Phylicia StitzelWelcome to the capital of Hungary!
Is Budapest on your list of European locations to visit but don’t have much time? Come spend a weekend in Budapest Hungary! Many people don’t know that Budapest comprises three unified cities (Buda, Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube, and Pest on the east bank). Every aspect of this city has blended historically, artistically, and culturally. This is a short guide to spending a weekend visiting some of Budapest’s best gems.
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Table of Contents
The best way to spend the evening on the Danube is with an endless prosecco riverboat cruise!
Buda Castle:
Get ready to feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale! 🏰 This historic castle perched high on a hill offers breathtaking views of the city. Don’t forget your camera, ’cause you’re gonna want a snapshot of this majestic gem!
The Labyrinth, beneath Budapest’s Castle Hill, is where Vlad Tepes was held captive and tortured for 14 years, starting in 1463. Now you may or may not know the name Vlad the Impaler, but you may better know him as “Count Dracula.” This is where you can walk through the Labyrinth tunnels. There needs to be a map or guidebook, and you can simply follow a few incoherent signs through foggy, damp chambers dotted with mannequins dolled up as characters from the Phantom of the Opera.
Fisherman’s Bastion:
Prepare to have your socks knocked off by the panoramic views from this magical terrace. This dream-like spot near Buda Castle is a photographer’s paradise, so get those filters ready for some seriously envy-inducing shots!
Széchenyi Thermal Baths:
Take a soak in healing waters by visiting Széchenyi Baths. This complex is the largest medicinal bath center in all of Europe. The waters are rich in sulfates, calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and fluoride, which are noted to help visitors with joint pains and other medical issues. Immerse yourself in the warm, healing waters and let the stress melt away. It’s like a spa day mixed with a dose of cultural exploration!
Hungarian Parliament Building:
Behold, the grandest building in Budapest! This architectural wonder will leave you speechless. You can even take a guided tour inside to uncover the secrets and stories behind those marble walls. Prepare to be bedazzled!
St. Stephen’s Basilica:
Climb to the top of this magnificent basilica for incredible views that will make your heart skip a beat. The panoramas are out-of-this-world, and the holy relic inside adds an extra touch of intrigue. It’s a spiritual and visual feast all rolled into one!
Heroes’ Square:
Get ready for a blast from the past at this historic square. The impressive Millennium Monument pays homage to Hungary’s fearless leaders, and the square is always buzzing with happenings and celebrations. Capture the moment and feel the city’s vibrant energy!
Buda Castle Hill Funicular:
Budapest is a beautiful city from every angle. Still, if you really want to appreciate the city’s layout and beauty, you must take a Segway to Buda Castle Hill Funicular. It first opened in 1870 and is the second oldest funicular in the world. The tram uses a system of weights and counterweights to help raise the carriages up and down the hill. This is the fastest way to get to the top of Castle Hill, and its trendy because of its panoramic views across the Danube. This track is open till 10pm and it is very inexpensive to purchase tickets, or you can use your city card better.
Chain Bridge:
Oh, the iconic Chain Bridge! It’s the stuff postcards are made of! Take a leisurely stroll across this masterpiece that connects the Buda and Pest sides, and soak in the stunning views of the Danube River and the city skyline. It’s a moment you won’t forget!
Great Market Hall:
Hungry? Head straight to this bustling indoor market! Treat your taste buds to Hungarian delights like goulash and lángos, and shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. It’s a one-stop shop for all your food and souvenir dreams, my friends!
Margaret Island:
Need some peace amidst the urban hustle-bustle? Find your zen at Margaret Island! 🌳 This little paradise in the middle of the Danube River is perfect for leisurely walks, bike rides, and picnics. Don’t forget your frisbee or a book for some quality chill time!
Shoes on the Danube Bank:
Prepare yourselves for a poignant reminder of history’s scars. 😢 The Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial is a powerful tribute to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust. Each pair of bronze shoes represents a life lost, and it’s a reminder to cherish the freedom we have today.
Step outside the ordinary bucket list items and dive into the extraordinary. Did you know that there are several recreational dives that you can take around Budapest? There are cave dives UNDER the city where you can dive; this is the only capital in the world where you can do this. If diving in caves is out of reach, how about diving for your beer?
There is a stone mine and submerged beer factory that you can dive into, whether a beginner or an advanced diver. After all the walking and diving, you will probably be hungry (pun intended). We recommend visiting the Central Market Hall. This is Budapest’s most famous marketplace in the city. Used by both locals and tourists, you can find coffee, local delicacies (goulash and langos), a snack (local fruits and vegetables), and some fantastic little shops. That is where you can find souvenirs, antiques, specialty shops, and more!
Other food options are extensive around Budapest, and you will want to find the best local places to eat that represent the best local foods. Taste all the hummus you can stand at the Hummus Bar, sit for your morning coffee at Espresso Embassy, or feel the city’s heartbeat with lots of food options at Gozsdu Udvar.
Budapest is a romantic, mysterious, and beautiful city to visit. Roaming the city will give you unparalleled access to its unique sights and fascinating sounds.
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