Budapest is the capital of Hungary. It is divided into two areas by the Danube River: the Buda and Pest. The former is the hilly side of the city where many of its historic architectures can be found, some of them designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The latter is mostly flat and is the more modern area of the two. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife and ruin bars, but it also has its fair share of attractions. Whether you’re visiting to go sightseeing and soak in history, immerse yourself in its nighttime culture, or both, Budapest will surely have something for you.
Buda Castle is a must-see in Budapest on the Buda side of the city and is one of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Inside, you’ll find the Budapest History Museum and the Hungarian National Gallery. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Parliament Building, the Danube River, and the Pest area. It’s even better when you visit at night to see the city illuminated by colorful lights.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the top tourist attractions in Budapest on the Pest side along the banks of the Danube River. Not only is it the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s highly touted for its beautiful gothic revival architecture. You can enter this historic site through a guided tour. Inside, you’ll see its exquisite halls, rooms where politicians discuss political matters, and even view the Holy Crown of Hungary on display.
One of the most popular places to visit in Budapest is the Fisherman’s Bastion, which is part of the historic Buda Castle. It is an important landmark that was said to have been protected by a fisherman’s guild during the Middle Ages. Its fantastic architectural design gives it a fairytale-esque flair. It also offers visitors a fantastic view of the Parliament Building, the Danube River, and the Pest district, especially at night when everything is illuminated by vibrant nightlights.
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is the largest medicinal bath in all of Europe. It is located in the Pest area and within the City Park. Inside are lots of thermal baths with varying temperatures. Taking a dip in these soothing baths is ideal after a long day of sightseeing or to unwind after nights enjoying the off-hours festivities of Pest. You can even bring your own flip flops, swim caps, and towels instead of renting on-site!
St. Stephen’s Basilica is one of the largest churches in Hungary. It was named after the first King of Hungary, Stephen I and houses a holy relic in the reliquary: the preserved right hand of the king himself. Inside, there are gorgeous stained glass designs, frescoes, and mosaics. There is also an observation deck where you can enjoy views of the cityscape. During the winter, there will be a Christmas market and lights show.
Heroes’ Square is part of Budapest’s City Park in the Pest area. It is famous for its seven Magyar chieftain statues as well as the site where the Memorial Stone of Heroes can be found. Behind the square is a massive garden where you can have a lovely picnic with your companions. During the summer, you can go pedal boating around the small lake. If you visit during the winter, you can go ice skating.
In the Holy Trinity Square in Budapest’s Buda District is Matthias Church, a massive gothic-style cathedral. It is one of the most important landmarks in the city because it was the venue for the coronation of two Hungarian kings: Franz Joseph I and Charles IV. It has also garnered popularity for its eye-catching roof tiles and interior design.
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge spans the Danube River and connects the Buda and Pest districts of Budapest. It is an iconic emblem that symbolizes the unity of the East and West. It is also notable for its statue of stone lions at both of its ends, and for being a wonderful photo stop for locals and tourists to take pictures with the Danube River in the background, especially at night when the bridge and the city is lit up by colorful lights.
One of the best things to do in Budapest is to visit the Central Market Hall, the largest and oldest of the indoor markets in the city. It’s one of the most popular places where you can shop for souvenirs and a wide variety of goods from embroideries to spices. There are also numerous food stalls that sell light snacks to full meals that will surely satiate your appetite.
Margaret Island sits in the middle of the Danube River and is a popular area for tourists and locals looking to take a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, one can simply sit back and relax, take in the gorgeous scenery of the park and of the river. It’s also an ideal place for strolling, jogging, cycling, and for lovely picnics with family and friends.
Budapest is considered to be one of the best looking cities in all of Europe because of its 19th century architecture sitting in-between modern structures, especially those along the Danube Riverside. It also has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
If you’re visiting Budapest, it’s best to do so during the non-peak seasons. These are the months of March to May, and September to November. These are the times when the tourist crowds aren’t big.
That depends! If you’re hoping to stay in a quiet area, then book a hotel in any of the districts that comprise the Buda area. Buda has a residential feel to it and is also hilly, so there are many areas where you can simply just sit down, enjoy the scenery, and the views of Pest. If you want to be close to where the nightlife of the city is, then stay in the Pest area where many restaurants and ruin bars are. Whichever area you pick, you will be close to many of the city’s most important attractions.