Budapest: A Guide for Visitors

Budapest is one of Europe’s oldest, most iconic cities. Located on the banks of the Danube River, it is the capital of Hungary and a city known for its ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. It is also an incredibly welcoming city, with a unique mix of East and West, and a variety of attractions that make it a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, Budapest will leave you with plenty of lasting memories and unforgettable experiences.

A Brief History of Budapest

Budapest was originally two separate cities, Buda and Pest, which were unified in 1873. Buda has its roots in the Middle Ages, when it was first inhabited by Celts. In the 13th century, Buda was occupied by the Mongols and then by the Turks in the 16th century. In 1686, it was liberated by the Habsburgs and developed into a fortress city. Pest, on the other hand, was founded by Celts in the 11th century and was then inhabited by Magyars in the 13th century. It later became a royal city in the 17th century. The unification of Buda and Pest in 1873 gave rise to a new city, Budapest.

Today, Budapest is home to over 1.7 million people and is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. It has experienced significant growth since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1989, with international businesses setting up shop in the city and a surge in tourism. It is now considered one of the most livable cities in Europe, with a booming economy, world-class restaurants, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene.

Things to See and Do in Budapest

Budapest is full of fascinating sights to explore and activities to enjoy. Here are some of its must-see attractions:

The Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Located on the banks of the Danube River, this neo-Gothic masterpiece is considered one of Europe’s finest government buildings. Its ornate interior is filled with Hungarian artwork and artifacts, while its exterior features statues of the country’s past leaders. Visitors can take guided tours of the building to learn more about its history and admire its grandeur up close.

The Fisherman’s Bastion

The Fisherman’s Bastion is an imposing neo-Romanesque structure located on the Buda side of Budapest. Built as an ode to fishermen who defended the city against invaders in the Middle Ages, it features seven towers that offer stunning views over the Danube River. Visitors can explore its lush gardens, admire its intricate stone carvings, and take photos from atop its turrets.

The Szechenyi Thermal Baths

The Szechenyi Thermal Baths are one of Budapest’s most popular attractions. Located in City Park, these thermal baths feature a variety of pools fed by natural hot springs located beneath the city. Visitors can soak in their warm waters, relax in their saunas, and catch some rays on their terraces. The baths also feature steam rooms, massage rooms, and even a beer pool!

The Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is one of Budapest’s oldest markets and a must-see destination for visitors. Located in Central Market Square, this impressive building features two levels filled with merchants selling everything from fresh produce to local handicrafts. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, sample local delicacies, or just explore its bustling stalls.

Experience Budapest on a Tour

No trip to Budapest would be complete without experiencing the city on a guided tour. These tours offer an in-depth look at Budapest’s history and culture while exploring its hidden gems and iconic landmarks. Here are two popular tours that will give you an unforgettable look at this dynamic city:

Danube River Cruise

A Danube River Cruise is one of the best ways to experience Budapest from the water. On this 1-hour tour, visitors can admire stunning views of Budapest’s skyline from the comfort of a riverboat as they cruise along the Danube River. Along the way, they can learn about Budapest’s history from their guide and soak in its beauty from every angle. Book a Danube River Cruise here.

Night Time Walking Tour

Budapest comes alive at night, with its iconic landmarks lit up and its streets illuminated by colorful lights. On a night time walking tour, visitors can explore Budapest’s most famous sights after dark while learning about its history and culture from their guide. They can wander through its cobblestone streets, admire its illuminated monuments, and explore its vibrant nightlife scene. Book a Night Time Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

Budapest is a vibrant city full of fascinating sights to explore and activities to enjoy. From its ancient architecture to its vibrant culture, Budapest has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, you’ll never run out of things to do in this vibrant European capital. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Budapest today!