Budapest Vacation in Hungary
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a great place to start a vacation. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is located on the banks of the Danube River. And, Budapest is famous for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. Budapest has a long and complex history, marked by Russian involvement, which has left its mark on the city in many ways.
During WWII, Budapest was under Russian control and suffered significant damage. However, the Soviet Union played a significant role in the reconstruction of the city after the war. Russian influence can still be seen in the city’s architecture, particularly in the Stalinist style buildings that were built during the Soviet era. The city’s main railway station, Keleti, is one such example of Soviet-style architecture.
Getting Around Budapest
One of the best ways to get around Budapest is to jump on the hop-on hop- off bus. Specifically, we prefer the Big Bus.
You can also take the trams or the subways that are inexpensive and make it easy to get around the city,
Sights and Things To Do In Budapest
- Chain Bridge: This iconic bridge connects Buda and Pest and is considered one of the most enduring symbols of prosperity within Hungary.
- Buda Castle: This castle, located on Castle Hill in Buda, offers a panoramic view of the city. Consequently, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several museums. The castle is open to visitors, and guided tours are available in several languages. Visitors can also take a ride on the funicular railway, which connects the Buda Castle to the Chain Bridge.
- Ruin Bars: These bars are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards in the Jewish Quarter of Budapest. They are known for their unique décor, cheap drinks, and lively atmosphere. Surprisingly, these bars are situated inside abandoned buildings and courtyards. The most famous ruin bar in Budapest is Szimpla Kert. However, if you’re looking for a more local experience, you can try other ruin bars such as Instant & Fogas Ház or Mazel Tov.
- Thermal Baths: Budapest is famous for its thermal baths, which are fed by natural hot springs. The most famous ones are Gellért Baths, Széchenyi Baths, and Rudas Baths.
- The Shoes on the Riverbank – One of the most poignant reminders of Budapest’s history is the Shoes on the Danube Bank. This memorial honors the Jews who were killed by the Arrow Cross militia during World War II. he victims were ordered to take off their shoes before they were shot and fell into the river. The memorial features a row of cast-iron shoes, and it is a moving tribute to the victims of this tragic event.
- Heroes’ Square, one of the major squares in Budapest, noted for its iconic Millennium Monument with statues featuring the Seven chieftains of the Magyars and other important Hungarian national leaders.
Hungarian Uprising of 1956
In October of 1956, led by students in Budapest, the country staged an uprising against the Soviet Rule. Sadly, the uprising lasted 12 days when Soviet tanks and bullets crushed the revolt. Bullet holes on many Budapest buildings are visible as reminders of the failed uprising.
If you want to read about other war impacts please see our Impacts of War Post.
Budapest Vacation: Street Art
During our Budapest Vacation we took a tour to see the Street Art of the town. There was some true high quality art. But, there was also some unusual art, like stick-ons that repeated across the city. there was also some very pointed political art, and one piece was particularly critical of the President. For more about Street Art (e.g. including Graffiti, please see our Love Graffiti Art Post.
Budapest Vacation – Hungarian Food
Hungary has excellent food. Specifically, goulash is the favorite and most well known. But, there are many other great foods, including Jewish foods. Perhaps the first one on the poster sign on the right might not be one of them.
Budapest Vacation – Hungarian Parliament
The Hungarian Parliament is an impressive iconic structure in Budapest. It is a magnificent Gothic Revival building that stands on the banks of the Danube. Specifically, the Parliament is one of the largest buildings in Hungary, and it is a symbol of the country’s democratic history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and admire its stunning interiors and impressive architecture.
The Hungarian Parliament Building is one of the most well known landmarks in Budapest. It is located on the bank of the Danube River and was designed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl in a Gothic Revival style. The building is the third-largest parliament building in the world. The interior of the building is equally impressive, with 691 rooms, 10 courtyards, and 12.5 miles worth of stairs. The Parliament Building is open to visitors, and guided tours are available in several languages. During the tour, visitors can see the Hungarian Crown Jewels and the Hungarian Holy Crown.
Budapest Vacation: Buda versus Pest
The Danube River splits Budapest into two parts. Therefore, this makes it a little challenging to get around, with Buda on the west bank of the river, and Pest on the east bank. People know Buda for its historical landmarks and stunning hilltop views. But, Pest has its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. Visitors can take a scenic walk across the Chain Bridge, which connects Buda and Pest, and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Budapest Vacation – Other Cities in Hungary
Additionally, apart from Budapest, Hungary has many other fascinating places to visit. Nearby, the small town of Eger has beautiful Baroque architecture and the famous Castle of Eger. Also, the Tokaj wine region, which is famous for its sweet white wines is close by. The historic city of Szentendre, located on the banks of the Danube, is particularly picturesque.
Esztergom is a charming town located in northern Hungary, near the border with Slovakia. Basically, the city has a rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. The impressive Esztergom Basilica dominates the town. Surprisingly, it is one of the largest churches in Europe. Amazingly, the Basilica overlooks the Danube River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In addition, visitors to Esztergom can enjoy hiking or biking in the nearby Pilis Hills or take a relaxing boat ride along the Danube.
