Budapest is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. From the stunning architecture to the picturesque Danube River, Budapest truly has it all.
In this article, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite spots in the city that are guaranteed to take your breath away.
The Fisherman’s Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion is easily one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in Budapest. Located on the Buda side of the city, this medieval castle complex boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the Danube River and the city skyline.
With its seven towers and white stone walls, it’s no wonder why this is one of the most visited tourist spots in Budapest.
The Hungarian Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is another must-visit location in Budapest. With its neo-gothic architecture and ornate details, this building is truly a sight to behold.
The best way to experience the Parliament Building is by taking a guided tour. You’ll get to see the stunning interior, including the grand staircase and the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
Margaret Island
Margaret Island is a green oasis in the heart of Budapest. Located in the middle of the Danube River, this pedestrian-only island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
With its lush gardens, fountains, and bike paths, Margaret Island is a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing with friends or family.
Gellért Hill
Gellért Hill is a must-visit location for anyone who wants to experience the best views of Budapest. With its winding paths and stunning panoramas, this hill is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the city.
There are also a few other attractions on Gellért Hill worth checking out, including the Citadella and the Liberty Statue.
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most popular thermal baths in Budapest, and for good reason.
With its 18 pools, saunas, and steam rooms, this bath is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Plus, the beautiful yellow building is a sight to behold in and of itself.
St. Stephen’s Basilica
St. Stephen’s Basilica is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture. Located in the heart of Budapest, this church is dedicated to St. Stephen, the first king of Hungary.
Visitors can climb to the top of the basilica’s dome for panoramic views of the city.
The Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is another iconic landmark in Budapest. This suspension bridge spans the Danube River, connecting the Buda and Pest sides of the city.
It’s a beautiful spot to take a stroll and admire the views of the river and the city.
The Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House is a beautiful building both inside and out. With its grand staircase, ornate details, and stunning auditorium, it’s no wonder why this opera house is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
Visitors can take guided tours of the building or attend a performance.
The Buda Castle
The Buda Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit location in Budapest. This castle complex has a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s courtyards, gardens, and museums. The castle also offers stunning views of the city from its elevated position on Castle Hill.
Matthias Church
Matthias Church is a beautiful church located in the heart of Buda’s Castle District. This church has a unique mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
Visitors can admire the church’s colorful tiled roof and intricate details. It’s also worth taking a peek inside the church to see its stunning stained glass windows.
A Few Tips for First-Time Visitors to Budapest
- Bring comfortable shoes – Budapest is a very walkable city with plenty of sights to see, so you’ll want to be comfortable while exploring.
- Use public transportation – Budapest has a great public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro lines. It’s an affordable and efficient way to get around the city.
- Try the local food – Hungarian cuisine is delicious and unique, so be sure to try some local dishes like goulash, chimney cake, and langos.
- Bring cash – While many places in Budapest accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and to tip service workers.
- Visit the thermal baths – Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, and visiting one is a must-do activity. Be sure to bring a swimsuit, towel, and flip flops.
- Check the opening hours – Some attractions in Budapest have limited opening hours, so be sure to check before you go.
- Learn a few basic Hungarian phrases – While many people in Budapest speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak a few words in the local language, such as “köszönöm” (thank you) and “egészségedre” (cheers!).
- Be respectful of local customs and etiquette – Hungarians value politeness and respect, so be sure to follow local customs and etiquette, such as greeting people with a handshake, using titles like “Mr.” and “Ms.”, and removing your shoes when entering someone’s home.
I hope these tips help make your trip to Budapest enjoyable and stress-free.
Some Curious and Interesting Facts about Budapest
- Budapest was actually two separate cities – Buda and Pest – until they were united in 1873.
- The Hungarian Parliament Building is the third-largest parliament building in the world, and it took 17 years to build.
- Budapest has over 100 thermal springs, making it one of the largest thermal water cave systems in the world.
- The oldest subway line in continental Europe is located in Budapest, and it’s still in use today.
- Budapest is home to the largest synagogue in Europe, the Dohány Street Synagogue.
- Hungary’s national anthem, “Himnusz”, was written by Ferenc Kölcsey, a Hungarian poet, in 1823.
- The Hungarian forint is named after King Matthias Corvinus, a Renaissance-era king of Hungary. The forint was originally minted during his reign in the 15th century.
- Budapest has a vibrant street art scene, with murals and graffiti covering many buildings and walls throughout the city.
- The Gellért Hill Cave is home to a chapel that was used as a field hospital during World War II.
- Budapest is known for its love of coffee, with many historic coffeehouses and cafes located throughout the city, including the famous New York Cafe.
I hope these facts give you a deeper appreciation for the rich history and culture of Budapest.
Final Thoughts
Budapest truly is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want to relax and unwind, this city has it all. I hope this article has given you some inspiration for your next trip to Budapest. Happy travels!
For more texts about capitals from the same area, please check under the category Europe. Thank you for reading and have a nice day.