If you’re looking for a holiday and want something a little different then you should consider Budapest.
A hugely underrated European city, Budapest is a cultural and visceral delight, with ruins and beautiful buildings rubbing shoulders with hip, young fashionistas. It’s a city constantly being rebuilt and brand new buildings stand proud next to their gorgeous 18th century neighbours.
And there are tonnes of things to do, whether it is your first time in Hungary or you’re a repeat visitor. You can sample one of the city’s famous baths, try the local Hungarian food, have a gentle stroll around town and across the famous Chain Bridge or have a sit and a coffee in one of the gorgeous little cafes.
If it’s your first time in town, it’s a great idea to take one of the organised walking tours around Castle Hill or take a cruise down the Danube to get some amazing views of Buda. If you’re in the mood for a cultural night out, try the Budapest Opera House and, when you’re ready to relax during the day, a wander around the Central Market Hall will introduce you to some great Hungarian food.
Taking the plunge in one of the baths the city is known for is also a must-do while you’re in Budapest and afterwards walk across the Chain Bridge, which was the very first bridge to connect Pest and Buda.
Other key sights include the Parliament Building, where you can view the Crown Jewels. These are all things to pack into your first ever visit, but if you’ve been before then you might want to check out some activities that aren’t on the normal tourist trail. Explore the streets and architecture around District 8 and Raday ucta and search for treasures on Budapet’s Antique Row.
Wal along the Varosligeti Fasor and you’ll eventually get to the lovely City Park and if you’re there at the right time you might be lucky enough to get to the monthly design market where you can meet Hungarian contemporary designers and talk to them about their art.
Hungary is a brilliant city to visit if you like the idea of staying somewhere a bit quirky as there are loads of boutique hotels and hostels to stay in. It’s also a great place to go if you’re travelling on a budget. Not only is decently priced accommodation simple to find, a quick online search for cheap flights to Budapest will list many different options that won’t break the bank.
It’s also possible to visit many places and explore the city without spending too much while you’re there. Window shopping along Kiraly ucta with its boutiques and galleries, lunch at the Kehli Restaurant, which is over 100 years old and treasure hunting at the Ecseri Flea Market are all things to do that don’t cost much cash.
What do you think?