Budapest (in reality two cities, Buda and Pest) is located around an island of the majestic Danube River.
- Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd): Visit the iconic Chain Bridge, the city’s most famous landmark. Take a stroll across the bridge at sunset for views of the city’s skyline.
- Buda Castle (Budavári Palota): Explore the historic Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its grand courtyards and gardens, and don’t miss the spectacular view of Pest from the Fisherman’s Bastion.
- Hungarian Parliament Building (Országház): Admire the architectural masterpiece that is the Hungarian Parliament Building. Take a guided tour to Admire its intricate craftsmanship and learn about Hungary’s political history.
- St. Stephen’s Basilica (Szent István-bazilika): Step inside this magnificent basilica, dedicated to Hungary’s first king, St. Stephen. Climb to the dome’s observation deck for panoramic views of the city.
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: Indulge in the relaxing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths. Unwind in its various indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere): Visit the grand Heroes’ Square, adorned with statues honoring Hungary’s national heroes. This iconic landmark is surrounded by important cultural institutions such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art.
- Dohány Street Synagogue (Dohány utcai zsinagóga): Explore the Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue in Europe. Learn about the history of Hungarian Jews and visit the adjacent Jewish Museum.
- Margaret Island (Margitsziget): Escape the city and retreat to Margaret Island, a peaceful haven in the middle of the Danube. Enjoy its gardens, fountains, and recreational facilities, suitable for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- Hungarian State Opera House (Magyar Állami Operaház): Admire the opulence of the Hungarian State Opera House, renowned for its exquisite architecture and world-class performances. Catch a show or take a guided tour of this cultural gem.
- Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok): Immerse yourself in Budapest’s culinary scene at the Great Market Hall. Sample traditional Hungarian delicacies, purchase local produce and crafts, and soak up the atmosphere of this market.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations:
- Memento Park: Venture outside the city centre to Memento Park, a collection of statues and plaques from Hungary’s communist era. Explore this open-air museum and gain insight into the country’s past.
- Vasarely Museum: Discover the works of Victor Vasarely, a Hungarian-born artist widely regarded as the father of Op art. The Vasarely Museum showcases his optical illusions and geometric compositions.
- Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum: Descend into the depths of a former nuclear bunker turned museum. Learn about Budapest’s history during World War II and the Cold War era through interactive exhibits.
- Gellért Hill Caves: Embark on a underground adventure by visiting the Gellért Hill Caves, a network of natural and man-made caves beneath Gellért Hill. These caves have served as a chapel and a field hospital throughout history.
- Castrum Peregrinorum: Explore the hidden ruins of Castrum Peregrinorum, an ancient fortified Roman summer camp found beneath a residential building. Visit this site for a glimpse into Budapest’s ancient past.
- Budapest Pinball Museum: Step into a playful world of arcade games at the Budapest Pinball Museum. Play vintage pinball machines and classic video games while reliving the nostalgia of bygone eras.
- Vajdahunyad Castle: Wander through the fairytale-like Vajdahunyad Castle, Located within Budapest’s City Park. This architectural marvel is a mix of different styles and houses the Agricultural Museum.
- Ráday Street: Stroll along Ráday Street, a neighbourhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and eclectic array of cafes, art galleries, bookshops, and restaurants serving both Hungarian and international cuisine.
