A Tourist’s Guide to Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a vibrant and beautiful city. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, it is known for its stunning architecture, lively culture, and exciting nightlife. With its rich history and stunning scenery, Budapest is one of the most popular destinations in Eastern Europe and a must-see for any traveler.

History of Budapest

Budapest has been inhabited since ancient times and has seen many different empires come and go. It was founded as two settlements, Buda and Pest, in 1873, which were then unified and became the capital of Hungary in 1873. Since then it has been the site of numerous wars and political struggles, including the failed revolution of 1956 and the fall of communism in 1989.

Today, there are over 1.7 million people living in Budapest, making it the 9th most populous city in the European Union. It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a strong cultural identity stemming from its diverse ethnic makeup.

What to See and Do in Budapest

Budapest is known for its stunning architecture, diverse culture, and exciting nightlife. Here are some of the best things to do in Budapest:

Visit Buda Castle

One of the most iconic landmarks in Budapest is Buda Castle. Located on the Buda side of the Danube River, this castle has a long and storied history that dates back to the 13th century. Today, it is home to many museums, galleries, and other attractions. From the castle’s walls you can take in stunning views of the city below.

Explore the Great Market Hall

The Great Market Hall is one of Budapest’s most popular attractions. Located on the Pest side of the Danube River, this market is filled with vendors selling traditional Hungarian foods such as salami, sausages, cheese, and pastries. You can also find souvenirs such as embroidered clothing and handmade pottery.

Soak Up Some Sun at Margit Island

Margit Island is a popular recreational spot located in the middle of the Danube River. It is home to several parks and gardens as well as a beach where you can soak up some sun during the summer months. The island is also a great spot for biking or jogging along the banks of the river.

Take a Relaxing Cruise on the Danube River

One of the best ways to experience Budapest is to take a leisurely cruise on the Danube River. There are several boat companies offering cruises that take you past some of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks such as Parliament and Buda Castle. Some cruises also include dinner or drinks onboard for a truly relaxing experience.

Visit Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of Budapest’s most iconic attractions. Located in City Park, this bath is made up of 18 pools filled with naturally hot thermal water from over 120 natural springs. The baths have been around since 1913 and are perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring the city.

Sample Some Traditional Hungarian Cuisine

Hungarian cuisine is renowned for its hearty dishes such as goulash soup and beef stew. But there are also plenty of lighter dishes such as crispy fried chicken paprikash or stuffed cabbage rolls. You can find these dishes in traditional Hungarian restaurants throughout the city or at one of the many food markets.

Popular Tours in Budapest

In addition to exploring Budapest on your own, there are many tours available to help make your experience even more enjoyable. Here are two popular tours that you should consider when planning your trip to Budapest.

Budapest Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

The Budapest Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour offers an easy way to explore Budapest at your own pace. This tour allows you to explore all the major sights of the city on an open-top double-decker bus. With several stops throughout the city, you can hop off wherever you want to explore further or stay on board for a full tour of all the major attractions in Budapest. You can also use your ticket to get discounts on some attractions in the city. Book a Budapest bus tour here.

Danube River Cruise

Danube River Cruise offers a unique way to explore Budapest from a different perspective. This cruise takes you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Parliament and Buda Castle as you relax onboard a comfortable boat and enjoy dinner or drinks from the onboard bar. The cruise lasts for around two hours and gives you ample time to take in all that Budapest has to offer from a different angle. Book a Danube River Cruise here.

Conclusion

Budapest is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. From exploring its stunning architecture to sampling traditional Hungarian cuisine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you are looking for a relaxing afternoon strolling through parks or an exciting night out on the town, Budapest has it all. With its rich history and stunning scenery, it is no wonder that this city is one of the most popular destinations in Eastern Europe.