CITY BREAK Budapest > ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
Budapest is a city that offers a unique blend of history and culture, with a vibrant nightlife and scenic natural beauty. With its historic landmarks, such as the Buda Castle, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian Parliament Building, it offers a wealth of cultural experiences. The thermal baths such as the Széchenyi thermal bath and the Gellért thermal bath are must-see attractions. The city also boasts a thriving culinary scene, with a wide variety of traditional Hungarian dishes and wine to be enjoyed.
CITY BREAK TO BUDAPEST: THE GLORIOUS CITY
Budapest, the capital and largest city of Hungary, is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of history, culture, and beauty. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, the city is made up of two main parts: Buda and Pest. Buda, located on the west bank of the river, is known for its hilly terrain and historic landmarks such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the Matthias Church. Pest, on the other hand, is located on the east bank is known for its flat terrain and modern city centre. The Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the Hungarian National Museum are just a few of the notable landmarks in Pest. Budapest is rich in history and culture, with many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks to visit.
The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues. The famous ruin bars, which are located in abandoned buildings and offer a unique atmosphere, are a must-visit for those who love nightlife. Budapest stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and world-class restaurants make it a top destination for tourists from around the world. It is no wonder that Budapest is often referred to as the “Paris of the East” or “The Glorious City”. Its combination of historic landmarks, modern amenities, and breath-taking beauty make it an unforgettable destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking to relax, a City Break to Budapest will not disappoint.
City Break BUDAPEST: Vibrant Neighbourhoods
The Inner City
The Inner City of Budapest is a bustling neighbourhood located in the heart of Budapest. It is famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. Explore the neighbourhood’s many cultural offerings, including its numerous museums, historic landmarks, and traditional baths.
The Parliament Building in the Inner City of Budapest boasts a stunning Neo-Gothic architecture that is truly worth admiring. The neighbourhood has a vibrant atmosphere, with street vendors, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Hungarian cuisine. The Danube River provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll, offering views of the historic Buda Castle sitting atop a hill overlooking the city. The Inner City is rich in history, with landmarks like the Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful terrace with panoramic views of Budapest, inviting you to immerse yourself in its past.
Buda Castle
This historic castle and palace complex is located in Buda, on the southern side of the Danube river in Budapest. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest. The castle was originally built in the 13th century but has undergone many renovations and expansions over the centuries. It has served as a royal palace and as the residence of Hungarian kings and queens. The castle features a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance. You can tour the castle’s museums and galleries, which showcase Hungarian art and history, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the city from the castle’s terrace. The Buda Castle is home to the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum, both are showcasing the history of Hungary and Hungarian art.
The Jewish Quarter
Known as the “District VII” or the “Erzsébetváros”, historically, it was home to a large Jewish population, and still retains many elements of Jewish culture and history. The Jewish Quarter is home to several synagogues, including the Great Synagogue, which is the largest synagogue in Europe. It is also home to the Hungarian Jewish Museum and the Jewish Cemetery, both of which offer a glimpse into the history of the Jewish community in Budapest. In recent years, the Jewish Quarter has become a popular place because of its charming streets, trendy bars and cafes, and colourful street art. Here you will find the ruin bar scene, which is a unique type of bar that is located in abandoned buildings and features eclectic decor.
Andrássy Avenue
An UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the city’s most famous and elegant streets. The avenue was built in the late 1800s and runs for 2.5 kilometres from the city centre to City Park. It is lined with impressive Neo-renaissance buildings, such as embassies and luxury apartments, as well as shops, cafes, and restaurants. Along the avenue, you can also find some important landmarks such as the Hungarian State Opera House, the House of Terror Museum and the Millennium Underground Railway the first subway line of continental Europe. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging and biking, or simply to admire the beautiful architecture and relaxed atmosphere.
The TOP 10 must-see attractions in BUDAPEST
Buda Castle
Buda Castle, located on the Buda side of the Danube river, is a historical palace and fortress complex. It was built in the 14th century by King Louis I of Hungary, and it has been the residence of Hungarian kings and the seat of Hungary’s government. The palace complex consists of several buildings, the most notable of which is the Royal Palace, which now houses several museums and galleries, including the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. The castle offers panoramic views of the city, and the castle hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Castle has a well-maintained garden and courtyards and you can enjoy various exhibitions, and art galleries. You can access the castle via funicular or by walking up the hill.
Thermal baths
Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, which have been a popular form of relaxation and healing for centuries. The most famous thermal baths in Budapest are Széchenyi, Gellért and Rudas. Széchenyi is the largest thermal bath in Europe, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and massage treatments. Gellért is a luxurious and grandiose bath located in a stunning Art Nouveau building, it is known for its stunning architecture, and the thermal water is rich in minerals and beneficial for the skin. Rudas, which is built on the remains of a Turkish bath from the 16th century, is one of the city’s oldest thermal baths and offers a unique experience of both history and relaxation. All of these thermal baths offer unique experiences and are a must-experience visiting Budapest.
Heroes' Square
This is one of the city’s most famous and iconic landmarks, featuring many important monuments and statues. The square was built in the late 1800s to honour the 1000th anniversary of the arrival of the Magyars, the Hungarian people, to the Carpathian Basin. The central focal point is the Millennium Memorial, which features statues of the leaders of the seven tribes that founded Hungary. Other notable monuments in the square include statues of kings and heroes of Hungarian history, as well as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art. It is a popular tourist attraction and also serves as a venue for cultural events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
Fisherman's Bastion
The Fisherman’s Bastion is a terrace and lookout tower located in the Buda Castle district of Budapest. It was built in the late 19th century and is known for its stunning views of the city and the Danube River. The structure is not a historical fortification but rather a viewing terrace, it is a relatively recent construct, designed in neo-gothic and neo-Romanesque style. It is named after the medieval guild of fishermen that was responsible for defending this stretch of the city walls during the Middle Ages. You can walk along the terrace to see the seven towers that represent the seven Magyar tribes that founded Hungary. It’s a great place to have a panoramic view of the Pest side of the city.
St. Stephen's Basilica
This major landmark is one of the most important religious buildings in Budapest. It is named after the first King of Hungary, who was canonized as a Catholic saint. The basilica was built in the late 19th century and features a grand neoclassical design, with a tall dome and twin towers. It’s also open to the public and visitors can climb to the top of the dome to get a beautiful view of the city.
Hungarian State Opera House
The Opera House was built in the late 19th century and is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. It is home to the Hungarian National Opera and the Hungarian National Ballet and also serves as a venue for concerts and other cultural events. It’s a popular tourist attraction and you can take guided tours of the building, which includes visits to the main auditorium, the stage, and the magnificent neo-Renaissance halls, including the Marble Hall.
Parliament Building
The Hungarian Parliament Building is the seat of the National Assembly of Hungary and one of the most iconic and imposing buildings in the city. The building was completed in the late 19th century in a Gothic Revival style. It’s open to visitors and guided tours are available, where you can explore the inside and learn about the Hungarian political system and history. The exterior of the building is also impressive and it’s a great spot to take photos with its impressive facade.
Chain Bridge
The suspension bridge that spans the Danube river in Budapest was completed in 1849 and was the first permanent bridge to connect Buda and Pest, which were two separate cities at the time. The bridge is one of the most iconic and recognizable symbols of Budapest, and its grand opening was a significant milestone in the city’s history. The bridge is open to pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and it is a great spot to take a walk and admire the panoramic views of the city, particularly at night.
Dohány Street Synagogue
Also known as the Great Synagogue, this is the largest synagogue in Europe and the second-largest in the world, it was built in the late 1800s. The Synagogue is an impressive example of Moorish Revival architecture and it can accommodate up to 3,000 people. Inside, you can admire the intricate decoration and the beautiful, colourful glass windows. The synagogue is also the centre of the Hungarian Jewish community and it offers tours and holds events that showcase Jewish culture and history. It is an important site for those interested in Jewish heritage and the Holocaust history, as it is located in the same complex as the Jewish Museum and the Jewish Cemetery.
Hungarian National Museum
The Hungarian National Museum is a museum in Budapest, Hungary, which documents Hungarian history and culture. It was founded in 1802, making it one of the oldest museums in Europe. The museum is located in the Buda Castle in District I of Budapest, and it contains a vast collection of artifacts and artwork that trace the history of Hungary from the prehistoric era to the present day. Some of the highlights of the collection include medieval illuminated manuscripts, gold and silver artifacts from the Magyar tribes, and a collection of modern Hungarian art. The museum also has a library and research centre, which are open to the public.
The Best City Break Activities BUDAPEST
Shopping in Budapest
Budapest is a great destination for shopping, with a wide range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. The grand bouldevard of Andrássy Avenue is home to many high-end boutiques and shops, as well as department stores and shopping centres. Váci Street is a pedestrian-only street that is home to many souvenir shops, clothing stores, and other retailers. Located in District IX, the Great Market Hall is a large indoor market that is home to stalls selling a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, as well as souvenirs and other items. Budapest is home to several outdoor markets, such as the Central Market Hall, which sells a wide range of goods, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and souvenirs. Budapest has several modern malls and shopping centres, such as the WestEnd City Centre and the Arena Plaza, which offer a wide range of shopping and dining options.
2 Fun activities for Children
The Budapest Zoo
The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world, including many endangered species. It has a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, primates, and birds. It has an aquarium with marine life, and reptiles and a terrarium. The zoo also features a botanical garden, which showcases different plant species from around the world. It also has a playground and a small train ride for children. The zoo has recently undergone major renovations and it currently is one of the most modern and best-kept zoos in Europe.
Explore the Children's Railway
The Children’s Railway, also known as Gyermekvasút in Hungarian, is a narrow-gauge railway that runs through the Buda Hills. It is operated and maintained by children aged 10 to 14, who are trained to take on various roles such as train drivers, ticket sellers, and dispatchers. The railway is approximately 12 kilometres long, and it has 8 stops along the way, that goes through some of the most scenic routes in the hills, providing panoramic views of the city. The railway is a popular tourist attraction, and it runs every day during the summer, and weekends during the rest of the year. The train ride takes around an hour and it’s a great way to explore the beautiful nature of the Buda Hills.
Football: Ferencvárosi TC and Újpest FC
Ferencvárosi TC is the most successful football club in Hungary, and has won the Hungarian league title a record 30 times. The club plays its home games at the Groupama Arena, which is located in the south of the city. Újpest FC is another popular football club in Budapest, and has won the Hungarian league title on four occasions. The club plays its home games at the Szusza Ferenc Stadion, which is located in the north of the city.
Central Market Hall
The Central Market Hall, also known as the Great Market Hall or Nagyvásárcsarnok in Hungarian, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Budapest. The market is located on the Pest side of the city and features three levels of vendors selling a wide variety of goods, including local produce, meats, cheeses, pastries, and traditional Hungarian souvenirs. The market hall is a great place to try traditional Hungarian dishes, or to buy ingredients to cook your own meals. The market hall is known for its impressive architecture, which features a steel frame, glass roof and ornate decorations. It’s an excellent place to explore and experience the local food culture.
Most Romantic Spot
The most romantic spot considered by many is the Fisherman’s Bastion. Located on the Buda side of the city, Fisherman’s Bastion offers panoramic views of the Danube River, Buda Castle, and the Parliament building. This medieval-style terrace offers a serene atmosphere, making it a popular spot for couples to enjoy a picnic or watch the sunset. The intricate stonework and fairy-tale like turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion provide a breath-taking backdrop for romantic moments and a peaceful escape from the busy city. The bastion is especially beautiful during the evening hours, when it is lit up and the city below is aglow.
Best Kept Secret
Margaret Island is a hidden gem that is off the beaten path for many visitors. Located in the middle of the Danube River, this park is filled with walking paths, gardens, and thermal baths, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Margaret Island is a popular destination for anyone who come to enjoy the island’s serene atmosphere and soak in its natural beauty. The island is also home to a music fountain, a Japanese Garden, and a medieval ruin, making it a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in exploring Budapest’s history and culture. With its tranquil surroundings and breath-taking views, Margaret Island is the perfect place for a romantic stroll or a peaceful escape from the city.
budapest Food & Drink Scene
Budapest is a city known for its rich culinary traditions and diverse gastronomy. Hungarian cuisine is hearty and comforting, featuring dishes such as goulash, chimney cake, langos and chimney cake. Budapest offers a wide range of restaurants, from traditional Hungarian restaurants to modern international cuisine. The city is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Borkonyha, Onyx, Costes, Tanti and Babel, serving creative and delicious dishes. Hungarian wines are a must-try, particularly the Tokaji Aszu and red wines from Villány and Szekszárd. The city’s coffee culture is well-known, with high-quality coffee beans and traditional coffee houses. Street food is popular in Budapest, such as Lángos, chimney cake and chimney cake with Nutella. Budapest’s food scene offers something for everyone, from traditional Hungarian dishes to international cuisine, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s culture and history.
Palinka
Palinka is a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy made from a variety of fruits, including apricots, plums, pears, apples, and cherries. It is distilled in small batches and typically has a high alcohol content, usually around 40% ABV. It is a popular spirit in Hungary and can be consumed as a digestif or an aperitif. Palinka is typically served in small glasses, and it’s often consumed neat or with a splash of water, it’s also used as ingredient in traditional and modern cocktail making. It’s a unique part of Hungarian culture and history, and it’s considered a must-try for anyone visiting Hungary. There are several different types of Palinka with different flavours, aged and unaged, that vary depending on the fruit used and the production method.
Unicum
Unicum is a type of Hungarian herbal liqueur that is made from a secret blend of more than 40 herbs and spices. It is one of Hungary’s national drinks, and it has been produced since 1790. It is typically served as a digestif, taken neat, or mixed into cocktails, it’s also used in cooking, marinades and sauces. Unicum has a unique, complex taste that is often described as having a bittersweet and slightly medicinal flavour. It’s usually 40-43% alcohol by volume. The recipe for Unicum is a closely guarded secret and passed down through generations, and only a few people know the exact composition of the ingredients. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Hungary, and it’s a staple in Hungarian bars and restaurants.
Michelin restaurant Stand
Stand Restaurant is a modern restaurant located and serves contemporary Hungarian dishes with a focus on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients. Stand is known for its creative and delicious food and its unique atmosphere, with a laid-back and casual atmosphere. Stand is one of the most popular restaurants in Budapest, and it is praised for its high quality food and excellent service. They also have a great selection of Hungarian wines, that goes well with their dishes. It’s a great place for a special occasion, but also for a casual dinner.
High Note SkyBar
High Note SkyBar is a rooftop bar located in the heart of Budapest, on the top floor of the Corinthia Hotel. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Danube river, and it’s one of the best rooftop bars in the city. The High Note SkyBar is open year-round, and it features an indoor and an outdoor area, it also features a glass-enclosed terrace. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the city after a day of sightseeing. It’s known for its live music and DJ performances, that make the atmosphere lively and entertaining.
Mad Scientist Brewery
Mad Scientist Brewery is a brewpub that serves a variety of craft beers, brewed elixirs and mixed drinks. The brewery is known for their unique and creative beers, including a variety of traditional and experimental styles. It’s a great spot for craft beer lovers and those looking for a unique experience. The brewpub features a modern, industrial decor, and it’s also serves food to pair with the drinks. They have a wide range of selection of beers, from light lagers to dark stouts, as well as experimental brews. The atmosphere is casual and the service is friendly.
City Break Budapest Top Nightlife Spots
Budapest is famous for its vibrant nightlife and offers a variety of entertainment options for people of all ages and interests. The city is home to numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that are open late into the night. The popular ruin bars, which are converted old buildings, offer a unique atmosphere for socializing and drinking. There are many music venues that feature local and international performers, playing everything from jazz and classical to electronic and hip hop music. For those interested in traditional Hungarian experiences, there are several famous thermal baths, such as the Gellért and Rudas baths, that offer nighttime bath parties with live music and DJ performances. The Hungarian State Opera House and National Ballet are popular cultural attractions, offering performances of world-class opera, ballet, and classical music. Budapest is a city that never sleeps and has something to offer for everyone, making it one of the most exciting places in Europe to enjoy nightlife.
Hungarian State Opera House
The Hungarian State Opera House is a magnificent neo-Renaissance building located in the heart of Budapest. It was opened in 1884 and is considered one of the finest opera houses in Europe. The Opera House is home to the Hungarian State Opera and the Hungarian National Ballet and is renowned for its ornate interior, featuring a grand staircase, crystal chandeliers, and a beautiful horseshoe-shaped balcony. The Opera House regularly hosts operas, ballets, and concerts by famous artists from around the world. The building is open for guided tours, offering visitors a chance to explore its stunning architecture and rich history.
Ruin bars
Ruin bars in Budapest are a unique form of entertainment, located in abandoned or derelict buildings that have been converted into vibrant bars and clubs. These bars are known for their eclectic décor, featuring eclectic furnishings, colourful lights, and murals. Popular ruin bars include Szimpla Kert, which is often referred to as the first ruin bar in Budapest, andInstant, which is known for its large outdoor terrace. Ruin bars offer a relaxed and casual atmosphere for socializing, drinking, and enjoying live music or DJ performances. You should visit a Ruin bar if you are looking for an authentic Budapest experience.
Operetta Theatre
The Operetta Theatre in Budapest is a historic venue that specializes in operetta performances, light operas, and musicals. It is located in the heart of the city, near the famous Andrássy Avenue, and is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and elegant interior design. The theatre was built in the late 19th century and has a rich history, hosting many famous performances over the years. Today, the Operetta Theatre continues to be a popular venue for live entertainment, attracting audiences from all over the world with its diverse program of musicals, operas, and other performances.
Papp László Budapest Sportaréna
The Papp László Budapest Sportaréna was opened in 2000 and is named after the famous Hungarian boxer, László Papp. The arena is used for a variety of sporting events, including basketball, handball, and ice hockey, as well as concerts and other large-scale events. It has a capacity of up to 12,500 spectators, making it one of the largest indoor venues in Hungary. The arena is equipped with modern facilities and is known for its excellent acoustics, making it a popular choice for major concerts and shows. The Papp László Budapest Sportaréna is conveniently located in the city centre, near public transportation and other major attractions.
Szimpla Kert
Szimpla Kert is a ruin bar located in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest. It is one of the most popular and well-known ruin bars in the city, and is a must-see attraction. The bar is located in an abandoned building and features a unique and eclectic decor made of repurposed and found objects. They offer a variety of drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as food options such as soups, sandwiches, and snacks. Szimpla Kert is known for its lively atmosphere, with regular live music and DJ events, it’s a great place for a night out with friends. Ruin bars are a unique aspect of the Budapest’s nightlife, and Szimpla kert is one of the first and most iconic bars of this genre.
Sziget Festival
Sziget Festival is an annual music and cultural festival held on an island in the Danube River. It is one of the largest and most diverse festivals in Europe, attracting visitors from all over the world. The festival features a wide range of music acts, including rock, electronic, hip-hop, folk, and world music, as well as theatre and dance performances, art installations, and other cultural events. The festival also has a strong emphasis on sustainability and community, with a wide range of interactive and educational experiences. It takes place in August, and tickets are available in advance. Sziget Festival is known for its unique atmosphere and vibrant energy, offering an unforgettable experience.
Getting around budapest
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport
Budapest has one main international airport, called Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD). It is located about 16 kilometres (10 miles) southeast of the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi. The airport is a major transportation hub for Hungary and the surrounding region, and offers a range of amenities and services for travellers, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Public transport Budapest
Budapest has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, metro lines, and a network of suburban railway lines. The city’s public transportation system is operated by the Budapest Transport Corporation (BKK), and is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The city’s metro system is made up of four lines (M1, M2, M3, and M4) and is a fast and efficient way to get around the city. The metro runs from around 4:30am to 11:30pm every day, with trains running every few minutes during peak times. In addition to the metro, the city also has an extensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses that can take you to destinations throughout the city. You can use a single ticket or a pass to ride the buses, trams, and trolleybuses, and tickets can be purchased from vending machines or from the driver (although it is generally cheaper to purchase tickets from vending machines).
Budapest also has a number of other public transportation options, including the HÉV suburban railway and the cogwheel railway (which runs to the Buda hills). There are also several taxi companies operating in the city if you prefer to take a taxi.
Biking in Budapest
Biking in Budapest can be a great way to explore the city and its many attractions. There are several options for renting bikes, including Budapest Bike Rental. This company offers rental bikes and guided tours of the city. Other options are City Bike Budapest and Budapest Bike Tour. Biking around Budapest is generally safe, but as with any city, it is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. There are bike lanes in some parts of the city, but not throughout the entire city. It is recommended to stick to designated bike lanes or park areas, and to follow traffic rules and regulations.
Prepare For Your City Break to Budapest
Famous movie
One of the most famous movies shot in Budapest is “Blade Runner 2049”. This science fiction film was directed by Denis Villeneuve and released in 2017. It is a sequel to the 1982 film “Blade Runner”. The film was primarily shot in Budapest, Hungary and features stunning visuals of the city’s architecture and landscapes. The film stars Ryan Gosling and Harrison Ford and was widely praised for its visual effects, cinematography, and the performances of its lead actors. The film was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects.
Best travel book
“Budapest: A Cultural and Literary Companion” by Jason Wyrick is a great travel book for Budapest. It covers the city’s history, culture, architecture, cuisine and literary scene, making it a comprehensive guide for visitors. The author provides practical information, insider tips, and fascinating anecdotes to make the reader feel like a local. The book is well-researched and beautifully written, making it an essential read for anyone traveling to Budapest.
Time and money
The currency used in Budapest is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). The time zone in Budapest is Central European Time (CET), which is GMT+1 hour.
The history of Budapest
Budapest’s history is rich and varied, dating back to the Roman Empire when the city was known as Aquincum. It was later conquered by the Magyars and renamed Buda after one of their leaders. Throughout the centuries, Budapest has undergone significant growth and change, including rapid modernization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries which
transformed it into a major cultural, economic, and political centre in Central Europe. During World War II, the city was occupied by the Germans and later liberated by the Soviet Union in 1945. The fall of communism in the 1990s brought major changes to Budapest, leading to its transformation into a modern, cosmopolitan city that is now a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in history, culture,
or just looking to relax, the city has a wealth of attractions that are sure to captivate and inspire. From its ancient roots to its modern-day resurgence, Budapest is a city that has stood the test of time and continues to thrive. Today, it is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day sophistication.