Embarking on a destination guide after a hiatus, let’s delve into the splendid city of Budapest, Hungary. It’s an excellent locale for a city visit or a port stop during a Danube river cruise.
Budapest City Guide
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, graces the banks of the majestic Danube, Europe’s second-longest river, traversing 10 countries from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea. A popular destination on numerous river cruise itineraries, Budapest often serves as both the starting and ending points of many voyages.
Once separated into Buda on the western banks and Pest on the east, the city merged in 1873 to form the unified Budapest we recognise today. Alongside Vienna, also situated along the Danube, Budapest was a focal point of the formidable Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Our recent weekend city break afforded us four days to explore Budapest’s renowned attractions and landmarks. A brief flight of 2 hours and 45 minutes from Edinburgh landed us at Budapest’s Ferenc Liszt International Airport. With two terminals, the airport offers convenient connections to the city centre, located 10 miles away, through a frequent bus service. Taxis are readily available outside the terminals, but we opted for pre-booked airport transfers for added ease.
Accommodation
As a bustling capital city, Budapest boasts an array of accommodation options, with international hotel chains dotting its landscape. However, our research led us to discover a charming local gem with an enviable location along the Danube’s banks.
Boutique Hotel Victoria Budapest
Nestled on the Buda side of the river, this exceptional hotel offers breathtaking views of the Parliament and the iconic Chain Bridge from its rooms. Featuring spacious accommodations equipped with all necessary amenities, the hotel’s floor-to-ceiling windows maximise the panoramic vistas. The staff’s warmth and helpfulness added to the allure of our stay, with several bars and restaurants nearby, offering a picturesque stroll into the heart of the city. A highly recommended choice for those planning a Budapest getaway.
What to See and Do
Hungarian Parliament: With its neo-gothic spires dominating the Pest side of the Danube, this grand edifice is open to the public, offering guided tours of its opulent interior, including the working political chambers and the repository of the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Buda Castle: Perched atop Capital Hill on the Buda side, the castle affords panoramic views of the city. Housing two museums and the Hungarian National Gallery, the castle showcases a blend of Renaissance ruins, Habsburg-era facades, and stark communist interiors.
Szechenyi Baths: A quintessential Hungarian experience awaits at these thermal baths in City Park, featuring stunning canary-coloured buildings and steaming outdoor pools, complemented by intricate tiled mosaics within.
Szechenyi Baths | Budapest, Hungary
St. Stephen’s Basilica: This imposing basilica houses relics such as Hungary’s first king’s mummified hand, alongside impressive facades and a viewing platform offering sweeping city vistas.
Heroes Square: Serving as both a memorial and a square, this iconic landmark features statues of Hungarian kings and leaders, crowned by a towering pillar topped by the Angel Gabriel. It also houses the country’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Central Market Hall: This vibrant red-brick structure is a treasure trove of local produce on the ground floor, while upstairs hosts a mix of folk art, crafts, and a bustling food court offering delicious local fare at affordable prices.
Margaret Island: A tranquil oasis within the city, this car-free island boasts medieval ruins, verdant gardens, and a Japanese Garden, offering a serene escape from urban bustle.
Danube River Cruise: While not quite a full-fledged river cruise, embarking on a Danube trip offers a unique perspective of Budapest’s highlights from the water, with various options available along the river embankment.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus: Budapest’s comprehensive bus tour covers key attractions, offering a convenient way to explore the city’s landmarks at your pace.
Eating Out in Budapest
With a plethora of dining options, Budapest tantalises taste buds with its hearty meat-based cuisine. From traditional stews to game dishes, local eateries offer a delightful culinary journey.
New York Cafe: A historic establishment steeped in grandeur, this iconic cafe has been a cultural hub for over a century, beckoning visitors to savour coffee and cake amid opulent surroundings.
Ruin Bars: For a unique experience, venture into Budapest’s eclectic ruin bars, housed in abandoned buildings adorned with street art and offering affordable drinks and cuisine in a labyrinthine setting.
That concludes our guide to the enchanting city of Budapest. Stay tuned for more travel insights and updates, thank you.
