Budapest
Budapest
The capital of Hungary, Budapest, is the largest and most populous city with a population of nearly 1.8 million. It is the political, cultural, commercial, industrial and transport centre of the country. Budapest is located in the heart of Central Europe, making it easily accessible from almost every major European city by road, rail or air.
The 23 districts of Budapest are located on two sides of the Danube. On the right bank of the river is the Buda Hills, and on the left bank is the Pest plain. Thanks to its rich history and unique architectural and cultural heritage, the capital is a popular tourist destination.
Buda Castle District
Buda Castle used to be the residence of the Hungarian kings and is now home to science and the arts. There are several museums and art galleries in Budapest, such as the Hungarian National Gallery, the Budapest History Museum, the National Széchényi Library and the Hungarian National Archives. The Sándor Palace, which today houses the Office of the President of the Republic, is also located here. One of the most famous sights of Buda Castle District is the Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion in front of it, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Pest side and the Danube. This part of the city, with its unique historical past, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
In addition to all these attractions, the Castle District is also the venue for a number of gastro and cultural events and festivals, which are popular destinations for both residents and tourists.
The Parliament
The Parliament building in Budapest is the third largest parliament in the world. Built to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of the foundation of Hungary, it was designed by Imre Steindl. The Parliament, which is a World Heritage Site, is home to the Hungarian Parliament and the Hungarian Holy Crown.
St Stephen’s Basilica
The Greek cross-shaped building is named after Hungarian king Saint Stephen, whose right hand is kept as a relic in one of the chapels. The interior is decorated with mosaics, paintings, sculptures and stained glass. With a capacity of around 8,000 people, the height of the church is 96 metres, similar to the height of the Parliament, in honour of the 896 conquest. The panoramic view of the city from the basilica’s circular lookout offers a magnificent panorama.
Great Market Hall
The 10 000 square metre building was voted Europe’s best and most beautiful market in 2013 by CNN Travel. Its ceiling is covered with tiles from the famous Zsolnay factory, while the building’s internal hallmark is its unique steel structure.
In its basement there is a 140-metre long “Hungarikum Street”, where you can buy Kalocsa and Szeged pepper, Gyula and Csaba sausages, Pick and Herz salami, foie gras, Tokaj aszú, Tihany lavender products, Rubik’s Cube, goods decorated with Kalocsa embroidery, Béres drops, Unicum and Zsolnay porcelain. In the staircase area, visitors can learn about Hungarian wine regions and varieties. National days embracing numerous topics are regularly organised in the Market Hall, and tasting tours are offered for groups to discover delicacies available from the stands.
On the first floor, there are buffets offering Hungarian food, where you can immediately taste the classic market dish, lángos, but also goulash soup, stuffed cabbage and Hortobágy pancakes are available.
City Park
The City Park is one of the world’s first public parks and was the main venue for the 1896 Millennium celebrations.
The Park is a popular park in Budapest thanks to its family, sports and pet-friendly character.
There are many recreational and leisure facilities in the City Park. The Széchenyi Spa is an excellent destination for thermal water bath enthusiasts, while families should visit the Zoo, the Budapest Circus or the Great Playground. Art lovers will enjoy the Museum of Fine Arts and the Kunsthalle on Heroes’ Square, but the multiple award-winning Hungarian Music House and the Museum of Ethnography are also worth a visit.
Sightseeing buses
A great way to explore the city is by Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, with buses taking you to all the must-see sights.
https://www.bigbustours.com/en/budapest
Sightseeing boats
From the Danube you can enjoy unparalelled view of Budapest. An evening tour of the city can be a special experience, when you can see the city from a whole new perspective in the light of the street lamps.
https://silver-line.hu/product/budapest-sightseeing-cruise/
https://mahartpassnave.hu/en/duna-corso-sightseeing-cruise