While Budapest is often admired as a whole, its eastern side, Pest, has a unique charm that sets it apart. This vibrant district is where history, culture, and modern life intertwine, offering visitors everything from grand architectural landmarks to quirky museums, lively squares, and atmospheric cafés. Whether you’re drawn to the magnificent Parliament Building, the soothing Széchenyi Thermal Baths, or the bustling Central Market Hall, Pest has something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the must-visit spots that make Pest an essential part of any Budapest itinerary. History landmarks and monuments The Hungarian Parliament Rising majestically along the Danube, the Hungarian Parliament Building is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture and one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. With its towering spires, intricate carvings, and a magnificent 96-meter dome, it stands as a symbol of Hungary’s rich history and national pride. Inside, its lavish halls gleam with gold accents, stunning frescoes,…
Known as the “City of Spas,” Budapest boasts a rich thermal bathing tradition dating back to Roman times. With its abundance of natural hot springs, the city is home to some of the most stunning and historic thermal baths in Europe. Whether you’re looking to unwind in grand neo-Baroque surroundings, experience traditional Turkish steam baths, or indulge in modern wellness treatments, Budapest offers a variety of thermal baths to suit every preference. In this guide, we explore the best places to soak, relax, and rejuvenate in the Hungarian capital. Széchenyi Thermal Bath: The Largest in Europe Széchenyi Thermal Bath is not only the most famous in Budapest but also the largest thermal bath complex in Europe. With 15 indoor pools and three expansive outdoor pools, it offers a truly immersive spa experience. The highlight of the complex is the grand outdoor thermal pool, which maintains a soothing temperature of 40°C…
Board games have long been a favorite pastime, bringing people together for fun, strategy, and a bit of friendly competition. In Budapest, the board gaming scene has flourished, with locals and visitors alike gathering in cozy cafés, vibrant game bars, and dedicated board game shops. Whether you’re a fan of classic games like Catan and Chess or prefer modern European-style board games, Budapest offers a rich and diverse gaming culture worth exploring. Classic and Trendy Games Dixit Dixit is a storytelling card game that blends creativity, deduction, and interpretation. Designed by French game creator Jean-Louis Roubira and first published in 2008 by Libellud, Dixit quickly gained international recognition for its unique concept and stunning artwork by Marie Cardouat. The game won the prestigious Spiel des Jahres (Game of the Year) award in 2010, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved modern board games. Its simple yet deeply engaging…
Budapest is a city full of history in its streets, ideal for travellers on a budget. The Hungarian capital offers a wide range of free activities that allow you to discover its heritage, art and culture without overspending. Here you’ll find recommendations and practical tips to help you enjoy the city on a budget. Free Tours and Walking Routes One of the best ways to get to know Budapest is to take part in free walking tours, led by local guides who share anecdotes and historical details of every corner of the city. What do It offer? Thematic and Regional Tours: Tours range from the Old Town and iconic quarters (such as VII and VIII) to routes exploring Jewish history, urban art and local legends. In addition, there are options for night tours to enjoy the illuminated city. Variety of Options: Some companies even offer bike tours or alternative routes…
From the 6th of December you can skate and party on the Savoy Terrace. Buda will have an amazing winter venue soon: a new ice rink opens on one of the most beautiful terraces in the city, with the best panoramic views in town. The grand opening of the brand new ice rink will take place on the 6th of December on the Savoy Terrace in Buda Castle. Skating and dancing will be a must at the free party, with top DJs spinning records throughout the evening while we skate, dance or sip our drinks while enjoying the view of the Parliament and the Chain Bridge. The Savoy Terrace is not only special because of its breathtaking panorama. The name of the terrace comes from Jenő Savoyai, the famous commander of the reconquest of Buda. His statue in front of the National Gallery was commissioned by the city of Zenta…
Indoor and outdoor venues, a nice café, a spa or a climbing gym where you’re guaranteed to have a memorable experience. In autumn, the Buda side has a special atmosphere, with the sun shining through the falling leaves and the parks change their colours from green to yellow, brown and red. During this time, whether you’re sitting in a park or on the terrace of a café, the city is beautiful. Walking through the castle or along the quayside with the Danube in the background, I often feel like a tourist myself, fascinated by our built and natural heritage and the places that I have a personal experience of each. A foreigner friend of mine – who recently chose Budapest as his temporary headquarters – asked me which places I would recommend him where he can take his girlfriend, what places to choose for a date. So here’s a list…
Budapest is not only a spa town, but also a city for hiking, as you don’t even have to leave its borders for a good hike. For those who love leisure activities, the Hungarian capital is a true paradise: there is hardly any sport that you can’t do here. The hills surround the Buda side, and public transport is well organised, so you can quickly reach all points of the Buda Hills. One of the most popular of the many sites is still Normafa, where many of the locals gather on weekends to clear their heads and lungs while taking a long walk in the woods. Normafa is a convenient 19-minute bus ride from Széll Kálmán Square, where you can also try the gyermekvasút and the funicular. It is also easy to get here from the city centre, with bus 210 from North Pest to Svábhegy on weekdays and a…
Introduction to Budapest’s Cultural Scene Budapest, with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic contemporary scene, offers a plethora of festivals and events that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit. From world-class music festivals to enchanting Christmas markets, Budapest provides travelers with a unique insight into Hungarian traditions and modern culture. During my visit with a group of friends, we immersed ourselves in some of the city’s most iconic cultural events, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Budapest International Documentary Festival One of the highlights of everyone’s trip in Budapest is attending the Budapest International Documentary Festival. This event is a significant fixture on the global documentary film circuit, showcasing a diverse range of thought-provoking films from around the world. The excitement in the air is palpable as you can attend several screenings, each offering a unique perspective on global issues. Engaging in post-film discussions with filmmakers and other attendees is definitely…
Introduction: A New Adventure Begins Stepping into Budapest for the first time, I was instantly captivated by its unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. As an Italian, I was eager to immerse myself in a new environment, and Budapest did not disappoint. My month-long stay in this vibrant city was filled with memorable experiences, from discovering hidden gems to indulging in local delicacies. Join me as I recount my favorite moments and must-visit spots in the Hungarian capital. Uncovering Budapest’s Charm: From Markets to Street Art Budapest had me hooked from day one. The architecture, the bustling markets, and the overall vibe were mesmerizing. The Great Market Hall, in particular, stood out. Unlike the large markets in Italy, this market was an architectural gem with a foodie’s paradise inside. Walking through the stalls, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of paprika-spiced sausages, freshly baked pastries, and an array…
Budapest, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, is not just a haven for adults but also a fantastic destination for families with children. The city offers a plethora of activities that combine fun with education, ensuring that young travelers are entertained while learning about the world around them. Here’s a guide to some of the best family-friendly attractions in Budapest. Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden One of the oldest zoos in the world, the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden was established in 1866. It houses over 1,000 animal species and a vast collection of plants from around the globe. As you stroll through the zoo, you’ll encounter everything from majestic elephants and playful monkeys to exotic reptiles and colorful birds. The Botanical Garden, with its lush greenery and diverse plant species, provides a serene backdrop, making it a delightful experience for both kids and parents. Most families…