A Comprehensive Guide To Places To See In Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a vibrant and exciting city situated on both banks of the beautiful Danube River. Home to some of the most iconic sights in Europe, it is no wonder that it has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. With its beautiful architecture, countless cultural attractions, and abundance of attractions, Budapest is a city full of beauty, history, and adventure. Here is our comprehensive guide to the best places to see in Budapest.

History of Budapest

Budapest has a long and rich history that dates back to the Stone Age. The area was settled by Celts in the 2nd century BC, and later by Romans in the 1st century AD. By the 13th century, it had become an important trading post and became part of the kingdom of Hungary. During the 16th century, it rose to prominence as the capital of Hungary and remained so until the end of World War II. After the war, Hungary became a communist state and Budapest underwent a period of rapid modernization and industrialization. In 1989, Hungary become a democratic republic and since then it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination.

Demographics

Budapest is home to 1.5 million people, making it the largest city in Hungary and one of the largest cities in Central Europe. The city is divided into 23 districts, each with its own unique history and culture. The city is home to many different ethnic groups, including Hungarians, Slovaks, Germans, Romanians, Serbs, Croats, and Ukrainians.

What To Do In Budapest

Budapest is full of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. From historic monuments to modern museums, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here are some of the must-see places to see in Budapest:

The Buda Castle

The Buda Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest. It was built in 1265 as a royal palace and has since been used as a royal palace, a fortress, a military base, and a museum. Today it houses the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, the National Széchenyi Library, and the Hungarian National Library. It is also home to several cafes and restaurants, making it a popular spot for visitors to enjoy spectacular views of the Danube River and Pest.

The Chain Bridge

The Chain Bridge is one of Budapest’s most famous bridges and connects the two sides of the city. It was built in 1849 and is decorated with two large stone lions that guard the entrance to Buda from Pest. It is a beautiful sight to behold and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Budapest.

The Hungarian Parliament Building

The Hungarian Parliament Building is an impressive Neo-Gothic palace located on the banks of the Danube River. It was built in 1902 and serves as the seat of the Hungarian National Assembly. It is also one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks and draws thousands of visitors each day.

The Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is one of Budapest’s oldest markets and is located in the heart of the city. It was built in 1897 and is home to some of the freshest produce in Hungary. It is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

The Széchenyi Thermal Bath

The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Budapest’s most popular attractions. The bath dates back to 1913 and features several thermal pools filled with healing waters from nearby springs. It is a great place to relax and soak up some culture while enjoying some natural healing.

The Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is one of Budapest’s most historically significant neighborhoods. It was once home to one of Europe’s largest Jewish populations before World War II. Today it is home to several memorials dedicated to those who perished in the Holocaust as well as several synagogues that have been restored since then.

Popular Tours in Budapest

Budapest has many tours that are perfect for visitors looking to explore the city in depth. Here are two popular tours that will give you an unforgettable experience:

Danube River Cruise

Explore Budapest from a different perspective by taking a Danube River Cruise. This tour will take you along the beautiful Danube River where you will get spectacular views of some of Budapest’s most iconic sights such as the Buda Castle and Chain Bridge. You will also get to learn about the history of Budapest from your knowledgeable guide as you cruise along this historic river. Book a Danube River Cruise here.

Budapest Walking Tour

Discover some of Budapest’s hidden gems on a guided walking tour of the city. This tour will take you through some of Budapest’s oldest neighborhoods where you will get to explore cobblestone streets and learn about its rich history from your guide. You will also get to visit some of Budapest’s most iconic sights such as Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Basilica. Book a Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

Budapest is a vibrant and exciting city full of culture, history, and adventure. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, Budapest has something for everyone. Our guide to places to see in Budapest should help you plan your trip so you can make sure you don’t miss out on any of its wonders!