences. From historical monuments to modern eateries and lively nightlife, there is certainly no shortage of things to do in Budapest. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun adventure with your friends, this city has something for everyone.

A Brief History of Budapest

Budapest is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with written records dating back to the 13th century. The city began as two distinct settlements – Buda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank – which were united in 1873 to form Budapest. During the early nineteenth century, Budapest was home to some of the most influential figures in Hungarian history, such as Prime Minister Ferenc Deák, who played a crucial role in the country’s modernization.

In the late 19th century, Budapest experienced a period of rapid growth and development, becoming an important industrial and commercial center in the region. The city continued to grow and prosper throughout the twentieth century, with distinctive Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture. Today, Budapest is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages.

Getting Around Budapest

Budapest is a relatively easy city to navigate, with a great public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metro lines. The extensive network of trams and buses make it easy to get around the city quickly and cheaply. For visitors who want to explore further afield, there are also regional trains that connect Budapest to other parts of Hungary.

If you’d prefer to explore on two wheels, there are plenty of bike rental options available in the city. The public bike rental system is operated by MOL Bubi and you can find bike stations throughout Budapest. Alternatively, you can opt for an electric scooter or bike rental from one of the many companies operating in the city.

Top Things To Do in Budapest

Budapest is full of interesting attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Budapest:

Explore the Buda Castle District

The Buda Castle District is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the Danube, it is home to many historic buildings, such as the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. The Castle Hill Funicular also offers stunning views of the city from its upper station.

Relax in Szechenyi Baths

Szechenyi Baths is one of the most popular thermal baths in Budapest. Boasting a vast array of pools and saunas, it is the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Take a Cruise Along the Danube

A cruise along the Danube is one of the best ways to take in the sights of Budapest. There are many companies offering boat tours, so you can sit back and relax as you take in the stunning views of the city from the river.

Explore Margaret Island

Margaret Island is located on the Danube River and it’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the park. It’s home to several attractions, such as a music fountain, an open-air theater, and several monuments.

Discover Great Food at Great Prices

Budapest is known for its delicious cuisine, with many restaurants offering traditional Hungarian dishes at great prices. From local pubs serving delicious goulash to high-end restaurants serving modern interpretations of Hungarian cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Visit St Stephen’s Basilica

St Stephen’s Basilica is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. The impressive neo-classical building was completed in 1905 and its dome is one of the highest in Hungary at 96 meters tall. Inside, visitors can explore an extensive collection of religious artifacts and a stunning interior filled with intricate details.

Take a Tour of Parliament

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most impressive architectural landmarks in Budapest. Visitors can take guided tours of this imposing building, which is located on the banks of the Danube River. Tours include a visit to the House of Parliament, where visitors can view historic artifacts and learn about Hungarian politics and government.

Experience Nightlife at Ruin Bars

Ruin bars are some of the best spots to experience nightlife in Budapest. Located in abandoned buildings across the city, these unique bars offer a great atmosphere with live music, cheap drinks, and even art galleries.

Tours to Book in Budapest

One great way to make sure you don’t miss any important sights while visiting Budapest is to book a tour with an experienced local guide. Here are two popular tours that you can book in Budapest:

Budapest Sightseeing Bus Tour

This tour offers visitors an easy way to explore all of Budapest’s major attractions without worrying about getting lost. It includes stops at major landmarks such as Buda Castle, Chain Bridge, Heroes’ Square, Andrassy Avenue and much more. The tour also includes audio commentary so you can learn more about each destination along your journey. You can book this tour by clicking here.

Budapest Jewish Heritage Tour

This tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore Budapest’s rich Jewish history and culture. The tour starts at Heroes’ Square before visiting sites such as Dohany Street Synagogue and the Jewish Museum. You will also have time to explore the Kazinczy Street area, known for its vibrant nightlife and art galleries. You can book this tour by clicking here.

Conclusion

Budapest is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do for visitors from all walks of life. From iconic landmarks like St Stephen’s Basilica to unique cultural experiences like ruin bars and thermal baths, there is something for everyone in this lively city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure with friends, Budapest has it all! So why wait? Pack your bags and explore this stunning destination!