Date of publication 03/08/2017
Journey to the heart of Europe 10 plans to experience Budapest to the fullest
Crossing the Danube
From the Chain Bridge, one of the most beautiful in Europe, you can enjoy the most striking night view of Budapest. Its impressive 350-meter structure, with two lions on each bank, lights up at sunset, connecting Buda, the upper city, with Pest, the lower city, across the Danube.
Via the Margaret Bridge, 637 meters long, you’ll reach the island of the same name. Here, you can wander among its lush flowers and plants and visit a small zoo. The Liberty Bridge, from the 19th century, is perfect for a nighttime stroll when the entire structure glows in a striking green.
A Renaissance Bath
Did you know that the Romans discovered Budapest’s thermal waters? And that in the 16th century, the Turks transformed them into true palaces?
Experience this relaxing journey at the Rudas and Kiraly baths under their beautiful domes, as well as at the elegant Gellért Baths with their classical columns, statues, and mosaics, and at Veli Bej, one of the best-preserved Ottoman Empire bathhouses.
Iconic Budapest
Above Buda, an area of mountains and forests, rises the majestic Royal Palace, a 20th-century Neo-Baroque building that occupies the site of the former Buda Castle, destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. Take the 1870 funicular to reach it and explore the magical medieval citadel.
Back in the city center, stroll along the Fisherman’s Bastion and fall in love with Budapest through its stunning views. Then, cross the Danube to the Parliament, a symbol of independence and one of Pest’s most magnificent Neo-Gothic buildings, adorned with marble and gold.
Night Cruise on the Illuminated Danube
Sailing at night along the calm waters of the Danube, enjoying illuminated Budapest, is a spectacle of light and color. Excitement will surround you as you pass under the Petőfi Bridge, Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, and Liberty Bridge. From your seat, you can leisurely admire some of the city’s main buildings, such as the Parliament, Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion.
An unforgettable night at the opera
The Budapest Opera House was built between 1875 and 1884, located on Andrássy Avenue near several cabarets, cinemas, and theaters. A guided tour will take you through its corners and vaults and allow you to discover its fascinating history. You’ll also be impressed by its murals, lamps, and ceiling frescoes depicting the gods of Olympus.
And after a night at the opera, what better plan than to enjoy a delicious goulash —the quintessential Hungarian dish, a stew with primitive origins— at a typical local restaurant?
Shopping along Andrássy Avenue
Next to the Iberostar Grand Budapest, one of the best 5-star hotels in Hungary, lies Andrássy Avenue, a long boulevard built in 1872 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition is largely due to the beautiful façades of its houses and Renaissance-style palaces.
Enjoy some of the city’s most famous restaurants and cafés along this avenue, such as the elegant Luckacs. Treat yourself in the most exclusive boutiques and acquire a traditional tea set from Herend, the renowned Hungarian hand-painted fine porcelain factory.
On board Tram Number 2
Want to discover one of Budapest’s best-kept secrets? Take tram number 2 and enjoy unparalleled views of the Royal Palace and the Danube from inside.
This daily tram route has been selected among the 10 most beautiful tram routes in the world by National Geographic. You can also use regular public transport tickets to ride it.
Flavors, aromas, and colors at the Central Market
Budapest’s Central Market occupies one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Opened in 1897, it was once one of the most modern indoor markets in Europe.
Most of the building functions as a local market where residents buy all kinds of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and fish. You can also enjoy specialties from traditional Hungarian food stalls and purchase pastries, local liqueurs, and the famous paprika.
Feel the magic of Budapest’s classic cafés
Budapest is famous for its cafés and patisseries decorated in a classic style. Most date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. After years of neglect, many of these establishments have been restored. This includes the New York Café, chosen by visitors as one of the most beautiful and elegant, and Gerbeaud, a true institution for over 160 years, where you can enjoy the famous cake that gives the café its name on its terrace.
Discover the city’s ruin pubs
Ruin pubs, literally ‘bars in ruins,’ are century-old buildings in the Jewish Quarter that have been restored and transformed into bars with original and creative designs. Most ruin pubs have outdoor courtyards, and among the most famous are Szimpla Kert, For Sale, Púder, and Élesztő, offering a wide range of craft beers and an authentic, festive, and unique atmosphere.