Budapest, Hungary

Few places surprised me as much as Budapest. Split by the Danube into Buda and Pest, the city blends grandeur with warmth. From the hilltop views at Fisherman’s Bastion to the thermal baths at Széchenyi, Budapest was both majestic and soothing.

We cruised the Danube at sunset — Parliament glowing gold on one side, the Chain Bridge lighting up ahead — and it was pure travel magic. The ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter offered a completely different vibe: eclectic, creative, and full of local life.

Budapest was a perfect mix of elegance and edge — and an unforgettable stop on our journey across Europe.

2024-06

25 Things to Do in Budapest

  1. Buda Castle – Explore the historic royal palace with panoramic city views.

  2. Fisherman’s Bastion – Snap photos of the fairytale towers overlooking the Danube.

  3. Matthias Church – Admire the colourful tiled roof and intricate interior.

  4. Chain Bridge – Walk across the iconic bridge linking Buda and Pest.

  5. Parliament Building – Tour Hungary’s grand riverside landmark.

  6. St. Stephen’s Basilica – Climb to the dome for a stunning city panorama.

  7. Széchenyi Thermal Bath – Relax in Budapest’s famous outdoor spa pools.

  8. Gellért Baths – Enjoy art nouveau architecture and healing waters.

  9. Heroes’ Square – See statues of Hungary’s national leaders and heroes.

  10. City Park (Városliget) – Wander through this large green oasis near Heroes’ Square.

  11. Vajdahunyad Castle – Visit this picturesque castle within City Park.

  12. Andrássy Avenue – Stroll along Budapest’s elegant boulevard of shops and cafés.

  13. Hungarian State Opera House – Take a tour or attend a performance.

  14. Great Market Hall – Browse for local foods, spices, and souvenirs.

  15. Dohány Street Synagogue – Explore Europe’s largest synagogue.

  16. Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter – Experience Budapest’s quirky nightlife.

  17. Danube River Cruise – See the illuminated landmarks from the water.

  18. Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill – Hike up for spectacular views.

  19. Margaret Island – Rent a bike or stroll through peaceful gardens.

  20. House of Terror Museum – Learn about Hungary’s turbulent 20th-century history.

  21. Hungarian National Museum – Discover the nation’s cultural heritage.

  22. Shoes on the Danube Bank – Visit this moving memorial.

  23. Budapest Eye – Ride the Ferris wheel for views over central Pest.

  24. Food Tour – Sample goulash, chimney cake, and local wines.

  25. Christmas Markets (Seasonal) – Enjoy festive stalls and mulled wine in winter.

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