When I think of Budapest, my brain activates distant memories of backpack travel as a college student. In those days, money was tight, and luckily the city had much to offer that was free or inexpensive, and that has not changed. Just imagine a sprawling Castle District and marvelous views of a city glistening in the sunset light. Imagine seeing one of the world’s most beautiful buildings, the Hungarian Parliament, with your own eyes.
I love all things water, and now I can actually afford those fabulous spas fed by thermal springs, some of them built by the Ottomans. I urge you to pack a bathing suit and dare to plunge into the healing waters! If that’s not for you, well, there is no shortage of other activities and sights in the Paris of the East!
1. Discover historic Castle Hill and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from Fisherman’s Bastion (especially beautiful around sunset).
2. Take a Danube cruise for sweeping views of Buda and Pest.
3. Try some traditional Hungarian food at Central Market Hall.
4. Walk across Chain Bridge, the first bridge to connect Buda and Pest.
5. Visit Hungary’s Parliament Building, see the amazing architecture and the Hungarian Crown Jewels.
6. Take a stroll on Andrássy Avenue to Heroes’ Square (and you’ll understand why Budapest is often called the Paris of the East.)
7. Try an authentic Hungarian dish paired with vintage Hungarian wine, followed by Hungarian pastry.
8. Take a dip and relax in one of Budapest’s famous baths.
9. Enjoy a performance at the world famous Budapest Opera House or a Hungarian Folk Dance performance.
10. Visit the Great Synagogue, the second largest in the world.
Enjoy Budapest, and stay in an UnTours vacation rental apartment for a true slice of local life.
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