This past fall, after stopping by Prague, my good friend I decided to check out Budapest. I had heard wonderful things about this city and I’m happy to report that it was just as great as I imagined. Like most of Eastern Europe, it is pretty affordable and there are a lot of interesting things to see.
Fun Fact: Budapest is actually two cities, Buda and Pest which are divided by the Danube River. The two cities are connected by several bridges. 🇭🇺
Here are a few places that are worth checking out:
Parliament Building– It is the 3rd largest parliament building in the world and the largest building in Hungary. Every angle in the outside and the inside are absolutely breathtaking. You must book a tour to go inside 24 hours before, they book fast…. so we had to take the tour in Italian! haha
Széchenyi Thermal Baths– The largest medicinal baths in Europe! They have indoor and outdoor pools and they are a great spot to relax after a long day exploring. Pro tip: make a reservation.
Danube River- Taking a cruise during the day or night is a great way to do some sightseeing. We took the night one and the views were excellent!
Buda Castle- This building is home to the Buda Castle (formerly Royal Palace), National Gallery, and the Budapest History Museum. Great spot for photos with the Parliament Building in the background! 😉
Chain Bridge-Take a walk or run over the famous bridge that connects Buda and Pest.
Fisherman’s Bastion – is a terrace located on top of Castle Hill on the Buda side and it overlooks the Pest side and the Danube.
St. Stephen’s Basilica- is a Roman Catholic basilica that was named in honor of Stephen, the first King of Hungary.
The Shoes on the Danube Bank– is a memorial to honor those who were killed by the Arrow Cross militiamen during World War II. Located right across from the Parliament building, can’t miss it!
Jewish Quarter- home to the largest synagogue in Europe and second largest in the world!
Museum of Terror- It contains exhibits related to the fascist and communist regimes in 20th-century Hungary and is also a memorial to the victims of these regimes, including those detained, interrogated, tortured or killed in the building. (very sad 😦 )
Ruin Bars- interesting looking bars, with an eclectic feel that are located in the old Jewish quarter area.
Eats & Drinks:
Corso – Great diner with the view of the Buda Castle at the Intercontinental Hotel
Goulash– A stew of meat and vegetables seasoned with paprika and other spices.
Lángos– Local deep fried dough specialty that comes in many flavors!
Unicum– Alcoholic drink that is served as digestive or aperitif.
The people from Budapest were very nice and welcoming (unlike Prague) and I definitely think everyone should add this magnificent destination to their bucket list! 😉
#adios
Dorina
thecolorfulchronicle.com 